Journalist Mrinal Pande will remain at the helm of Prasar Bharati for another three years, according to sources in the Mandi House.

       While a formal announcement is likely next week, it is understood that a panel headed by Vice-President Hamid Ansari has decided to give Ms. Pande a second term as the head of the country's public broadcaster.

While Ms. Pande's first term, which is due to end on April 30, was barely 15 months long, it has been tumultuous. Apart from weathering the controversy over Prasar Bharati's broadcasting contract for Commonwealth Games coverage, she has overseen a revamp at Prasar Bharati, with Chief Executive B.S. Lalli being suspended for alleged financial irregularities.

Under her leadership, the Board has set up five committees to supervise daily functioning and help the institution formulate a future vision.

Ms. Pande is also tackling the problem of employee shortage and finding new ways for Prasar Bharati to diversify its revenue streams.

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