ITV

Tag: Zakka Jacob

  • 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.

  • Mumbai seat battle heats up as CNN-News18 Town Hall hits the city

    Mumbai seat battle heats up as CNN-News18 Town Hall hits the city

    MUMBAI: When Mumbai talks politics, it doesn’t whisper, it shouts over traffic, cuts through the monsoon, and spills into cinema halls. On 13 August 2025, CNN-News18 Town Hall plants itself right in the middle of this noise with its Mumbai edition, themed “Ballot, BMC, and the Battle for Mumbai”. The agenda? Put the city’s future in the spotlight just weeks before the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, the first in eight years.

    Fresh from its Defence Edition, the Town Hall returns with a mix of political heavyweights, millennial ministers, and a hindi movie hitmaker. The line-up reads like Mumbai’s own blockbuster bill: Devendra Fadnavis, chief minister, will spar over civic priorities; Eknath Shinde, deputy CM, headlines “The Undisputed Sena-pati”; Aaditya Thackeray tackles whether Mumbai’s future is “regional” or global; and cabinet millennials Aditi Tatkare, Nitesh Rane, and Yogesh Kadam step up for “The Millennial Ministers” panel.

    And because Mumbai is never far from a film reel, filmmaker Mohit Suri will bring a cinematic interlude, delving into “Love, Loss and Legacy” after his latest success. Expect politics and pop culture to collide as only Mumbai can manage.

    “This edition is more relevant than ever,” says CNN-News18 managing editor Zakka Jacob. “With the upcoming BMC elections, these conversations are crucial for shaping the city’s vision.” CEO Smriti Mehra calls it a continuation of the channel’s mission to spotlight local concerns while sparking national conversations fitting for a network that’s been India’s No. 1 English news channel for over 3 years.

    The event will broadcast live from 4 pm on CNN-News18 and stream on its Youtube channel, inviting citizens to join in from home. But for Mumbai’s political stage, the message is clear: the curtain’s up, the lights are on, and the city’s future is up for debate.
     

  • 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.  

  • CNN-News18 Indian of the Year 2024 to honour India’s icons on 17 January

    CNN-News18 Indian of the Year 2024 to honour India’s icons on 17 January

    MUMBAI: The wait is almost over!

    CNN-News18 Indian of the Year (IOTY) 2024, the 14th edition of India’s most prestigious television awards, will unveil its winners on 17 January 2025, in a grand ceremony in New Delhi. With a legacy of honouring exceptional achievements, IOTY has become the ultimate stage for recognising those who’ve inspired, amazed, and made India proud.

    From Shah Rukh Khan to Neeraj Chopra and Virat Kohli, past winners have embodied excellence. Who will join this elite club in 2024?

    The awards span seven major categories—entertainment, sports, rising sports star, youth icon, business, climate warrior, and social change. These categories celebrate everything from cinematic brilliance to environmental activism.

    Here’s the twist: 50 per cent of the decision lies with you, the audience, while an illustrious jury panel decides the rest. The jury includes heavyweights like Sanjiv Goenka, Harish Salve, Ramesh Sippy, and more. What’s your pick for the winners?

    The spotlight will shine on some of the biggest names:

    ●    Sports: Olympic stars like Manu Bhaker and cricketers like Jasprit Bumrah.

    ●    Entertainment: Powerhouses like Shraddha Kapoor, Vijay Sethupathi, and Pankaj Tripathi.

    ●    Youth Icons: Vicky Kaushal and rising entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath.

    ●    Business Leaders: Visionaries like Deepinder Goyal (Zomato CEO) and Bhavish Aggarwal (Ola CEO).

    But it’s not just the glitz and glamour. Climate warriors like Vinisha Umashankar and changemakers like Palak Muchhal in Social Change are also vying for honours.

    What makes IOTY stand out?

