ITV

Category: Television

  • JioStar acquires exclusive broadcast and streaming rights for US Open for the next five years

    JioStar acquires exclusive broadcast and streaming rights for US Open for the next five years

    MUMBAI: JioStar announced that it has acquired the exclusive broadcast and streaming rights for the US Open Tennis Championships for the next five years. Secured by the USTA’s media rights agency, IMG, this landmark partnership will see every match from the hard courts of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center broadcasted on Star Sports Network and streamed on JioHotstar, delivering every ace, rally, and match point directly to millions of Indian screens.

    This year’s edition promises edge-of-the-seat drama, rising stars, and battles between a growing generation of legends as the men’s and women’s singles Main Draw will be played across 15 competition days. Indian fans will be treated to breathtaking tennis action with Carlos Alcaraz, Iga Świątek, Novak Djokovic, and Coco Gauff taking the court and Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka looking to defend their men’s and women’s singles titles respectively.

    The tournament also announced a reimagination of its US Open Mixed Doubles Championship, which this year will feature 16 star-studded pairs all vying for US$ 1 million in prize money going to the winning team. The blockbuster field will include many of the men and women ranked in the Top 10, nine Grand Slam singles champions and veritable legends of the game. Alcaraz will be pairing up with Emma Raducanu, Sinner is entered with Emma Navarro, Świątek will double up with Casper Ruud, Djokovic will come together with fellow Serbian Olga Danilovic and Venus Williams will compete with Reilly Opelka. On top of that, Ben Shelton will pair with world doubles No. 1 Taylor Townsend and the defending US Open Mixed Doubles Champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori will compete to defend their title.

    As part of its coverage, JioStar will continue bringing its host of tech-driven and fan-first innovations that will redefine how one of the largest-attended annual sporting events in the world is experienced. From multi-language commentary to exclusive behind-the-scenes access on Star Sports Network and JioHotstar, viewers will enjoy immersive storytelling and interactivity around the tournament like never before.

    “We are thrilled to add the US Open to our expanding portfolio of world-class sporting events. This association with the USTA deepens the range of premier global sports content available to fans on our platforms,” said JioStar head of international acquisitions & syndication, Harry Griffith. “With the US Open, JioStar is now the home of two of the four prestigious Grand Slams, offering year-round tennis coverage and reaffirming our commitment to delivering top-tier live action to every corner of the country.”

    “We are delighted to partner with JioStar to bring the US Open to our fans across India,” said USTA chief commercial officer, Kirsten Corio. “JioStar’s forward-thinking, digital-first approach and their vast scale make them the ideal partner to carry the tournament into a new era. We look forward to connecting with tennis fans on the platforms they use most, delivering a world-class viewing experience that is innovative and engaging.”

    This strategic addition further reinforces JioStar’s reputation as India’s ultimate sporting destination, with rights to ICC events, India Men’s and Women’s Cricket teams, TATA IPL, TATA WPL, Premier League, Wimbledon, Pro Kabaddi League, and a lot more. With a calendar packed with premium sporting content, JioStar continues to lead the way in providing fans with seamless access to the most anticipated sporting moments from India and around the world.

  • Indian broadcasters push for separate commercial TV rates as streaming bites

    Indian broadcasters push for separate commercial TV rates as streaming bites

    MUMBAI: Indian television broadcasters are mounting a fierce campaign to restore separate pricing for commercial and household subscribers, arguing that forcing hotels and restaurants to pay the same rates as ordinary homes is killing their business. 

    The Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF), which represents the country’s main TV networks, has petitioned the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to scrap uniform pricing rules introduced in 2015. The lobby group contends that charging a Mumbai hotel chain the same rates as a middle-class family is not just outdated—it is commercial suicide. 

    “Like every other industry, TV services should recognise the higher value and different use cases in commercial environments,” the IBDF argued in its submission to TRAI. Before 2015, broadcasters enjoyed the freedom to charge premium rates to businesses and negotiate terms directly with commercial customers. That changed when TRAI imposed a one-size-fits-all pricing regime, stripping away broadcasters’ ability to set distinct commercial tariffs. Now, as television viewership plummets in favour of digital streaming platforms like Netflix,  Amazon Prime Video, JioHotstar, Z5 and SonyLiv,  broadcasters are fighting for their financial lives. 

