ITV

Tag: BBC World

  • BBC, Ficci strategic partners in Mumbai Saarc biz meet

    BBC, Ficci strategic partners in Mumbai Saarc biz meet

    NEW DELHI: BBC World, the BBC’s international 24-hour news and information channel will be the official media partner for the second SAARC Business Leaders Conclave, being hosted on 17 and 18 February in Mumbai, a company statement said today.

    The conclave organised by the SAARC Chamber of Commerce will see BBC World and Ficci as strategic partners, providing a platform for global debate, dialogue and discussion.

    Pranab Mukherjee, Minister for Foreign Affairs of India, will inaugurate the SAARC Business Leaders Conclave 2007.

    The two-day event will witness participation from eminent corporate, government and media personnel from across the sub-continent.

    Among those addressing the conclave are Dasho Ugen Tsechup Dorji, President, SCCI; Syed Yawar Ali, Chairman, Nestle, Pakistan;. Alan Winters, Director- Development Research Group, The World Bank and Najam Sethi, Daily Times, Pakistan.

    On February18, BBC World will organise a debate: “Is a South Asian economic union necessary for economic growth in South Asian nations?”

    The debate will be moderated by BBC World’s business correspondent, Karishma Vaswani with Vicki Treadell, Deputy High Commissioner, British Deputy High Commission, Mumbai and Anand Giridharadas, South Asia Correspondent, International Herald Tribune, among others taking part in the panel discussions.

    Vaishali Sharma, head of marketing communication, BBC World, India, says, “As a leading international news channel, we are proud to associate with Ficci in this endeavour to encourage regional economic cooperation through the SAARC business leaders conclave, as a result providing value to our stakeholders.”

    Dr Amit Mitra, Secretary General, Ficci says, “SAARC Business Leaders Conclave is an attempt by the private sector of SAARC towards realising the aspirations of South Asia’s economic integration.

    “The Conclave emphasises deeper Public-Private Partnership (PPP) for creating a platform to address the common challenges that South Asia is facing. Ficci and SAARC Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI) are delighted that BBC World is partnering with us in this unique enterprise of thought leadership.”

    The first SAARC Business Leaders Conclave (SBLC) in 2005 was held at a time of when SAARC countries stood at the threshold of a new decade of their existence.

    The conclave provided a unique platform to debate the gains made in regional cooperation during its first two decades and to underline that efforts must continue to free South Asia from poverty, hunger and other forms of deprivation which present a daunting challenge.

    The 2007 conclave will reinforce this process through its two-day session theme – Regional Cooperation: A Springboard for Growth and Job Creation.

  • BBC World lines up Budget programming

    MUMBAI: As India gears up for the annual Union Budget, BBC World, the BBC’s international 24-hour news and information channel launches its special programming on the Indian Budget 2007, giving in-depth analysis and insights into various issues concerning the subject. There will be daily updates and discussions on World Business Report as well as Asia Business Report, and Asia Today beginning on 26 February.

    BBC World’s Business Correspondent for India Karishma Vaswani, says, “As an international news channel, BBC World reports on the most relevant events and from across the world. As India makes it’s presence felt on the world map, the annual budget will affect not only our audiences in India, but worldwide. BBC World will bring its viewers the latest updates on the 2007 Indian budget along with in-depth analysis and international perspective with financial experts from around the globe.”

    The major highlights of the programs are as follows:
    Monday, 26 February: The first day of the budget series will cover the most topical discussion, on inflation. BBC World speaks to financial experts and the average person on the street, who will discuss inflation and its effect on the common person in India. BBC World will debate whether inflation rates will remain at the current percentage and the effect of rising global interest rates on local investment.

    Tuesday, 27 February: An exclusive interview with Alan Rosling, executive director of Tata Sons, who has played a pivotal role as foreign investor to India in the past. The episode will witness him share his views on the current needs of foreign firms and the expectations of Indian companies from this budget.