    Network18 CEO – english & business news, Smriti Mehra nailed it when she said, “The immense popularity of Indian of the Year lies in its legacy of recognising and celebrating excellence over the past thirteen editions. From icons such as Shah Rukh Khan and Neeraj Chopra to visionary leaders such as Narendra Modi and Manmohan Singh, our past winners have truly embodied the spirit of the Indian of the Year title. This platform has become a hallmark of achievement, inspiring audiences and delivering unparalleled value to the brands that associate with it.”

    Meanwhile, CNN-News18 managing editor Zakka Jacob added, “The awards evening will be a gathering of the greatest of Indians who have made the country proud over the past year. As we step into the new year, it’s important to look back at the achievements of the past year that hold significance for us as a nation. We are excited to celebrate the remarkable contributions of those who rose above challenges and inspired next generations.”

    The event, hosted by CNN-News18, promises a glittering display of India’s best and brightest. Catch the action at 6 pm on 17 January on CNN-News18 or via live stream on www.indianoftheyear.com.

    Who will walk away with the title? Will it be a star athlete, an inspiring climate activist, or a business mogul? Join the conversation and don’t miss the magic of India’s achievers being celebrated.

  • CNN-News18 Town Hall brings together political bigwigs

    CNN-News18 Town Hall brings together political bigwigs

    Mumbai: The much-anticipated CNN-News18 Town Hall is set to make a grand comeback on 27 September in Mumbai. Renowned for its dynamic and thought-provoking discussions, CNN-News18 Town Hall has previously hosted editions across Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru. Over the years, the platform has seen key figures from politics, business, and entertainment converge to debate national issues and the country’s key policies.

    The theme of this edition, ‘Road to Delhi via Mumbai?’, arrives at a pivotal moment as India navigates its political landscape in the lead-up to assembly elections in Maharashtra. Previously, CNN-News18 Town Hall has featured prominent figures such as Nirmala Sitharaman, S. Jaishankar, Nitin Gadkari, Shashi Tharoor, MK Stalin, Aaditya Thackeray, along with entertainment actors like Kartik Aryan and Sameer Nigam.

    This year’s event continues this legacy with a series of engaging sessions focused on critical political and cultural topics. Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde will lead a conversation on ‘Mahayuti’s Maharashtra Test’, discussing the coalition’s future in the state. Aaditya Thackeray, MLA, Maharashtra (Shiv Sena UBT), will delve into his party’s strategy in a session titled ‘Matoshree to Prove Its Might?’, while Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis answers the question ‘Can BJP Get Its Math Right?’, as he examines the party’s electoral calculations. Supriya Sule MP, NCP (SP) will outline her party’s vision for the upcoming Assembly elections in a session titled ‘Pawar-Play: Maha ‘Binding’ Factor?’. On the other hand, Aditi Tatkare, State Minister and MLA, NCP (AP) will also share her views on the same topic. The CNN-News18 Town Hall would also see Milind Deora, MP, Rajya Sabha (Shiv Sena) and Priyanka Chaturvedi, MP, Rajya Sabha (Shiv Sena UBT) weigh in on ‘Who is the Real Shiv Sena?’ in back-to-back sessions. From the entertainment sphere, Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal will address “The New Reality of Theatrical vs OTT”.

    Network18 CEO – English & Business News Smriti Mehra said, “CNN-News18 has been the number one English news channel for over two consecutive years. This achievement is a testament to our commitment to delivering impactful, relevant content to our viewers. Given its stellar lineup of speakers, I have no doubt that CNN-News18 Town Hall will once again captivate our viewers and set the stage for essential conversations that will shape the nation’s future.”

    CNN-News18 managing editor Zakka Jacob added, “The CNN-News18 Town Hall was born out of a need for candid, unfiltered exchange of dialogue that goes beyond the usual political discourse. Now in its seventh edition, it remains a crucial space where the country’s most pressing issues are addressed by a diverse mix of leaders and influencers. As we bring together voices that shape policy, culture, and society, we continue to lead the national debate on what truly matters to India.” 

  • 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.