ITV

Tag: Zee News

  • Zee News unveils India’s first media-led deepfake detection system

    Zee News unveils India’s first media-led deepfake detection system

    MUMBAI: Truth just got a new tech ally. Zee News, in collaboration with Neural Defend, has rolled out India’s first AI-powered deepfake verification system for the news media, putting advanced fact-checking directly in the hands of citizens.

    The initiative comes at a time when deepfakes and AI-generated misinformation are fast eroding public trust. Studies reveal that nearly 96 per cent of manipulated videos slip past the average viewer undetected, threatening journalism and democracy alike. By offering a simple drag-and-drop interface where users can upload videos, images, or audio files for instant verification, Zee News is making authenticity accessible to everyone.

    Unveiling the platform during a prime-time broadcast, managing editor Rahul Sinha urged viewers to test any suspicious video themselves. “Trust is the new benchmark,” added  ZMCL marketing head Anindya Khare, noting that the system not only safeguards audiences, particularly younger, digital-first viewers but also provides advertisers with a brand-safe environment rooted in credibility.

    On the tech front, ZMCL CTO Vijayant Kumar explained that Neural Defend’s AI engine can detect even the most sophisticated manipulations within seconds. “This is not just innovation for today but a safeguard for tomorrow’s information ecosystem,” he said.

    By integrating deepfake detection across TV, web, and digital platforms, Zee News is cementing its position as a technology-first newsroom, one that is not only reporting the truth but also helping audiences verify it.

     

  • Aaj Tak reels in half of Insta news buzz with 110 million actions

    Aaj Tak reels in half of Insta news buzz with 110 million actions

    MUMBAI: When it comes to news on the ’gram, Aaj Tak isn’t just scrolling, it’s ruling. The Hindi news giant has clinched a staggering 51 per cent share of Instagram actions in August 2025, according to the latest Comscore Social report, making it the undisputed champion of digital engagement.

    The numbers tell the story. Aaj Tak racked up an eye-popping 110 million total actions on Instagram, dwarfing its nearest competitor News24, which managed 26.3 million (12.3 per cent share). The gulf only widens from there: ABP News clocked 21.5 million (10 per cent), The Lallantop 13.6 million (6.3 per cent), and NDTV India 12.4 million (5.8 per cent). The rest, from Zee News to Republic Bharat, trailed in single digits.

    What’s driving this dominance? Aaj Tak’s digital-first playbook: snappy Reels, interactive storytelling, and a sharp grasp of Gen Z and millennial habits. The strategy doesn’t just deliver eyeballs; it’s delivering engagement that outstrips the combined total of all its rivals put together.

    For brands, the implications are hard to miss. With half the Hindi news universe’s Instagram buzz flowing through its account, Aaj Tak offers a reach and resonance that no competitor can match.

    The Comscore recognition cements what viewers and advertisers already know: Aaj Tak has successfully married editorial credibility with social-native flair. In an age where attention spans are measured in seconds, the channel has mastered the art of turning the scroll into a stop and then into a share.

  • NBDSA cracks the whip: news channels caught in a spin over sensationalism

    NBDSA cracks the whip: news channels caught in a spin over sensationalism

    MUMBAI: The News Broadcasting & Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA) has been rather busy, doling out a series of rulings that have left several prominent Indian news channels with a bit of egg on their faces. It appears some broadcasters have been playing fast and loose with the facts, prompting the watchdog to flex its regulatory muscles.

    In a decision that’s got everyone talking, ABP News found itself in the NBDSA’s crosshairs over one 7 September 2024, interview with the former BJP MP, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The complainant, Indrajeet Ghorpade, wasn’t chuffed about the alleged “character assassination” of olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat. The NBDSA, clearly not amused by the chuckles at Phogat’s expense, closed the complaint with an “observation to take care of the issue,” effectively telling ABP to mind its manners. It seems some interviews are more of a grapple than a chat.

    Not to be outdone in the “oops” stakes, Times Now Navbharat received a stern talking-to for a broadcast from 5-6 September 2024, titled ‘अवैध मस्जिद’ पर महिलाओं ने मुसलमानों पर खुलकर सब बता दिया ! (Women openly tell everything about illegal mosques). Ghorpade, a busy chap indeed, also lodged this complaint, citing misleading thumbnails and a rather leading line of questioning about Shimla’s Muslim population. The NBDSA, advising broadcasters to ensure “tickers and thumbnails should conform to the actual version of the discussions/interviews,” has told Times Now Navbharat to snip, snip, snip that thumbnail from the video, if it’s still lurking online. A case of “don’t judge a broadcast by its cover,” perhaps.

