ITV

Tag: India TV

  • PM hails Sharma’s re-election as NBDA chief with newsworthy praise

    PM hails Sharma’s re-election as NBDA chief with newsworthy praise

    MUMBAI: The news just broke and fittingly, it’s about the man who’s been breaking news for decades. Prime minister Narendra Modi has congratulated India TV chairman and editor-in-chief Rajat Sharma on being re-elected as president of the News Broadcasters and Digital Association (NBDA), calling his leadership “newsworthy” at a time when the media and digital landscape is undergoing seismic shifts.

    In a personal letter, the prime minister lauded Sharma’s decades-long contribution to journalism, describing his credibility and deep subject knowledge as invaluable to the industry. “The Association will benefit from your decades-long experience in journalism, your deep understanding of various subjects, and your credibility. Your guidance will be particularly effective in the media and digital world, undergoing modern transformation,” Modi wrote.

    The prime minister further expressed confidence that under Sharma’s stewardship, the NBDA would raise the standards of journalism to “new heights” while continuing to play a meaningful role in the interests of society and the nation. “Once again, I wish you all the best for this new term and your future endeavours,” he added.

    Sharma’s re-election as president for the 2025–26 term was confirmed at the NBDA’s Board meeting on September 19, 2025. He continues to head India’s largest body of private news broadcasters and digital media players at a time when the lines between legacy and digital journalism are blurring more rapidly than ever.

    Alongside Sharma’s re-election, the new NBDA leadership team was also announced. MV Shreyams Kumar, managing director of Mathrubhumi Printing & Publishing, has been appointed vice-president, while Anuradha Prasad Shukla, chairperson & managing director of News24 Broadcast India, has been named Honorary Treasurer.

    The reappointment cements Sharma’s place as one of the most influential figures in Indian news media. Having steered India TV to become one of the country’s most-watched news channels and leading NBDA through earlier terms, Sharma’s presidency comes at a crucial moment as the sector grapples with challenges of regulation, digital disruption, and audience trust.

    For Sharma, who has spent decades building his reputation as one of India’s most recognisable news anchors and media leaders, the latest endorsement from both peers and the Prime Minister underscores not just his personal clout but also the pivotal role NBDA plays in shaping the future of journalism in India.

    And as Modi’s words suggest, the coming year may see Sharma not just reporting the news, but redefining how India consumes it.
     

  • Rajat Sharma takes helm of India’s top news broadcasters’ body

    Rajat Sharma takes helm of India’s top news broadcasters’ body

    NEW DELHI: Rajat Sharma, the seasoned television news anchor and promoter of India TV, has been unanimously elected president of the News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) for 2025-26. The appointment, announced at the organisation’s board meeting on 19 September positions him at the head of India’s most influential media news lobbying group as the industry navigates mounting regulatory pressures and fierce competition from digital platforms.

    Mathrubhumi Printing & Publishing , managing director M.V. Shreyams Kumar will serve as vice-president, whilst News24 Broadcast India chairperson and managing director Anuradha Prasad Shukla takes the honorary treasurer role. Both appointments were unanimous.

    The NBDA board includes heavyweights from India’s media landscape: Rahul Joshi of Network18 Media & Investments, Kalli Purie Bhandal from TV Today Network, and Anil Kumar Malhotra of Zee Media. Other members are Dhruba Mukherjee (ABP Network), I. Venkat (Eenadu Television), Rahul Kanwal (New Delhi Television), Mahesh Kumar Rajaraman (Sun TV Network), and Rohit Gopakumar Velloli from Bennett Coleman & Co.

    Annie Joseph remains secretary general, providing continuity as the association faces an increasingly complex media environment marked by regulatory scrutiny and the relentless rise of streaming platforms and independent news influencers.

  • India TV’s grand screenplay: new OTT app offers a family plot twist

    India TV’s grand screenplay: new OTT app offers a family plot twist

    MUMBAI:  India TV, the erstwhile broadcasting juggernaut, has curtailed its dependence on conventional linearity, launching its brand-spanking-new India TV OTT App. This isn’t just another streaming service; it’s a calculated manoeuvre to expand the group’s digital footprint, offering a veritable smorgasbord of news, the cult classic Aap Ki Adalat, fitness regimes, devotional content, infotainment, lifestyle tips, and a plethora of podcasts.

