MUMBAI: News18 India is setting the stage for the Diamond States Summit (DSS) Grand Finale, where India’s states come dressed to impress—politically speaking, of course. Having toured states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and beyond, the DSS series has racked up quite the mileage, showcasing incredible stories of governance. Now, the grand finale in New Delhi on 23 March promises to be the grandest affair yet—think Oscars, but with more khadi and fewer acceptance speeches.
The DSS platform honours states excelling in implementing central government’s public welfare schemes. Simply put, it’s a high-powered show-and-tell where states proudly flaunt their developmental achievements and governance wins. From improved living standards to transformative economic growth, these states have certainly done their homework—and they’re here to receive their due applause.
The summit promises lively discussions with an A-list guest list featuring India’s political heavyweights. Expected to grace the event are Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukku, Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini, and Meghalaya’s dynamic Conrad Sangma, among other key political figures. Also in attendance will be influential cabinet ministers, deputy chief ministers, and bureaucratic bigwigs ready to swap notes on governance excellence.
Political conversations will flow faster than chai at a street corner, tackling India’s most pressing issues and showcasing visionary strategies. Citizens looking to gain insider insights into the workings of governance—grab your notepads.
Watch the grand spectacle unfold live on News18 India from 11 am onwards, 23 March. This isn’t your average summit—it’s the Olympics of governance, and every participant’s already won gold in transformative action.
MUMBAI: Network18 just dropped a truth bomb on the front page of The Economic Times, and it’s impossible to ignore. The media giant flexed its leadership in the Indian news ecosystem with a striking ad, leaving no doubt about who rules the ratings.
With an unbeatable track record, Network18 continues to be the go-to source for news, clocking the highest overall TV reach (1,78,957 Average Reach000s)—yes, even surpassing the leading general entertainment channel! (Source: BARC | Metric: Average Reach000s | TG: 15+ | Period: Wk 53’24 – 03’25 | Market: All India). If that’s not enough, it also secured the top spot in average minute audience (AMA) with 2,04,029 AMA 000s. (Source: BARC | Metric: AMA 000s, TG:15+ | Period: Wk 03’25, Market: All India, News channel networks). Oh, and let’s not forget the 20 channels broadcasting in a record 12 languages—talk about news for everyone, everywhere!
Network18 has been setting records and taking names. The network boasts an incredible lineup of leading channels that dominate every news segment:
. CNN-News18: The reigning number one English news channel since BARC ratings resumed more than two years ago.
. News18 India: The undisputed king of Hindi news for two consecutive years.
. CNBC-TV18: The heavyweight champion of English business news, maintaining an iron grip on viewership.
Not content with just television dominance, Network18 has been making waves in the digital space too:
. Moneycontrol: More than 100 million unique visitors and a staggering 1 million paid subscribers on Moneycontrol Pro—a financial powerhouse like no other.
. Firstpost: With 6.8 million YouTube subscribers, it’s the fastest-growing Indian news platform on the video giant.
And in the regional markets? You guessed it—News18 channels are leading the pack, cementing Network18’s dominance across India’s linguistic and cultural landscape.
With record-breaking viewership, it’s no surprise that Network18 is the preferred news network for advertisers (Source: TAM Adex | Period: FY 24-25 till 17 Jan | All genre). Whether it’s business, politics, or entertainment, Network18 delivers credibility, reach, and engagement like no other.
Mumbai: News18 India successfully organised the Uttarakhand edition of the Diamond States Summit in Dehradun, following the widely praised events in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Bihar. The summit provided a platform for meaningful discussions aimed at shaping a brighter future for Uttarakhand.
It brought together prominent leaders, policymakers, and industry figures from across the nation, including Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, minister of agriculture & rural development Ganesh Joshi, finance & urban development minister Prem Chand Aggarwal, minister of women empowerment & child development Rekha Arya, minister of animal husbandry, fisheries, skill development & employment Saurabh Bahuguna, Uttarakhand’s former chief minister Harish Rawat, Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar, principal secretary to CM R.K. Sudhanshu, and IPS-ADGP, special principal secretary, sports & youth welfare Amit Sinha, among others.