    Wednesday, 28 February: On the first day of the budget session, BBC World will focus on the expectations of various sections of the Indian society. From the manufacturing firms hoping for reduced import duties, to new funding ideas for entrepreneurs and issues related to income tax and a better living for the average Indian.

    Thursday, 1 March: A post-budget wrap up, BBC World will give a crisp and precise summary of the Union Budget 2007 along with comment and analysis.

    Friday, 2 March: BBC World will close its budget special with interviews of well known entrepreneurs and corporate personalities, who will share their views on the new budget.

  • Equestrian TV show boosts global coverage

    Equestrian TV show boosts global coverage

    MUMBAI: A year after it launched the television magazine FEI Equestrian World has grown in terms of the number of channels that air it. From next month it will air on BBC World in Asia and other territories. Asian viewers can also catch it on ESPN Star Sports and on CNBC Asia. In India the next edition of the show airs on BBC World on 3 March at noon and on 4 March at 5 pm.

    More than a competition and sports news magazine, this monthly half-hour programme concentrates on the spirit of the Equestrian and the lifestyle surrounding it. It also focuses on the FEI’s efforts in key areas such as sports development. Interviews with equestrian stars such as Olympic Champion Rodriogo Pessoa of Brazil, Britain’s Pippa Funnell, the only rider to have ever won the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing, FEI World Cup Jumping champion Marcus Ehning or American Reiner Shawn Flarida are only a few of the equestrian stars featured in the magazine.

    The camera’s investigating eye caught them outside of the usual competition arena. Whether in their kitchen, at the beautician’s or at the golf green, these personalities could be discovered in a more private and softer light.

    The importance of breeding, the concerns of horse owners or hippotherapy are also given their importance in the show. FEI Equestrian World is broadcast by several channels. In addition to BBC World the other channels include BBC World, CNBC Europe, ESPN Classic Sport which air it in Europe. Sky airs it in the UK.

    BBC World, Art, City 7, Fox Sports; ESPN International air it in the Middle East.

  • 2007 version of BBC World Challenge announced

    2007 version of BBC World Challenge announced

    NEW DELHI: BBC World today announced the forthcoming opening of nominations for one of the world’s most exciting business and community project awards.

    World Challenge 2007 seeks to identify and reward people that bring economic, social and environmental benefits to their local communities, a release from the broadcaster says.

    The 24-hour international news and information television channel, BBC World, Newsweek and Shell have teamed up again for World Challenge 2007 and are searching for individuals or groups that have implemented grassroots solutions to the toughest problems of our age, from poverty to pollution.

    Nominations for the competition open on February 5 and companies, communities and enterprising individuals around the globe with projects are encouraged to enter by registering on the World Challenge 2007 website at www.theworldchallenge.co.uk.

    Once nominations close at the end of April, a panel of expert judges will shortlist the 12 entries that they consider are the best in terms of showing innovation and bringing economic, social and environmental benefits to their local community.

    After voting has closed, the winner of World Challenge 2007 will be announced at an awards ceremony in The Hague in December 2007.

    The winner will again receive a US$20,000 grant from Shell to invest in their project, plus the two runners-up will each receive US$10,000. The Awards Ceremony will be shown on BBC World in December.

    BBC World will produce six 30-minute programmes profiling the 12 finalists showing how their projects and businesses are changing lives. These programmes will be broadcast to BBC World’s global audience in October and November 2007, and the channel’s viewers will be invited to vote online for their favourite project or business.

    World Challenge, which began in 2005, has already inspired passion and commitment throughout the world and propelled enterprising projects and businesses into the spotlight. Since its inception, financial grants have been given to six projects from across the world and the competition has experienced phenomenal growth.

    In 2006, the World Challenge received 816 nominations compared with 500 nominations the year before.

    Maximus, a firm in Sri Lanka which supports a local elephant orphanage and provides sustainable employment by making paper out of elephant dung, won World Challenge 2006.