    The timing is no coincidence, capitalising on the booming digital content industry where platforms enjoy a liberating freedom from the shackles of traditional censorship. This strategic pivot leverages India TV’s established reputation for credible news and its uncanny knack for understanding the Indian psyche.
    The move into the OTT arena is underpinned by a laser focus on “premium, exclusive and streaming audience-first content.”

    Forget dusty archives; this app is brimming with bespoke digital delights, including news, podcasts, learning shows, and even original AI-generated stories.

    What really sets the India TV OTT App apart in a rather crowded market is its commitment to delivering “meaningful content in a clutter-free, family-friendly space.”

    This audience-first gambit, coupled with OTT’s inherent flexibility and accessibility, positions India TV to significantly amplify its presence in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

    India TV managing director Ritu Dhawan said: “Our vision for the India TV OTT App is to be the single, trusted digital destination for every Indian family.” She added, “We’ve meticulously crafted it to deliver credible information and enrichment, fostering collective viewing experiences that truly strengthen family bonds. It’s our unwavering commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and thoughtfully curated space for all.”

    For those keen to tune in, the India TV OTT app is readily available on the Play Store of Smart TV platforms. Designed for communal viewing, it spares households the tedious chore of flicking between multiple apps or wrestling with myriad subscriptions.

    Boasting a user-friendly interface, smart navigation, and seamless live streaming across genres, the app is undeniably future-ready. With this shrewd expansion into OTT, India TV continues to lead the charge in content innovation, reinforcing its pledge to serve a multi-platform, multi-generational audience with content that is not just credible and inclusive, but truly made for India.

  • India TV tunes into Roy wave to boost outreach and storytelling

    India TV tunes into Roy wave to boost outreach and storytelling

    MUMBAI: India TV has turned up the volume on its brand playbook with the appointment of Mohit Roy Sharma as head, communications & outreach, a move that signals the news network’s intent to strike a sharper chord with audiences across platforms.

    Known for orchestrating some of India’s biggest media IPs, Sharma isn’t just stepping into a new role, he’s bringing nearly three decades of storytelling, strategy and stagecraft with him. From Agenda Aaj Tak to Ideas of India, his portfolio reads like a greatest hits album of Indian news media events.

    In his new gig, Sharma will be instrumental in shaping India TV’s voice as it navigates a rapidly evolving newsscape. The goal? Smarter engagement, stronger visibility, and campaigns that cut through the clutter without losing the signal.

    Previously senior executive editor and head of corporate communications at ABP Network, Sharma spearheaded initiatives that blended editorial gravitas with brand muscle. His tenure saw the rise of marquee properties like The Southern Rising and Roots & Rhythms, earning him a reputation for insight-driven innovation.

    Commenting on the appointment India TV managing director Ritu Dhawan said “We are delighted to onboard Mohit Roy Sharma to the India TV leadership team at a time when the media landscape is undergoing rapid transformation. His well-versed experience in strategic communications & brand outreach, brings immense value to the group. His ability to align communication strategies to create brand visibility through his media relation will strengthen our positioning and will play an essential role in enhancing our presence and relevance across platforms.

    With this move, India TV isn’t just adding a new voice, it’s remixing its outreach game with a seasoned hand on the console.

  • India TV’s Wellness Weekend delivers expert health insights

    India TV’s Wellness Weekend delivers expert health insights

    MUMBAI: India TV successfully hosted its highly anticipated ‘Wellness Weekend’, bringing together prominent health experts to discuss key health concerns affecting millions. Covering everything from heart disease and diabetes to sleep deprivation and gut health, the event empowered viewers with practical lifestyle advice.

    The sessions featured renowned specialists, including cardiologists, endocrinologists, psychiatrists, and orthopaedists, who highlighted the urgent need for healthier choices in daily life.

    Public health expert Sameer Bhati warned about the rising trend of sleep deprivation among youth, emphasising its impact on overall well-being.

    Fortis Escorts Heart Institute chairman Ashok Seth shed light on the 50 per cent rise in heart attacks in India over the past 15 years, particularly among those under 50. He attributed this to sedentary lifestyles, smoking, stress, and poor diets. His advice? Brisk walking for 200 minutes a week can cut heart attack risk by 25 per cent.

