Nashik Cable TV Federation appeals to Bombay HC for extension Phase III

The Nashik Zilla Cable Operator Association (NZCOA) has filed an application in the Bombay High Court seeking an extension of digital addressable system (DAS) Phase III deadline. The deadline for DAS Phase III is 31 December and the government has ruled out extending the deadline. 

DreamWorks Studios, Participant Media, Reliance Entertainment andEntertainment One form Amblin Partners New Venture

Steven Spielberg, Principal Partner, DreamWorks Studios, Jeff Skoll, Chairman, Participant Media, Anil Ambani, Chairman, Reliance Group and Darren Throop, President and Chief Executive Officer, Entertainment One (eOne) announced on 16 December the formation of Amblin Partners, a new film, television and digital content creation company.

Discovery Channel presents Running Wild with Bear Grylls Featuring U.S. President Barack Obama

Discovery Channel presents RUNNING WILD WITH BEAR GRYLLS AND PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, a special programme featuring U.S. President Barack Obama trekking through the Alaskan wilderness with survival expert    Bear Grylls while on a visit to observe the effects of climate change on the area.

CASBAA’s Medeiros backs HONG KONG Copyright Bill

Speaking at a press conference on the Copyright Amendment Bill sponsored by the Hong Kong Copyright Alliance, CASBAA Chief Policy Officer John Medeiros has expressed support for immediate passage of the Bill, but without the three Committee Stage Amendments, describing them as “unacceptable”, suggesting they would create huge loopholes in copyright protection.

MEASAT Appoints Prashant Butani as Senior Sales Director – South Asia

MEASAT Satellite Systems Sdn. Bhd. announced the appointment of Prashant Butani as Senior Sales Director – South Asia.

MIB to hold ‘Open House Meeting’ for broadcasters on 21 December

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has informed all broadcasting companies that it would hold an ‘Open House Meeting’ on 21 December from 11:00 am to 12 noon in the chamber of Neeti Sarkar, Director (BC), Room No. 664, ‘A’ Wing, Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi. 

MIB grants 15 new provisional MSO licences, but no permanent ones

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has granted new provisional licences to 15 multi-system operators (MSOs). 

Disney signs 50-odd brand associations for Star Wars

Disney's Consumer Products business in India has signed approximately 50 brands for associations with the latest Hollywood big-budget film Star Wars — the Force Awakens, slated to release in India on 25 December.

Life OK appoints Rakesh Jain as head of fiction group

Life OK, Hindi general entertainment channel has appointed Rakesh Jain as head of fiction group. 

TDSAT dismisses Media Pro’s petitions seeking payments from cable ops

The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has dismissed 14 petitions by Media Pro Enterprise India, Mumbai against cable operators as “there is no material on record even to show what were the dues, if any, of the respondents on the date their respective agreements came to end.”

Nick HD+ set to launch on Tata Sky

Nickelodeon, Viacom18’s kids entertainment franchise, has launched its HD channel Nick HD+ on Tata Sky direct to home (DTH) platform in India. Nick HD+ will be available on channel no. 611. 

KSS, United Mediaworks merge to form joint venture KSSUMW Digital

Digital movie distribution firms K Sera Sera (KSS Ltd) and United Mediaworks Ltd have decided to merge their operations to form a joint venture called KSSUMW Digital to become the third largest player of the country.

Colors acquires rights to air Box Cricket League

Colors, along with Balaji Telefilms and Marinating Films, will put together the new season of the Box Cricket League (BCL). The sports reality show which had its previous season showcased on the MSM network, will have a line-up of over 200 top celebrities and will be telecast on Colors and Colors HD from February 28 2016, every Sunday at 4.30 pm, with a repeat telecast on Rishtey.

I&B Ministry sticks to December 31 deadline for Phase III

Ministry of Information and Broadcasting held a meeting of the Task Force on 11th Dec 2015 in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi in the run up to the cut-off date of 31st Dec 2015 for Phase III of cable TV Digitisation. In the morning of the same day, a meeting was held with the Multi System Operators (MSOs) also which was attended by over 120 MSOs from all over the country. 

Mysuru subscribers feel cheated by the cable service providers

Cable Television services in Mysuru, Karnataka have complained that cable television service providers refused to issue a receipt for the monthly subscription fee they collect. Also many popular channels were taken off from the packages on their whims.

COAI blames delay in clearances for poor services for call drop

Telecom industry blamed delay in getting clearances from the authorities for installation of mobile towers and increasing data usage by subscribers for the call drop problem. 

