NEW DELHI: Prasar Bharati has informed the Information and Broadcasting Ministry (I&B Ministry) that there is need for manpower audit, in view of the rapid technology upgrade in the broadcasting centre; improving connectivity and various special services available.

Providing these insights in Parliament today, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Rajyavardhan Rathore said that 11,758 posts have been filled in All India Radio (AIR) as against the sanctioned strength of 26,418 which was fixed over 20 years ago.

He further said that radio stations are being run by redeployment of staff and by engaging personnel on contractual basis.

Rathore further stated that after rigorous exercise, the government has identified 3452 posts as essential category posts for filling up in Prasar Bharati for both AIR and Doordarshan (DD). Out of these, 3067 were identified by the Government as essential category posts to be filled through direct recruitment, and have been revived. Special onetime dispensation was obtained to recruit these through Staff Selection Commission.

The commission has already recommended 2367 candidates for appointment as Prasar Bharati is in the process of issuing appointment orders. In addition, 38 middle/senior level program posts have been revived for filling up on deputation basis, stated the minister.

In March 2015, Prasar Bharati managed to appoint around 55 people in one stroke in AIR and DD. This was the largest number of appointments made by the pubcaster in one go in 21 years.