ITV

Tag: Rahul Shivshankar

  • Breaking the news and the charts CNN-News18 tops the ratings race

    Breaking the news and the charts CNN-News18 tops the ratings race

    MUMBAI: Newsrooms thrive on breaking stories but this time, CNN-News18 is the story. The network has stormed ahead of rivals to claim its place as India’s undisputed English news leader, clocking numbers that speak louder than any debate panel ever could.

    According to the latest BARC India data, CNN-News18 has pulled off a 64.4 per cent market share in the primetime slot (7–11 pm), leaving competitors trailing far behind NDTV at 15.4 per cent and Times Now at 12.2 per cent. (Source: BARC India | Market: 10L plus | TG: 22–40 Male | Period: Weeks 36–39’25 | Market Share per cent | 5 channels considered.)

    For a genre known for high decibels and fierce rivalries, CNN-News18’s dominance is striking, the channel holds more than four times the share of its nearest competitor. The network’s grip on viewers during India’s most-watched hours has placed it firmly in a league of its own, with “No. 1” becoming more of a habit than a headline.

    Zooming out beyond primetime, CNN-News18 continues to reign overall with a 36.5 per cent market share, followed by NDTV 24×7 at 25.2 per cent and Times Now at 21.4 per cent. (Source: BARC India | Market: India | TG: 15+AB | Period: Weeks 36–39’25 | Market Share per cent basis AMA’000 | 8 channels considered.)

    The victory isn’t a flash in the pan either. CNN-News18 has maintained the top spot since the return of BARC ratings in March 2022, consistently holding its ground across cycles, a feat few news brands can boast in such a volatile space.

    What’s fuelling this sustained supremacy? A mix of credibility, sharp reportage, and familiar faces that have become synonymous with trustworthy journalism.

    The channel’s roster of seasoned anchors Zakka Jacob, Anand Narasimhan, Rahul Shivshankar, and Shivani Gupta has helped define its editorial rhythm. Their prime-time shows are known for being fast-paced yet focused, where arguments may heat up but facts still win the floor.

    Behind the desk, CNN-News18’s network of correspondents across India keeps the channel ahead on breaking stories, from Delhi’s political corridors to distant district headquarters. It’s this combination of speed, scale, and storytelling that keeps viewers coming back when the clock strikes seven.

    In an era where English news is often accused of shouting louder than it reports, CNN-News18 seems to have struck the balance pairing the energy of TV debates with the discipline of data. The result is clear in the numbers: nearly two-thirds of English news viewers are tuning into CNN-News18 during primetime, a lead that transforms competition into footnotes.

    What makes this rise even more striking is the shrinking gap between viewership and trust, a rare commodity in news. The channel’s ability to hold attention without sensationalism, and to mix credibility with conversation, appears to be its secret sauce.

    It’s not just about being the loudest voice in the room anymore, it’s about being the one audiences actually listen to.

    With its 64.4 per cent primetime share, 36.5 per cent overall market lead, and an editorial style that’s both assertive and authentic, CNN-News18 isn’t just leading the English news genre, it’s redefining what leadership looks like in it.

    In the ratings war, it seems, the network has done what it does best break the news, then break the mould.

  • CNN-News18 rules prime time with 72.5 per cent market share lead

    CNN-News18 rules prime time with 72.5 per cent market share lead

    MUMBAI: When the nation tunes in, it’s clear who’s holding the mic. CNN-News18 has tightened its grip on the English news throne, bagging a staggering 72.5 per cent market share during peak news hours, a figure bigger than all its competitors combined.

    According to BARC data (Mkt: 10L+ | TG: 22–40 Male | Wk 27–30’25, 19:00–24:00 Hrs), Times Now managed 17.9 per cent, NDTV 24×7 clocked 7.4 per cent, Republic TV scraped 1.5 per cent, and India Today Television trailed with just 0.7 per cent. The result? A prime-time rout that leaves no doubt who’s setting the national news agenda.

    The dominance isn’t just in the evening spotlight. CNN-News18’s overall share in the English news genre remains formidable 60 per cent ahead of Times Now and a jaw-dropping 102 per cent ahead of NDTV (Source: BARC India | All India (U+R) 15+ | AVG Week 30’25). The channel has held its No. 1 spot for over three years, a testament to its mix of accuracy, clarity, and a citizen-first approach.

    Recent upgrades from a cleaner, more visual-heavy design to tighter storytelling have only sharpened its edge. With top anchors like Zakka Jacob, Anand Narasimhan, Rahul Shivshankar, and Shivani Gupta, plus a robust nationwide reporting network, CNN-News18 delivers not just breaking headlines but context-rich coverage with data-driven explainers.