    Coconets from the Philippines, had won the 2005 competition for its landslide prevention system using waste coconut husks.

    Richard Sambrook, CEO BBC World, says: “The enthusiastic response to the World Challenge and the increase in the number of nominations each year is testament to this successful and inspirational project. We are delighted to again be working with Shell and Newsweek on World Challenge 2007.”

    Roxanne Decyk, Director, Corporate Affairs, Shell says: “Shell is proud to continue its association with this exciting and inspirational event. It is rewarding to witness the benefits that the World Challenge has brought to previous finalists, whether through profile-raising or through our financial assistance.”

    Newsweek will mirror the programmes’ content in a six-part series of advertorials on the 12 nominees, aimed at driving its readers to the online voting site. The campaign will reach 1.5 million weekly readers across Europe, Asia and Latin America.

    Gregory J. Osberg, Executive Vice President and Worldwide Publisher of Newsweek, adds: “Now in its third successful year, World Challenge rewards innovators who are implementing community-based solutions to some of the toughest problems of our age, from poverty to pollution. Along with partners Shell and BBC World, we are honoured to use Newsweek’s global reach to seek out inspiring projects that are helping people and the planet.”

  • BBC World Service using Wegener to make the transition to a DVB based distribution platform

    BBC World Service using Wegener to make the transition to a DVB based distribution platform

    MUMBAI: Wegener which provides television, audio and data distribution networks worldwide has announced BBC World Service has completed the first phase of a multi-year, multi-phase project for the global distribution of radio and TV broadcasts using its equipment.

    The project involves BBC World Service transitioning to a DVB based distribution platform and the first phase of the transition is live transmissions to affiliates in Europe and the Middle East.

    BBC World Service head of transmission and distribution Nigel Fry says, “We have successfully integrated Wegener’s Compel Network Control system with our existing traffic system to manage distribution schedules and satellite receiver groupings. Operations here at the uplink and at our affiliate stations have been working well and we are very pleased with the first phase of our rollout and Wegener’s involvement. We look forward to continuing to work closely with Wegener throughout the remaining phases of the project.”

    Wegener president and COO Ned Mountain says, “Our job as a dedicated technology partner is to enable the BBC World
    Service to visualize and capitalize on additional opportunities inherent in a deployed Wegener network solution. With each phase of this global rollout Wegener is committed to providing exceptional integration and customer support.”
     

  • BBC World introduces a new on-air look

    BBC World introduces a new on-air look

    MUMBAI: News channel BBC World is refreshing its on-screen look with new graphics and updated music and titles. The channel will also be launching a new bulletin structure. The aim is to give more clarity to viewers and allow more space for analysis and discussion of the day’s news.

    The key features of the new on-screen look include an updated logo, news ‘ticker’ and straps, which have been re-positioned to make better use of the available screen space. For the first time on BBC World, correspondents’ live reports from around the world will be accompanied by an on-screen display of the local time at their locations. This will give viewers a better sense of how the story is unfolding on the ground.

    BBC World head of presentation Neil Caldicott says, “The new on-screen look is much cleaner and crisper. The main aim is to allow more space on the screen so our viewers can see more of the award-winning news coverage and programming on the channel. Viewers will also notice the new headline sequences which are now accompanied by updated music and re-designed titles. Our priority is to deliver an uncluttered screen and enhanced graphics which will give more space for our reports and journalism.”

    The BBC News graphics team has been working on this project to rejuvenate the current on-air look across the BBC’s television news brands, including the domestic services, as part of a major move to achieve a more consistent look for all BBC News outlets.

  • BBC World to cover specials on World Economic Forum

    BBC World to cover specials on World Economic Forum

    MUMBAI: News channel BBC World has announced its programming schedule for the World Economic Forum in Davos. A team of BBC reporters and presenters will be providing live news updates, in depth interviews and a special debate from the high level meetings in Switzerland from 24 to 28 January 2007.