ASCI upholds complaints against 54 out of 84 ads in September 2015

The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) upheld complaints against 54 out of 84 advertisements in September 2015.

Imagine Communications Joins Newly Formed Alliance for IP Media Solutions

Imagine Communications, empowering the media and entertainment industry through transformative innovation, announced its membership in the Alliance for IP Media Solutions (AIMS), an independent media and entertainment trade association formed to foster the adoption of standards to facilitate the broadcast and media industry’s transition from SDI to IP. A founding member of AIMS, Imagine Communications is a leading proponent of the advancement of the industry to an agile and cost-efficient technology foundation that promotes the development, standardization and adoption of open protocols for media over IP.

Discovery Kids partners with Rapid Metro Gurgaon to launch ‘Discovery Kids Joy Express’

The favourite channel for kids in India, Discovery Kids continues to deliver on its promise of SMART FUN through the launch of DISCOVERY KIDS JOY EXPRESS.  Discovery Kids has partnered with Rapid Metro Gurgaon Limited to create a unique touch point for kids to have fun while they learn on-board DISCOVERY KIDS JOY EXPRESS. 

Sunny Digital MSO operations launched in Hyderabad

City-based Sunny Digital Home Entertainment Pvt Ltd a DAS registered MSO from Hyderabad announced the launch of its operations on 7 December. The company plans to private advanced technology triple play services for its viewers in South India. It will offer Multi screen, multi-service & app-based access to a world of content and services as seen in developed markets.

TRAI issues Draft Model & Standard Interconnection Agreements in DAS areas

On 9 December, The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has finally decided to propose a standard interconnection agreement (SIA) that could be followed as a draft model. Earlier, the sector regulator had said that it would be best left for market forces to sort out interconnection agreements between the MSOs and the LCOs. This has been done after disputes related to interconnection between MSOs and LCOs were on the rise and digitization has not succeeded the way it was expected even after four years of implementation. After The Bombay HC asked TRAI to intervene and resolve the issues, TRAI has held several meetings with MSOs and LCOs and only after that decided to draft a standard interconnect agreement. 

Ideal Group launches ‘Ideal-Live’ a new rental service for live news and sport

Ideal Group on 26 November 2015 announced the launch of Ideal-Live, a new equipment rental service for professional mobile video gathering. The service will be initially offered through Ideal’s offices in Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia and will be rolled out across the rest of Asia Pacific in early 2016.

Discovery Channel Premieres ' Racing Extinction' as Aglobal Television Event on Decmber 2

Discovery Channel will broadcast Academy Award®-winning director Louie Psihoyos’ film RACING EXTINCTION in India on Wednesday, December 2 at 9PM.  Discovery, the #1 distributed TV brand in the world, will premiere RACING EXTINCTION in 220 international markets across the world within a span of 24 hours.

President lauds media, expresses faith in its ability to stay ahead of tech curve

President Pranab Mukherjee said on 26 November that technology expansion will pose a problem but expressed confidence that the media will succeed in overcoming the challenge.

CBI allegs Peter Mukerjea and Indrani siphoned off 900 crores from INX through Shenna Bora's account

Former media baron Peter Mukerjea and his wife Indrani allegedly siphoned off funds to the tune of Rs 900 crore from their company 9X Media through a layer of nine companies. The CBI made the submission while telling the court that it has sought Interpol's help in seeking access to overseas bank accounts of the Mukerjeas even as it secured extension of Peter's custody till November 30.

TRAI releases Consultation Paper on to expedite the next round of Spectrum Auction

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on 26 November 2015 released the Consultation Paper on "Valuation and Reserve Price of Spectrum in 700,800,900, 1800, 2100, 2300 and 2500 MHz Bands".

Balu cable to get Sun Network signals on provisional terms

Awaiting completion of physical verification of MSOs SLR, Sun Network has been directed by the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal to enter into a provisional interconnect agreement with Balu Cable Network and commence supply of signals so that MSO services do not get dissupted.

One month before the Phase III deadline, only 550 MSOs registered to cover 40 million households

Racing against time, the MIB is trying to register as many MSOs as possible before the Phase III deadline of 31 December 2015. Out of a total of 550 MSOs registered till date 318 have been registered in the last five months only. At the end of Phase II (31 Mar 2013) there were only 115 registered MSO.

