ITV

Category: Local Cable Operators

  • Frodoh tunes into Cloudtv to amplify India’s connected ad landscape

    Frodoh tunes into Cloudtv to amplify India’s connected ad landscape

    MUMBAI: In a move set to reshape India’s connected TV (CTV) ad space, Frodoh, the fast-rising adtech innovator, has joined forces with Cloudtv, the country’s fastest-growing smart TV operating system, to bring sharper, data-led advertising experiences to millions of living rooms.

    With over 12 million viewers across 250 TV brands, Cloudtv offers one of India’s largest smart TV footprints and now, through Frodoh’s programmatic expertise, that screen time could soon turn into prime ad time. The partnership promises to help brands bridge the widening gap between the broad reach of traditional television and the precision of digital campaigns.

    “CTV advertising unifies fragmented audiences and brings brands closer to where viewers are most engaged on their smart TVs,” said Frodoh founder and CEO Russhabh R Thakkar. “Together with CloudTV, we’re setting the stage for advertisers to explore new levels of visibility and relevance.”

    Echoing that vision, Cloudtv COO and co-founder Abhijeet Rajpurohit said, “Our mission is to redefine the CTV ad landscape in India. Partnering with Frodoh strengthens this mission by combining our OS ecosystem with their deep understanding of CTV demand.”

     

  • Den Networks Q1 profit jumps 41 per cent to Rs 508 million despite flat sales

    Den Networks Q1 profit jumps 41 per cent to Rs 508 million despite flat sales

    MUMBAI: Den Networks may have seen revenues tread water this quarter, but profits took the express lane. Den Networks has posted a standalone profit after tax (PAT) of Rs 508.2 million for the quarter ended 30 June 2025, marking a 41 per cent year-on-year jump from Rs 359.3 million in the same period last year even as total revenue growth stayed modest at just 6 per cent.

    According to the company’s unaudited financials approved by the board of directors on 14 July 2025, total income for the quarter stood at Rs 3,150.8 million, up from Rs 2,959.6 million in Q1 FY24. This includes revenue from operations at Rs 2,456.1 million and other income largely investment returns at Rs 694.8 million.

    Cost-consciousness appears to have paid off. Total expenses declined 3.5 per cent sequentially to Rs 2,566.1 million. Notably, Den reduced its placement fees from Rs 484.1 million in Q4 FY25 to Rs 361.3 million this quarter. Content costs held steady at Rs 1,487.9 million.

    While finance costs remained negligible at Rs 5.5 million, a sharper tax outgo up 113 per cent year-on-year to Rs 76.6 million chipped at the bottom line, although it didn’t stop PAT from soaring past Rs 500 million. Earnings per share (EPS) came in at Rs 1.07, up from Rs 0.75 in Q1 FY24.

    Den’s consolidated results which include its 24 subsidiaries and five associate entities also painted a strong picture. Consolidated PAT stood at Rs 536.4 million, while total income was pegged at Rs 3,119.5 million. The group’s broadband business, however, saw a dip in revenue to Rs 104.6 million from Rs 121.2 million a year ago.

    The cable distribution segment continues to be the mainstay, accounting for Rs 2,353.1 million of gross revenue this quarter. Interestingly, other income (largely interest and investment income) surpassed Rs 700 million on the consolidated books, nearly 23 per cent of total income.

    Even as broadband and cable network operations posted minor operating losses, the group’s strong treasury returns and cost containment measures seem to have steadied the ship.

    Den Networks, now a part of the Reliance Industries-backed media ecosystem, continues to operate with healthy cash reserves. As of June 30, 2025, total consolidated assets stood at Rs 42,246.3 million, up from Rs 40,084.5 million in Q1 FY24, signalling long-term stability despite a flattish top line.

    For now, while India’s cable industry battles disruption from OTT and broadband wars, Den’s Q1 scorecard shows that fiscal discipline and high-yield investments can still keep the books in the black.

