ITV

Category: News Broadcasting

  • Sakal Media Group Emerges as the No.1 Marathi News Platform in India – ComScore Jan 2025

    Sakal Media Group Emerges as the No.1 Marathi News Platform in India – ComScore Jan 2025

    MUMBAI: The Sakal Media Group has once again cemented its position as Maharashtra’s leading media powerhouse. According to the Comscore report for January 2025, esakal.com has emerged as the number one Marathi news platform, attracting 13.05 million monthly active users. This remarkable feat underscores Sakal’s ability to connect with its audience through compelling storytelling and cutting-edge digital strategies. With a significant lead over its competitors, Sakal’s dominance in the digital space is undeniable.

    esakal.com: The digital powerhouse

    At the heart of Sakal Media Group’s success is esakal.com, a platform that has redefined digital journalism in Maharashtra. Launched as the online extension of the iconic Sakal newspaper, esakal.com has grown into a standalone powerhouse, offering a seamless blend of traditional journalism and modern digital innovation. Its user-friendly interface, comprehensive coverage, and commitment to quality have made it the go-to source for Marathi-speaking audiences.

    The January 2025 Comscore rankings highlight esakal.com’s unparalleled reach, with 13.05 million monthly active users – a figure that speaks volumes about its popularity and trustworthiness. This achievement is not just a win for Sakal Media Group but also a reflection of esakal.com’s ability to connect with readers on a deeper level.

    What sets esakal.com apart? Several key factors have contributed to esakal.com’s dominance in the digital news space:

    1. Credibility and trust: In an era of fake news and misinformation, esakal.com has remained a beacon of truth. Its rigorous fact-checking process and commitment to unbiased reporting have earned it the trust of millions.

     2.  Hyper-local focus: esakal.com understands the pulse of Maharashtra. From breaking news in Mumbai to cultural events in Pune and agricultural updates in rural areas, the platform covers it all. This hyper-local approach ensures that readers stay connected to the issues that matter most to them.

    3. Innovative storytelling: esakal.com has embraced multimedia storytelling, using videos, infographics, and interactive features to make news more engaging. This dynamic approach has resonated with younger audiences while retaining the loyalty of older readers.

     4. Real-time updates: In the fast-paced world of news, esakal.com stands out for its ability to deliver real-time updates. Whether it’s breaking news, live coverage of events, or instant analysis, esakal.com ensures its readers are always informed.

     5.  Community engagement: esakal.com goes beyond just reporting the news. Through initiatives like reader polls, feedback forums, and community-driven stories, the platform has fostered a strong sense of connection with its audience.

    Outperforming competitors

    The January 2025 Comscore rankings highlight esakal.com’s significant lead over other prominent Marathi news platforms. With 13.05 million monthly active users, esakal.com has not only secured the top spot but also demonstrated its ability to attract and retain a massive audience. This achievement is a reflection of esakal.com’s relentless focus on quality content and user satisfaction.

    esakal.com’s role in Sakal Media Group’s legacy

    Sakal Media Group has been a trusted name in Maharashtra since 1932, and esakal.com has played a pivotal role in carrying this legacy into the digital age. By seamlessly transitioning from print to digital, esakal.com has ensured that Sakal’s values of credibility, integrity, and community focus remain intact. The platform has become a bridge between the group’s rich history and its future, offering readers the best of both worlds.

    Sakal Media Group CEO Uday Jadhav stated, “This achievement is a testament to our team’s dedication to delivering credible and engaging content. We are honored by the trust Maharashtra has placed in esakal.com. With over two decades of experience in business strategy and operational management, I’ve seen the group grow, but this digital growth is truly exceptional.”

    Sakal Media Group editor-in-chief Nilesh Khare added, “This recognition from Comscore reaffirms our commitment to delivering news that resonates with the people of Maharashtra. At Sakal Media Group, we understand the power of credible journalism, and we strive to uphold the highest standards of integrity in our reporting.”

    Sakal Media Group director Janhavi Pawar emphasised, “At esakal.com, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of digital journalism. Our focus on innovation and community engagement has made us the preferred choice for Marathi-speaking audiences. We are always looking to bring a global perspective to our local operations.”

