Kevin Vaz Becomes IBDF President, Sets Vision for Industry Growth

The Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation (IBDF), one of India’s leading industry bodies, has appointed Kevin Vaz, from JioStar, as its new President during its 25th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on December 20, 2024, in New Delhi. This announcement follows the resignation of K. Madhavan, who had served as IBDF President during crucial times for the industry.

The AGM, chaired by Rajat Sharma, Chairman of India TV and Vice President of IBDF, also saw the election of key members. Alongside Vaz, Rajat Sharma, Gaurav Banerjee (Culver Max), and R. Mahesh Kumar (Sun Network) were elected as Vice Presidents, with I. Venkat (Eenadu TV) taking on the role of Treasurer.

The IBDF Board of Directors now includes prominent names such as:

• Gaurav Dwivedi (Prasar Bharati)
• Jayant M. Mathew (MMTV)
• Aroon Purie (TV Today)
• Nachiket Pantvaidya (Bangla Entertainment)
• Punit Goenka (Zee Media)
• Ashish Sehgal (Zee Entertainment)

Additionally, the board co-opted Sumanto Bose from JioStar and John Brittas from Kairali TV as members.

In his acceptance speech, Kevin Vaz called it an honour to lead IBDF during a transformative era for media and entertainment. He highlighted India’s unmatched appetite for content, which fuels growth across all media platforms and strengthens India’s global soft power.

Vaz noted the need to democratise content creation, ensuring opportunities extend beyond existing hubs and reach geographically diverse areas. He credited advancements like 5G, smartphones, and connected TVs for driving consumption and expressed his vision for fostering sustainable growth through equitable collaborations.

He emphasized the importance of the media industry’s multiplier effect on related sectors, such as sports, and urged members to collaborate in creating a vibrant ecosystem. Vaz also expressed his commitment to working with the government to develop progressive regulations that promote innovation and inclusivity.

Outgoing President K. Madhavan received appreciation for his leadership during pivotal times, with Rajat Sharma highlighting IBDF’s achievements over its 25-year journey. Sharma also stressed the importance of a regulatory framework that encourages innovation while ensuring fair competition in the industry.

The IBDF’s new leadership team has set its sights on propelling India’s media and entertainment sector toward a brighter, more sustainable future.