ITV

Tag: Aaj Tak

  • Breaking News18 tops charts with highest hindi news viewership

    Breaking News18 tops charts with highest hindi news viewership

    MUMBAI: Mic drop in the newsroom News18 India has just dialled up the decibels and claimed top honours in the Hindi news genre. According to the latest BARC data (Week 20’25), News18 India has emerged as the most-watched Hindi news channel, notching up 119124 AMA’000s and pulling ahead of long-time rival Aaj Tak, which recorded 117819 AMA’000s. The numbers are part of a fierce race in the Hindi-speaking markets (HSM), where channels jostle for attention 24×7.

    Rounding out the top five are TV9 Bharatvarsh (103286 AMA’000s), Republic Bharat (93207), and Zee News (87641). (Source: BARC | Metric: AMA’000s | TG: NCCS All 15 plus | Period: Week 20’25, 24 Hours, All Days | Market: HSM)

    What’s fuelling this newsroom juggernaut? A combination of hard-hitting reportage, high-decibel debates, and a trusted team of anchors including Kishore Ajwani, Amish Devgan, Rubika Liyaquat, Prateek Trivedi, and Aman Chopra. The channel’s programming dives deep into issues that matter, delivering perspectives that resonate with viewers from every corner of the country.

    News18 India attributes its continued rise to “factual, credible, and accurate coverage” qualities that seem to be striking a chord with the increasingly discerning Hindi news audience.

    Backed by an extensive on-ground reporter network, the channel ensures it’s not just first with the news, it’s everywhere the news is. From political showdowns to ground reports, News18 India is holding the mic and the momentum.

  • Newsroom Gets a Newsmaker as Rahul Kanwal Takes Charge at NDTV

    Newsroom Gets a Newsmaker as Rahul Kanwal Takes Charge at NDTV

    MUMBAI: From breaking headlines to making one Rahul Kanwal has officially taken the hot seat at NDTV. India’s most trusted news network, New Delhi Television Ltd (NDTV), has named Rahul Kanwal as its new chief executive officer and editor-in-chief, signalling a high-octane chapter in the brand’s storied legacy. In this dual role, Kanwal will steer both editorial and business operations at NDTV, an institution that has long been the gold standard in Indian journalism.

    With over 25 years of newsroom muscle, Kanwal brings a potent mix of prime-time credibility, investigative grit, and election coverage flair. His previous innings at India Today, Aaj Tak, Business Today, Headlines Today, and Zee News saw him rise through the ranks as news director, executive director, and senior editorial leader.

    An alumnus of the Harvard Business School’s General Management Program, and a Chevening Scholar trained in international broadcast journalism at Cardiff University, Kanwal also holds a journalism degree from Delhi University. His mantle includes accolades like the Roy Peck Trust Grant for Hostile Environment Journalism, among other awards for excellence in the field.

    Welcoming the appointment AMG Media Networks CEO Sanjay Pugalia said, “NDTV is a news super-brand that has stood for credibility and trust for nearly four decades through path-breaking journalism across television and digital platforms. With five new product launches over the past two years, NDTV continues to expand its footprint while remaining steadfast in its founding ethos. Rahul brings deep editorial insight, a passion for journalism, and proven leadership qualities that will be instrumental as we scale our presence across products and platforms.”

    Rahul Kanwal said, “Like many in my generation, I grew up watching NDTV. I am super charged about the prospect of infusing new life and energy into this marquee news brand. For years, NDTV has been the go-to brand for election coverage and big breaking news. I consider it a great honour to lead this storied media brand, and I am confident that NDTV will continue to rise to great heights of journalistic and business excellence. I look forward to working with the stellar teams at NDTV as we build on the extraordinary legacy of this great institution.”

    The NDTV Board also took a moment to commend Sanjay Pugalia for steering the ship through a crucial phase of transformation and reaffirmed their intent to tap into his strategic vision going forward.

    With five new product launches in the last two years and a growing digital footprint, NDTV isn’t just reporting the future, it’s writing it. And with Kanwal at the helm, it seems the best scoops may still be ahead.

