Adviser for Information and Broadcasting, Environment, Climate Change and Water Resources Syeda Rizwana Hasan today said Bangladesh Television (BTV) must be transformed into a channel of 180 million people of the country. 

Public expectation from the BTV is high and all of its programmes must be planned and implemented in line with people’s demand and needs of the time,” She said, adding that this has not yet been done properly.

The adviser made the remarks during a view exchange meeting with the officials and employees of the BTV at its auditorium in city’s Rampura area. BTV Director General Md. Mahbubul Alam and Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Md. Yasin were present on the occasion.

Rizwana Hasan said BTV is not merely a television channel, it’s a witness of history and a bearer of national heritage. It’s a national asset and it must be rebuilt and revitalized, she added.

To make BTV more people-friendly and time-relevant, the adviser outlined several directives. 

She said that with the upcoming national elections and referendum in mind, BTV must maintain strict neutrality towards all political parties and must not show any form of bias.

She further emphasized that modernization is essential for BTV to survive in today’s competitive media market. Programmes and news presentation must be more creative, taking into account changing of audience demands. 

To enhance the channel’s dynamism, effective measures must be taken to fill the vacant posts as required, she said, adding that optimal use of the budget must be ensured and the annual procurement plan must be implemented on time.

The adviser also called for building the capacity of BTV employees at all levels through proper training. In addition, she advised the BTV authorities to prepare a “Smart Charter of Demand” to be implemented by the next government.

Speaking on the occasion, Director General Md. Mahbubul Alam said that in line with the current needs, a dedicated social media wing should be established at the BTV. 

He added that the wing should have the flexibility to engage young people on a contractual basis, alongside regular staff, to produce timely and relevant contents.

Officials of the BTV and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting were also present at the event. Afterward, the adviser visited the BTV newsroom, studios, control panels and library.