    Sakal Media Group business head – digital Swapnil Malpathak highlighted, “Our success is rooted in understanding the pulse of Maharashtra. By providing real-time updates and hyper-local content, we ensure our readers are always informed and connected. Our focus on digital product monetization and digital transformation has been a key driver in this achievement.”

    The future of esakal.com

    As esakal.com celebrates this milestone, it is also looking toward the future. The platform plans to invest further in cutting-edge technology, expand its digital offerings, and explore new ways to engage with its audience. From AI-driven personalisation to immersive storytelling techniques, esakal.com is committed to staying ahead of the curve.

    Maharashtra’s trusted digital voice

    esakal.com’s success is not just about numbers; it’s about the trust it has built with its readers. For millions of Maharashtrians, esakal.com is more than just a news platform – it’s a reliable companion that keeps them informed, engaged, and connected to their community. The January 2025 Comscore ranking is a validation of esakal.com’s efforts and a reminder of why it continues to be Maharashtra’s most trusted digital voice.

    Sakal Media Group’s achievement in topping the Comscore rankings for January 2025 is a testament to the excellence of esakal.com. With 13.05 million monthly active users, esakal.com has set a new benchmark for digital news platforms in Maharashtra. Its commitment to credibility, innovation, and community engagement has made it the preferred choice for readers across the state. As the media landscape continues to evolve, esakal.com remains dedicated to delivering high-quality, trustworthy, and engaging content.

    Key takeaways:

    .  esakal.com ranked number one in Comscore’s January 2025 rankings among Marathi news platforms.

    .   Attracted 13.05 million monthly active users, outperforming its competitors.

     .  Success driven by credibility, hyper-local focus, innovative storytelling, and real-time updates.

    .   Future plans include investments in technology and enhanced audience engagement.

     .  esakal.com is Maharashtra’s most trusted digital news platform, carrying forward Sakal Media Group’s legacy.

    esakal.com’s journey is a shining example of how a digital platform can thrive by staying true to its core values while embracing innovation. As Maharashtra’s leading digital news destination, esakal.com continues to set the standard for excellence in journalism.

  • Live Times: Journalism that sparks action

    Live Times: Journalism that sparks action

    MUMBAI:  In an era where news doesn’t just report events but shapes them, Live Times, India’s first global multicast news hub, is setting the standard for fearless, impact-driven journalism. By prioritising public interest and accountability, the platform has compelled policymakers to act on pressing issues, from inflated airline fares to systemic failures in healthcare and education.

    By exposing skyrocketing travel costs during peak seasons and highlighting the dire state of public hospitals, Live Times has prompted regulatory scrutiny and government action, including increased funding and policy interventions.    

    The Power of Responsible Journalism

    Founder Dilip Kumar Singh reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to uncompromising reporting: “We stand by our motto-Complete Truth, Whatever It Takes. This is not just a tagline; it’s the DNA of our newsroom. Our AI- and HI-driven verification system ensures 100% factual reporting, actively combating misinformation in an era of uncertainty.”    

    Innovation in News Delivery

    Live Times is pioneering a new era of journalism through multicast technology, integrating real-time coverage, data analytics, and audience-driven content. By harnessing digital innovation, the platform aims to inform, mobilise, and hold decision-makers accountable.  

    As the media landscape continues to evolve, Live Times remains dedicated to its mission—delivering journalism that doesn’t just inform but drives real change. The platform encourages citizens to share stories that matter, amplify unheard voices, and demand accountability from those in power.
     

  • TV Today’s digital strategy chief exits after one-year stint

    TV Today’s digital strategy chief exits after one-year stint

    MUMBAI:  India Today group/ TV Today network announced today that  Rudra Prasad Kasturi has stepped down from his role as chief strategy officer for digital business, precisely one year after joining the media conglomerate.

    In a brief statement, the company confirmed it had accepted  Kasturi’s resignation “to pursue other opportunities,” with his departure effective from close of business on 28 February.

    Kasturi, a seasoned media executive with previous stints at The Times of India group and Times Internet, where he held various leadership positions, appears to be maintaining his tradition of brief but impactful tenures at India’s leading media houses.