Dhami, stated, “The Congress only works to spread confusion and oppose good schemes like Agniveer, which offers better opportunities to soldiers. Our double engine government is focused on understanding the state’s needs and delivering real development. Despite natural disasters, we are committed to rebuilding Uttarakhand and making life easier for the people, especially women, with initiatives like 30 per cent reservation.”
Joshi, said, “From a soldier’s duty to a leader’s journey, my family and I have always served the people. The struggles I faced made me who I am, and Uttarakhand’s vision remains strong. Today, we honor our martyrs and build a state that upholds their sacrifice.”
Aggarwal, emphasised, “The Congress had 60 years in power, yet they never conducted a caste census—so why the need now? On the issue of ‘spit jihad,’ let it be clear that anyone engaging in such practices will not be tolerated. Our government is taking strict action. While we welcome people to come and work in Uttarakhand, we will not allow any instability to take root in our state.”
Bahuguna, expressed “Carrying forward the legacy of my grandfather and father is both an honor and a challenge. My focus remains on serving the people of Uttarakhand, not seeking the limelight. The faith our people have in BJP and PM Modi inspires every effort we put forth.”
Rawat, remarked, “In politics, there are wins and losses, but it’s troubling to lose even after winning. Haryana’s politics has shifted from development to divisions based on caste and religion. The time will come when people stop enjoying slogans and start focusing on real issues. The caste census is necessary as a one-time experiment to understand the true economic conditions of different communities and address their problems.”
The event wrapped up on a hopeful note, outlining an ambitious and progressive vision for Uttarakhand’s future. It offered a crucial forum for thought leaders, policymakers, and specialists to engage in meaningful discussions, fostering collective efforts toward advancing the state’s growth and development.
Mumbai: News18 India will host the fifth edition of its Diamond States Summit (DSS) in Uttarakhand on 23 October, following the successful completion of earlier editions in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Bihar. This event continues to serve as a unique platform for dialogue, collaboration, and strategic discussions, bringing together key leaders and policymakers.
The Uttarakhand edition of the Diamond States Summit will focus on conducting insightful discussions on issues critical to the state such as economic development, governance, law and order, and cultural preservation. The platform will bring together some of Uttarakhand’s most influential political figures and policymakers, allowing them to engage in meaningful dialogue and share their vision for the state’s future.
Expected attendees at the summit include Uttarakhand’s chief minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, along with key ministers including, minister of finance, urban development, parliamentary affairs, census, and housing, Prem Chand Aggarwal; minister of agriculture and rural development, Ganesh Joshi; minister of women empowerment and child development, Rekha Arya; minister of animal husbandry, fisheries, skill development & employment, Saurabh Bahuguna; national general secretary, Mahila Morcha, BJP, Deepti Rawat Bhardwaj; and national spokesperson, BJP, Neha Joshi. They will offer perspectives on policies shaping Uttarakhand’s future.
Watch Diamond States Summit Uttarakhand on News18 India on 23 October from 11 am onwards.
Mumbai: Network18 has reached a milestone of over 325 million followers in the digital space as of September 2024.
This achievement makes Network18 the largest news network in India by follower base, showcasing its influence across platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Snapchat, and WhatsApp. Network18’s extensive reach encompasses brands such as CNN-News18, CNBC-TV18, News18 India, Firstpost and the News18 Regional cluster.
In the first half of this year, it garnered 19 billion views on YouTube, a substantial increase from 11.5 billion views in the same period last year. The audience consumed 822 million hours of content, a rise from 498 million hours previously. Twelve of its YouTube channels currently hold the number one position in their respective categories, solidifying its status as the leading news network on the platform. The network’s presence on WhatsApp Channels has further fuelled its growth, with over 47 million followers contributing to its expanding digital footprint.
A focus on regional news has been central to Network18’s digital success, achieving over 11 billion views H1 in regional content. With 120+ million followers across regional platforms, Network18 continues to deliver hyper-local content in diverse South and Northeastern Indian languages, catering to varied linguistic communities and broadening its reach to new audiences.
Network18’s appeal to new audiences added 47 million new followers in recent months to reach a total of 325 million. News18 Bangla has nearly reached two billion views, while News18 Odia and News18 Punjab have both exceeded the one billion view milestone.