     

  • Siti-sational setback as losses deepen in Q3 and CIRP clouds outlook

    Siti-sational setback as losses deepen in Q3 and CIRP clouds outlook

    MUMBAI: Siti Networks is weathering one of its stormiest quarters yet, with mounting losses, a ballooning debt burden, and a cloud of insolvency proceedings hanging over its cable and broadband empire. The third quarter results for FY2024–25 reveal a dismal performance: the company posted a standalone net loss of Rs 529.02 million and a consolidated loss of Rs 667.61 million for the quarter ending 31 December 2024.

    Revenue from operations took a hit, falling to Rs 814.55 million in Q3 from Rs 1,032.30 million in the same period last year. Total expenses continued to outpace revenue, reaching Rs 1,358.73 million driven largely by pay channel costs (Rs 683.14 million), finance charges (Rs 222.26 million), and depreciation (Rs 103.92 million).

    Year-to-date figures paint an even bleaker picture, with the company racking up a net loss of Rs 1,421.70 million (standalone) and Rs 1,684.50 million (consolidated) for the nine months ended December 2024. Siti Networks’ accumulated losses now stand at a staggering Rs 29,346.96 million, resulting in a negative net worth of Rs 12,411.66 million and a working capital deficit of Rs 16,474.65 million.

    To add to the turbulence, the company remains under the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP), with legal wrangling between lenders, operational creditors and the resolution professional over claims and liabilities. Claims totalling over Rs 31,000 million have been filed, though a significant chunk remains disputed or under review.

    While the Resolution Professional, Rohit Mehra, continues to steer the ship, ongoing disputes including appeals over moratorium breaches and creditor repayments threaten to delay a stable resolution. Meanwhile, statutory auditors have issued a disclaimer of conclusion, citing insufficient audit evidence and unresolved material uncertainties, including doubts about the company’s very ability to continue as a going concern.

    Despite resumed operations with major broadcasters like Zee Entertainment and the presence of a Resolution Professional at the helm, the road ahead looks anything but smooth. Siti’s future now hinges on a successful turnaround plan, if one can be stitched together in time.

    As the industry watches closely, the question remains: Can Siti Networks switch from static to signal again? Or is this the final fade to black?

  • The unmatched power of TV storytelling that continues to grow

    The unmatched power of TV storytelling that continues to grow

    MUMBAI: In an era where everyone seems surgically attached to smartphones and attention spans are shorter than elevator pitches, one old-school screen still refuses to fade into the background: the television.

    And no, it’s not just for your grandparents’ soap operas. It’s a full-blown, all-demographic, emotion-fuelled national habit. In India, TV hasn’t just survived the digital onslaught-it’s thrived, flourished, and even added a few new cushions to the family couch.

    According to the PWC India Media & Entertainment Outlook 2024–2028 report, India’s TV advertising market is booming while the west hits a commercial pause. Projected to become the world’s fourth-largest by 2028, it’s expected to grow at a healthy 4.2 per cent CAGR. Clearly, India didn’t get the memo about the death of television.

    television evagelists

    And the numbers back it up. With a jaw-dropping 46 trillion viewing minutes clocked annually by 880 million viewers, the average Indian spends 3.7 hours a day with the telly—more time than with family, friends, or dare we say, their fitness app. Even gen z, often accused of having Tiktok in their DNA, is tuning in more in megacities. Meanwhile, decision-makers aged 31–50 rack up 13.8 trillion viewing minutes, proving that remote controls are still in the hands of those who call the shots—at home and in the market.

    Adani Wilmar Limited head – media & fortune brand ccaptured the sentiment, “With its unmatched scale and emotional storytelling, it allows us to connect with families across the country in a way no other platform can. For a brand like ours, built on trust and everyday relevance, television remains central to how we create resonance and drive results.”

    TV isn’t just about eyeballs; it’s about heartstrings. “Television remains one of the most powerful mediums for building brand trust and long-term recall,” said Colgate Palmolive India Ltd director – integrated brand experience Anagha Bhojane. “We have consistently seen how TV drives brand affinity and consumer action at scale.”

