The Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF), the apex body representing India’s television and digital streaming industries, has announced a significant leadership transition. Avinash Pandey will take over as Secretary General, following the departure of Siddharth Jain, who held the position since 2021.

During his tenure, Jain played a key role in expanding IBDF’s scope beyond traditional broadcasting to include the fast-growing digital media sector. Under his leadership, the organisation bolstered its dual mandate-serving both television networks and OTT platforms-while advancing industry self-regulation and strengthening stakeholder collaboration.

Notable milestones during Jain’s term include the launch of the Indian Digital Media Industry Foundation (IDMIF), a platform for OTT companies, and the Digital Media Content Regulatory Council (DMCRC), a self-regulatory grievance redressal body. These initiatives have helped position IBDF as one of the few industry bodies straddling both linear and digital content ecosystems.

Established in 1999 as the Indian Broadcasting Foundation, IBDF now represents over 400 television channels, covering nearly 90% of India’s TV viewership. As the media landscape continues to evolve with a growing shift toward digital content consumption, the organisation’s expanded role reflects the changing dynamics of Indian audiences.

Incoming Secretary General Avinash Pandey brings with him close to 30 years of leadership experience in the media industry. Most notably, he served as CEO of ABP Network, where he led the broadcaster’s transition into a digitally focused news organisation. His strategic vision and deep understanding of the media ecosystem have earned him wide industry recognition.

Pandey has also served on the boards and committees of key industry bodies including the International Advertising Association (India Chapter), News Broadcasters & Digital Association, FICCI, and ASSOCHAM. He has contributed to several policy forums under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. A graduate of Hindu College, University of Delhi, Pandey has also completed executive programs at Harvard Business School.

Industry watchers see Pandey’s appointment as timely, given the growing convergence of broadcast and digital content. His blend of operational leadership and policy engagement is expected to help IBDF navigate this hybrid future, ensuring the organisation remains a strong and relevant voice for India’s content creators and distributors.