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Tag: News18

  • Power Shift as She Shakti 2025 celebrates women driving Bharat forward

    Power Shift as She Shakti 2025 celebrates women driving Bharat forward

    MUMBAI: Who runs the world? At She Shakti 2025, the answer was loud and clear women, and on their own terms. News18 flagship platform, presented by Lions International, returned in Delhi with its grand finale under the theme “From Breaking Barriers to Building Bharat.” From policy corridors to cinema screens, women leaders, changemakers and stars gathered to showcase how they’re rewriting India’s growth story.

    The line-up sparkled with names across domains Smriti Irani, former cabinet minister and founder of The Alliance for Global Good; Nidhi Khare, secretary at the department of consumer affairs; Lindy Cameron, British high commissioner to India; Mallika Srinivasan, chairman & MD of Tractors and Farm Equipment; actors Kriti Sanon and Sanya Malhotra; JNU vice-chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit; and playback legend Kavita Krishnamurti Subramaniam, among others.

    President Droupadi Murmu set the tone with a powerful video message: “As scientists, engineers, doctors, soldiers, artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, academicians, social workers, policy makers, and in many other roles, women are consistently reaching new heights… In reality, this is not just a change, but a revolution.”

    Smriti Irani, recalling her rise to becoming the highest-paid television actor 25 years ago, urged women to “scream out loud” about their pay cheques. “Today, women don’t just want a seat at the table; they want the capital, the confidence, and a clear pathway to scale their capacities,” she said.

    Kriti Sanon brought an entrepreneurial lens, stressing women’s “problem-solving mindset” in business. Sanya Malhotra drew on her acclaimed film Mrs. to highlight the quiet but seismic fight for freedom at home. “The problem started when she wanted to do something else,” Sanya said of her character, “and wasn’t allowed to.”

    Over the years, She Shakti has grown into more than an event, it’s become a stage where stories of resilience, ambition, and leadership converge. This year’s edition underlined that gender diversity isn’t just about inclusion; it’s about powering Bharat’s future with grit, grace, and an unstoppable revolution.
     

  • Power play Delhi hosts grand finale of News18 Sheshakti 2025

    Power play Delhi hosts grand finale of News18 Sheshakti 2025

    MUMBAI: When women take the wheel, the road to Bharat’s future looks smoother and far more inclusive. After a dazzling debut in Mumbai, News18 Sheshakti 2025, presented by Lions International, is set for its grand finale in New Delhi on August 21 under the theme “From Breaking Barriers to Building Bharat”.

    What began as a regional showcase has quickly grown into one of India’s most anticipated forums for female leadership. The third national edition will see over 30 trailblazers from policymakers and entrepreneurs to actors, athletes, and activists sharing how they’re not just breaking ceilings but laying down the foundation for a stronger, self-reliant India.

    The power-packed speaker line-up reads like a roll call of influence: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, former union minister Smriti Irani, British high commissioner Lindy Cameron, JNU vice-chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit, Supreme Court justice Hima Kohli, actors Kriti Sanon and Sanya Malhotra, playback legend Kavita Krishnamurti, racing driver Mira Erda, and Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, among others. From boardrooms to battlefields, campuses to concert halls, the conversations promise to span every frontier.

    The scale matches the ambition. The initiative has already clocked two impactful national editions, with the 2025 Mumbai showcase marking the start of its 25th anniversary celebrations. Now, the capital takes centre stage as women from across industries share stories of innovation, grit, and transformation whether it’s shaping policy, building businesses, enabling grassroots change, or disrupting global sectors like AI, defence and healthcare.

    “News18 Sheshakti has always been a platform to celebrate, empower and elevate dynamic women,” said Network18 (broadcast) CEO Avinash Kaul. His colleague Network18 Group chief strategy officer Puneet Singhvi added that women today are “leading in business, sports, education and beyond shaping New Bharat with inclusivity, compassion, and courage.”

    From 11 AM on 21 August, the stage will be buzzing with bold voices and big visions. If Mumbai was the warm-up act, Delhi promises the full crescendo, an ode to the women scripting Bharat’s next chapter, one breakthrough at a time.

