IBF says ITF postponed due to digitisation

MUMBAI: In view of the 31 October 2012 deadline for implementation of the first phase of digitisation in four metros, the Indian Broadcasting Foundation (IBF) has decided to reschedule the dates for the inaugural Indian TV Fest. ITF?12 was earlier scheduled to be held in Goa from 2-3 November, 2012.

Digitisation of cable TV is the next step forward for the Indian TV industry. Measures have been taken so that no further delays happen in the implementation with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the broadcast industry taking keen interest in the same. IBF, an association of broadcasters, has decided to channelize all its focus and all its might towards ensuring a successful rollout of digitization in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata. 

Announcing the rescheduling, IBF persident Uday Shankar said, "We at IBF are committed towards the successful implementation of digitisation. At this stage our priority is to ensure that we put in all the industry might behind digitization so that it is successfully completed by the sunset date of November 1, 2012. We understand the importance of this date for the television broadcasting industry; hence IBF has deferred ITF ?12 to a new date."

"I would also like to add that from the time we announced the Indian TV Fest?12, we have received encouraging support from industry peers, sponsors, media and from delegates who have registered with us. This overwhelming response is an indication to the enthusiasm and interest for the festival. The ITF?12 has been rescheduled to a later date and will be conducted as planned," he said.

IBF adds that it has received encouraging support from industry peers,sponsors, media and from delegates who had registered for the event.Rescheduled dates for the festival will be announced shortly.

While the industry is bracing itself to usher in an all new era, many members of the broadcasting industry, its allied industry and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) are likely to be busy with last minute execution and operational details. Indian Broadcasting Foundation received many requests to reschedule the dates of the festival. Being a representative body of the industry, IBF has decided to take the decision that is going to be appreciated by all beneficiaries.