    They argue that restoring separate, higher tariffs for commercial users could help the traditional TV industry weather the streaming storm. 

    TRAI has launched a review of the pricing structure and is consulting stakeholders—including broadcasters, direct-to-home providers, and cable operators—on whether uniform rates should continue. The regulator has not indicated when it might reach a decision. 

    The IBDF has branded the current rules as “too restrictive” and wants a return to flexible, market-driven negotiations with commercial subscribers. For an industry grappling with declining reach and stagnant subscription revenues, every rupee counts.

     The outcome of TRAI’s review could reshape India’s television landscape, determining whether broadcasters can extract more value from their dwindling commercial customer base or remain trapped in a uniform pricing straitjacket as viewers continue their exodus to streaming services.  

  • Shakti in the City as Sheshakti Mumbai puts women at the wheel of change

    Shakti in the City as Sheshakti Mumbai puts women at the wheel of change

    MUMBAI: Mumbai got a power surge and this time, it wasn’t from the grid. News18’s Sheshakti returned with its third and most dynamic edition yet, lighting up Mumbai with stories of women who are not just breaking barriers but blueprinting Bharat’s future. Organised in partnership with Lions International, the 2025 edition marked a first the regional debut of the flagship women’s leadership platform turning the spotlight on Maharashtra’s changemakers.

    Titled “From Breaking Barriers to Building Bharat”, the theme underscored a pivotal shift: from metro corridors to grassroots campaigns, from boardrooms to classrooms, the narrative of power is now as plural as it is personal. With over two impactful editions behind it, Sheshakti has evolved into more than a platform, it’s a movement.

    The Mumbai edition celebrated a formidable lineup of trailblazers from bureaucrats and bankers to  actors and entrepreneurs. Each speaker brought to the stage her truth, grit, and roadmap for India 2.0.

    Ashwini Bhide, principal secretary to the Maharashtra chief minister and the woman behind Mumbai’s mega metro projects, reflected on the complexity and scale of city infrastructure: “Working on mega projects in Mumbai is a challenge and an opportunity. Unless we create global-standard public transport, Mumbaikars will continue to struggle,” she said, reinforcing the urgent need for inclusive urban solutions.

    Actor Shriya Pilgaonkar gave the inside track on evolving female roles in Indian cinema: “You’ve got to be stubborn about your dreams and flexible about your plan. The industry is quick to box you. Stay in your power and don’t hand it over to others.”

    Bajaj Finserv group president designate (investments) Lakshmi Iyer brought finance into focus: “Financial freedom should feel like oxygen for women unseen, constant, and essential.” Her session, titled ‘The ROI of Being She’, highlighted the non-negotiable value of economic independence.

    Aditya Birla Education Trust founder Neerja Birla spoke candidly about India’s silent mental health crisis: “We’re conditioned to put ourselves last. But if your own cup is half full, how can you pour into others’ lives?” Her message was clear self-care is the starting point of leadership.

    Closing the edition was Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, who made a compelling economic argument for gender parity: “Globally, the nations that recognised the value of women accelerated their growth. If Maharashtra wants to move ahead, we must put women in the front seat.”

    Fadnavis reflected on the era of “sarpanch-patis” and “corporator-patis”, when men unofficially held the power behind elected women leaders in local bodies. “That began to change in 1997,” he noted, “and by 2029, when it becomes compulsory to allocate tickets to women, we won’t stop at 33 per cent, we’ll reach 50 per cent.”

    From mental health to metro lines, movie roles to money goals, Sheshakti’s Mumbai edition was a full-spectrum showcase of women who aren’t just participating, they’re pioneering.

    Because when women lead from every postcode and every profession, the question is no longer if Bharat will change. It’s how soon.

  • ‘Hoopr Smash partners with Turnkey Music

    ‘Hoopr Smash partners with Turnkey Music

    MUMBAI: Hoopr Smash announced its strategic partnership with Turnkey Music & Publishing Pvt. Ltd., an independent music publisher, founded and headed by seasoned music industry veteran, Atul Churamani. Through this partnership, more than 1250 tracks, largely English, from Turnkey’s catalogue, will now be available for licensing through the Hoopr Smash platform. This addition expands Hoopr Smash’s rapidly growing library to 20,000+ tracks, marking a significant milestone in making high-quality, international-standard English tracks more accessible and legally licensable for creators and brands across India.