Network18, head – Partnerships and Digital Video Strategy, Pranav Bakshi, emphasised the significance of this achievement. “We’ve not only established the largest social media presence in India but also achieved remarkable growth on Connected TV, with a threefold increase. Our connected TV audience has doubled in the last 6 months, and we continue to expand our footprint on CTV & FAST networks. We are the only news network with such vast digital reach. No competitor matches our scale or growth trajectory. Our success is a result of our commitment to providing high-quality, tailored, and engaging content across all screens—mobile, desktop, and TV.”
Mumbai: News18 India is all set to organise the inaugural edition of ‘Diamond States Summit’ on 2 July, in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. This event marks the beginning of a series of summits that will be held across key states in India, highlighting regional achievements and fostering dialogue on the contributions of each state to the nation’s development.
The upcoming edition of the ‘Diamond States Summit’ aims to provide a platform for in-depth discussions and insights into the progress and potential of Madhya Pradesh. The event will bring together distinguished leaders and influential personalities from the state for a meaningful discussion.
The esteemed speakers who will be attending the summit are chief minister Dr. Mohan Yadav; Madhya Pradesh; state president of BJP V. D. Sharma; minister of urban development and housing Kailash Vijayvargiya; minister of labour, panchayat, and rural development Prahlad Singh Patel; minister of public works department Rakesh Singh; minister of cooperatives, sports, and youth welfare Vishwas Sarang; minister of backward classes and minority welfare Krishna Gaur; minister of women and child development Nirmala Bhuria; minister of transport and school education Uday Pratap Singh; and actor Annu Kapoor amongst others.
The summit will delve into various aspects of Madhya Pradesh’s growth story, including economic development, social progress, and cultural contributions. The discussions will be aimed at promoting a comprehensive understanding of the state’s role in India’s overall development.
The ‘Diamond State Summit’ promises to recognise the human and social development efforts made by various states of the country and thus their contribution in making India a developed nation.
Tune into the Diamond States Summit – Madhya Pradesh, 4 pm onwards on News18 India.
Mumbai: News18 India has launched an outdoor campaign to showcase its dominance over its key competitor on the counting day of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
The outdoor ads installed in prime locations across Delhi-NCR, communicated the leadership of News18 India, targeting its nearest competitor.
As per the data released by the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC), News18 India recorded a whopping 7.69 crore (unrolled) reach on Counting Day. The number one Hindi news channel was at 3.74 crore reach (rolled), leaving behind all its competitors. (Source: BARC | Metric: Reach TG: 2+ | Period: 04th June’24,24 Hrs | Market: HSM |*As per BARC CER)
On the counting day of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the News18 network achieved an unprecedented reach of 16.20 crore, surpassing the television reach of the 2024 IPL Finale, which was 10.90 crore. (Counting Day Unrolled Data | Source: BARC | Channel: Network18 (20 channels) | Metric: Reach TG: 2+|Period: 04 June 24, 24 Hrs I Market: All India) (IPL Finale | Source: BARC | Channel: Star Sports (13 channels) Metric: Reach TG: 2+| Period: 26th May’24, 24 Hrs | Market: All India)
Mumbai: As the lok sabha polls 2024 progress, a unique initiative has emerged to galvanise citizens towards active participation in shaping the nation’s destiny.
Bangur Cement, in collaboration with the News18 Network, has introduced the ‘Vote Solid Desh Solid’ campaign, a clarion call to remind Indians of the transformative power inherent in their vote. In a country where elections are not just events but rather milestones in the democratic journey, the ‘Vote Solid Desh Solid’ campaign resonates deeply with the ethos of civic responsibility.
With an estimated one billion eligible voters, the significance of each vote cannot be overstated. It is within this context that the campaign seeks to underscore the pivotal role that every voter plays in sculpting the future trajectory of the nation. At the heart of the campaign lies a simple yet profound message: a ‘Solid Vote’ begets a ‘Solid Desh’ (nation). The symbiotic relationship between citizen engagement and national progress forms the cornerstone of this
Central to the campaign is the creation of a dedicated microsite https://votekavachan.bangurcement.com/, serving as a digital hub for citizens to pledge their support with a click. However, the campaign goes beyond mere symbolism. For every pledge received, Bangur Cement has committed to donating one kilogram of cement free of cost. This philanthropic gesture aims to contribute towards alleviating the housing crisis faced by the homeless and the underprivileged in India.
