BTV Announces New Media Project Launch

A 'New Media' project is being implemented to create new types of digital content for Bangladesh Television (BTV), Bangladesh Betar, and private television channels in line with the demands of the digital age. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting along with Bangladesh Television (BTV) has initiated this technological transformation.

On July 19, Sunday, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon shared this information at a press conference held at the Secretariat. Expressing hope, he stated, "The activities of this New Media project will become visible within the current fiscal year."

Regarding the broadcasting technology and rights of the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Minister informed that Bangladesh purchased the media rights directly from FIFA for 3.85 million dollars this time, and almost the entire amount was recovered through sub-licensing to four domestic organizations. As a result, the government's financial expenditure has dropped to nearly zero. Mentioning that around 140 crore taka was plundered and corrupted through middlemen during the 2022 World Cup, he stated that an investigation is underway and legal action will be taken against the culprits.

He stated, "The money due to FIFA was paid through private initiatives and sub-licensing without putting pressure on the government treasury. The Awami League government looted about 140 crore taka in the name of showing the 2022 World Cup games. This corruption was carried out through middlemen, including a Singapore-based company and Toma Construction." He added, "By purchasing the football World Cup broadcasting rights directly from FIFA this year and sub-licensing it to four local organizations, almost all the money has been recovered.

A deficit of 4 to 5 crore taka still remains, but the rest of the amount will also be raised. This is good news for the nation." Responding to a question about whether the corruption allegations regarding the 2022 broadcasting rights would be sent to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), the Minister said, "The law is taking its own course. The necessary process is also underway." He also mentioned that the government plans to introduce 'Sports Cards' to involve youth more in sports and is implementing a 'New Media' project to create new digital content.

At the press conference, BTV Director General Md. Mahbubul Alam said, "A departmental investigation has started on the matter. BTV engineers conducted the broadcast efficiently and proved their technical capabilities."

Regarding ensuring technological security, Information Secretary Md. Shahe Alam said, "There were fears of various cyber attacks during the broadcast. However, through the coordinated efforts of BTV engineers, telecommunication sector experts, and stakeholders, cyber security and successful World Cup broadcasting were ensured while keeping the terms of the broadcast rights intact." It was also announced at the press conference that the government plans to introduce a 'Sports Card' to involve youth more in sports and create fields for professional development.

Chief Information Officer (PIO) Syeda Abdal Ahmad was present at the event.
//DBTech/SH/SME//