    With a legacy rooted in artist development and publishing innovation, Turnkey Music & Publishing has worked with international catalogues, domestic copyright owners, and independent singer-songwriters. Led by industry expert, Atul Churamani – who has played a key role in shaping Indian pop, music publishing and digital music in India – Turnkey focuses on curating high-quality English music across genres like soul, blues, indie rock, and pop. The label has built a strong identity through sharp A&R, a culture-first approach, and acclaimed initiatives like Paddy Fields, India’s first folk fusion festival. This partnership brings Turnkey’s globally-relevant English music catalogue to Hoopr Smash’s self-serve platform, enabling creators and brands to license world-class tracks legally and effortlessly; while ensuring fair monetization for artists and rights holders alike.

    Churamani said, “Hoopr Smash is doing a great service to musicians and brands alike. With the amount of music being released every day, it has become challenging for brands to find new and appropriate music that is a fit for them. So we are extremely excited about partnering with Hoopr, especially as Gaurav Dagaonkar and his team have worked hard to get the Hoopr platform to where it is today, ensuring that musicians are compensated fairly for their work. In addition, Gaurav has been particular about engaging with the Indian Performing Rights Society as well, so that composers and lyricists also receive their share of royalties. Micro licensing is the new mantra for musicians and creators and we could not have asked for a better partner to help build a sustainable business for them.”

    Hoopr co-founder & CEO Gaurav Dagaonkar said, “India’s content ecosystem is booming, but the independent music space has long lacked accessible, legal licensing options. With Turnkey’s diverse and globally-relevant catalogue now on Hoopr Smash, we’re addressing this critical gap while expanding our offerings meaningfully. Atul Churamani’s legacy in artist development and the music publishing space adds immeasurable value to this collaboration. Together we hope to create a future ready and transparent ecosystem where brands and creators license music in a responsible manner and artists receive fair compensation.”

    Hoopr Co-Founder & CRO, Meghna Mittal added, “As the demand for English music grows across branded digital content, campaigns, and creator communities, it’s crucial that the music licensing infrastructure evolves to match the growing demand. Our partnership with Turnkey brings not just a rich catalogue of English tracks, but also decades of publishing expertise to the platform. Hoopr Smash’s real-time licensing, automated compliance, and intuitive discovery tools ensure that creators can access world-class music legally and instantly—while rights holders benefit from full transparency and control. This is exactly where tech, creativity, and fair monetization meet.”

    With over 80,000 brands producing digital content in India daily, nearly 87 per cent of whom operate without proper licensing, the need for a transparent, ethical music licensing solution is more urgent than ever. This collaboration between Hoopr Smash and Turnkey directly addresses India’s ₹10,000 crore annual loss due to unlicensed music usage, by offering a legally compliant, scalable framework that benefits both artists and content creators.

  • Applause gives Archer novels the reel deal with big screen plans

    Applause gives Archer novels the reel deal with big screen plans

    MUMBAI: India is flipping the page on adaptation history Jeffrey Archer’s bestsellers are finally getting their official real life adaptation close-up. Move over pirated plots and ‘inspired’ scripts Jeffrey Archer is getting a legitimate Indian makeover. In a landmark announcement, Applause Entertainment has acquired exclusive screen rights to six of the legendary author’s most iconic novels. And unlike decades of uncredited rip-offs, this one’s all above board legal, global, and ready to stream in style.

    The acquisition includes The Clifton Chronicles, First Among Equals, Fourth Estate, Sons of Fortune, Heads You Win, and The Eleventh Commandment. Applause, known for high-impact Indian originals like Scam 1992 and Criminal Justice, is making its first foray into international fiction adaptations and they’re going big. Expect a slate of premium drama series and feature films spanning languages, formats, and platforms.

    At a live conversation in Mumbai, author Jeffrey Archer and Applause MD Sameer Nair shared their vision and plenty of mutual admiration. “There isn’t a Cain, but there’s certainly an Abel in every Indian,” joked Archer, reflecting on how his stories of ambition, love, betrayal and revenge have found deep resonance here. The 85-year-old best-selling author, whose books have sold over 300 million copies across 115 countries and 49 languages, called the collaboration “a privilege,” but added with trademark candour, “I shall be watching and waiting for results!”