  • News18 calls the shots as it headlines Hindi and English viewership

    News18 calls the shots as it headlines Hindi and English viewership

    MUMBAI: The ratings are in and News18 isn’t just reading the headlines, it’s writing them. With the latest BARC data painting a clear picture, the News18 Network has reinforced its dominance in both English and Hindi news broadcasting, leaving its rivals flipping through the pages.

    CNN-News18 retained its crown as the Number 1 English news channel, capturing a commanding 35.7 per cent market share, well ahead of Times Now (22.4 per cent) and NDTV 24×7 (17.7 per cent). That’s a 60 per cent lead over Times Now, and a staggering 102 per cent lead over NDTV, according to BARC India (Week 30’25, All India, 15 plus).

    Fronted by a strong editorial team that includes Zakka Jacob, Anand Narasimhan, Rahul Shivshankar and Shivani Gupta, CNN-News18 has held onto its pole position ever since BARC ratings resumed in March 2022.

    Not to be outdone, News18 India ruled the roost in Hindi news with a powerful 74,444 AMA’000s, outpacing Aaj Tak’s 67,957 AMA’000s (BARC | Week 27–30’25 | HSM | 15plus | 24×7). With trusted faces like Kishore Ajwani, Amish Devgan, Rubika Liyaquat, Prateek Trivedi, and Aman Chopra, News18 India continues to be the nation’s go-to source for breaking news, sharp debates, and hard-hitting reports.

    The network’s leadership isn’t confined to television either. News18’s digital footprint is growing steadily, with Youtube views and social media traction providing a second wind to its broadcast muscle.

    Behind the ratings blitz is a clear strategic push. News18 has ramped up investments in technology, editorial staffing, and international partnerships to ensure it stays not just first with the news but first in the hearts (and remotes) of viewers.

    In an age of news clutter, News18 Network seems to have cracked the code: clarity, credibility, and countrywide reach.

     

  • Shakti in the City as Sheshakti Mumbai puts women at the wheel of change

    Shakti in the City as Sheshakti Mumbai puts women at the wheel of change

    MUMBAI: Mumbai got a power surge and this time, it wasn’t from the grid. News18’s Sheshakti returned with its third and most dynamic edition yet, lighting up Mumbai with stories of women who are not just breaking barriers but blueprinting Bharat’s future. Organised in partnership with Lions International, the 2025 edition marked a first the regional debut of the flagship women’s leadership platform turning the spotlight on Maharashtra’s changemakers.

    Titled “From Breaking Barriers to Building Bharat”, the theme underscored a pivotal shift: from metro corridors to grassroots campaigns, from boardrooms to classrooms, the narrative of power is now as plural as it is personal. With over two impactful editions behind it, Sheshakti has evolved into more than a platform, it’s a movement.

    The Mumbai edition celebrated a formidable lineup of trailblazers from bureaucrats and bankers to  actors and entrepreneurs. Each speaker brought to the stage her truth, grit, and roadmap for India 2.0.

    Ashwini Bhide, principal secretary to the Maharashtra chief minister and the woman behind Mumbai’s mega metro projects, reflected on the complexity and scale of city infrastructure: “Working on mega projects in Mumbai is a challenge and an opportunity. Unless we create global-standard public transport, Mumbaikars will continue to struggle,” she said, reinforcing the urgent need for inclusive urban solutions.

    Actor Shriya Pilgaonkar gave the inside track on evolving female roles in Indian cinema: “You’ve got to be stubborn about your dreams and flexible about your plan. The industry is quick to box you. Stay in your power and don’t hand it over to others.”

    Bajaj Finserv group president designate (investments) Lakshmi Iyer brought finance into focus: “Financial freedom should feel like oxygen for women unseen, constant, and essential.” Her session, titled ‘The ROI of Being She’, highlighted the non-negotiable value of economic independence.

    Aditya Birla Education Trust founder Neerja Birla spoke candidly about India’s silent mental health crisis: “We’re conditioned to put ourselves last. But if your own cup is half full, how can you pour into others’ lives?” Her message was clear self-care is the starting point of leadership.