Speaking at this initiative, Bangur Cement head of marketing Sushrut Pant expressed, “The overwhelming support for Bangur Cement’s ‘Vote Solid Desh Solid’ campaign, with over 12.50 lakh individuals committing to the ‘vote ka vachan’, is truly remarkable. As we fulfil our pledge to contribute to social welfare by providing Bangur Cement for the construction of solid homes, we are delighted by the continued enthusiasm for the ‘vote ka vachan’ initiative. The first such donation was made at a rural village in Udaipur district on 22 May 2024, benefiting 11 tribal families”
In alignment with Bangur Cement’s commitment to fostering civic engagement, News18 Network is proud to collaborate in amplifying this initiative.
“We are delighted to partner Bangur Cement in curating this public interest campaign and amplifying it through our extensive multimedia network. The initiative has and continues to feature unique stories of voters from across the country, engaged with the officials of election commission to showcase the preparation for free and fair election, voters outreach through vox pops, and pledge to vote which got over 12.50 lacs pledges so far. The anchors of Network18 also came forward to support this cause through various content formats – in line with our efforts and commitment to strengthening the democratic fabric of our nation.” said News18 Network SVP & head of marketing, content & operations Sidharth Saini.
By forging strategic alliances with organizations dedicated to social welfare, Bangur Cement underscores its commitment to translating corporate social responsibility into meaningful action. The ‘Vote Solid Desh Solid’ campaign is not confined to the digital realm alone. It will be amplified across various media platforms, including television and digital channels, ensuring maximum outreach and engagement. Through compelling narratives and emotive storytelling, the campaign seeks to ignite a sense of urgency and purpose among citizens, urging them to pledge their support for a better India.
The campaign calls upon every Indian to pledge their support for a ‘Solid Desh’ and a ‘Solid Ghar’ (home), symbolizing a collective commitment towards building a brighter future for generations to come. In conclusion, the ‘Vote Solid Desh Solid’ campaign epitomizes the fusion of corporate citizenship and media activism in catalyzing positive social change.
For those inspired to join this noble cause and make a difference, the microsite https://votekavachan.bangurcement.com/ serves as a gateway to pledging support and contributing towards a ‘Solid Desh’ and a ‘Solid Ghar’.
Mumbai: News 18 India, a Hindi news channel, has lined up extensive programming including on-ground events, mega debates, exclusive interviews and interactive shows from Varanasi to cover PM Modi’s visit to the city for filing his Lok Sabha nomination. The mega coverage – Loktantra Ka Mahaparv – is lined up from 10 to 14 May.
Commencing on 10 May, News18 India will have its team of seasoned reporters and anchors stationed at ground zero, poised to provide viewers with real-time updates. Channel’s popular evening shows like “Goonj” anchored by Rubika Liyaquat and “Desh Nahi Jhukne Denge” anchored by Aman Chopra will also telecast from Varanasi.
The reporters will conduct multiple interviews, and will gather public opinion on the on-going election. The channel will also be doing a special on-ground event on 11 May.
As excitement mounts for Prime Minister Narender Modi’s “Big Road Show” on 13 May, News18 India will cover every moment of this much anticipated event. This will be followed by the coverage of the PM filling his nomination papers from the Varanasi lok sabha seat on 14 May. The channel will also telecast a special edition of its immensely popular show “Lapete Mein Netaji” anchored by Kishore Ajwani, direct from Varanasi.
Keep watching Sabse Bada Dangal – Loktantra Ka Mahaparv through the day on News18 India from 10 to 14 May.
Mumbai: Foreign minister S Jaishankar has emphasized the importance of presenting the ten-year record of the Modi government to the public so to instil confidence among voters and likened this record to an insurance policy, stating that it serves as evidence of Modi’s commitments and achievements.