MSM rebrands itself as Sony Pictures Networks

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in India, Multi Screen Media, has rebranded itself into Sony Pictures Networks (SPN). SPN will be a division of Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Russia launches a free-to-air sports TV channel ‘Match TV’

A new free-to-air sports channel from NTV-owner Gazprom, called Match TV went on air on 1 November in Russia

Giving a boost to Digital India, Facebook joins BSNL in providing WiFi hotspots

Coinciding with the visit of Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg, company has revealed its partnership with state owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. (BSNL) to create 100 WiFi hotspots in rural India to drive digital penetration in the country. 

Ferzad Palia is head of Youth & English Entertainment at Viacom18

Viacom18 has given additional responsibility as head of the network’s Youth Entertainment cluster to Ferzad Palia who is the head of English Entertainment channels at present. The move comes in the wake of Viacom 18 EVP and MTV & MTV Indies business head Aditya Swamy’s recent departure.

Reliance Jio Media MSO ready for Phase 1 of cable TV rollout, early 2016

Reliance Jio Media, multi system operator (MSO) of Reliance Group is ready to roll out its cable television business across digital addressable system (DAS) in Phase 3 areas between Jan-Mar 2016.

TDSAT directs Taj TV to not disconnect Indusind signals

TDSAT on 30 October directed Taj Television (India) Pvt. Ltd, not to give effect to the disconnection order against IndusInd Media & Communications Ltd if the latter makes payment according to a schedule drawn up by the Tribunal as an interim arrangement.

Times Network launch property news channel Magicbricks NOW

Magicbricks NOW, a real estate and property channel from the Times Network was formally launched by Urban Development Minister Sh M Venkaiah Naidu, at his residence in New Delhi today. The channel will become commercial on November 1st.

ZEEL S VP Marketing, Sorbojeet Chatterjee quits

Sorbojeet Chatterjee has quit  ZEEL as Senior Vice President, Marketing for the groups Hindi General Entertainment Channels, which include Zee TV, Zee Anmol, Smile, 9X and Zee TV HD.

R Mahesh Kumar takes over as President Sun TV Network

Sun TV Network has announced the appointed R Mahesh Kumar as President, as part of their ongoing effort to strengthen their management team.  He will join the organisation on November 01, 2015 in a statement issued to BSE stock exchange. Kumar previously held the position of CEO of Sun Group’s DTH arm Sun Direct.

ASCI upheld complaints against 74 out of 110 ads; Pulls up 3 TV channels for misleading claims

In the month of July 2015, ASCI’s Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) upheld complaints against 74 out of 110 ads. Out of these, 28 belonged to the Personal and Healthcare category, 25 in the Education category and the remaining 21 ads were from other categories.

Mirai Communications Deploys Corpus iPlatform to Monetise its Digital Cable Network

In its endeavor to monetize its digital cable Network, Mirai Communications, a leading cable MSO group has deployed iPlatform, an interactive TV middleware from Corpus Media Labs. Mirai can now generate additional revenues through value added services including Timeshift TV, PVR recording, EPG advertising, Interactive channels and applications apart from enhancing customer experience across multiple screens including Set top boxes (HD, SD, Hybrid ) and mobile devices.

NexTV Summit- New Delhi to bring together the leaders of TV Business in India on November 25th, 2015

Dataxis, a global firm specialized in Telecom, TV & Media businesses delivering detailed market research, high quality events and specialized websites to the Telecom and Media executives and organizations announces that the first edition of NexTV Summit-New Delhi to be held on 25th November,  at Shangri-La's - Eros Hotel. 

Videocon and Microsoft launch World’s first Windows 10 Powered TV

One Touch TV, One Touch PC -

Complaint against Tamil Nadu’s Arasu Cable by Makkal TV dismissed by CCI

Competition Commission of India (CCI) has rejected allegations that Tamil Nadu Arasu Cable TV Corp indulged in unfair business practices with regard to collection of carriage fee from satellite channels. 

TDSAT directs Mahua Media for Tata Sky’s payment schedule

The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Arbitration Tribunal (TDSAT) has been directed Mahua Media to file the payment schedule in respect of Tata Sky by 14 October.

Anup Jalota, Ashok Tandon to be part-time members of Prasar Bharti Board

Public broadcaster Prasar Bharati set to become new part-time members Media advisor to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Ashok Tandon and noted Bhajan singer Anup Jalota are among the four persons.

Ex-telecom secretary M F Farooqui appointed Broadband Forum Chairman

Former telecom secretary M F Farooqui has been appointed chairman of Broadband India Forum (BIF) that works on enhancing broadband potential in the country. 