    Closing the edition was Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, who made a compelling economic argument for gender parity: “Globally, the nations that recognised the value of women accelerated their growth. If Maharashtra wants to move ahead, we must put women in the front seat.”

    Fadnavis reflected on the era of “sarpanch-patis” and “corporator-patis”, when men unofficially held the power behind elected women leaders in local bodies. “That began to change in 1997,” he noted, “and by 2029, when it becomes compulsory to allocate tickets to women, we won’t stop at 33 per cent, we’ll reach 50 per cent.”

    From mental health to metro lines, movie roles to money goals, Sheshakti’s Mumbai edition was a full-spectrum showcase of women who aren’t just participating, they’re pioneering.

    Because when women lead from every postcode and every profession, the question is no longer if Bharat will change. It’s how soon.

  • News18 India trumps Aaj Tak again, scores hat-trick as Hindi news leader on TV and Youtube

    News18 India trumps Aaj Tak again, scores hat-trick as Hindi news leader on TV and Youtube

    MUMBAI: In a media landscape where loyalties shift as fast as breaking headlines, News18 India has held its ground with the firmness of an anchor desk in a newsroom earthquake. While rivals fought for airwaves and eyeballs, the channel calmly claimed its crown—again. For the third consecutive year, News18 India has retained its title as the undisputed champion of the Hindi news genre, outpacing legacy player Aaj Tak both on television and in the digital trenches.

    As per BARC data (Week 23’22 – 22’25, 24 Hrs, All Days | HSM | NCCS All 15+), News18 India clocked a formidable 7.89 crore AMA’000s. In contrast, Aaj Tak lagged behind with 7.36 crore AMA’000s, marking yet another year where the latter failed to catch up.

    In a world where TRPs can turn erratic, these numbers scream consistency—and point to a widening gap in viewer allegiance.

    The digital showdown wasn’t any different. On Youtube, News18 India has not just edged ahead—it has sprinted past. As of May 2025, the channel amassed 3.4 billion views, while Aaj Tak struggled with 1.04 billion, according to Playboard data. That’s more than a three x lead—enough to make any digital head turn.

    News18 India retained its top position in the Hindi news genre for three consecutive years while its competitor, Aaj Tak, struggles to keep pace. With its commitment to delivering crisp, accurate, and credible journalism, News18 India continues to win the trust and loyalty of millions across the nation.

    At the heart of this success is a battalion of familiar faces and trusted voices. Anchors like Kishore Ajwani, Amish Devgan, Rubika Liyaquat, Prateek Trivedi, and Aman Chopra bring the noise—and the nuance—day after day. Their programming style blends punch with perspective, helping the channel hold sway over a viewership that’s both vast and vocal.

    Backed by a robust reporting network, News18 India maintains coverage that cuts across regions and realities. Whether it’s national elections or local skirmishes, the channel’s ground game has helped shape its top-tier status.

  • Sushant Mohan snags top Zee digital gig

    Sushant Mohan snags top Zee digital gig

    MUMBAI: IndiaDotcom Digital, formerly Zee Digital, has plumped for Sushant S Mohan as its new chief editor and business manager. Mohan, a digital veteran since ’08, is tasked with giving Zee’s digital platforms a right proper shake-up, blending editorial gravitas with business brawn.

    He’s no stranger to the digital trenches, having previously steered DNA’s digital transformation as chief executive, and before that, cutting his teeth at Opera News, News18, BBC, Fever 104, Red FM, All India Radio and DD Prasar Bharti, amongst others. 

    Now, he’s promising to inject “fresh energy” and “innovation” into Zee’s digital offering, while also chasing those all-important revenue streams. 

    “It’s a privilege and an exciting challenge,” Mohan quipped, “to lead one of India’s most influential digital news platforms.” He aims to deliver “impactful journalism” with a “sharp focus” on the audience.

    Zee Media Corporation Ltd CEO  Karan Abhishek Singh reckons Mohan’s “rare blend of editorial acumen and business insights” will be just the ticket for IndiaDotcom Digital’s “new phase of growth.” The company is banking on him to keep the digital platforms “credible, relevant, and future-ready.”

