New Delhi: In a development that marks a significant change at India’s public service broadcaster, senior bureaucrat Navneet Kumar Sehgal has resigned as Chairman of Prasar Bharati, prompting the government to initiate the process of identifying his successor. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting accepted his resignation on December 2 under Section 7(6) of the Prasar Bharati Act, 1990, relieving him from his responsibilities with immediate effect.
A Brief but Pivotal Tenure
Sehgal, who assumed the role in March 2024, had been leading several long-term organizational and strategic initiatives at Prasar Bharati. His early exit brings an abrupt close to what was expected to be a tenure focused on restructuring, modernization and strengthening the broadcaster’s governance framework.
A Bureaucrat Known for High-Impact Execution
A veteran of more than three decades in government service, Sehgal is regarded for his ability to deliver large-scale infrastructure and policy projects. As Chairman and CEO of the UP Expressway Industrial Development Authority, he oversaw the rapid construction of the 302-km Agra–Lucknow Expressway in a record 22 months — one of the state’s most ambitious infrastructure achievements.
His administrative experience spans some of Uttar Pradesh’s most critical departments. As Principal Secretary for Tourism, MSME and other portfolios, he played a central role in high-visibility initiatives, including the launch and expansion of the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme.
Strong Background in Media and Public Communication
Sehgal also brings a long association with public communication and media management. During multiple stints as Information Secretary and Publicity Coordinator for the Uttar Pradesh government, he led campaigns promoting welfare programmes and handled strategic communication during politically sensitive phases.
Leadership in Energy, Urban, and International Projects
Before retiring from the IAS in July 2023, Sehgal served as Additional Chief Secretary in several key verticals. His tenure in the Energy Department involved steering projects in Ayodhya’s power infrastructure and contributing to new generation capacity, including a 2000 MW expansion.
He additionally guided major urban development and mobility initiatives such as the Film City project and metro expansions, and facilitated international collaborations — including a JICA-backed water supply project for Agra and a World Bank-supported Buddhist tourism circuit.
Next Steps for Prasar Bharati
With Sehgal’s exit, the Centre is expected to soon begin formal consultations to appoint the next Chairperson. The leadership transition will come at a crucial time, as Prasar Bharati continues to navigate digital modernization, audience diversification, and public service broadcasting reforms.
