NBF urges government to protect BARC ratings

The News Broadcasters Federation (NBF) has expressed deep concern over attempts by certain broadcasters with monopolistic interests to disrupt the ongoing transparent process of publishing weekly ratings for the news genre. In a letter addressed to Anurag Singh Thakur, Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting and Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports, the NBF highlights the critical role of news ratings in ensuring a fair and competitive landscape for news Organisations.

The NBF has appealed for the continuation of transparent and fair ratings, preserving a competitive landscape that supports the vibrant news industry and upholds the principles of a democratic society.

The NBF, representing a diverse group of news broadcasters, emphasized that the interruption of BARC ratings specifically for the news genre could have far-reaching implications. The federation haa raised the following key concerns:

Impact on News Operations: News broadcasters depend on honest competition within the genre, with BARC ratings serving as the primary measure of performance. Any stoppage of BARC ratings for news could disrupt operations, jeopardizing livelihoods and impacting the revenue model that sustains news channels.

Functioning of the Fourth Pillar: News reporting is recognized as an essential service and a vital component of a democratic society. The NBF contends that denying news Organisations access to honest financial means, determined by BARC ratings, could undermine the sustenance of the Fourth Pillar of democracy.

Uncompetitive Market: Disruption of news ratings would have a direct impact on news businesses' revenue, making the genre uncompetitive and skewing the free market dynamics.

Systemic Bias Against News Organisations: The NBF expresses concern that a disruption of ratings might unfairly single out and act against news Organisations, promoting systemic bias and denying a level playing field with other broadcasting genres.

Monopolistic Control: Halting ratings could hand control of the news industry to a select few, stifling competition and innovation. Legacy brands might gain an unfair advantage, limiting opportunities for emerging leaders.

Crucial Election Year: The upcoming General Election year requires substantial planning and investment by news Organisations. Any disruption in ratings could impact advertising revenue, affecting news coverage during this crucial period.

Blocking Newcomers and Favoring Legacy Players: The NBF acknowledges that BARC ratings are not perfect but argues against the stoppage of news ratings alone, as it may favor certain broadcasters without addressing the overall issues.

The NBF has sought intervention from Anurag Singh Thakur to ensure the continuity of ratings for the news genre. The letter emphasizes that such a disruption could lead to financial distress within the industry, impact numerous journalists, perpetuate system biases, and promote monopolistic interests.