MUMBAI: In a ratings war where credibility has become the real battleground, News18 India once again edged out arch-rival Aaj Tak, clinching the crown as the most-watched Hindi news channel during Operation Sindoor, as per Barc data. While the nation held its breath during the Pahalgam terror strike and the ensuing India-Pakistan standoff, viewers chose their go-to: the one that stuck to facts.
News18 India has now been perched at the top for three consecutive years, clocking an average of 78,179 AMA’000s, outperforming Aaj Tak’s 72,964. The data (Barc, AMA’000s | TG: NCCS All 15+ | Period: Wk 20’22-19’25 | 24 Hrs, All Days | HSM) reaffirms its sustained grip on Hindi news viewership.
The channel also led in cumulative reach with a towering 5,92,801 against Aaj Tak’s 5,77,077 during the same three-year stretch (Barc, Cume Reach 000s | TG: NCCS All 2+ | All India).
It wasn’t just consistency—it was timeliness. From the first shot fired in Pahalgam to the final word on the ceasefire, News18 India led the narrative. Between 22 April and 16 May 2025, it racked up 3,56,249 AMA’000s in comparison to Aaj Tak’s 3,43,934 (BARC, Gross AMA’000s | HSM).
During the same timeframe, News18 India’s cumulative reach surged to 2,03,774, while Aaj Tak trailed at 1,85,359 (BARC, Cume Reach’000s | HSM).
The decisive moment came during India’s DGMO press briefings. While most were fumbling facts, News18 India reported that Pakistan’s DGMO had reached out to discuss a ceasefire—before anyone else. On 11-12 May, the channel recorded 665 AMA’000s, nudging past Aaj Tak’s 650 (BARC, AMA’000s | HSM).
While many chased clicks, News18 India chased clarity. From real-time coverage to unfiltered analysis, it gave audiences what they needed—truth without the theatrics. That trust, built story by story, is now reflected in cold, hard numbers.
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