    By blending editorial heft with tech innovation, the channel is making sure that when the story matters, India knows exactly where to turn and in peak hours, it’s turning to CNN-News18 in overwhelming numbers.

  • 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.

     

  • CNN-News18 remains undisputed leader of English News Genre

    CNN-News18 remains undisputed leader of English News Genre

    MUMBAI:  According to the latest data from the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC), CNN-News18 continues to dominate the English news genre, maintaining a strong lead of 179 per cent ahead of Times Now and 79 per cent ahead of NDTV.

    As per the latest data,  CNN-News18 has outperformed its competitors NDTV 24×7 and Times Now with a market share of  41 per cent. The market share of NDTV 24×7 stood at 22.9 per cent, while Times Now stayed at just 14.7 per cent.  (Source: BARC India | MKT: India | TG: 2+ | Period: AVG Wk 29’25 |Market share%)

    With a consistent lead over its competitors, CNN-News18 has remained the undisputed leader of the English news genre, thanks to its sharp editorial focus, credible journalism, and unmatched viewer trust.

    CNN-News18 has always been the voice of the people, bringing major public issues to the forefront. Adding to its commitment is the latest initiative, #SaveOurCities, because We The People deserve better. CNN-News18’s #SaveOurCities campaign asks the tough questions: Flooded roads, traffic chaos, potholes, piles of garbage, drainage failures, crumbling infrastructure—same problems, every monsoon.

    Speaking about CNN News18’s No.1 position and its latest initiative, Zakka Jacob, Managing Editor of CNN News18, says,  “CNN-News18 has been No.1 for the last three years now. There is no competition anywhere close to us, even in the latest BARC data. The gap between the No.1 and No.2 players is wide, and I believe this is a strong affirmation of our journalism. We put citizens’ concerns first and bring their issues and concerns to the forefront. For example, our latest initiative, #SaveOurCities, focuses on the monsoon season in Delhi, Gurugram, Mumbai, Bengaluru, where urban infrastructure is completely failing with overflowing drains and flooded roads. This is the story of urban India, and urban India is tuning in to CNN-News18 to watch stories like these.”
    “We are very happy with our journalism, the kind of story we do, and we are delighted that our viewers are accepting this. The numbers reflected in the BARC ratings, where we continue to hold the No.1 spot, are proof of that,” he added.

    Led by award-winning journalists like Zakka Jacob, Anand Narasimhan, Rahul Shivshankar and Shivani Gupta, the channel has maintained its number one position in the English news genre since the resumption of BARC ratings in March 2022. In order to maintain CNN-News18’s position far ahead of its competitors, the News18 network has made substantial investments in technology and editorial resources.

     

  • CNN-News18 stays on top, leaves rivals in the ratings dust

    CNN-News18 stays on top, leaves rivals in the ratings dust

    MUMBAI: Less talk, more traction CNN-News18 proves that in the world of English news, clarity (and clever design) really is king. According to the latest BARC data (Week 27, 2025), CNN-News18 has tightened its grip on the No. 1 spot in India’s English news genre, clocking a market share of 33.7 per cent, far ahead of NDTV 24×7 at 21.2 per cent and Times Now at 19.8 per cent. That’s a 70 per cent lead over Times Now and 59 per cent over NDTV, putting the channel miles ahead in the TRP tug-of-war.

    CNN-News18’s dominance isn’t just a flash in the pan, it’s been India’s top English news channel for over three years. And it’s not resting on those laurels. From investing in cutting-edge tech to doubling down on editorial depth, the network is clearly playing the long game.

    The channel recently rolled out a slick redesign rooted in its ‘One Screen, One Form, One Stream’ philosophy, bringing together TV and digital for a seamless experience. The emphasis? Fewer words, more visuals and sharper storytelling.

    Leading the charge are newsroom heavyweights like Zakka Jacob, Anand Narasimhan, Rahul Shivshankar, and Shivani Gupta, supported by a nationwide reporter network that ensures election coverage stays comprehensive and cutting-edge.

    CNN-News18 has also found its visual voice deploying snappy graphics and easy-to-digest explainers that make complex trends and data relatable to a diverse audience. It’s serious journalism with a stylish twist.

    In a genre where attention spans are fleeting, CNN-News18 seems to have figured out how to keep viewers hooked by giving them just the right mix of depth, design, and digital smarts.

  • CNN-News18 dominates as India’s top english news channel for three years

    CNN-News18 dominates as India’s top english news channel for three years

    MUMBAI: CNN-News18 has reinforced its position as holding the top spot in BARC ratings for three consecutive years. This remarkable achievement underscores the channel’s commitment to credible, insightful, and engaging journalism.