    Sameer Nair was clear that this partnership signals a bold new direction. “This isn’t just a rights deal, it’s a creative call-out to India’s best storytellers,” he said. “We’re inviting screenwriters, directors, and regional creators to reimagine Archer’s worlds in contemporary Indian settings while staying true to the original narrative arc.” Nair cited First Among Equals as an example, saying its political premise translates beautifully into India’s high-stakes electoral landscape. “Just replace Westminster with the Vidhan Sabha, and you’ve got a blockbuster.”

    Applause plans to adapt some novels as long-form series and others as films, possibly in multiple Indian languages. The idea, said Nair, is to retell global IP through a local lens and take it back to the world via global streaming platforms. “These are timeless stories, and the new generation deserves to hear them in a voice and context they understand.”

    For Archer, the faith in adaptation lies in one word: screenwriting. “If the screenplay’s right, the show works. If it isn’t, nothing can save it,” he quipped, citing The West Wing as an example of sublime screenwriting. And he’s no stranger to the perils of poor adaptation either. “The BBC did Cain and Abel brilliantly. But Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less? Terrible. It’s not easy but when it works, it’s magic.”

    In an industry where copyright infringement once passed for creativity, this deal is also a statement. “Indians are done with jugaad. We want to do it the right way,” said Nair. “It’s time Indian content gets a global reputation for originality and excellence.”

    So what’s next? The creative process has begun, with teams now deciding which titles will go where, in what language, and on which platform. Archer’s only golden rule to filmmakers? “Stick to the story. Don’t think you can write your own half of Kane and Abel. Just don’t.”

    From the pirated paperbacks sold at Indian traffic signals to a sprawling screen universe led by some of the country’s sharpest creators Archer’s tales are finally getting the adaptation they deserve. With Applause calling the shots, this is one literary remix that promises to be worth the wait.

  • Reporter Channel sets new benchmark: First to cross 218 GRP in male 22+

    Reporter Channel sets new benchmark: First to cross 218 GRP in male 22+

    In a landmark moment for Malayalam television news, Reporter Channel has become the first news network in Kerala to cross 218 GRP in the Male 22+ ABC segment — a key demographic that represents Kerala’s most influential, urban, and brand-conscious audience.

    This milestone is more than a numerical achievement. It reflects Reporter Channel’s consistent focus on editorial precision, strategic scheduling, and audience alignment. In a market where content choices are abundant, the ability to lead in a premium segment like Male 22+ demonstrates sustained viewer preference and platform trust.

    In a noteworthy shift, Reporter Channel has not only outperformed its news competitors but has also surpassed several established general entertainment channels in overall GRP performance.This indicates a broader viewer shift toward content that is not just entertaining but relevant, immediate, and rooted in real-world context. In a GRP-driven market, Reporter’s position above legacy entertainment brands underscores its growing influence in shaping mass viewing behavior across Kerala.

    The Male 22+ category includes working professionals, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers — a group closely watched by advertisers for its high media value and purchasing influence. Reporter’s performance in this space signals both content relevance and strong delivery across time bands.

    At the helm of this achievement is the channel’s leadership. Mr. Anto Augustine, Managing Editor / Managing Director of Reporter Channel, has led the organisation through a phase of operational clarity and editorial strengthening.

    “When content stays sharp and honest, audiences follow — and they stay,” says Mr. Anto Augustine.

    Under his direction, the channel has combined a strong newsroom with a clear programming identity, balancing speed with depth, and regional storytelling with journalistic accountability.

    The 218 GRP mark in Male 22+ is not just a record; it sets a new benchmark in Kerala’s broadcast news environment. For advertisers, it confirms that Reporter is the most effective platform to reach high-value audiences. For the industry, it underlines the potential of regional brands to shape performance standards traditionally associated with national channels.

    This performance milestone reinforces Reporter Channel’s position as a consistent leader in Kerala’s news space. With 218 GRP in the Male 22+ segment, the channel has set a new benchmark for regional news viewership. As audience preferences evolve, Reporter remains focused on delivering reliable, relevant, and data-driven content, backed by strategic leadership and editorial clarity.