    Max Saket group chairman of cardiac sciences Balbir Singh clarified misconceptions about angioplasty, bypass surgery, and stents, discussing medical advancements that improve post-surgery recovery.

    Max Healthcare chairman of endocrinology Ambrish Mithal stressed the need for annual blood sugar tests from age 25, given the high prevalence of diabetes in India due to genetics, obesity, and poor diets.

    IDHS Medanta vice chairman Amarender Singh Puri explained that gut biodiversity declines with age, making gut health management crucial for digestion and immunity.

    Sanjeev Saxena highlighted early warning signs of kidney issues and recommended limiting salt intake to five grams per day for healthy individuals and 2.5 grams for those with hypertension. He also advised drinking 2.5 to three litres of water daily to prevent kidney disease.

    PSRI chairman of pulmonary Gopichand Khilnani warned about India’s worsening air quality, particularly in Delhi, Kanpur, and Kolkata. He also noted the lasting effects of excessive steroid use during Covid-19, prominent to an increase in asthma and bronchitis cases.

    India TV managing director & CEO Ritu Dhawan remarked, “Well-being is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life, and with ‘Wellness Weekend,’ we aim to empower our audiences with expert insights on physical and mental health. This initiative is our commitment to fostering a healthier society by bringing together medical experts and fitness enthusiasts to inspire meaningful lifestyle changes.”

    Through this initiative, India TV continues its mission to raise awareness and provide reliable health information, ensuring viewers make informed choices for a healthier future.

  • Ajith Vijay Kumar logs into India TV as managing editor – digital

    Ajith Vijay Kumar logs into India TV as managing editor – digital

    MUMBAI:  Ajith Vijay Kumar is on the move. The seasoned digital news editor has joined India TV as managing editor – digital, bringing his wealth of experience to the network’s online operations.

    Ajith’s latest role follows a two-year stint at TV9 as senior executive editor, where he led digital news strategy. Before that, he helmed digital operations at Times Now and Times Network, shaping their online newsroom over a six-year run.

    With over a decade in the fast-paced world of digital news, Ajith’s arrival at India TV signals a push to further strengthen its online presence.

  • Puja Sethi bags top digital editorial job at Times Network

    Puja Sethi bags top digital editorial job at Times Network

    MUMBAI: Puja Sethi has landed a plum role as managing editor digital at Times Network, bringing her two-and-a-half-year stint at India TV to a close.

    “Excited to share that I’m starting a new chapter in my career,” Sethi announced, tipping her hat to the “incredible teams and mentors” who’ve propelled her career forward. Her digital trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric, with previous roles including group editor digital at India TV and a similar position at Zee Entertainment.

    The LSR graduate cut her teeth in broadcasting, having anchored India’s first Hindi breakfast news show Subha Savere for Moving Pictures  before diving headlong into the digital deep end. Her impressive CV boasts of transforming myUpchar.com as vice president and steering Jagran New Media as general manager and digital head.

    During her six-year tenure at  Dainik Jagran  Cityplus, Sethi orchestrated an ambitious expansion, launching 48 editions across major Indian metros. Her digital acumen truly shone at OnlyMyHealth.com, where she catapulted user engagement to over five million visitors.

    No stranger to the Times Group ecosystem, Sethi previously handled mobile content at Indiatimes, managing the once-ubiquitous 58888 short code service that delivered news, contests and horoscopes to millions of Indian mobile users.

    With her formidable background spanning broadcast, print and digital media, industry watchers will be keeping their eyes peeled for how she plans to energise Times Network’s digital offerings in an increasingly competitive landscape.

  • 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.

  • Swift TV Teams Up with Viacom18, Bloomberg, India TV and SoFast to Transform India’s Free Streaming TV Scene with 100+ Channels

    Swift TV Teams Up with Viacom18, Bloomberg, India TV and SoFast to Transform India’s Free Streaming TV Scene with 100+ Channels

    MUMBAI: Swift TV has hit a major milestone in India’s streaming space, expanding its platform to feature top-tier channels like Viacom18, Bloomberg, India TV, and more. As one of the fastest-growing free entertainment platforms in the country, Swift TV now offers over 100 live channels-cementing its status as a key player in the ad-supported streaming industry.