    And the proof is in the programming. Shows like Anupamaa, Jhanak, Bhagyalakshmi (Kannada), Chempaneer Poovu (Malayalam), Siragadikka Aasai (Tamil), and Gunde Ninda Gudi Gantalu (Telugu) aren’t just being watched—they’re being lived, memed, and passionately debated across Whatsapp family groups. Meanwhile, non-fiction juggernauts like Bigg Boss and Laughter Chefs continue to dominate prime time, turning weeknights into a national viewing ritual.

    Jyothy Labs media head Raghavendra Katte summed it up, “Television has been a cornerstone of brand building in India. The role of the medium has evolved from mere exposure to a large canvas of opportunities for brands to build a powerful connection with consumers.”

    Leading the pack is JioStar, India’s TV Goliath, claiming 760+ million monthly active viewers, 90 per cent+ urban and rural household penetration, and a commanding 54 per cent prime-time share in HSM and 44 per cent in the south. For advertisers, it’s the ultimate jackpot: scale, trust, and cultural resonance wrapped in one crispy pakoda of opportunity.

    The recent addition of 1.3 million Pay TV households in just 10–12 days proves the medium is far from done.

    It’s not dying.

    It’s diversifying—and in India, it’s dominating.

    So, while global marketers chase the next shiny platform, India’s brands are sticking with the one that’s been delivering plot twists, product sales, and parental approval for decades.

    In the battle for screen supremacy, TV’s still got the best seat in the house.

  • Den Networks disputes Rs 38 crore GST orders, plans legal appeal

    Den Networks disputes Rs 38 crore GST orders, plans legal appeal

    MUMBAI: Den Networks Limited has found itself in the middle of a tax showdown, with authorities in Lucknow and Kochi slapping it with two Goods and Services Tax (GST) penalties totalling nearly Rs 38 crore. The company, however, has strongly refuted the allegations, calling the orders erroneous and confirming plans to file appeals against them.

    Dismissing both allegations, Den Networks has reiterated that these tax demands do not impact its day-to-day operations, and that the financial exposure is limited to the penalty amounts. The company remains confident of a favourable outcome in the appeals process. With a legal battle looming, the GST dispute is far from settled Den Networks is preparing to make its case, challenging the tax authorities’ interpretation in an attempt to reverse the penalties and clear its name.

    The first order, issued by the CGST and Central Excise Commissionerate, Lucknow, on 31 January 2025, imposed a penalty of Rs 4.75 crore under Section 74 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 and the Uttar Pradesh Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017. Tax authorities claimed that Den Networks had wrongfully adjusted deferred revenue for FY 2017-18, allegedly leading to lower GST payments. The company insists this assessment is incorrect.

    The second order, passed by the CGST Kochi Commissionerate on 3 February 2025, demanded a staggering Rs 33.25 crore in differential tax, along with an equal penalty amount under Section 122(2)(b) read with Section 74(9) of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, and corresponding Sections of the Kerala State Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, for the period from July 2017 to March 2022. The dispute centres on how GST should be applied—tax authorities argue it should be charged on the total amount collected by local cable operators (LCOs) from subscribers, rather than on the revenue received by Den Networks from LCOs. The company maintains that it has calculated and discharged GST correctly as per regulatory norms.

  • Den Networks struggles with profitability amid revenue declines in Q3 FY25

    Den Networks struggles with profitability amid revenue declines in Q3 FY25

    MUMBAI: Once a linchpin of India’s cable and broadband revolution, Den Networks now finds itself grappling with the seismic shifts of the digital era.

    As 5G continues its relentless march across urban India, the cable giant-helmed by CEO S.N. Sharma and co-founded by Sameer Manchandana-reported lukewarm financial results for Q3 FY25, highlighting the mounting pressures of an evolving market.

    While operational focus remains intact, Den’s revenue growth and profitability paint a picture of an industry at a crossroads, battling the twin challenges of rising competition and technological disruption.

    Will Den Networks hold its ground, or is this the beginning of the end for traditional cable dominance in India’s digital ecosystem?