TDSAT disposes of NSTPL’s application as Govt. cancels tripartite agreements for DTH loan

The Telecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has disposed of headend-in-the-sky (HITS) operator Noida Software Technology Park Ltd’s (NSTPL) contempt application against the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) as the latter has done away with the provision of tripartite agreement between direct-to-home (DTH) firms and lenders. 

Veteran music director Ravindra Jain no more

Veteran music director-singer-lyricist passed away at Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai on 9 October 2015 due to multiple organ failure. He was 71. He is survived by his wife and poet Divya Jain and son Ayushmaan.

Airtel Digital TV announces launch of 4K channel

Airtel Digital TV, the DTH arm of Bharti Airtel, has announced the launch of its first ultra HD 4K channel. 

CBI makes 2 more arrests in Saradha scam case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) today arrested Manoranjana Singh, ex-wife of former Congress minister Matang Singh, and city-based entrepreneur Santanu Ghosh for their alleged involvements in the multi-crore Saradha scam.

TDSAT directs Siti Cable in Kolkata to resume signals to all subscribers

The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Arbitration Tribunal (TDSAT) on 7 October has directed Siti Cable and its subsdiary MSOs to unblock the IDs and remove on-screen displays (OSDs) of consumers of  141 LCOs of Kolkata who are mebers of Cable Operators Sangram Association.

TDSAT asks Karnataka LCO to reconcile disputes with Siti Cable

The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Arbitration Tribunal (TDSAT) on 07 October has directed the Karnataka State Digital Cable TV Operators Welfare Association has been asked to visit the Bangalore office of Siti Cable Networks to reconcile their accounts and resolve their disputes about quality of set top boxes (STBs) raised in their petition before the tribunal in August this year. 

RBNL appoints Manoj Lalwani as Chief Marketing Officer

Reliance Broadcast Network Limited has appointed in Manoj Lalwani as Network Chief Marketing Officer. He will be responsible for the marketing activities for all the verticals of RBNL and taking care of Big FM, Big Magic and Big Ganga. 

Alok Agrawal puts in his papers as Group COO of Network18

Alok Agrawal, Group COO, Network18, has put in his papers. 

Videocon d2h named Pay TV service of the year at MIPCOM 2015, Cannes

Videocon d2h Limited India’s fastest growing DTH service and most valued Indian company on NASDAQ was honored with the Pay TV Service of the Year award at this year’s MIPCOM, the global television market and festival.

DTH Operators not to use licence agreement for loans.

DTH Operators are no longer allowed to assign their Licence Agreement as Security to banks/ financial institutions as a part of tripartite agreement to get financial assistance. 

Government allows sharing of all present, future mobile spectrum

The government has allowed sharing of all spectrum available at present, and similar norms will apply to radio wave frequencies in new bands which will be allocated in future.

ON Semiconductor’s BelaSigna R281 Enables Voice Activation in Portable Devices

ON Semiconductor, driving energy efficiency innovations, has introduced BelaSigna R281, a new “always listening” voice trigger System-on-Chip (SoC) solution designed for popular consumer electronics devices such as smartphones, tablets and wearable devices. Using an audio pattern-matching algorithm developed by ON Semiconductor, BelaSigna R281 can detect a single, user-trained trigger phrase. This phrase can be any series of sounds, and is neither speech nor language dependent.  Upon recognizing this trigger phrase, BelaSigna R281 will assert a wake-up signal which, when connected to a host controller, alleviates the need for users to touch their device to wake it prior to use.

Amazon pulling Chromecast and Apple TV from shelves

Amazon said it will stop selling Apple TV and Google Chromecast devices that compete with the online retail titan’s own media-streaming hardware.

Top Sponsors Named for 2015 IEEE Broadcast Symposium

The IEEE Broadcast Technology Society (BTS) today announced the top-level general and reception sponsors for the 2015 IEEE Broadcast Symposium. General sponsors include Dielectric, ERI, GatesAir, Jampro Antennas Inc., Nautel, NewTek, RFPath Connectivity Consultants, and SymbolShifters. Sierra Automated Systems (SAS) has once again signed on as the exclusive welcome-reception sponsor. In addition, a host of companies have committed to sponsoring the always popular manufacturer's reception on Thursday night, Oct. 15.

France 24 extends its distribution in Indonesia

France 24 has extended its distribution across Indonesia by concluding an agreement with MNC Sky Vision, the leading pay-television service in the country.