    By forging partnerships with major content providers, including Viacom18, India TV, SoFast, and Bloomberg, the platform is shaping up to be a go-to destination for viewers looking for premium, diverse content—without the burden of subscription fees.

    A Growing Powerhouse Backed by Industry Leaders

    Swift TV’s rapid expansion is fueled by collaborations with some of the biggest names in entertainment and news. Viacom18 brings a range of popular TV content, from MTV’s reality show to the renowned Coke Studio. India TV strengthens the news segment with in-depth, 360-degree coverage. Meanwhile, SoFast, a rising player in the global FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) industry, enhances content variety, and Bloomberg ensures access to high-quality financial and business news.

    A Unique Content Library That Sets It Apart

    What makes Swift TV stand out is its dynamic mix of content that goes beyond conventional TV channels. The platform features exclusive, self-created channels tailored to modern viewers, including dedicated E-sports channels for gaming enthusiasts, History Connect for compelling historical narratives, and a variety of podcasts covering interviews and financial education.

    In addition, collaborations with digital content creators like FilterCopy bring fresh, relatable entertainment to the FAST channel lineup, making Swift TV’s content library one-of-a-kind in the market.

    Bringing the Experience to Bigger Screens with a New CTV App

    To meet the growing demand for Connected TV (CTV) content, Swift TV is launching its own CTV app this February. This move will bring its extensive channel lineup to smart TVs, offering users an enhanced viewing experience on larger screens. With the increasing adoption of CTVs, this expansion positions Swift TV as an even more appealing choice for those seeking free, high-quality entertainment.

    A Rapidly Growing User Base

    Since its launch, Swift TV has quickly gained traction, attracting over 500,000 active users. This surge in popularity highlights the strong demand for free, high-quality entertainment in a market dominated by subscription-based OTT platforms. The ad-supported model allows users to enjoy premium content without any fees, making Swift TV a strong contender in India’s competitive streaming landscape.

    What’s Next? Bold Plans for the Future

    Swift TV has ambitious plans to further expand its content offerings. Next month, the platform will introduce 8-10 new specialized podcast channels, catering to a range of interests. Additionally, strategic talks are in progress with leading OTT platforms to bring exclusive FAST channels, offering even more premium content to viewers.

    Recognizing the growing appetite for international entertainment, Swift TV is also working on launching dedicated channels for K-dramas and C-dramas, ensuring global content is easily accessible to Indian audiences.

    With its aggressive expansion strategy, commitment to diverse content, and user-friendly approach—all without subscription costs—Swift TV is well on its way to becoming a powerhouse in India’s streaming industry.
     

  • India TV connects viewers to Maha Kumbh through 24-hour CTV channel

    India TV connects viewers to Maha Kumbh through 24-hour CTV channel

    MUMBAI: With all the glare of the spotlight on the Maha Kumbh  Mela in Prayagraj, can anyone be left behind? Obviously not. And especially, Rajat Sharma’s India TV.

    The Hindi news channel which has been driving into connected TV channels has launched a of a 24×7 pop-up channel dedicated to the Maha Kumbh 2025 so that viewers  can stay connected to the grandeur, rituals, and cultural essence of the world’s largest spiritual gathering.

    The exclusive channel will feature over 1,000 hours of immersive content, offering a 360-degree experience of the Maha Kumbh Mela. Viewers can expect stunning visuals, in-depth reporting, and comprehensive coverage of rituals, cultural activities, and the spiritual energy of the event.

    This marks India TV’s third pop-up channel on CTV, following its successful channels for the Olympic Games 2024 and ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. The move reinforces India TV’s commitment to delivering uninterrupted, engaging, and CTV-first content for its audience.

    India TV managing director Ritu Dhawan said: , “Maha Kumbh 2025 is one of the world’s biggest spiritual and cultural events, and India TV is proud to bring this exclusive viewership experience to our CTV audience. This initiative ensures that every viewer can connect with the rituals, celebrations, and spiritual essence of the Maha Kumbh from the comfort of their homes.”

    India TV’s Maha Kumbh 2025 channel promises to provide a front-row seat to the event, blending expert reporting with rich storytelling, making it an unmissable experience for CTV viewers.