Doordarshan is all set to launch a new channel for Andhra Pradesh shortly. At present Saptagiri is a Telugu channel catering to the needs of Telugus in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
The Doordarshan authorities have not yet confirmed the name for the new channel. In all likelihood, Saptagiri channel is likely to continue to cater to the needs of Andhra Pradesh. Telangana State will have Hyderabad channel. However, nomenclature is not confirmed. The Central government will announce the names of both Channels before October 10, Doordarshan sources say.
Hyderabad Doordarshan Kendra will continue to generate content for the Andhra Pradesh channel initially. Six-hour programmes will be generated from Vijayawada unit. The Doordarshan will beam two news bulletins, one each for Andhra Pradesh and Telangana states. Vijayawada unit, which is a programme generation facility, will be expanded into full-fledged Kendra with programme production and transmission facility shortly.
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Staffers like cameramen and editors who are working in other Kendras were drawn to work in Vijayawada Kendra, sources say. Deputy Director General and Programme Head at Doordarshan Hyderabad Kendra M. Sailaja Suman will act as in-charge of Vijayawada centre also. She will assume office on Monday.