GreenPeak and Sensara develop innovative Smart Home platform

Sensara, the specialist in self-learning monitoring technology, has entered into a strategic alliance with GreenPeak Technologies – the world leader in the area of RF technology – for developing an intelligent Smart Home platform. Through combining their expertise, these innovative companies anticipate strengthening their front-runner positions in this fast-growing market.

Nagra powers NXT Digital, the Hinduja Group’s new ‘Hits’ platform

NAGRA, a digital TV division of the Kudelski Group and the world's leading independent provider of content protection and multiscreen television solutions, announced that it is powering NXT Digital, a new brand of headend-in-the-sky (HITS) services of the Indian conglomerate Hinduja Group and its fully-owned subsidiary Grant Investrade Limited. NAGRA’s anyCAST content protection and OpenTV middleware solutions are enabling the HITS platform which will provide backend operations to local and multi-system cable operators in India and allow them to deliver high-quality video services across India. NXT Digital offers a variety of packages and services including 500-plus MPEG 4-encrypted services featuring SD and HD channels along with value-added services like PVR and educational content.

Reliance Jio appoints Amit Shah as senior vice president

Reliance Jio Media has appointed Amit Shah leaves Videocon d2h to join Reliance Jio as the SVP - Content Carriage and Value Added Services (VAS).

Proposal on compensating users for call drops by October 15: TRAI

As revealed in the Open House Discussion on call drops on 1 October 2015 the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) will submit its proposals on compensating consumers for call drops to the department of telecommunications by the middle of this month.

TDSAT Seminar held in Panaji, Goa

TDSAT has organized a Seminar on 'Regulatory Framework and Dispute Resolution in Telecom, Broadcasting and Cable Services Sectors' in Hotel Fidalgo, Panaji, at Goa on 3 October 2015. These seminar held every two to three months aim to discuss various issues among the stakeholders and also listen to the problems of consumers.

Body Care – an App for Preventive Cure on iOS & Android

Care World TV - the first and largest healthcare satellite channel in Asia has announced the launch of its wellness mobile app ‘Body Care’. The app will give users access to unlimited videos on various wellness aspects ranging from beauty to diet, fitness to sex and yoga to astrology. Besides this, the app incorporates a personalised interactive feature that allows users to direct queries to Subject Matter Experts (SME)s and doctors to receive one-on-one consultation. The app interface is user-friendly and is available on both iOS and Android platforms. The app has been built with the dual intent of accessibility and privacy.

New NAB Show Global Innovation Exchange, Shanghai Event Announced

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NAB Show and the National Base for International Trade-International High Tech Cultural Device Cluster (TCDIC), headquartered in Shanghai, announced plans for a brand new event-- NAB Show Global Innovation Exchange, Shanghai, to support the rapidly changing media and entertainment industry in China. The conference will take place December 3-4, 2015 at the Shanghai International Convention Center, Pudong, Shanghai, China. 

MSM makes Top Level Management Additions to Fuel Growth at Sony

Multi Screen Media (MSM) announced the appointment of Danish Khan as the EVP & Business Head for its flagship channel Sony Entertainment Television (SET).

TDSAT directs DEN to pay Rs 25 cr to Star

The Telecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has directed MSO DEN Networks to clear Star India’s dues to the tune of roughly Rs 25 crore (Rs 250 million) for digital addressable system (DAS) and non-DAS areas. 

IBF re-elects the old body

The Indian Broadcasting Foundation (IBF) has been re-elected Star India CEO Uday Shankar as president for a second consecutive term. The decision was made at the 16th annual meeting of the IBF on 29 September in New Delhi. 

Discovery Kids brings the Masti & Fun with Kisna Karnival

Discovery Kids continues to ignite imagination of millions of children in India with its enriching programmes, compelling storylines and enduring characters. This festive season Discovery Kids brings brand new episodes of kids favourite superhero KISNA in KISNA KARNIVAL. Enjoy a month long celebration of KISNA as he along with his group of friends resolve every problem with wit and valour.

HC dismisses appeals against Sun Group to participate in FM auctions

A division bench of the Madras High Court on 29 September dismissed the Union Government’s petitions against Sun Group companies’ participation in the phase III FM auctions.

Measat appoints Santosh Desai as New Sales Director for Africa

Measat has appointed Santosh Desai as sales director for the company’s Africa business. In his role, Desai will be responsible for opening new markets in Africa, developing sales channels, and managing customer accounts.

MIB extends migration dates for FM Phase II operators till October 15

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has extended the migration dates for FM radio operators from Phase II to Phase III. 