    Industry observers note that Kasturi’s CV now sports an impressively symmetrical one-year stint at India Today, neatly matching his seven-month escapade as  chief growth officer at Bennett Coleman & Co. Ltd. Perhaps in the fast-paced world of digital media strategy, longevity is measured in months rather than years.

    The company has not yet announced a successor.

  • Zee UK crowned media brand of the year at British Asian Media Awards

    Zee UK crowned media brand of the year at British Asian Media Awards

    MUMBAI: Zee Entertainment UK has been named media brand of the Year 2025 at the prestigious Arqiva British Asian Media Awards, cementing its position as a dominant force in the UK broadcasting landscape.

    The award recognises Zee’s strategic expansion over the past year, which has seen the broadcaster evolve from a niche provider into a comprehensive media network with growing mainstream appeal.

    In 2024, Zee significantly expanded its footprint with several key launches, including Zee One UK, the country’s first fully English-dubbed channel showcasing Indian content, and Zee Punjabi, which caters to the 700,000-strong Punjabi diaspora across major platforms including Sky and Virgin Media.

    The media group has also strengthened its European presence with localised Zee One channels in Germany and France, delivering Bollywood films and Indian series dubbed in local languages.

    “We are incredibly proud to be named Media Brand of the Year,” said Territory Head Europe Parul Goel. “This recognition underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality, diverse content that resonates with audiences across the UK and Europe.”

    Zee’s marketing strategy has included high-profile campaigns across London’s transport network, digital billboards, and iconic locations such as Piccadilly Circus, significantly raising the brand’s visibility beyond its traditional audience base.

    The company, part of India’s Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited, now operates over 50 channels worldwide, reaching more than 1.3 billion viewers globally.

     

  • Praveen Someshwar moves to Diageo India as MD & CEO after transforming HT Media

    Praveen Someshwar moves to Diageo India as MD & CEO after transforming HT Media

    MUMBAI: Praveen Someshwar is no stranger to transformation. After steering HT Media Group through a period of digital reinvention and AI-powered journalism, he is now shifting gears—this time to the world of premium spirits. Diageo India has appointed him as its new managing director & CEO, a move that signals an exciting new chapter for both Someshwar and the country’s leading beverage company.

    After six and a half years at HT Media, where he spearheaded the digital-first evolution of iconic brands like Hindustan Times, Mint, and Fever Network, Someshwar is now set to bring his sharp business acumen to Diageo India. Under his leadership, HT Media embraced AI-driven journalism, expanded its digital footprint, and built a robust ecosystem blending print, OTT, podcasts, and video. His tenure saw the integration of 400+ engineers, product specialists, and designers working alongside 3,000+ journalists, transforming the organisation into a tech-savvy media powerhouse.

    Someshwar himself reflected on his HT journey with a heartfelt farewell on Linkedin, saying, “Transforming a traditional media powerhouse into a digital-first, tech-driven organisation was no small task. And yet, what I witnessed over the years was nothing short of extraordinary.”

    At Diageo India, Someshwar steps into the shoes of Hina Nagarajan, who moves into a global role. His appointment comes at a crucial time when the premiumisation of the beverage sector, digital innovation, and market expansion are at the forefront of Diageo’s strategy. Someshwar’s career has been a masterclass in reinvention. From leading PepsiCo’s India and Asia operations to redefining media with HT’s tech-driven expansion, he has consistently pushed boundaries. At Diageo India, he now faces a new challenge—bringing the same strategic foresight to a dynamic, fast-evolving beverage industry.

    His new role will focus on strengthening Diageo’s market dominance with a digital-first approach, enhancing consumer engagement through AI-driven insights, and driving premiumisation in India’s evolving spirits market.

    With India’s premium beverage market booming and digital innovation reshaping consumer experiences, his leadership could redefine the future of premium spirits in India.