    This appointment is part of IndiaDotcom Digital’s grand plan to become the “most innovative and impactful digital media platform” in India. Whether it will  manage to avoid the usual digital pitfalls remains to be seen, but with Mohan at the helm, it certainly is giving it a go.

  • News18 Showsha Reel Awards stars shine bright

    News18 Showsha Reel Awards stars shine bright

    MUMBAI: The News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 celebrated the best of film and OTT at a glamorous event in Mumbai, bringing together the industry’s finest. Hosted by actor Arjun Kapoor, the evening recognised outstanding talent and storytelling across films and web series, with a star-studded red carpet.

    The event drew a collection of prominent figures, including Janhvi Kapoor, Raveena Tandon, Jaideep Ahlawat, Abhishek Bachchan, Aditi Rao Hydari, Varun Dhawan, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Ramesh Sippy, Salim Khan, Ravi Kishan, Jyothika, Riteish Deshmukh, Yami Gautam, Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, Kabir Khan, Raj & DK, and Sonu Nigam. Nikhita Gandhi’s live performance added to the night’s vibrant atmosphere.

    Rajkummar and Janhvi received the Best Actor and Best Actress (Popular Choice) awards, while Dhawan and Samantha won Best Actor and Best Actress (OTT). Ahlawat and Hydari were also recognised for their OTT performances. Rising Star Awards went to Raghav Juyal and Pratibha Ranta. Pankaj Tripathi was named Entertainer of the Year.

    Abhishek, upon receiving Best Actor (jury), remarked, “This is actually my first-ever Best Actor Award. I’d like to thank the esteemed jury it’s an honour that you find me worthy of this award. But the credit for this performance has to go entirely to Shoojit (Sircar) Da. He’s made such a wonderful film.”

    Hydari, winner of the OTT Star of the Year (Female) award, shared, “This one is very special. Heeramandi is very special. My director Sanjay sir is very special. I love him dearly. I am because of my directors and I hope I will continue to be because of them. Every single ad on set, every single human being on set, every single four-legged puppy on set, everybody was part of that universe, and it really made those years that we spent shooting. I can’t be more grateful.”

    Kabir won Best Director for Chandu Champion, and Stree 2 won Best Film. Sippy and Salim were honoured with the Reel Legend Award. Raj & DK and Sonu Nigam also received awards.

    The jury, comprising Sachin Pilgaonkar, Madhur Bhandarkar, Mukesh Chhabra, Tavishi Paitandy, Lilette Dubey, and Shabana Azmi, ensured a fair selection process.

    Indian Language News18 and Local18 (TV & digital) chief executive officer Mitul Sangani said, “At News18, we take immense pride in recognizing exceptional talent across diverse formats, and genres. The News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 stands as a beacon of creative excellence, bringing together the best of Indian entertainment celebrating both mainstream and regional storytelling. We congratulate all the winners who have captivated audiences with their outstanding performances and storytelling.”

    English & Business News, Network18 CEO Smriti Mehra added, “The News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of cinema and OTT on audiences worldwide. As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, we are proud to recognise the artists and creators who challenge conventions and craft unforgettable narratives.”

  • News18 launches YouTube channel for Maha Kumbh 2025

    News18 launches YouTube channel for Maha Kumbh 2025

    MUMBAI: Close to Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) is Triveni Sangam – the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Today, Prayagraj is a husltle bustle of activity as it gets ready to stage the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, a magnificent spiritual celebration anticipated to draw 400 million pilgrims from around the world. 

    And to make sure its influence is felt the world over, news television network News18 has launched News18 Kumbh, an exclusive YouTube channel that provides 24/7 coverage of this extraordinary event. It will bring the vibrant traditions of Indian spirituality into homes globally, offering viewers a virtual pilgrimage that encapsulates the essence of devotion and unity, showcasing the largest religious gathering on earth from 13 January to 26 February 2025. 

    To get a dekko of the YouTube channels click here: https://www.youtube.com/@news18kumbh

    The News18 Kumbh logo was unveiled by the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad president Mahant Ravindra Puri – the apex religious body of 13 recognized monastic Hindu orders. The showcasing of the logo was streamed directly from the Kumbh Mela on the YouTube channel.