    Meanwhile, Zee News felt the heat over a quartet of programmes aired on 15 and 16 October 2024, all revolving around the rather unsavoury (and frankly, bizarre) concept of “thook jihad” and “urine jihad”. Utkarsh Mishra’s complaint highlighted how a perfectly sensible UP law about CCTV cameras in eateries was spun into a battle against “thook jihad,” seemingly legitimising “state-sponsored and legislative targeting based on one’s religious identity”. The NBDSA, clearly unimpressed by this “spitting image” of sensationalism, issued a warning to Zee News not to “repeat such violations.” They’ve also been told to scrub the offending videos from their digital presence. Looks like Zee News got a bit of a sticky wicket there.

    Finally, Citizens for Justice & Peace landed Times Now Navbharat in hot water again, this time for 19 August 2024, programmes dissecting “teaching in Madrasas in Bihar”. The complaint alleged inflammatory language and selective reporting surrounding claims about “Pakistan-Published books” and “non-Muslims as ‘Kafir’”. The NBDSA, after a good long chinwag with both parties, concluded that the broadcasts had indeed fallen short of journalistic standards. They’ve directed the broadcaster to take down the objectionable segments and, in a polite but firm tone, told them to get their house in order.

    In all four cases, the NBDSA emphasised the importance of factual integrity, responsible language, and a strong editorial spine. The verdicts serve as a wake-up call to India’s noisy newsrooms: shock and sensationalism may fetch eyeballs, but they won’t go unchecked.

    For some broadcasters, it’s clearly time to trade outrage for oversight — or risk a growing pile of takedown notices. 

  • Breaking News18 tops charts with highest hindi news viewership

    Breaking News18 tops charts with highest hindi news viewership

    MUMBAI: Mic drop in the newsroom News18 India has just dialled up the decibels and claimed top honours in the Hindi news genre. According to the latest BARC data (Week 20’25), News18 India has emerged as the most-watched Hindi news channel, notching up 119124 AMA’000s and pulling ahead of long-time rival Aaj Tak, which recorded 117819 AMA’000s. The numbers are part of a fierce race in the Hindi-speaking markets (HSM), where channels jostle for attention 24×7.

    Rounding out the top five are TV9 Bharatvarsh (103286 AMA’000s), Republic Bharat (93207), and Zee News (87641). (Source: BARC | Metric: AMA’000s | TG: NCCS All 15 plus | Period: Week 20’25, 24 Hours, All Days | Market: HSM)

    What’s fuelling this newsroom juggernaut? A combination of hard-hitting reportage, high-decibel debates, and a trusted team of anchors including Kishore Ajwani, Amish Devgan, Rubika Liyaquat, Prateek Trivedi, and Aman Chopra. The channel’s programming dives deep into issues that matter, delivering perspectives that resonate with viewers from every corner of the country.

    News18 India attributes its continued rise to “factual, credible, and accurate coverage” qualities that seem to be striking a chord with the increasingly discerning Hindi news audience.

    Backed by an extensive on-ground reporter network, the channel ensures it’s not just first with the news, it’s everywhere the news is. From political showdowns to ground reports, News18 India is holding the mic and the momentum.

  • Newsroom Gets a Newsmaker as Rahul Kanwal Takes Charge at NDTV

    Newsroom Gets a Newsmaker as Rahul Kanwal Takes Charge at NDTV

    MUMBAI: From breaking headlines to making one Rahul Kanwal has officially taken the hot seat at NDTV. India’s most trusted news network, New Delhi Television Ltd (NDTV), has named Rahul Kanwal as its new chief executive officer and editor-in-chief, signalling a high-octane chapter in the brand’s storied legacy. In this dual role, Kanwal will steer both editorial and business operations at NDTV, an institution that has long been the gold standard in Indian journalism.

    With over 25 years of newsroom muscle, Kanwal brings a potent mix of prime-time credibility, investigative grit, and election coverage flair. His previous innings at India Today, Aaj Tak, Business Today, Headlines Today, and Zee News saw him rise through the ranks as news director, executive director, and senior editorial leader.

    An alumnus of the Harvard Business School’s General Management Program, and a Chevening Scholar trained in international broadcast journalism at Cardiff University, Kanwal also holds a journalism degree from Delhi University. His mantle includes accolades like the Roy Peck Trust Grant for Hostile Environment Journalism, among other awards for excellence in the field.

    Welcoming the appointment AMG Media Networks CEO Sanjay Pugalia said, “NDTV is a news super-brand that has stood for credibility and trust for nearly four decades through path-breaking journalism across television and digital platforms. With five new product launches over the past two years, NDTV continues to expand its footprint while remaining steadfast in its founding ethos. Rahul brings deep editorial insight, a passion for journalism, and proven leadership qualities that will be instrumental as we scale our presence across products and platforms.”