TRAI releases draft amendment to tariff order for ‘Pay Channel’ pricing

On 30th September 2015 The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released the draft Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) services (Fourth) (Addressable systems) Tariff (Amendment) order, 2015. amending the ‘Twin Conditions’ prescribed at retail level pricing of TV channels, linking the a-la-carte rates with bouquet rates.

PM, Modi meets Murdochs and Star India honchos in the US today

The CEOs of media and entertainment sector of the US appreciated the Prime Minister, Sh Narendra Modi for energetic and dynamic leadership, and expressed optimism about the future of India. Specifically, the CEOs were enthusiastic about the digital transformation that is taking place in India through the ‘Digital India’ initiative. The CEOs called for speeding up of television digitization, and strengthening of the cellular (mobile) infrastructure.

Doordarshan Freedish auctions 8 more slots in 22nd e-auction

Doordarshan Freedish has allotted 8 slots to different TV channels in 22nd e-auction held on 22 September, 2015 now. The e-auction was conducted by Noida-based C1 India on behalf of Prasar Bharati.

PV Chandran of Grihalakshmi elected President of INS

Mr. P V Chandran of Grihalakshmi (Mathrubhumi Group) has been elected President of The Indian Newspaper Society (INS) for the year 2015-16 at its 76th Annual General Meeting.  He succeeds Mr. Kiran B Vadodaria of Sambhaav Metro.

MSM, Hathway settle dispute

MSM Media Distribution and Hathway Cable and Datacom have ended their dispute over payments. The companies have settled for a fixed-fee deal for digital addressable system (DAS) and analogue areas.

TVS Cable Provides Seamless Program Guide Experience During Digital Transition With Triveni Digital

Triveni Digital announced that TVS Cable, serving seven counties in Eastern Kentucky, is currently migrating to an all-digital infrastructure with Triveni Digital's industry-leading GuideBuilder® 5 metadata generation platform. GuideBuilder 5 enables TVS Cable to deliver simple and easy-to-understand virtual channel information to clear-QAM tuners as well as non-decrypting and SCTE-65-compatible set-top boxes (STBs). The unified metadata management platform supports PSIP and SCTE-65, dramatically speeding up CATV workflows while enabling the operator to realize new revenue opportunities, reduce costs, and provide viewers with a smooth transition from analog to digital.

ON Semiconductor Demonstrates New Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 Compliant Charger

ON Semiconductor driving energy efficiency innovations, has introduced a reference design implementing the new Qualcomm® Quick Charge™ 3.0 protocol.  The new protocol provides significant efficiency improvements over the existing Quick Charge 2.0 solution. The high efficiency, small form factor reference design supports the Quick Charge 3.0 High Voltage Dedicated Charging Port (HVDCP) Class A and Class B specifications, Qualcomm’s next generation of fast charging technology for smartphones and tablets, as well as offering backward compatibility to the older Quick Charge 2.0 protocol. Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 technology is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated. The availability of a complete reference design from ON Semiconductor as well as certified conformance from UL aids the rapid development of small form factor chargers for portable applications with industry leading efficiency.

Echostar and Nagra redefine pay-tv content security with Nagra anycast command for 4k ultra HD set-top boxes

NAGRA, a digital TV division of the Kudelski Group and the world's leading independent provider of content protection and multiscreen television solutions, today announced that they have shipped NAGRA anyCAST COMMAND to EchoStar Technologies L.L.C. for production of 4K-capable set-top boxes for the companies’ joint clients. The revolutionary new COMMAND technology defeats popular forms of piracy like control word sharing and paves the way for premium 4K services. The new technology is being developed in close cooperation between NAGRA and EchoStar, a wholly-owned subsidiary of EchoStar Corporation.

China's Lead Eastern Investment buys 10% in Reliance Games' Zapak

In a strategic partnership, China's Lead Eastern Investment Group on 22 September announced the acquisition of 10 per cent stake in Reliance Games' Zapak Mobile Games for USD 15 million.

MIB Receives Rs 263.97 Crore as Bid Deposit from FM radio Phase III channels

Ministry of Information and Broadcasting received total Rs 263.97 Crore as Bid Deposits from successful bidders of e-auction of first batch of private FM radio Phase III channels.

News Broadcasters Association announces Office Bearers for 2015-16

On 23 September, The News Broadcasters Association (NBA) has announced the list of Office Bearers for the year 2015-16.

Ad cap case further adjourned to 27 November

The Delhi High Court has once again adjourned the ad cap case to 27 November.