  • ETNOW business conclave spotlights India’s road to a $5 trillion economy

    ETNOW business conclave spotlights India’s road to a $5 trillion economy

    MUMBAI- India’s economic ambitions took centre stage at the ETNOW.in Business Conclave & Awards 2025, where industry stalwarts and policymakers mapped out the nation’s journey toward a $5 trillion economy by 2030. Aligned with ET NOW’s ‘Rise with India’ ethos, the event served as a strategic forum for discussions on AI, digital policy, space technology, and national security key pillars of the Viksit Bharat vision.

    Union minister Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s rapid strides in the space sector, revealing that the industry attracted Rs 1,000 crore in private investments within months of opening to commercial players. He projected a fivefold expansion of India’s space economy, reaching $44 billion in the next decade, citing missions like Gaganyaan as milestones of self-reliance.

    Former union minister and tech investor Rajeev Chandrasekhar made a compelling case for revamping India’s outdated IT laws, stressing that the 25-year-old IT Act fails to account for the Internet and AI—two transformative forces driving the digital economy. “A modern, entrepreneur-first legal framework is needed, free from unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles,” he asserted.

    Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt. Gen. K.T. Parnaik (Retd.), underscored the role of strong border security and infrastructure in economic growth, detailing Arunachal Pradesh’s potential as a hydropower hub with a capacity of 58,000 MW.

    The ETNOW.in Business Conclave & Awards 2025 honoured excellence across 82 categories, recognising industry leaders driving innovation and impact. Naveen Kukreja (Paisabazaar.com) and Ashish Kashyap (IND Money) were named ETNOW Industry Icons, while Central Park Flower Valley secured the Leading Township of the Year award. 

    ACT21 Software Pvt. Ltd. was celebrated for Excellence in Fintech with its HyPerform solution, and VAXIFLU-4 (Zydus) received the Service Excellence Award in Vaccines & Prevention. In the branding space, U.S. Polo was recognised for its Excellence in Marketing Campaign (2024-2025), while Exhale Label emerged as the Emerging Fashion Brand, reinforcing its growing influence in the fashion industry.  
     

  • Top education leaders to gather at India TV’s conclave 2025

    Top education leaders to gather at India TV’s conclave 2025

    Mumbai: India TV is set to host the ‘Speed News Education Conclave 2025’ at the Scope Convention Centre, Pragati Vihar. The event will bring together key figures from the education sector to discuss strategies for equipping Indian students with future-ready skills.

    Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan will attend as chief guest, The conclave will feature educationists, policymakers, vice-chancellors, and senior officials from UGC, AICTE, NCERT, IITs, IIMs, and Edtech platforms.

    Key topics will include the impact of education policies on future generations, the increasing trend of Indian students seeking higher education abroad, and the evolving role of coaching institutions in balancing education and commerce.

    India TV managing director, Ritu Dhawan stated, “Education is the backbone of our nation’s progress. This conclave provides a platform for meaningful discussions and collaborative solutions for students and educators.”

    The conclave aims to drive positive change in the education system through constructive dialogue, fostering a more accessible and effective learning environment.

  • Moneycontrol tops business news rankings, extends lead over rivals

    Moneycontrol tops business news rankings, extends lead over rivals

    MUMBAI : Moneycontrol remained the most read business news platform in India in January, topping Comscore’s latest audience rankings.

    The platform attracted 38.35 million unique visitors (UVs), surpassing The Economic Times’ (ET) 35 million. It also led in engagement, recording 383.08 million page views more than double ET’s 140.6 million. Readers spent 397 million minutes on Moneycontrol in January, significantly higher than ET’s 182 million minutes.

    Moneycontrol managing editor Nalin Mehta noted that the figures highlight the platform’s strong audience engagement and credibility. “These numbers reflect the deep trust our readers have in us for business news and insights”.

    Moneycontrol Pro, the platform’s subscription service, has also grown rapidly, crossing 1 million paying subscribers in October. This milestone cements its place as India’s largest news subscription platform and among the top 15 globally.

  • ETNOW.in Business Conclave & Awards 2025 to honour industry trailblazers

    ETNOW.in Business Conclave & Awards 2025 to honour industry trailblazers

    MUMBAI: ETNOW.in Business Conclave & Awards 2025 is set to make its grand debut on 25 February 2025, in New Delhi, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and visionaries to discuss India’s roadmap to a $5 trillion economy by 2030. This premier platform will foster strategic discussions, collaborative initiatives, and recognition of outstanding contributions that drive the nation’s progress.