    For Q3 FY25, Den Networks’ standalone revenue from operations decreased by 3.1 per cent year-on-year (YoY), dropping to Rs 2,582.96 million from Rs 2,666.69 million in Q3 FY24. The nine-month revenue also declined by 8.0 per cent to Rs 7,455.83 million compared to Rs 8,105.98 million during the same period last year. On a consolidated basis, the quarterly revenue from operations stood at Rs 2,607.04 million, marking a 4.5 per cent dip YoY.

    The decline in revenue is primarily attributed to lower cable distribution revenues and intensified competition in the broadband sector. The cable distribution network generated Rs 2,495.73 million in Q3 FY25, compared to Rs 2,648.03 million in Q3 FY24, reflecting a 5.7 per cent YoY drop. The broadband segment, however, posted a notable improvement, contributing Rs 111.31 million in Q3 FY25, up 36.8 per cent from Rs 81.34 million in the prior year.

    Den Networks reported a standalone profit after tax (PAT) of Rs 231.17 million for Q3 FY25, a significant 43.6 per cent decline from Rs 409.96 million in Q3 FY24. The consolidated PAT showed a similar downward trend, standing at Rs 419.29 million for Q3 FY25, down 12.4 per cent from Rs 478.58 million a year earlier.

    Increased operational expenses compounded profitability challenges. Content costs for the quarter rose to Rs 1,577.03 million, accounting for 61.1 per cent of revenue from operations, compared to 57.3 per cent in Q3 FY24. Depreciation and amortisation expenses remained elevated at Rs 179.95 million, reflecting sustained investments in infrastructure.

    For the nine months ended 31 December 2024, standalone PAT stood at Rs 934.07 million, a sharp decline of 30.3 per cent from Rs 1,340.25 million during the same period last year. Consolidated nine-month PAT came in at Rs 1,368.69 million, showing a marginal 0.8 per cent increase compared to Rs 1,357.43 million in the previous year.

    Den Networks faces an uphill task in reviving its growth trajectory. The cable business, contributing the bulk of revenues, continues to face pricing pressures and subscriber churn due to the growing shift towards over-the-top (OTT) platforms. Broadband, while exhibiting growth, remains a small portion of the overall revenue.

    The company’s operational margins also face challenges. The EBITDA margin compressed as placement fees and employee benefits expenses rose YoY, reflecting increased competitive and operational demands.

    While Den Networks’ focus on broadband growth is commendable, the overall decline in revenue and profitability highlights the pressing need for strategic adjustments. Addressing challenges in the cable segment, optimising operational efficiencies, and capitalising on digital opportunities will be critical for long-term sustainability.

  • Dish TV launches ‘Own Your Customer’ initiative

    Dish TV launches ‘Own Your Customer’ initiative

    Mumbai: Dish TV India, a leading DTH service provider, has launched its marquee and unique ‘Own Your Customer’ (OYC) as part of its partnership with Local Cable Operators (LCOs). This collaboration with Dish TV will deliver a superior TV viewing experience to customers in a simplified manner eliminating the need for extensive infrastructure such as optical fiber, transmitters, nodes, and amplifiers. This partnership will ensure robust connectivity while enhancing the overall reliability of the network.

    After COVID-19, while OTT platforms and DTH services continued to grow, traditional cable TV services suffered a minor setback. In such a situation, the ‘Own Your Customer’ (OYC) initiative launched by Dish TV will prove helpful to cable operators in strengthening their customer base. Cable operators were concerned about their declining customer base as they wanted to shift to DTH to avoid interruptions in their TV viewing experience. This Dish TV’s initiative will not only provide a perfect solution but will also help them retain their customer base without additional overhead costs.

    With this OYC initiative, LCOs and MSOs (Multisystem Operations) will enjoy complete control over their networks and act as distributors of Dish TV in their respective areas such as recharge and activation through their self-operated portal, eliminating dependence on external entities. Consumers will now experience better technology with the assistance of their cable operators. Moreover, LCOs will have the opportunity to install broadband, enabling customers to utilize new digital technologies like the Dish TV Android Box from the comfort of their homes, not only further strengthening the broadband connection provided by LCOs but also providing end-to-end solution to customers.