    To celebrate this milestone, CNN-News18 has unveiled a bold new visual identity, prioritising immersive storytelling with fewer words and more powerful visuals. The redesign delivers a sleeker, cleaner aesthetic, enhancing the on-screen experience and setting a new standard in news presentation.

    The revamped format embraces a One Screen, One Form, One Stream approach, seamlessly integrating content across TV and digital platforms. This convergence-first strategy ensures news is dynamic, interactive, and future-ready. The channel also introduces documentary-style reportage, delivering in-depth analysis with a focus on exclusivity and diversity.

    For three consecutive years, CNN-News18 has remained at the top, consistently outperforming rivals such as Republic TV, Times Now, and India Today TV.

    English & Business News, Network18 CEO Smriti Mehra said, “This milestone is about more than numbers—it is about trust. Our audience expects the best in journalism, and this transformation ensures they receive a world-class news experience.”

    CNN-News18 managing editor Zakka Jacob added,  “Our focus on depth over sensationalism has been key to our dominance. The new look reinforces our commitment to evolving storytelling formats while maintaining accuracy and impact.”

    In a rapidly changing world, CNN-News18 has remained steadfast in its pursuit of factual, analytical, and incisive journalism. The channel’s success is driven by its team of seasoned journalists and anchors, including Jacob, Anand Narasimhan, and Rahul Shivshankar, who deliver sharp analysis and in-depth coverage of critical issues.  

  • BARC ratings: CNN-News18 races ahead of competitors to become No.1 on counting day

    BARC ratings: CNN-News18 races ahead of competitors to become No.1 on counting day

    Mumbai: According to the latest data by the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC), CNN-News18 has emerged as the undisputed leader in the English news genre on the counting day of 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

    The channel amassed a 41.1 per cent market share on the crucial counting day, whereas its closest competitor on the second position captured a distant 24 per cent market share. (Source: BARC | Metric: Market Share per cent | TG:15+ AB | Period: 4 June 24, 24 Hrs | Market Share: 7 Channels Considered)

    The impressive performance of CNN-News18 is attributed to its precise reporting, real-time updates from counting centres, expert views and insightful analysis of the results throughout the day. With quality production, engaging graphics and news television’s top anchors such as Zakka Jacob, Anand Narasimhan, Shivani Gupta and Rahul Shivshankar, CNN-News18’s presentation elucidated complex trends and data, making it easily accessible to the audience.

    With 5.5 lakh concurrent views on YouTube, CNN-News18 recorded the highest YouTube viewership during the crucial counting hour. (Source: DataBeings, 4 June, 2024, 1:00 PM)

    CNN-News18’s programming on counting day started at 6 AM, bringing the most accurate trends throughout the day. Combined with live on-ground reportage, the Counting Day coverage stayed on top of all key developments and reactions as they came in.

  • CNN-News18 launches new weekend show ‘Crux of the Matter’ with Rahul Shivshankar

    CNN-News18 launches new weekend show ‘Crux of the Matter’ with Rahul Shivshankar

    Mumbai: CNN-News18, India’s leading English news channel, has launched ‘Crux of the Matter,’ a trailblazing weekend show anchored by consulting editor Rahul Shivshankar, airing every Saturday at 7 pm.

    In the endless cycle of 24×7 news television, critical questions like “Why,” “How,” and “What Next” often go unaddressed. Viewers seeking meaningful context are increasingly turning away from traditional platforms, relying on non-legacy media entities such as YouTubers. However, these sources often lack the intellectual, moral, and financial resources required for thorough research. ‘Crux of the Matter’ aims to bridge this gap.

    Elaborating on what sets this show apart, Rahul Shivshankar said, “Drawing upon my experience as an anchor, author, and print media columnist, alongside the collective expertise of CNN-News18’s seasoned journalists and domain specialists, we aim to dissect and contextualize news events in all their complexities. Presently, there is no other show on Indian television that can boast such a diverse ensemble of established talent, offering insights on matters central to public life. Leveraging the brand reputation of the TV18 network, we will be able to feature contributions from esteemed experts and prominent commentators, providing viewers with unparalleled, comprehensive analysis of pressing issues on one convenient platform.”

    CNN-News18 managing editor Zakka Jacob added, “In the relentless stream of news and information, it is important to pause and reflect on significant events for a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Through this show, our aim is to provide well-researched analysis of two key news events every week, engaging in insightful discussions with experts to unravel intricacies of the matter. The show offers a nuanced and thorough examination of each topic, which makes it an ideal appointment viewing on weekends.”