    News18 OB vans will be on the move there

    As part of the launch, Prateek Trivedi’s popular show Bhaiyaji Kahin featured a special live episode that captured the rich culture and tradition defining the Kumbh Mela.

    According to a press release issued by the network, News18 Kumbh is to provide live coverage from multiple ghats and akharas. With 24-hour live streaming, special programming, and curated shows, the channel will delve into the mythology, spiritual significance, and cultural traditions of the Maha Kumbh. From detailed insights into the Shahi Snan and the importance of bathing rituals for different akharas to key dates, travel advisories, and daily event calendars, News18 Kumbh will serve as a guide for devotees and viewers alike.

    News18 control room at Prayagraj

    As a tribute to the spirit of Maha Kumbh 2025, News18 also released a specially composed song that beautifully captured its essence and magnificence.

    News18 network has deployed a dedicated team to cover the event. and has set up operations in Prayagraj to bring viewers updates and insights over the two-month-long event. 

  • News18, Federal Bank & Tata Trusts host second edition of ‘Sanjeevani: United Against Cancer’

    News18, Federal Bank & Tata Trusts host second edition of ‘Sanjeevani: United Against Cancer’

    Mumbai: The Federal Bank Hormis Memorial Foundation and News18 Network hosted a national cancer awareness convention under the second phase of the ‘Sanjeevani: United Against Cancer’ programme, with Tata Trusts as knowledge partners. Key stakeholders, industry leaders, and top bureaucrats discussed awareness and early detection of cancer.

    In India, cancer cases are estimated at nearly 15 lakh annually, making it the third-highest globally after the US and China. Sanjeevani has been working through partnerships to promote awareness and early intervention for this disease, the second leading cause of mortality worldwide.

    At the fireside chat session, actor and national ambassador of ‘Sanjeevani: United Against Cancer’ initiative, Vidya Balan said, “Like with most people, Cancer has always scared me. It’s a direction I’ve never wanted to look in until someone very dear to me was detected with the disease two years back. Then I realized that because it was detected early, he could get treatment immediately and therefore he’s in good health today. The fear around cancer is so huge that it often blinds us to the reality of the fact that regular screening and therefore early detection can make all the difference. So, when Network 18 came to me with this campaign, I felt this is something I need to do. Then I decided to use my voice to get people to get screened regularly and thereby to make a difference in their lives.”

    She added, “The fight against cancer is a journey of compassion and resilience, where every act of awareness and every gesture of support becomes a beacon of hope and healing for patients and their families. With Sanjeevani: United Against Cancer’, we showcase our commitment to continue the journey towards creating more awareness towards cancer screening and early detection. With a collaborative effort, we can rip off cancer from its roots.”

    Federal Bank CEO KVS Manian said, “India can’t be a Viksit Bharat without being a Swasthya Bharat. So, healthcare is clearly one area where the country needs a lot of investment. It’s important that more people step in, and Federal Bank is happy to be involved here. Our CSR focus is over 60% in healthcare and healthy living space. We have been very supportive of treatment-related spends, but going forward, it’s important also to create more infrastructure kind of spends which gives more sustainable benefits to the society around. Awareness is such a critical thing and it is the most difficult thing to achieve. Early detection in cancer is critical and that’s why campaigns like these are continuously required.”

    He added: “‘Sanjeevani: United Against Cancer’ is not just a campaign—it is a movement to empower individuals to take charge of their health and make them understand why timely screening is a must. While a lot of work has already been going on, we aim to continue to raise the bar for cancer care by focusing more on screening and early detection. This conclave is a point of origin for all our efforts towards patient and family care as well as pre-emptive awareness and screening for the disease. Collective effort is non-negotiable to ensure  a brighter, healthier future for all. We need to  empower one another with critical awareness and ensure every individual is informed about the steps to take. More will always be less, when it comes to cancer.”

    Tata Trusts CEO Siddharth Sharma commented, “Tata Trusts have been at the forefront of combating the growing cancer burden in the country. Our focus has been on making world-class cancer care affordable and accessible.  As knowledge partners on Sanjeevani, we strive to inform our audience with current practices and information about cancer in its various forms and dimensions.  We believe that the collective efforts of all our partners in this endeavour will motivate people to go in for early screening thereby mitigating the increasing burden of cancer in the country”.