    Commenting on the initiative, Dish TV India Ltd CEO Manoj Dobhal, stated, “We are delighted to introduce the ‘Own Your Customer’ campaign, a first-of-its-kind and unique initiative in media distribution. It marks a major change in cable TV distribution. This initiative by Dish TV will not only empower LCOs and MSOs but will also enable them to expand their customer base and reduce operating costs, while Dish TV will gain access to new customers and reduce servicing overheads. This relationship ensures that both parties are committed to driving industry-wide change while providing unmatched value and services to customers.”

    Through OYC, Dish TV reaffirms its commitment to supporting the growth of LCO businesses. Its primary objective is to revitalize the cable TV industry with the combined strength of both DTH and cable networks. Dish TV is fostering the growth of LCOs and MSOs by enhancing their customer relationships and introducing a customer-centric approach to TV distribution.

    This unique initiative by Dish TV has garnered significant attention and interest from customers in the television distribution sector. It is expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping the future of entertainment distribution.

  • Shemaroo TV presents ‘Karmadhikari Shanidev’ – A narrative of the God of justice

    Shemaroo TV presents ‘Karmadhikari Shanidev’ – A narrative of the God of justice

    Mumbai: Shemaroo TV, the family entertainment channel known for its diverse storytelling, especially in the mythological genre, is set to release its second original mythological show, ‘Karmadhikari Shanidev,’ on 11 December 2023. The new series aims to captivate viewers by exploring how Shanidev serves as the dispenser of justice, intricately maintaining a balance between the realms of Devta and Asur. Unravelling the lesser-known aspects of the often-misunderstood God of Indian mythology, Shanidev, the series promises to shed light on his multifaceted character and offers a nuanced exploration of his divine significance in Hindu Puranas.

    Produced under the banner of Triangle Film Company, ‘Karmadhikari Shanidev’ promises to unravel untold stories from Shanidev’s life, delving into various narrative threads from revered epics such as Ramayan, different avatars of Lord Vishnu, Samundra Mathan, Piplaad Katha, Dashrath & Raja Harishchandra Katha, among others. The stellar cast includes Vineet Kumar Chaudhry as Shanidev, Sandeep Mohan as Surya Dev (Shanidev’s father), Suhasi Dhami portraying the roles of Sangya and Chaya (Shanidev’s mother), Aparna Dixit as Damini (wife of Shanidev), Danish Akhtar as Hanuman, and Deblina Chatterjee as Goddess Laxmi, promising impeccable portrayals.

    On the launch of the show, Shemaroo Entertainment Ltd COO of broadcast business Sandeep Gupta stated, “As we embark on this new chapter with the launch of ‘Karmadhikari Shanidev,’ we are excited to unfold the diverse narratives woven into the rich tapestry of Indian mythology. The show aims to provide a fresh perspective on Shanidev, shifting from a feared deity to the god of karma, justice, and retribution. We are hopeful that the engaging storyline of ‘Karmadhikari Shanidev’ will surely make a lasting impact.”

    Speaking about the show, Triangle Film Company producer Nikhil Sinha said, “Triangle Film Company is renowned for bringing the stories from our revered scriptures to life. Our previous shows such as ‘Mahadev,’ and ‘Siya Ke Ram,’ among others have been highly appreciated for their accuracy and portrayal, with the talented actors in the industry depicting the characters to perfection. With ‘Karmadhikari Shanidev,’ we hold similar expectations. I am confident that Vineet, Suhasi, Aparna, and others will do an amazing job. I believe with Shemaroo TV’s reach in the Heartland of India ‘Karmadhikari Shanidev’ will become a household name in no time.”

    As Shemaroo TV continues to carve a niche with its diverse and compelling content, ‘Karmadhikari Shanidev’ stands as a testament to the channel’s commitment to delivering premium quality programming. With this new show, the channel aims to dispel common myths associated with Shanidev, encouraging the audience to embrace the positive aspects of his character and principles. It explores the profound impact of karma and justice in everyday life.

