Empanelment of Casual Assignees for RNU, DDK, Lucknow

Introduction

Prasar Bharati, the public service broadcaster of India, has announced a significant recruitment drive for the empanelment of casual assignees specifically for Urdu language media roles at Doordarshan Kendra (DDK), Lucknow. This initiative is aimed at strengthening the regional and linguistic reach of national broadcasting. The organization is seeking talented individuals to fill positions such as News Reader (Urdu), Copy Editor (Urdu), and CG Operator (Urdu). These roles are crucial for maintaining the high standards of Urdu news delivery and production in the northern region of India, particularly in Lucknow, which serves as a major cultural hub.

The recruitment is specifically for "Empanelment," which means that selected candidates will be placed on a 'Ready Panel.' This system ensures that the organization can quickly call upon qualified professionals whenever there is a requirement for Urdu-language broadcasting. For job seekers, this represents a prestigious opportunity to work with one of India's premier public broadcasters. The roles are designed for individuals who possess not only the technical skills required for media production but also a deep understanding and proficiency in the Urdu language. If you are an aspiring media professional looking to make a mark in the field of public service broadcasting, this notification from Doordarshan Kendra, Lucknow, offers a unique platform to showcase your talents and contribute to national-level news dissemination.

Highlights / Quick Overview

Application Fee

| Free (No fee for application) | | Last Date to Apply | 15/07/2026 |

Post-wise Vacancy Details

The following table details the specific roles available under this empanelment drive. Please note that since this is an "Empanelment" process, the number of vacancies is not fixed; instead, a panel of qualified candidates will be created.

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

• News Reader (Urdu): Candidates must possess a Bachelor's Degree from a recognized University. Proficiency in the Urdu language is mandatory.
• Copy Editor (Urdu): Candidates should hold a Degree or a Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism or Mass Communication. A strong grasp of Urdu grammar and news writing is essential.
• CG Operator (Urdu): Candidates must have passed their 10+2 (Intermediate) and possess a valid Certificate in Computer Applications.

Age Limit

• News Reader: Candidates must fall within the age group of 21 to 40 years.
• Copy Editor & CG Operator: Candidates must fall within the age group of 21 to 50 years.

Nationality and Residency

• Applicants must be citizens of India.
• Candidates residing in or willing to work in Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) are preferred for these roles.

Important Dates

Application Fee

There is no fee required to apply for the empanelment of casual assignees at Doordarshan Kendra, Lucknow.

Selection Process

The selection process for the empanelment of casual assignees is designed to filter candidates based on their specific skills and aptitude for media roles. The following stages will be conducted:

• Stage 1: Screening: All received applications will be screened based on eligibility criteria (Age, Education, and Language proficiency). Only those who meet the mandatory requirements will be shortlisted.
• Stage 2: Skill Test: Shortlisted candidates will undergo a skill test. This may include:
  • For News Readers: Voice modulation tests, pronunciation checks, and reading speed assessments in Urdu.
  • For Copy Editors: Writing tests, grammar checking, and news drafting exercises.
  • For CG Operators: Computer-based tests to check familiarity with broadcasting software and graphic tools.
• Stage 3: Interview: Candidates who clear the skill test will be called for a personal interview where their suitability for the role, confidence, and overall personality will be evaluated by a committee of experts.

Salary / Pay Scale

The selected candidates will be paid on a daily basis based on the specific role they are assigned to perform within the "Ready Panel."

How to Apply Step by Step

Interested and eligible candidates must follow the procedure below to apply for the empanelment. Since this is an official government process involving a "Ready Panel," it is crucial to provide all documents accurately.

1. Check Eligibility: Before applying, ensure you meet the specific educational requirements and age limits for your chosen post (News Reader, Copy Editor, or CG Operator).
2. Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary documents including Educational Certificates (Degree/Diploma), Identity Proof (Aadhar Card/PAN), Age Proof, and any relevant experience certificates in Urdu media.
3. Create a Single PDF: Scan all the above-mentioned documents and combine them into a single PDF file to ensure ease of verification by the authorities.
4. Prepare Application Email: Draft a professional email including your name, contact details, and the specific post you are applying for (e.g., "Application for News Reader - Urdu").
5. Email Submission: Send the consolidated PDF file to the official email address: niarnuddluckown@gmail.com.
6. Physical Copy Preparation: For candidates who prefer physical submission or if specified, prepare a hard copy of your application and all supporting documents in an envelope.
7. Post/Hand Delivery: Send the physical copy via **Speed Post** or deliver it by hand to: Doordarshan Kendra, 24- Ashok Marg, Lucknow-226001.
8. Track Application: Keep a copy of your sent email or the Speed Post tracking receipt for future reference during the verification process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What does "Empanelment" mean in this job notification?
A: Empanelment means that candidates who pass the selection process will be placed on a "Ready Panel." This allows Doordarshan to call upon them as casual assignees whenever their specific skills (in Urdu media) are required for upcoming projects or broadcasts.

Q2: Is there an age relaxation for reserved categories?
A: The notification specifies fixed age limits (e.g., 21-40 for News Readers). Unless specifically mentioned in the official final guidelines, standard government relaxations may not apply to casual empanelment; hence, candidates should stick to the prescribed limits.

Q3: Do I need to be a resident of Lucknow to apply?
A: While the job is based in Lucknow, the notification does not strictly restrict applications to residents. However, since it is a field-based role at DDK Lucknow, candidates must be willing to work from that location.

Q4: What is the qualification for a CG Operator?
A: For the CG Operator role, candidates need a 10+2 qualification and a valid certificate in Computer Applications.

Q5: Is there any application fee for this recruitment?
A: No, the application process is completely free of cost for all categories.

Q6: What are the specific skills tested for News Readers?
A: For News Readers, the selection process includes a skill test focusing on voice modulation, clear pronunciation of Urdu words, and the ability to read news content with appropriate tone and pace.

Q7: Can I apply for more than one post?
A: Generally, candidates are advised to choose the role for which they meet the specific qualification criteria. It is recommended to check the official PDF for multi-post eligibility rules.

Q8: How will I receive information regarding the exam date?
A: Shortlisted candidates will be notified via the contact details provided in their application or through the official Doordarshan website/portal.

Q9: Is a Diploma in Journalism enough for the Copy Editor role?
A: Yes, the requirement states "Degree/PG Diploma in Journalism/Mass Communication." A PG Diploma is sufficient for the Copy Editor position.

Q10: What is the pay scale for a CG Operator?
A: The pay for a CG Operator is ₹1,125 per day as part of the casual assignment fee.

Conclusion

The recruitment by Doordarshan Kendra, Lucknow, for Urdu media roles offers a prestigious opportunity for those looking to build a career in public service broadcasting. By joining the "Ready Panel," professionals can contribute significantly to the reach of Urdu news and cultural content in India. Candidates should ensure they meet all educational requirements and prepare their documents meticulously before sending them via email or post by the deadline of 15/07/2026. This is a golden opportunity for skilled Urdu speakers to work with Prasar Bharati, one of the most respected media institutions in the country. Prepare well for the skill tests and interviews, and aim to become a part of this esteemed panel.

Note: Candidates are advised to read the official notification PDF thoroughly before applying to ensure they meet all technical requirements specified by Prasar Bharati.