TDSAT asks Bangalore MSO not to disconnect signals of association

Telecom Disputes Settlement and Arbitration Tribunal (TDSAT) directed All Digital Network Ltd of Gandhi Nagar in Bangalore to main status quo and not to disconnect the signals to any member of the All Digital Cable TV Operations Welfare Association of Bangalore.

BCCI President Jagmohan Dalmiya passes away

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Jagmohan Dalmiya passed away in city's B M Birla Hospital, Kolkata following a heart attack on 20 September 2015. He was 75. Dalmiya is survived by a daughter and a son.

TDSAT directs Siti Cable not to disconnect LCOs in Jabalpur

Giving relief to 90 LCOs who are members of Jabalpur Cable Operator Welfare Association, Madhya Pradesh, the Telecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has directed the multi-system operator (MSO) Siti Cable Network to maintain status quo until final orders. 

Bharti Airtel announces launch of 4G services in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharti Airtel Limited, the third largest mobile services provider globally with operations in 20 countries across Asia and Africa, announced the commercial launch of its high speed 4G services.

NGC Network India receives nine uplinking licences

NGC Network India has received nine uplinking licences from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. NGC is a subsidiary of Fox International Channels (FIC) Asia.

Government considers FDI hike to 100% in DTH, cable TV

Government is considering a proposal to raise FDI limits to 100 per cent in broadcasting carriage and content services, including DTH and cable networks, aimed at attracting overseas investment and improve infrastructure.

Broadband fibre laid in 68,000 village panchayats: Ravi Shankar Prasad

The government has laid down 90,000 kms of optical fibre network for high speed broadband connection, covering about 68,000 village panchayats till date, Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has said.

MIB lists out payment methodology for FM Phase III auction winners

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has set out very strict the terms of payment for the successful bidders of the first batch e-auction for FM Phase III.

Hathway and GTPL to jointly negotiate contracts nationally with broadcasters

Hathway and GTPL have entered into a mutual alliance to jointly negotiate all contracts related to content and carriage with all broadcasters going forward.

GreenPeak launches its first Smart City application for assisted car parking in China

GreenPeak Technologies, the leading low power RF semiconductor company, and Dusun Electron Ltd, a rapidly growing electronic company focusing on development of wireless internet technology and pioneering the Internet of Things (IoT) industry in China, announced their partnership with the launch of their first Smart City assisted parking application that addresses the growing parking problems in China’s larger cities.

Nagra protects 4k Ultra HD service for KT Skylife in Korea

NAGRA, a digital TV division of the Kudelski Group and the world's leading independent provider of content protection and multiscreen television solutions, announced today that it is providing 4K Ultra HD content protection to Korean satellite broadcaster KT Skylife. The NAGRA anyCAST Security Services Platform combined with NAGRA’s hardware security certification process, secures the operator’s first 4K Ultra HD satellite offer through the 4K-ready and studio-endorsed anyCAST GUARD security client. KT Skylife’s 4K Ultra HD service is the first in the world to provide 24/7 satellite broadcast of three or more 4K Ultra HD channels to consumers.

Nagra end-to-end solutions selected by VTVCAB in Vietnam to enable Next Generation TV experience

NAGRA, a digital TV division of the Kudelski Group and the world's leading independent provider of content protection and multiscreen television solutions, announced it was selected by Vietnam largest cable operator, VTVcab, to support the service provider’s new digital TV platform and ongoing digitization efforts. NAGRA will provide VTVcab with its anyCAST content protection, OpenTV 5 HTML5 connectware, Gravity user interface and MediaLive multiscreen solutions to secure and enable a range of basic cable services and advanced features, including video-on-demand, personal video recording, over-the-top, time-shifting capabilities and applications. This latest win comes on the heels of major deployments for NAGRA in the Asia-Pacific market and marks the company’s expanding presence in the region.

Discovery Channel commemorates 50th anniversary of India - Pakistan 1965 war programme

Marking the 50th anniversary of 1965 India-Pakistan war, Discovery Channel will present 1965: INDIA’S BATTLES AND HEROES, a special programme that will recount the valour and sacrifice of the Indian soldiers who put their lives on the line in defence of the country.

E-Auction of First Batch of Private FM Radio Phase III Channels Completed

E-Auction of the first batch of private FM radio phase III channels comprising 135 channels in 69 existing cities of Phase II, which had commenced on 27th July 2015, got over on 9th September 2015 with the completion of Frequency Allocation Stage.