    Network18 CEO – Business & English News Smriti Mehra said, “‘Crux of the Matter’ is yet another step in our journey of delivering impactful journalism through a diverse range of shows. With the expertise of Rahul and the collective prowess of our team, we are proud to offer viewers a platform that provides in-depth analysis and meaningful discourse to reflect on issues that shape our life.”

    Covering politics, economics, science, and culture, the show adopts a structured format. It consists of two equally timed segments, each addressing different topics introduced through a news report and subsequently analysed by a panel of experts.

    ‘Crux of the Matter’ airs every Saturday from 7 pm to 8 pm on CNN-News18. It is also available for streaming on the channel’s YouTube platform.

  • Rahul Shivshankar to host CNN-News18’s upcoming show ‘The Hard Facts’

    Rahul Shivshankar to host CNN-News18’s upcoming show ‘The Hard Facts’

    Mumbai: CNN-News18 has announced the launch of ‘The Hard Facts,’ a clutter-breaking news show anchored by Network18’s consulting editor Rahul Shivshankar.

    Starting from 2 October at 7 p.m., ‘The Hard Facts’ stands as a testament to the channel’s unwavering dedication to delivering meticulously researched, unbiased news. At a time when noise and sensationalism have taken centre stage in media, this show will offer a presentation that is composed, well-researched and purely based on hard facts.

    The upcoming show aims to set itself apart through a singular commitment to objective reporting. Spearheaded by Rahul Shivshankar and supported by a team of seasoned researchers, the show embarks on a quest to unearth the stories that matter to the public. It will focus on presenting viewers with a point of view based on well-researched facts, free from any hint of bias, spin and sensationalism.

    In today’s digital age, unverified information with rhetorical opinions and fake news is available at users’ fingertips, often causing confusion and leading to misguided conclusions. ‘The Hard Facts’ aims to take this issue head-on, with a research ethos deeply rooted in thorough investigations by its dedicated team to guarantee the accuracy and comprehensiveness of every story. Multiple sources and rigorous cross-verification further attest to the authenticity of the information presented.

    ‘The Hard Facts’ will be divided into two segments: the first segment will delve into the top story of the day in conversation with guest speakers, where the anchor will present an argument keeping the well-researched facts at the core and engage in a meaningful conversation. The second section will provide a concise overview of other key stories of the day.

    The show will cover a wide spectrum of topics, including politics, economics, science, and culture to empower viewers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions by presenting facts and enabling them to form their own well-informed perspectives.

    Speaking on his upcoming show, Rahul Shivshankar said, “In ‘The Hard Facts,’ I will be the viewer’s guide through the chaos of misinformation. I draw from my 30 years of journalistic experience to deliver only well-researched, verified and attributed facts.  In a world where unverified news and empty rhetoric thrive in abundance, I refuse to compromise credibility. This show is unique – it’s not just news, but a perspective built on irrefutable hard facts. Facts are the foundation of every compelling argument, and here, you’ll find them. I’m looking forward to this journey of navigating the news with clarity and conviction.”

    ‘The Hard Facts’ elevates CNN-News18’s commitment to ‘Nuance over noise’ to a whole new level, delivering authentic reportage supported by nothing but hard facts.

    The one-hour show is scheduled for launch on 2 October 2023 and will air on weeknights at 7 p.m. on CNN-News18 and its YouTube platform.

  • Rahul Shivshankar starts his new innings with a column on News18

    Rahul Shivshankar starts his new innings with a column on News18

    Mumbai: Noted TV news personality Rahul Shivshankar, who joined Network18 as a consulting editor on Monday, has started his innings at the network with a column on news18.com.

    The article titled, ‘Bharat’s Question for the G20: Are Some Global Concerns More Equal Than Others?’, explores the prioritisation of global concerns by the G20, emphasising that not all critical issues receive equal attention. The article calls for a more balanced approach, stressing the need to address various global concerns, including social and economic disparities, with equal urgency to achieve a fair and sustainable world order.

    A news industry veteran with nearly three decades of experience in print and television journalism, Rahul cut his teeth in the profession as a reporter for The Times of India. He was one of the youngest leader-writers for the edit page of the newspaper. When Times Now launched, he was a part of its founding team. He then went on to become the face of the channel as well as its editor.

    At Network18, he will add a strong digital dimension to his body of work and add further lustre to the star cast of anchors, reporters, editors, and commentators.

    Rahul has received critical acclaim for his coverage of the 26/11 Mumbai Terror attacks. He was invited to contribute to an anthology of investigative narratives about the attacks published by Roli Books. He has also authored a soon-to-be-released book on the 2024 Elections, commissioned by Penguin Random House.