Prasoon Joshi Named New Chief of Prasar Bharati, Government Signals Creative Push in Public Broadcasting

New Delhi, May 2, 2026: In a significant move aimed at strengthening India’s public broadcasting ecosystem, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced the appointment of celebrated lyricist and communication strategist Prasoon Joshi as the Chairman of Prasar Bharati.

Joshi, widely regarded for his powerful storytelling and deep understanding of Indian culture, brings decades of experience across advertising, cinema, literature, and public messaging. His work has consistently resonated with audiences nationwide, making him one of the most influential creative voices in the country.

Welcoming the appointment, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw expressed confidence in Joshi’s leadership, noting that his creative vision and cultural sensitivity would help redefine the direction of public broadcasting. He highlighted that Joshi’s leadership is expected to infuse fresh ideas and renewed momentum into Prasar Bharati’s functioning.

Prior to this role, Joshi headed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) since 2017, where he played a key role in balancing artistic freedom with regulatory frameworks. His professional journey also includes leadership roles at McCann World Group India and the Asia Pacific region, where he contributed significantly to shaping modern advertising narratives. Additionally, he has been associated with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts as a trustee.

His appointment comes at a time when the broadcasting sector is rapidly evolving with digital transformation and changing viewer preferences. Experts believe that Joshi’s diverse background could help Prasar Bharati adapt to these shifts while maintaining its public service mandate.

Prasar Bharati, established under an Act of Parliament in 1990 and operational since 1997, functions as India’s autonomous public service broadcaster. It operates through two primary platforms—All India Radio (AIR), which has an extensive reach across the country in multiple languages, and Doordarshan (DD), the national television broadcaster offering news, educational, and entertainment content.

In recent years, the organization has expanded its digital presence, including the launch of its OTT platform, as part of efforts to enhance accessibility and modernize content delivery.

With Joshi at the helm, Prasar Bharati is expected to explore new creative directions while continuing its mission of delivering reliable information, promoting cultural diversity, and strengthening national integration.