     

     

  • Jeffrey Archer tips his hat to India’s enduring love for great stories

    Jeffrey Archer tips his hat to India’s enduring love for great stories

    MUMBAI: When an Archer hits the screen, it’s bound to be cinematic. In a landmark move that marries British literary mastery with Indian storytelling flair, Applause Entertainment has acquired exclusive screen rights to six of Jeffrey Archer’s most popular novels, The Clifton Chronicles, Fourth Estate, First Among Equals, The Eleventh Commandment, Sons of Fortune, and Heads You Win. This marks Applause’s first foray into global fiction adaptations and sets the stage for a string of prestige projects that promise political intrigue, media dynasties, and multi-generational drama with an unmistakably Indian flavour.

    In a candid and entertaining conversation, author Jeffrey Archer and Applause Entertainment’s managing director Sameer Nair gave a glimpse into the creative chemistry behind this literary-meets-OTT deal. “I’m sentimental about my Everest story,” Archer said, musing about Prisoner of Birth, a title he still hopes will see a screen adaptation someday. Reflecting on timeless narratives, he added, “Jane Austen, Higgins, Agatha Christie they go on. A good story lasts and lasts.”

    This acquisition isn’t just about borrowing bestsellers. “We’re looking to take these stories to a much wider audience,” Nair said. “The adaptations will be reimagined in Hindi, possibly Tamil or Bengali, and crafted for young adult sensibilities without compromising on Archer’s signature pace and drama.” The projects will be helmed by a wide pool of Indian creators Applause has previously collaborated with. “We’re already in discussions, and within the next 3–6 months, you’ll hear announcements,” Nair assured.

    The creative challenges, however, aren’t just about casting or rewriting. “Jeffrey and I see eye-to-eye more easily than our lawyers do,” Nair quipped. “But that’s true for everything in showbiz. The lawyers will hold us up more than anyone else.” Archer added, tongue firmly in cheek, “I’ll wait to see the results before I comment again!”

    The plan isn’t to play only to Archer’s existing readership either. As Nair explained, “Reading requires literacy. Consuming audiovisual content doesn’t. The idea is to make these adaptations contemporary, bold, and cinematic to reach beyond readers, to those who haven’t read the books, and make them fall in love with the story all over again.”

    Asked about the marketing vision, Nair kept it grounded: “We’ve got to make the shows first. Once we do that, we’ll see where they go.” The team hinted at partnerships with global streaming platforms and a high-quality visual treatment, given Archer’s dense plotting and character arcs.

    The move also fits squarely within Applause’s content philosophy of adapting compelling, well-known IPs with local creative sensibilities. The studio has previously reimagined formats like Scam 1992 and Criminal Justice for Indian audiences.

    For Archer, whose books have sold over 275 million copies globally, this collaboration marks another chapter in his screen journey. His previous titles like Kane and Abel have made it to TV but often, without his permission. “I hate it when people say, ‘I loved Kane and Abel on television,’” Archer lamented. “They just stole the story!”

    As for storytelling itself? Both Archer and Nair agree, it’s universal. “There’s no such thing as Indian or foreign storytelling. A local story is only good if it’s universal,” Nair summed up. Archer added, “I read an Italian novel recently The Leopard. Didn’t care that it was Sicilian. It was a damn good story.”

    And now, six damn good stories are headed to Indian screens with a fresh voice, but Archer’s trademark twists intact. Let the adaptations begin.
     

  • Disney India’s Friendship Day post hits nostalgia sweet spot

    Disney India’s Friendship Day post hits nostalgia sweet spot

    MUMBAI: Disney India marked Friendship Day with an Instagram nod to the good old days of imperfectly perfect friendships. Its caption, “Timings were off. But the bond? Always on point!”, struck a playful chord, inviting followers to share their own throwback tales of late-night calls, silly fights and loyalty.

    With a wink to nostalgia and a splash of heart, the post reminded fans that while timings may falter, true friendships never do.

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Disney India (@disneyindia)

    In a world obsessed with blue ticks and instant replies, Disney’s message feels refreshingly analogue: friendships don’t run on Wi‑Fi, they run on heart. By tapping into a universal truth that bonds outlast bad timing the brand delivers a post that’s equal parts sentiment and scroll‑stopping charm.

    And if engagement numbers are anything to go by, Disney India’s Friendship Day celebration proves one thing: the best friendships, like the best stories, never really go out of style. 
     