  • Saikat Dutta revs up ABP Network as new revenue head

    Saikat Dutta revs up ABP Network as new revenue head

    MUMBAI: Saikat Dutta is putting his foot firmly on the pedal at ABP Network Pvt Ltd, joining as the network revenue head in April 2025 with a burst of fresh energy and an enviable track record in turbocharging ad sales across India’s media landscape.

    Dutta, whose career has zipped through some of the country’s biggest networks, will now steer pan-India advertising sales for ABP News, ABP Ananda, ABP Majha and ABP Asmita, besides beefing up digital revenues across connected TV, web, and app platforms.

    With 24 years of punching above his weight in advertising sales, Dutta’s resume reads like a greatest hits album: from TV Today (where he drove ad sales for Aaj Tak, Aaj Tak HD, and Good News Today) to a stint as chief operating officer at Patanjali Media, and earlier as a revenue honcho for Sun TV Network’s GEC cluster in the north and east markets.

    Before that, he made his mark at India TV, Zee Entertainment Enterprises, Asia TV USA Ltd, Star TV, and ABP Group, helping these media giants rake in crores through innovative and integrated ad solutions.
    From selling blockbuster shows to orchestrating strategic alliances, Dutta has consistently delivered standout results.

    In his own words, it’s “new role, new energy!” — and with a toolkit spanning strategic planning, B2B sales, key account development, and solution selling, Dutta looks ready to crank up ABP Network’s revenue engine into overdrive.

  • Rahul Kanwal to steer NDTV as CEO from June; revenue & losses rise in FY 25

    Rahul Kanwal to steer NDTV as CEO from June; revenue & losses rise in FY 25

    MUMBAI:  In a high-voltage move, New Delhi Television Limited (NDTV) has tapped veteran journalist Rahul Kanwal as its new chief executive officer and key managerial personnel, effective 16 June 2025. The appointment, cleared by the board at its meeting on 25 April, awaits the final nod from the ministry of information and broadcasting.

    Kanwal, who resigned as news director of India Today and Aaj Tak, and executive director of Business Today about a fortnight ago, brings more than 25 years of newsroom grit to the corner office. Known for his prime-time presence, election dissections and hard-nosed investigations, Kanwal has built a formidable brand in Indian journalism.

    An alumnus of the general management program at Harvard Business School and a Chevening Scholar, Kanwal honed his reporting chops at Delhi University and Cardiff University, specialising in international broadcast journalism. He is also a Roy Peck Trust Grant awardee for hostile environment journalism — and no stranger to both on-ground turbulence and boardroom manoeuvres.

    Kanwal’s editorial journey spans senior stints at Zee News and Headlines Today, marked by multiple awards for journalistic excellence. As he trades the anchor desk for the CEO’s chair, industry watchers are keen to see whether his instinct for headline-grabbing stories will translate into headline-grabbing strategies at NDTV.

    Meanwhile, the news broadcaster wrapped up FY25 with a cocktail of heady revenue growth and strategic bravado — and a side of losses. Busy transforming itself into a global, next-gen media powerhouse,  NDTV posted a 19 per cent jump in fourth-quarter revenue and a full-year top-line surge of 26 per cent.

    The network’s bold gambit included expansive coverage of heavyweight events like the Mahakumbh and Delhi Elections, alongside marquee brands such as Yuva and the NDTV Auto Awards. Meanwhile, its digital arm raced ahead, clocking a 47 per cent year-on-year jump in users across websites and apps.

    This was no year of half-measures. NDTV went all in — expanding distribution, overhauling its production and digital ecosystems, and splashing out on brand-building. It also widened its portfolio, launching NDTV Marathi to capture regional audiences and NDTV World to beam India’s view to global shores. The year also saw the launch of the ambitious NDTV World Summit, a high-powered gathering of global movers and shakers.

    However, ambition comes at a cost. Heavy investments meant NDTV ended the year in the red — a deliberate sacrifice, the company says, to sow the seeds for sustainable, profitable growth ahead.

    “FY 2024-25 was a defining year where we chose to lead with ambition and invest in the future,” said NDTV executive director and editor in chief Sanjay Pugalia. “We are confident the strategic decisions taken this year will deliver long-term value for our audiences, partners, and stakeholders.”