    Network18 CEO & A+E Networks MD Avinash Kaul stated, “As India’s leading news network, we recognize our responsibility towards the health and well-being of our audience. Sanjeevani is our flagship campaign, crafted in partnership with Federal Bank and Tata Trusts. It has driven significant impact over the years through factual storytelling and a call to action for cancer screening. This convention marks a pivotal moment in our journey, reinstating our commitment to reaching every corner of the nation with a message of hope and good health. We aim to keep this vital dialogue going through various interventions, including on-ground activations, celebrity endorsements, and partnerships across national and regional platforms. Our mission is to make a meaningful contribution to nation-building by advancing this essential conversation.”

    ‘Sanjeevani: United Against Cancer’ initiative has reached over 600 million viewers through News18’s TV network and generated over 13 million social media interactions. The initiative remains committed to its mission, striving to reach even more individuals and drive lasting positive social change in cancer awareness and screenings.

  • News18 SheShakti to celebrate women transforming India

    News18 SheShakti to celebrate women transforming India

    Mumbai: After a highly successful inaugural edition, the ‘News18 SheShakti’ summit, returns for its 2024 edition on 16 September in New Delhi, in association with Lions International. With the theme of, ‘Breaking Barriers’ the event aims to bring together women leaders from politics, art, social work, and several other fields, highlighting their remarkable contributions and leadership.

    Indian women are redefining global narratives with their extraordinary achievements, driven by passion, grit, and resilience. The ‘Breaking Barriers’ theme highlights their role in reshaping the world through stories of overcoming challenges and excelling across fields. The summit celebrates such icons, who are not only elevating India’s global stature but also inspiring the next generation of women leaders.

    The summit will feature a diverse array of influential policymakers, women leaders, and changemakers, including the vice president of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar; chief justice of India, Dr Justice D Y Chandrachud; maharani of the erstwhile princely state of Baroda, Radhikaraje Gaekwad; Teach For India CEO, Shaheen Mistri; member of Lok Sabha, Shambhavi Choudhary; member of Lok Sabha, Bansuri Swaraj; Indian Institute of Astrophysics director, Dr Annapurni Subramaniam; actor Shefali Shah; actor Rasika Dugal; pabiben.com founder, Pabiben Rabari; ISRO’s Aditya mission project director, Nigar Shaji; retired judge and senior counsel of the Supreme Court of India, Justice Indu Malhotra; former UN assistant secretary general & ambassador of India, Lakshmi M Puri; former Indian ambassador to the UN, Ruchira Kamboj; Delhi Police DCP & PRO, Suman Nalwa; two-time Paralympic champion Avani Lekhara; actor and former MP Kirron Kher; actor Sikandar Kher; singer and Padma Bhushan awardee Usha Uthup; and actor Bhumi Pednekar.

    Elaborating on the upcoming event, Network18 CEO – digital & president – corporate strategy, Puneet Singhvi said, “Building on the success of SheShakti’s first edition, we are raising the bar this year with our motto – Elevate, Empower, Inspire. This year’s lineup is truly inspiring, with women icons from across fields, age groups coming together to share their stories and celebrate their achievements. As the country’s largest news network, we are committed to showcasing remarkable journeys, fostering meaningful dialogues, and inspiring next generations to break barriers and pursue excellence.”

    Network18 (broadcast) CEO & A+E Networks I TV18 managing director Avinash Kaul added, “India is at a pivotal moment, where women are not just breaking barriers but excelling in areas once considered off-limits. At Network18, we see it as our responsibility to celebrate and spotlight the achievements of these trailblazers. By highlighting their stories, we set the stage for meaningful dialogue and inspiration, paving the way for a more inclusive and progressive society.”

    News18 SheShakti is a powerful tribute to women who have boldly broken barriers and turned their dreams into reality. It provides a space to celebrate the cultural and economic contributions of women, underscoring the importance of gender diversity and inclusion in building a stronger, more resilient India.

    Support the initiative for gender equality and empowerment by tuning in to News18.com and CNN-News18’s YouTube and Facebook page on 16 September, 11 am onwards.