  • Indian Digital Media Industry Foundation (IDMIF) announces Kevin Vaz as its new president

    Indian Digital Media Industry Foundation (IDMIF) announces Kevin Vaz as its new president

    MUMBAI: The Indian Digital Media Industry Foundation (IDMIF), a subsidiary of the Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation (IBDF), has announced the appointment of Mr. Kevin Vaz as its new President. The decision was taken at the IDMIF Board of Directors meeting held on 30 July 2025.

    One of India’s most influential media and entertainment leaders, Kevin Vaz brings to bear nearly three decades of experience that have shaped the industry. Currently serving as chief executive officer of the entertainment business at JioStar, he succeeds K. Madhavan, under whose leadership IDMIF has grown into a key advocate for India’s digital media sector.

    Speaking on his appointment, Vaz said, “I am honoured to take on this responsibility and build upon the strong foundation laid by Mr. Madhavan. As we move into 2025–26, my focus will be on fostering fair competition, innovation and sustainable growth across India’s digital media landscape. Digital is a critical pillar of the media and entertainment industry and with the right policy push and collaborative efforts, we have an incredible opportunity to further innovate, empower creators and enhance audience experiences. By working closely with the government, industry stakeholders and the creative community, we can shape an inclusive, future-ready ecosystem that delivers lasting value for all.”

    IDMIF’s Digital Media Content Regulatory Council (DMCRC), established on 31 May 2021 under the IT Rules, 2021, functions as an independent self-regulatory body for non-news content of IDMIF member Online Curated Content Providers (OCCPs). Registered with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), the DMCRC ensures balanced content governance, protecting consumer interests while upholding creative freedom.

    The DMCRC is chaired by Justice Mukul Mudgal (Retd.) and comprises eminent industry experts, including:

    ●   Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari (Writer & Filmmaker)
    ●   Nikkhil Advani (Producer & Director)
    ●   Deepak Dhar (CEO, Banijay Asia)
    ●   Tigmanshu Dhulia (Director, Actor & Screenwriter)

    The Council also includes representatives from leading Online Curated Content Providers (OCCPs) such as Anil Lale (JioHotstar) and Ritesh Khosla (SonyLIV).

    Modelled on the highly acclaimed Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) – IBDF’s self-regulatory body for non-news television channels, the DMCRC plays a vital role in addressing viewer concerns and promoting responsible content practices. Notably, Justice Mudgal also previously chaired the BCCC, which has been commended by Indian courts for its effective self-regulation framework.

  • Gaurav Banerjee appointed chairman of BARC India

    Gaurav Banerjee appointed chairman of BARC India

    MUMBAI: Gaurav Banerjee, Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI)’s Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer has been appointed as Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India’s new Chairman at its Board Meeting on 1st August 2025. This is with immediate effect. He takes over from Shashi Sinha, executive chairman of IPG Mediabrands India, who served as BARC India’s chairman for over three years.  

    Mr. Banerjee is a distinguished leader with over two decades of experience in the Media and Entertainment industry and also represents Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation (IBDF) as its Vice President.  He is a director on the boards of MSM-Worldwide Factual Media Private Limited and Bangla Entertainment Private Limited.

    Speaking on being elected as BARC India’s new Chairman, Gaurav Banerjee, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, SPNI, said, “BARC India continues to empower stakeholders across the ecosystem with data driven decision making and it is a privilege to take on the role of Chairman at the world’s largest television audience measurement company. A big thank you to Shashi Sinha for his exceptional leadership and steady guidance over the last three years. As we navigate a rapidly converging media landscape, I look forward to continue strengthening BARC’s position as a trusted and credible currency for TV measurement in India.”

    Shashi Sinha, Executive Chairman of IPG Mediabrands India, and the outgoing Chairman of BARC India, said, “Over the last few years, I have had the opportunity to partner with BARC and the various committees at different levels. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire team at BARC for their unwavering support and collaboration. I would also like to extend a warm welcome to our new Chairman, Gaurav Banerjee. I am confident that with his unique leadership style, BARC will continue to grow and innovate to meet the evolving needs of our industry.”

    Nakul Chopra, CEO, BARC India, added, “We welcome Gaurav Banerjee as our new Chairman. His leadership will be invaluable as BARC continues to evolve and serve the dynamic needs of the broadcast and advertising ecosystem. We would also like to express our deep respect and thanks to Shashi Sinha for his stewardship and commitment to BARC. His tenure has been instrumental in enhancing data granularity while reinforcing BARC’s dedication and commitment to the industry.”