    Rahul Kanwal said, “Like many in my generation, I grew up watching NDTV. I am super charged about the prospect of infusing new life and energy into this marquee news brand. For years, NDTV has been the go-to brand for election coverage and big breaking news. I consider it a great honour to lead this storied media brand, and I am confident that NDTV will continue to rise to great heights of journalistic and business excellence. I look forward to working with the stellar teams at NDTV as we build on the extraordinary legacy of this great institution.”

    The NDTV Board also took a moment to commend Sanjay Pugalia for steering the ship through a crucial phase of transformation and reaffirmed their intent to tap into his strategic vision going forward.

    With five new product launches in the last two years and a growing digital footprint, NDTV isn’t just reporting the future, it’s writing it. And with Kanwal at the helm, it seems the best scoops may still be ahead.

  • Veteran journalist Rahul Sinha makes comeback at Zee News’s flagship show

    Veteran journalist Rahul Sinha makes comeback at Zee News’s flagship show

    MUMBAI: Seasoned journalist Rahul Sinha is set to rejoin Zee News’ prime-time show DNA (Daily News & Analysis) as its anchor bringing his distinctive brand of patriotic reporting to Indian screens at 9 pm daily. The 27-year veteran returns with a mission encapsulated in the Hindi slogan that translates to “Bold Voice, Credible Communication, 100% Nationalism.”

    With nearly three decades in the field, Sinha isn’t just dusting off his anchor’s chair – he’s reclaiming his old stomping ground on a programme he once helped make famous. His appointment comes as Zee Media positions DNA as an antidote to what it perceives as India’s increasingly muddled media landscape.

    “Zee News’s DNA is more than a mirror to the nation’s concerns,” said Sinha, who is also the managing editor at Zee News. “Today, when the country needs clarity and conviction in communication, DNA will be that bold and honest voice for every Indian.”

    The revamped show promises to cut through the clutter with Sinha’s trademark incisive analysis on everything from politics to international affairs, all filtered through a decidedly nationalist lens.

    Zee Media chief executive  Karan Abhishek Singh said: “DNA will continue to be a transformative force in Indian news with the mission of awakening the nation. As DNA takes on a fresh and dynamic avatar under Rahul Sinha’s leadership, it aligns with the evolving expectations of citizens. With a sharper, stronger approach, we look forward to redefining news analysis by diving deeper into the issues that matter most. In this renewed format, Rahul Sinha’s role will be instrumental in guiding the show’s editorial direction, bringing his vast experience and commitment to truth. In an era where clarity and courage in journalism are essential, our commitment is to empower citizens with truth, ask the tough questions, and deliver news that drives real impact. We are here to awaken the nation, one story at a time.”

    Viewers can expect the anchor’s unvarnished take on national issues, with Zee promising “editorial independence” and “bold questions” – though all delivered with what the network calls a “strong nationalist spirit.”

    In a mediascape often criticised for its partisan coverage, Sinha’s return represents Zee’s bet that Indians are hungry for news with a side of nationalism – delivered with conviction, if not always with neutrality

  • Zee Media shareholders approve special fund-raising resolutions

    Zee Media shareholders approve special fund-raising resolutions

    MUMBAI: And so the juggernaut of Zee Media continues to roll on. 

    The company’s shareholders approved on 21 February two key special resolutions through a remote e-voting process, as set out in the postal ballot notice dated 13 January 2025.

    The resolutions include an increase in the aggregate investment limit for foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to 49 per cent of the company’s paid-up equity share capital on a fully diluted basis, as well as the issuance of securities amounting to Rs 400 crore or its equivalent in other currencies.

    The proposals, aimed at strengthening Zee Media’s financial backbone, were passed with the requisite majority, reflecting strong shareholder support for the company’s growth initiatives. The first resolution got the go-ahead with 99.98 per cent of favourable votes, while the second one got 82.57 per cent ayes.

     

  • Zee Media financial resolutions put to e-voting by shareholders

    Zee Media financial resolutions put to e-voting by shareholders

    MUMBAI:  It’s got clout in the right places. Now the Subhash Chandra-founded Zee Media is beefing itself financially. At  a recent board meeting, Zee Media announced two significant financial resolutions aimed at enhancing its capital structure and investor participation.

    The company has put the resolutions to vote by its shareholders through postal ballot or e-voting from 23 January 2025.

    The company has approved the issuance of securities amounting to a maximum of Rs 400 crore, or its equivalent in foreign currencies. This move is in compliance with the Companies Act of 2013 and applicable regulations including those of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The board is authorised to raise funds through equity shares, preference shares, and other eligible securities via several methods such as private placements and qualified institutional placements. The issuance may be conducted in multiple tranches and will not exceed the specified limit.

    Additionally, the board has been empowered to determine the terms of issuance, including pricing, timing, and the class of investors targeted for the securities.