  • Step into the nation’s nerve centre at Agenda Aaj Tak 2024

    Step into the nation’s nerve centre at Agenda Aaj Tak 2024

    MUMBAI: Imagine a stage where the sharpest minds converge, debates ignite, and ideas take flight—a platform that doesn’t just discuss India’s future but shapes it. This December, Aaj Tak’s iconic thought leadership conclave, Agenda Aaj Tak 2024, promises to be the ultimate intellectual arena.

    To be held on 13–14 December, this two-day extravaganza—fondly called Hindi Jagat Ka Mahamanch—is not just an event; it’s a celebration of ideas, challenges, and breakthroughs. With luminaries from the worlds of politics, defense, sports, entertainment, and beyond, Agenda Aaj Tak 2024 offers a front-row seat to the conversations that matter.

    From decoding India’s toughest challenges to unveiling untapped opportunities, this conclave isn’t just about listening—it’s about thinking, questioning, and being inspired.

    This year’s event promises unparalleled insights from influential leaders shaping their fields, focusing on India’s strategic direction for 2025 and beyond. Agenda Aaj Tak will serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue, enabling attendees to engage directly with decision-makers on issues critical to the nation’s growth.

    Key highlights:

    1    Distinguished Speakers: The two-day event will feature a stellar lineup of influential leaders, policymakers, and experts. Political heavyweights such as Union Home minister, Amit Shah, Union minister of Road Transport Nitin Gadkari, BJP president Jagat Prakash Nadda, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, and former CM of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal will engage in dynamic discussions.

    2    Cultural and Entertainment Icons: Renowned figures from entertainment, including Kangana Ranaut, Kartik Aaryan, Taapsee Pannu, and Varun Dhawan, will share insights into their craft and its societal impact.

    3    Global Perspectives: International voices like former president of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai and domestic visionaries, including Medanta Hospital chairman, Naresh Trehan will enrich discussions with their expertise.

    Aaj Tak’s leadership team emphasised the event’s significance, noting its role in providing actionable insights during pivotal moments in India’s development.

    With a reputation for fostering impactful conversations, Agenda Aaj Tak 2024 reaffirms its mission to bring together visionaries and change-makers, creating a space for collaboration and innovation.

    Book your seat now at: www.aajtak.in/agenda 

  • Aaj Tak powers your Instagram with Bhagat Singh AR filter this Independence Day

    Aaj Tak powers your Instagram with Bhagat Singh AR filter this Independence Day

    Mumbai: As India approaches its 77th Independence Day, Aaj Tak will present a special episode of “Jai Ho” hosted by one and only Sweta Singh along with Shilpa Shetty featuring Hussainiwala, a site of historical significance where Bhagat Singh was cremated and which houses his iconic pistol.

    In conjunction with the special episode, Aaj Tak is powering your Instagram with an Augmented Reality (AR) filter of Bhagat Singh as part of its digital campaign under the hashtag #JaiHo. The AR filter offers its users to virtually wear Bhagat Singh’s iconic hat and moustache. All you need to do is scan the QR code and relive the moment of pride. Users are encouraged to share their transformed images on social media using the hashtag #JaiHo and tagging Aaj Tak allowing them to express their respect for freedom fighters and patriotism for the nation.

    https://tinyurl.com/4wwvsfmv

    The “Jai Ho” episode will air on August 15, 2024, at 12 PM. The AR filter will be available on Instagram.

    Aaj Tak continues to enhance user engagement through an experience that goes beyond traditional media. The channel’s focus on blending technology with its content keeps it at the forefront of the digital age.

  • Aaj Tak Tops Charts across platforms with Unmatched Viewership on Union Budget 2024 Coverage

    Aaj Tak Tops Charts across platforms with Unmatched Viewership on Union Budget 2024 Coverage

    Aaj Tak has set new benchmark with its coverage of the Union Budget 2024, reinforcing its position as the leading Hindi news channel. According to the latest BARC data, Aaj Tak was the most-watched channel during the Finance Minister’s live speech as well as throughout the budget day.

    During the live telecast of the Finance Minister’s speech on Union Budget 2024, which took place on 23rd July from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, Aaj Tak led the Hindi news segment with a notable 15.2% share, demonstrating its dominance in the coverage of this crucial event. Throughout the entirety of Union Budget Day, Aaj Tak continued to lead with a 14.9% viewership share, highlighting its absolute dominance and audience engagement over the 24-hour period.

