MUMBAI: As tensions flared during the recent India-Pakistan conflict, viewers across the country turned to News18 India in record numbers. The Hindi news channel soared to the top of the charts, notching a 96.5 per cent spike in Average Minute Audience (AMA000’s), according to Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) data.
From 7-9 May, News18 India clocked 39,341 AMA000’s, establishing itself as the most-watched Hindi news channel during the period. Its Cumulative Reach’00 also saw a substantial rise, touching 45,438—a 49.9 per cent increase. (Source: BARC, Market: HSM, TG: 2+, Period: Wk 18’25)
In a volatile media environment flooded with misinformation about India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’, News18 India focused on accurate, responsible, and timely reportage. The channel broke key developments, including the pivotal DGMO calls that halted further escalation.
Network18’s broader general news portfolio also registered a sharp rise in performance. With an AMA000’s count of 81,155, the network saw an 82.8 per cent boost. Its Cumulative Reach’00 reached 1,02,485, marking a 38.6 per cent week-on-week surge. (Source: BARC, Market: India, TG: 2+)
The network’s editorial strength stems from its top-tier anchors and an extensive on-ground network that enabled comprehensive, ground-up coverage. Network18’s portfolio includes News18 India and CNN-News18 on the national front, and a robust regional slate including News18 Uttar Pradesh/Uttarakhand, News18 Bihar/Jharkhand, News18 Madhya Pradesh/Chhattisgarh, and News18 Bangla, among others.
Network18 has consistently held its position as the country’s number one news network for over two years, with its mix of rigorous journalism and regionally rooted storytelling continuing to win the trust of Indian audiences.