    Zee Media also resolved to increase the aggregate limit for investments by foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to 49 per cent of the paid-up equity share capital, on a fully diluted basis. This increase is part of a broader strategy to attract foreign investments and enhance liquidity in the company’s shares, while adhering to the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) regulations.

    The board will be responsible for executing necessary acts, deeds, and documents to implement this resolution and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.

    These resolutions signify Zee Media’s commitment to strengthen its financial framework while potentially boosting growth through increased foreign investments and capital raise initiatives.
     

  • Rashmi Jha gets branded content sales head role at Arnab Goswami’s Republic TV

    Rashmi Jha gets branded content sales head role at Arnab Goswami’s Republic TV

    MUMBAI: A large part of her career has been spent in the television news business though she has flirted with entertainment TV, and consumer goods for short periods. Now Rashmi Jha is headed back to TV news. She has joined Arnab Goswami’s ARG Outlier Media as head of branded content sales, presumably for Republic World, Bharat, Bangla, and Kannada.

    This is after almost four years of being employed with Associated Broadcasting (TV9) from 2020-2024 where she finally was designated as assistant general manager.

    She spent nearly two years working with Zee Entertainment Enterprises as a senior manager, innovation studio custom content, Zee Unimedia. Her exposure to consumer goods was with Green Ply Industries where she worked for two years and a bit more as brand manager.

    Rashmi took a stab at being employed at CNN-IBN but she spent only a year and some months there. Prior to that she had taken up a four-year spell with Zee News as marketing manager.

    The History graduate and PG diploma in advertising & PR landed her first job after her course studies at Maxesposure Media where she sold space for Ampersand magazine.

    “I am looking forward to driving impactful collaborations and delivering excellence. Here’s to growth, challenges, and creating something extraordinary!,” said Rashmi on Linkedin.

     

  • ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ live on Zee News on 27 August 2024

    ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ live on Zee News on 27 August 2024

    Mumbai: Zee News is hosting the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ event on Tuesday, 27 August 2024, in New Delhi. This event will bring together a distinguished panel of leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss the crucial role that individual states play in shaping India’s future. Under the theme ‘States Make A Nation,’ the event will highlight how the unique strengths of each state contribute significantly to the nation’s overall progress, fostering a collective identity and shared purpose.

    Prominent leaders, including Shri Nitin Gadkari, union minister of road transport & highways; Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi, union minister of micro, small and medium enterprises; Shri Chirag Paswan, union minister of food processing industries; Shri Kiren Rijiju, union minister of parliamentary affairs and ministry affairs; Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, chief minister of Uttarakhand; Shri Vijay Kumar Sinha, deputy chief minister, Bihar; Shri Harsh Malhotra, mos: ministry of road, transport & highways; Smt. Smriti Irani, former minister of women & child welfare; Shri Manish Sisodia, former deputy chief minister of Delhi; Shri Manoj Tiwari, member of parliament, North East Delhi; Shri Sudhanshu Trivedi, rajya sabha member; Smt. Atishi, water minister, Delhi; Shri Pawan Khera, chairman, media & publicity deptt, AICC; Smt. Supriya Shrinate, chairperson, social media & digital platforms, AICC; Shri Acharya Balkrishna, managing director of Patanjali Ayurved Ltd; Shri Ramesh Agarwal, chairman, Agarwal Packers & Movers Ltd; and Dr Gunwant Singh Mangla, cmd, Mangla Steel Ltd. will be among the esteemed attendees, sharing their insights on how states can further contribute to India’s vision for the future. It will further focus on education, infrastructure, culture, and social welfare, the initiative fosters a sense of solidarity and unity that is vital for India’s continued growth and development.

    Zee Media Corp Ltd (ZMCL) CEO Karan Abhishek Singh stated, “At Zee Media Corporation Limited, we recognize that every state has its own narrative and its role in shaping the future of our country. This initiative allows us to bring these stories to the forefront, fostering a deeper appreciation for the cultural, economic, and social diversity that enriches our nation. Through this platform, we aim to bridge divides, encourage cooperation, and build a stronger, more progressive India where every state’s unique strengths are acknowledged and valued.”

    Emphasising the key purpose, Zee News managing editor Rahul Sinha highlighted, “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat exemplifies the core of our national identity—our unity in diversity. We look forward to bringing together leaders and voices from across India to discuss and celebrate the unique contributions of each state. This initiative highlights how our collective efforts and shared values drive India’s growth, fostering a stronger, more cohesive nation.”

    Citizens nationwide can watch this event live on Zee News from 9:30 am onwards. Through ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,’ Zee News aims to showcase impactful stories that enhance understanding and promote unity, reflecting our dedication to a well-informed and engaged global community.