    In addition to its success on traditional television, Aaj Tak also achieved a significant milestone in the digital realm. The channel’s YouTube Live stream during the FM speech garnered an impressive average concurrent user count of 127.9k. This achievement underscores Aaj Tak’s leadership and impact in digital news viewership, further cementing its role as a key player in both traditional and online media.

    Source: BARC |HSM | 15+ | 23-07-2024 | 11:00:50 – 12:28:24 Hrs | Gross AMA’000

    Source: BARC |HSM | 15+ | 23-07-2024 | 24 Hrs | Gross AMA’000

    Source: Ratingology | YouTube Live | 23-07-2024 |11:00-12:27 Hrs | Average Concurrent Users

  • AajTak leads Hindi News Coverage with 50% Reach on Election Results Day – Nielsen Mobile Panel

    AajTak leads Hindi News Coverage with 50% Reach on Election Results Day – Nielsen Mobile Panel

    Mumbai: Aaj Tak has taken top position as news provider for Hindi viewers, achieving an extraordinary milestone during the coverage of the Lok Sabha Election Results on June 4th.*

    Aaj Tak was accessed by 50% of the Hindi news-accessing audience across brand properties on YouTube, websites, and app platforms.**

    This remarkable achievement underscores Aaj Tak’s continued dominance in the Hindi news segment. The channel’s commitment to delivering accurate, timely, and engaging news content has resonated strongly with its audience, ensuring that Aaj Tak remains the preferred news source for millions.

    Aaj Tak’s innovative approach to digital news dissemination has further cemented its reputation as the leading news channel in India, showcasing its ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving multi platform media landscape.

    *Source: Nielsen Mobile Panel

    **Source: Nielsen’s data (unweighted),

    Hindi news viewers across Youtube, website and app platforms are a subset of this panel, who accessed respective brand properties across YouTube, website, and app platforms on 4th June (Counting Day).

    About Nielsen’s Passive Audience measurement panel

    Nielsen Mobile Passive Audience Measurement Panel data is spread across 15 to 45-year-olds, NCCS ABC demographic in towns with populations over 1 lakh, amongst android users.

  • Aaj Tak dominates exit poll concurrency, sets streaming viewership records

    Aaj Tak dominates exit poll concurrency, sets streaming viewership records

    Mumbai: Aaj Tak dominates exit poll concurrency, surpassing all competitors combined as streaming takes front seat in media consumption planning. Aaj Tak in a remarkable demonstration of its unparalleled reach and emerged as the leading news channel in India.

    According to the latest viewership data, Aaj Tak’s exit poll coverage garnered an audience greater than two to three times the combined viewership of all other Hindi news channels on the primary feed.

    The channel resonated strongly with viewers if we combine all feeds too.  

    This was highest prime-time concurrency reported by any news channel in the last one year.

    Aaj Tak’s success is matched by its sister channel which too maintained no1 position across the four hours of 6 to 10 pm yesterday.

    This makes streaming a strong media platform for advertisers.

  • Arya Samaj to live-stream Aaj Tak during Ram Mandir Inauguration across 1800 centres

    Arya Samaj to live-stream Aaj Tak during Ram Mandir Inauguration across 1800 centres

    Mumbai: Aaj Tak, will be live-streamed for the Ram Mandir inauguration ceremony across 1800 Arya Samaj centres on 22 January, marking a significant collaboration to bring the auspicious event to every part of the country.

    This collaboration aims to provide viewers with a front-row seat to the historic Ram Temple inauguration ceremony. The programming includes live updates and expert commentary, ensuring an immersive experience for the audience.

    The head priest of the Arya Samaj mandir vice president, Vashi Zilay Singh Chaudhary expressed his thoughts, stating, “Arya Samaj is happy to provide devotees with Aaj Tak live-streaming this momentous ceremony across all our centres, reaching millions of viewers. The initiative will allow us to follow the ideals exemplified by Shri Ram.”

    Arya Samaj, founded by Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, stands as a proponent of societal reform. The organisation’s commitment to truth and righteousness aligns with the spiritual significance of the Ram Temple inauguration ceremony.

    Arya Samaj reaches one crore plus active members and an overall two crore plus registered people database.