In an exclusive interview with News18, S Jaishankar addressed the significance of strong leadership in navigating global challenges, citing the need for experienced leadership in times of tension and conflict worldwide. He noted the growing interest among voters in foreign policy matters, reflecting on his extensive interactions across various states.
Responding to queries about managing news flow, Jaishankar explained the structured approach of the ministry, including the establishment of situation and control rooms during crises. He underscored the importance of swift decision-making and adherence to standard operating procedures (SOP’s) in handling emergencies.
Speaking about his career choices, Jaishankar revealed his initial preference for the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) due to his academic background and interest in international affairs. He acknowledged the accessibility and popularity he enjoys among the youth, attributing it to his relaxed demeanor and commitment to public service.
Addressing criticism of government functioning, Jaishankar emphasized the inclusive decision-making process under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. He highlighted the collaborative approach in cabinet meetings and foreign tours, where every voice is heard and valued.
Regarding the issue of Muslim reservation raised by Congress, Jaishankar criticized the party’s approach, likening its manifesto to a blend of Muslim League and Maoist ideologies. He asserted the Prime Minister’s stance against reservation based on religion, highlighting the government’s commitment to equality.
Jaishankar’s remarks drew attention to the ongoing debate over the reservation policy, particularly in Karnataka, where the Congress government has proposed a four per cent quota for Muslims. He emphasized the need for clarity and consistency in addressing social and economic disparities without resorting to divisive measures.
On Rahul Gandhi’s comments about Indian democracy being in danger during his overseas visits, Jaishankar expressed disappointment, urging politicians to refrain from airing domestic grievances abroad. He cautioned against inviting external interference in India’s internal affairs, citing historical precedents and emphasizing the importance of maintaining national unity.
Addressing Rahul Gandhi’s assertions about Chinese encroachments, Jaishankar refuted claims of silence, highlighting historical context and infrastructure developments. He clarified misconceptions surrounding China’s activities in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh, citing past instances of border disputes and emphasizing the government’s commitment to border negotiations.
Switching to election dynamics, Jaishankar commented on the possibility of achieving a substantial victory margin. He dismissed opposition skepticism, expressing confidence in voter turnout and the Modi government’s track record. Jaishankar projected optimism for reaching 400 mark electoral milestone, attributing it to public trust and the government’s proactive governance approach.
Reflecting on international election observation, Jaishankar welcomed foreign interest in India’s electoral processes, affirming positive intentions behind such engagements. He underscored the importance of transparent electoral practices and dismissed foreign media criticisms as uninformed perspectives.
In discussing language preferences, Jaishankar emphasized the natural evolution of language usage, particularly in political discourse. He highlighted the BJP government’s emphasis on Hindi, aligning with the linguistic preferences of many leaders and constituents.
Regarding election turnout and Microsoft’s warnings of potential interference, Jaishankar expressed confidence in India’s robust electoral system while acknowledging the challenges posed by advancements in technology.
Addressing allegations of EVM tampering and border tensions, Jaishankar debunked misconceptions and provided historical context, emphasizing the government’s efforts to strengthen border infrastructure and resolve disputes diplomatically.
In response to queries about India’s global standing, Jaishankar highlighted the country’s resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic growth trajectory. He emphasized India’s role as a civilization power and the need to assert its cultural identity on the world stage.
Regarding the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal and other contentious issues raised by a newspaper based in England, Jaishankar emphasized the primacy of law and elections. He dismissed suggestions that legal proceedings should be halted during election periods, citing international norms and urging consistency in legal enforcement.
On the topic of intruder killings, Jaishankar offered a blunt assessment of Pakistan’s role in fostering terrorism. He suggested that individuals engaging in illicit activities should face consequences, regardless of their location, underscoring the need for accountability.
Shifting the conversation to lighter topics and when inquired about Jaishankar’s holiday plans. Jaishankar, downplayed the notion of vacations under Modi’s governance, emphasizing his dedication to duty.
Pointing to his previous visit to Kashmir, he expressed interest in exploring Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, citing its burgeoning tourism industry and historical significance.
Jaishankar expressed optimism about the upcoming elections, citing faith in the Modi government’s track record and commitment to fulfilling promises. He underscored the importance of presenting a strong and stable government to address the aspirations of the Indian populace.