  • KCCL signs subscription agreement under NTO 3.0

    KCCL signs subscription agreement under NTO 3.0

    Mumbai : The interconnection subscription agreement with the broadcasters was signed by MSO Kerala Communicators Cable Ltd (KCCL) in accordance with the Trai-mandated NTO 3.0 after UCN.

    Now that the Trai’s new rate order has been modified, KCCL has joined a growing group of MSOs, including Siti Cable, KAL Cables, Tamil Nadu Arasu Cable TV, and Thamizhaga Cable TV, that have agreed to negotiate interconnection agreements with the broadcasters.

    Even as the legal dispute between cable operators represented by the AIDCF (All India Digital Cable Federation) and the broadcasters continues in the Kerala High Court, there now appears to be a rift within the cable fraternity in its fight against the broadcasters regarding signing the interconnection agreements under the NTO 3.0.

    Den, Fastway Transmissions, GTPL Hathway, Hathway Digital, and other MSOs are among those that are still engaged in this conflict with the broadcasters.

    Leading three broadcasters (Sony, Disney Star India, and Zee Entertainment) cut off their signals to nearly ten MSOs on February 19 who are AIDCF members.

    Broadcasters are justifying the increase in price after a four-year hiatus. Cable operators, on the other hand, claim that the price increase is exorbitant and will raise consumers’ monthly cable bill. They have also filed numerous petitions against the amended tariff regime in the country’s high courts.

    AIDCF claims that despite the fact that the case is in court, these major broadcasters disconnected their signals.

    Meanwhile, AIDCF has warned advertisers, media planners, and ad agencies, against advertising on Disney-Star, Sony and Zee, because their recent actions have “deprived more than 25 million households across India from watching their channels since Saturday, 18 February 2023.

    The federation claimed that the 25 million homes account for nearly 35 per cent of the pay TV market in India.

    “Are you still getting the reach that you have paid for? Your advertisements are not reaching more than 200 million consumers across all states and Union Territories in India for the past three days. More than 46 billion minutes of viewing time are being lost per day across India on the largest cable networks in India including GTPL, DEN, Hathway, Fastway, In Cable, NXT Digital, Asianet, KCCL, UCN and many more. These networks cater to large audiences in HSM as well as South with dominant presence in Punjab/Haryana/ Chandigarh HP, UP Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, West Bengal Odisha, Madhya Pradesh/Chhattisgarh, Bihar/Jharkhand, North-East, AP Telangana, Kamataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, etc,” said a release by AIDCF.

    The industry body warns the advertisers to take an informed decision when they advertise on any of the channels including Star Plus, Zee TV, Sony.

  • Hathway Cable and Datacom Q1 FY23 revenues at Rs 447.2 crore

    Hathway Cable and Datacom Q1 FY23 revenues at Rs 447.2 crore

    Mumbai: Hathway Cable and Datacom on Friday reported its first quarter results for the financial year FY23. The company reported gross revenue of Rs 447.2 crore and earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) of Rs 102.6 crore.

    The company reported profit after tax of Rs 21 crore as compared to Rs 28.4 crore in the preceding quarter. Its broadband business brought in revenues of Rs 157.2 crore and its cable TV business stood at Rs 290 crore.

    The company’s total expenditure stood at Rs 360.2 crore, and its pay channel cost stood at Rs 172.7 crore.

    Hathway Cable and Datacom reported 1.12 million broadband subscribers at the end of June. Customer satisfaction scores (CSAT) increased from 62 per cent in the first quarter of FY22 to 84 per cent in the first quarter of FY23.

    The company augmented its fibre-to-the-home capacity to accommodate another 1.2 million customers. It also finished next-generation. Docsis speed complaints were reduced by 80 per cent in all cities following the Docsis upgrade. It reported that 65 per cent of Docsis customers have been upgraded to 100 Mbps plans.