    BBC World’s business team, headed by Manisha Tank and Declan Curry, will be broadcasting live for World Business Report from 0530 to 2230 GMT on Wednesday 24, Thursday 25 and Friday 26 January. They will be providing an insight into the issues under discussion, as well as meeting delegates in attendance.

    They include Intel CEO Craig Barrett, Egypt PM Ahmed Nazif, FlickR co-founder Catarina Fake and MTV International’s Bill Roedy.

    There will also be a series of one-minute vignettes produced throughout the week showcasing senior global business leaders attending the meeting. BBC World news presenters Nik Gowing and Jonathan Charles will be live in discussion with the biggest global names in government and business on the news bulletins throughout the period. They will also be presenting Davos Report – twice-daily 15-minute news programmes offering in depth coverage and analysis from the annual meeting.

    The BBC’s weekly multimedia phone-in programme Have Your Say will be broadcasting a special programme from Davos which will be aired on 28 January 2007. Presented by Bridget Kendall, the programme will look at the growing threat to the world economy from risks such as climate change, terrorism, pandemics and oil prices, and discuss whether these are a consequence of inadequate action by governments and business. Viewers’ and listeners’ can put questions to the studio guests, enabling a conversation across continents and broadcast platforms.

    On 26 January 2007 BBC World will record The World Debate: Climate Change as part of the official agenda at this year’s meeting, chaired by main presenter Nik Gowing. This special debate will be broadcast on BBC World on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 January.

    The debate will ask a panel of key delegates about the sea change in public pressure for environmental sustainability, and why some leaders, and not others, are willing to take risks to implement radical climate change.

    The participants in the debate will include British Petroleum CEO Lord Browne, France Minister of Budget and State Reform Jean-François Copé, Kleiner, Perkins, Caufield and Byers (KPCB) partner John Doerr and Siemens president and CEO Klaus Kleinfeld.

    In the course of the discussion they will examine whether it is the politicians or the public forcing the urgency of the climate change debate. Other questions that will be debated will be, whether governments and political leaders are prepared to take the decisive measures to ensure trends are capped and reversed, and do governments have the skills and capacity to start doing what is needed?

  • BBC World re-launches travel programme ‘Fastrack’

    BBC World re-launches travel programme ‘Fastrack’

    MUMBAI: BBC World’s weekly travel programme Fast:track will be re-launched with a new look, title graphics and presenters on 14 January. Fronting the programme will be BBC presenters Thalia Pellegrini and Rajan Datar.

    The new fast:track has been designed to appeal to BBC World’s viewers who travel frequently for both business and leisure. The programme will feature reports from leading industry experts and a variety of new travel segments.

    The show’s producer Mike London says, “Even if you are not a regular flyer, issues like carbon emissions and security affect us all and that’s why the travel industry is under the spotlight like never before. The new look fast:track will put consumers and travellers at the heart of its reporting. We will look at how important issues such as the rise in oil prices and ever-congested air spaces affect our viewers.” Mike added, “Our new presenters Rajan Datar and Thalia Pellegrini have been chosen not just because of their travel backgrounds, but because of their experience in business and consumer journalism, making them the perfect people to host the new look show. “

    New segments in the programme will include:

    The ‘Smart Mind’ strand – This is a series of vignettes featuring mind and body coach, Mark Bailey. With a background in therapy, physical training and kinesiology, he helps executives and performers from around the globe to get more out of their brain and body. On fast:track, he will share some of his most powerful techniques to help viewers stay on top of their game whether they are on the road or in the office.

    ‘Flying Facts’ – This is a series of vignettes that should answer all those perplexing questions about flying. Filmed onboard a transatlantic flight, fast:track enlisted an aviation expert to answer seemingly basic questions that most travellers are afraid to ask. “What does cross check mean?” and “Why do they always switch the lights off when landing at night?” are just two of the common flight terms that travellers hear all the time, but don’t always understand. ‘Flying Facts’ will bring you the answers!

