HMTV’s documentary wins UNICEF award

Hyderabad: ‘Devarakonda Ammayila Katha’ a documentary by HMTV bagged the Best Documentary Award at the 7th UNICEF Awards for children-related programmes in Telugu television channels recently.

Nine awards in diverse categories were presented by actress Lakshmi Manchu, Chief of UNICEF field office for Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka, Ruth Leaño, Director General, CMS, PN Vasanti and jury Chair Person of the awards, Sattaru Umapthi, IPS (Retd.) at a special ceremony at Hotel Taj Deccan in Banjara Hills.

The Centre for Media Studies (CMS) tracked, monitored and recorded 4,80,000 minutes of prime time content telecast by 20 Telugu channels between July and October. A total of 90 self- nominations (1,254.55 minutes duration) were also evaluated by the jury.

In addition, it was noted that 20 channels went beyond the drive of TRP race and devoted 15,126.10 minutes of prime-time space (6:30 pm to 10:30 pm) to championing the cause of children.

Speaking on the occasion, Ruth Leano said, "More than the numbers, these statistics tell a story; of partnership, of media metrics and of a common intent to champion the issues of children."

PN Vasanti complimented the Telugu media for their historic contribution for children. Sharing the CMS analysis over the last seven years of doing this project, she said, “We have seen better programmes and a wider range of issue related to children were covered. We also observed that violations in programming have also reduced drastically over the years.”

Lakshmi Machu, spoke passionately on child rights. In her heartfelt speech, she shared her support and experience with Passionate Foundation, where initiatives like Teach for Change are transforming children’s lives. She spoke directly to the media professionals present and complimented their work.

Select government officials, heads of TV channels, eminent media personalities, members of the academia and representatives of the civil society organisations also participated.