    Setting the tone for thought leadership, the event will feature a keynote address by Jitendra Singh, Union MoS (Ind. Charge) for Science & Technology; Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, PP/ DoPT, Atomic Energy, and Space. Adding to the gravitas, over 90 categories of achievers will be honoured for their groundbreaking contributions across diverse industries.

    The ETNOW.in Business Conclave & Awards 2025 will host expert panels, fireside chats, and high-impact discussions on India’s global competitiveness in manufacturing and investment, the real estate boom, the AI revolution in Industry 4.0, and the future of healthcare innovations.

    Adding a wealth of insight, former union minister & tech investor Rajeev Chandrasekhar will explore the ‘Roadmap for India to Stay Ahead of the AI Curve’, while governor of Arunachal Pradesh lieutenant general K. T. Parnaik will present his vision on ‘Fast Track to Top 3’.

    This power-packed gathering will feature leading voices, including Somany Ceramics MD Abhishek Somany; Niti Aayog director, senior specialist – Viksit Bharat planning Shashank Shah; ICMR scientist G & head descriptive research division Kamini Walia; Healthians founder Deepak Sahni; and Infoedge co-founder Sanjeev Bikhchandani.

    ETNOW.in Business Conclave & Awards 2025 is backed by industry titans—Spacewood Office Solutions (powered by partner), DeliverIt (silver partner), and LIC HFL (home loan partner). The event will be live-streamed on ET Now’s YouTube channel from 11 am onwards.

     

  • Barun Das outshines himself on his Duologue show

    Barun Das outshines himself on his Duologue show

    MUMBAI: The highly anticipated third series of ‘Duologue with Barun Das’ returns to News9 with acclaimed filmmaker Kiran Rao leading the season premiere on 22nd February 2025. The programme, which has established itself as a cornerstone for intellectual discourse, features TV9 Network’s Managing Director and CEO Barun Das in conversation with thought leaders from various spheres.

    In this opening episode, Rao, known for her distinctive filmmaking style, offers a penetrating analysis of contemporary Indian cinema and its evolving narrative landscape. She particularly emphasises the transformation of storytelling in the digital age, noting that “we are all storytellers in some way, thanks to social media. It’s an interesting world to be telling stories in.”

    The filmmaker presents a candid assessment of Bollywood’s post-pandemic challenges, highlighting the industry’s need to recalibrate its approach. “We were perhaps a little complacent, assuming people would return to theatres regardless of what we made. That’s no longer the case”, she reflects, pointing to the significant impact of streaming platforms on audience expectations and reach.

    The conversation takes a compelling turn as Rao addresses profound social issues, particularly focusing on gender dynamics in Indian society. She delivers a pointed critique of institutional biases, highlighting how women’s identities are often legally tethered to their male relatives. “Even today, legal documents link women’s identities to the men in their lives – as someone’s wife or daughter. That needs to change”, she asserts.

    Rao also challenges prevailing societal narratives about women’s roles, particularly the glorification of multitasking. She presents a thought-provoking perspective on unpaid domestic labour, questioning the sustainability of current social structures if women were to fully enter the workforce.

    Das, reflecting on the episode, praises Rao’s ability to weave complex social themes into accessible discourse. “Her ability to weave profound social themes into storytelling is remarkable”, he notes, emphasising how the conversation embodies the programme’s mission to challenge established perspectives.

    The Oscar-nominated director reciprocated the praise, describing the interview as “one of the most engaging and enriching conversations” she’s experienced. She particularly noted Das’s ability to introduce fresh perspectives, teasing viewers with mention of “a formula that I am going to remember for life”, the details of which will be revealed in the broadcast.

    The two-part season premiere will air on News9 at 22:00 on consecutive evenings, 22 and 23 February 2025, promising viewers an intellectual feast of ideas spanning cinema, society, and cultural evolution. The programme continues its tradition of fostering nuanced dialogue on pressing contemporary issues, making it a must-watch for audiences seeking thoughtful discourse on the intersection of art, society, and media.