    ’24 Hours In’ This is a segment targetted at the business traveller. This five-minute feature will be a guide for travellers who have a day or two to spend in a town or city. The programme will also feature a ‘what to do’ guide, featuring ideas ranging from watching an eclipse in Madagascar to catching the mid season sales in Manhattan.

    Travel gadget enthusiasts will also be well catered for with BBC travel writer Ben Silburn providing a monthly run down of the latest travel gadgets, including one high-end gizmo, one mid-range and one bargain basement solution for all travellers.

  • BBC World to host golf tournament in partnership with Ministry of Tourism

    MUMBAI: BBC World will be hosting the Spirit of Golf 2007 tournament on 20 January in New Delhi. This is the second time the channel has hosted the tournament.

    The channel will host the event in association with the Ministry of Tourism, India. The event will see corporate and political leaders, and city socialites compete for the Spirit of Golf top honours. This year’s participants include: Mr. Lloyd Mathias, MD Motorola; Harinder Sikka, vice president -Sales & Marketing; Nicolas Piramel; Restaurateur; AD Singh and Mr. Robert Vadera.

    Ministry of Tourism Joint Secretary Amitabh Kant who will also be participating says: “Golf is a unique tourism product and has huge opportunity in India. There is outstanding private infrastructure already available and golf tourism will form an integral part of the Incredible India campaign. We are happy to partner with BBC World’s Spirit of Golf 2007.”

    Following the launch of BBC World’s first ever localised advertising campaign, What Affects the World, Affects You the Spirit of Golf initiative strives to take forward the channel’s commitment to its corporate business partners in India.

    BBC World global director airtime sales Jonathan Howlett says, “Spirit of Golf is part of our endeavour to constantly develop and strengthen relationships with our customers and business partners. The tournament provides an opportunity for them to come together and interact in that special way that a game of golf provides. This year we are delighted to have the support of the Ministry of Tourism in building on the success of last year’s tournament.”

    The prize sponsors for Spirit of Golf 2007 are Sri Lankan Airlines, ITC Welcome Group, Britain – The May Fair and ACP- Rail International. The event is being managed by TSM. The first prize is an all expenses paid five day vacation to the UK, while the runners-up will receive a two days three nights stay in a premium property from the ITC Welcome Group.

  • BBC World invites entries for a show on Indian weddings

    BBC World invites entries for a show on Indian weddings

    MUMBAI: Looks like the big fat Indian wedding with its diverse facets is becoming a strong subject for channels. Last year Discovery’s lifestyle channel Travel and Living had kicked off its localisation plans with The Great Indian Wedding.Now news channel BBC World is inviting applications from soon-to-be-married Indian couples for its forthcoming programme on Indian weddings. The programme scheduled to air in the summer will focus on the business that Indian weddings generate, in addition to the traditions and mystique.

    BBC World will telecast the wedding of one Indian couple, across the world. Produced by Pulse Media, this programme will give a couple who are scheduled to get married in March, an opportunity to have their wedding featured on the channel. The short-listed entries will be chosen on the basis of their profiles and auditions will take place in Delhi.

    BBC World commissioning editor Narendhra Morar says, “With this innovative series we plan to exhibit an Indian wedding from a business perspective which we believe will be a revelation to audiences across the globe. From the bridal trousseau to the banqueting options and the wedding planners, Indian weddings provide a commercial opportunity across many industries. By showcasing a real wedding, we believe BBC World will be able to effectively capture the fascinating customs while at the same time accessing the financial intricacies of modern-day marriage in India”.

    The entries for BBC World’s wedding series auditions are open until 14 January 2007 for Indian couples getting married in March 2007. Filming will take place that month. Profiles and pictures of candidates can be emailed to bbcworld@pulsemedia.co.in or BBC World Audition, c/o Pulse media Pvt. LtdT 95A, CL House, 3rd Floor, Gulmohar Enclave, New Delhi 110049. BBC World will contact short-listed applicants on an individual basis.