MUMBAI: Elections and cricket are the talk of the nation at present. And news channels are leaving no stones unturned to cover the events extensively. Aaj Tak’s English counterpart Headlines Today has also made elaborate plans to cover the forthcoming general elections.
The news channel has drawn up a comprehensive programming strategy adding a number of properties to cater to its audience. The election-related programming has been christened Battle of the Alliances since broadly speaking the battle is between the NDA and the opposition comprising the Congress-led alliance. The programming would involve comprehensive and up-to-the minute coverage straight from the battleground. Regular field reports and latest analysis of the political developments, and will continue till mid-May on the channel.
The crisp election programming Headlines Today would dwell on the key points covering relevant information, without getting into extensive analysis.
As part of this overall electoral theme, Headlines Today has also created numerous segments to provide an enriching viewer experience.
Swot Analysis – A report card on the Union Cabinet, which would audit the performances of the various ministers in the fray. It would draw upon the strengths and weaknesses of the various ministers and identify the various opportunities and threats that they are likely to come across. Starting shortly, this programme will continue till the elections.
From the Frontlines A travelogue, this would present the common mans perspective on the elections. The anchor will cover the entire nation including remote places to provide the views of the electorate. This segment would include live chats with the electorate across the country and provide a glimpse of the mindset of the electorate.
Court Martial This segment would put an MP under the scanner, holding them accountable for their performance. This would be based on a survey conducted by a research agency in the various constituencies, and would depict the mass perception on their candidates.
Battle Cry Featuring the choicest bytes, this would constitute the best political comments of the day.War Room From our election room, this would comprise of psephological analysis of the various permutations and combinations, and project the swings that are likely to take place.
Nehrus Numbers A prediction-based weekly show, this would consist of political forecasts made by Arun Nehru.
Speaking on the various initiatives TV Today Networks spokesperson Rajesh Sheshadri said, Headlines Today as a channel provides sharp and crisp news to a predominantly urban audience. The challenge lies in providing concise election communication in a manner thats interesting and also complete. Creating an analogy with the battlefield will capture all the strategic aspects of electioneering in terms of flanking, defence mechanisms and all other movements.