President presents Gandhi Peace Prize 2014 to ISRO

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presented the Gandhi Peace Prize for the year 2014 to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) at a function organized at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 9 September. In the presence of Vice-President of India, Shri M. Hamid Ansari, the Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi and other eminent dignitaries, the award was received by Shri A. S. Kiran Kumar, Chairman, ISRO on behalf of the organization.

Benoy Roychowdhury elected as the new chairman of ASCI

Benoy Roychowdhury, executive director at HT Media and whole time director of Hindustan Media Ventures, has been unanimously elected as chairman of the Board of ASCI in a board meeting. As a member of the Board of Governors for four years, he has represented print media and provided active support to self regulation.

Videocon d2h appointed Himanshu Dhoreliya as Content Head

Videocon d2h Limited India’s fastest growing DTH service and most valued Indian company on NASDAQ by equity market capitalization has announced on 9th Sept 2015, the appointment of Himanshu Dhoreliya as Content Head. Reporting to CEO Anil Khera, he will be based in Videocon d2h’s Mumbai headquarters. 

200 TV channel licences pending with MIB, says joint secy R Jaya

Speaking to the nodal officers and MSOs in Hyderabad, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) joint secretary R Jaya has told that as many as 200 TV channel licence applications are pending before the ministry. The government has so far permitted 830 satellite TV channels. 

News Broadcasters discuss their concerns with the new I&B Secretary Sunil Arora

A delegation of News Broadcasters led by Rajat Sharma, President News Broadcasters Association (NBA) and comprising of Narayan Rao of NDTV, Ashok Venkatramani of ABP News, Anurradha Prasad of News 24, Ashish Bagga of India Today, A.P. Parigi of Network 18 and Annie Joseph Secretary General, NBA had an interactive session with Sunil Arora, Secretary (I&B) on 10th Sept. 2015. Special Secretary, J.S. Mathur was also present in the meeting. 

FM Phase III auction Day 31: Rs 1156.9 crore bid for 97 channels

E-Auction of the first batch of private FM radio Phase III channels re-commenced today on 7th September 2015 at 09.30 AM and during the day, four rounds of bidding took place. Till now, 124 rounds of bidding are over.

HC directive to Arasu Cable TV

The Madras High Court Bench here on 1 September directed the Tamil Nadu Arasu Cable Television Corporation (TACTC) to consider a representation made by a social activist here to give equal importance to all Tamil news television channels without discrimination.

TDSAT asks Siticable not to disconnect signals of 119 Bhopal LCOs

The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Arbitration Tribunal (TDSAT) has directed Siticable Network to not disconnect the supply of signals to 119 cable operators represented by the Bhopal Cable Operator Association.

FM Phase III auction Day 28: Rs 1156.2 crore bid for 96 channels

E-Auction of the first batch of private FM radio Phase III channels re-commenced today on 2nd September 2015 at 09.30 AM and during the day, four rounds of bidding took place. Till now, 112 rounds of bidding are over.

IBC 2015: ABOX42 announces new Broadcom based UHD/4K HEVC SmartSTBs for OTT/IPTV and Hybrid-DVB

ABOX42 GmbH a leading supplier of OTT, IPTV and Hybrid-DVB Set-Top-Box platforms, unveiled at IBC 2015 in Amsterdam its new Smart STB platform M40, developed for advanced operator projects worldwide. The M40-Series SmartSTB is based on Broadcom’s latest Ultra High Definition high performance 10,000 DMIPS system-on-a-chip BCM7251S. The M40 platform combines unprecedented processing power and speed for decoding of HEVC up to 4K video with up to 60 frames per second and for unbeatable UI performance.

GreenPeak celebrates over 100 Million ZigBee chips delivered to the Smart Home market

GreenPeak Technologies, the leading low power RF semiconductor company, announced that it has shipped well over 100 million IEEE 802.15.4/ZigBee chips into the Smart Home market. GreenPeak RF chips are used in a wide range of consumer products including set-top boxes and gateways, remote controls, home monitoring devices for security, energy efficiency and lifestyle applications. Many of the new set-top boxes and internet gateways already have ZigBee inside, providing great opportunities for device and application developers to introduce Smart Home solutions that can connect to this available home sensor network, as well as for operators to offer additional services.

ALi Adds HEVC to Set-top Box Chipset Lineup for Optimized HD Content Delivery

ALi Corporation, a leading Set-Top Box (STB) chipset solution provider, unveiled a family of SoC solutions that integrate High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) for hybrid cable, satellite, terrestrial and IP set-top boxes. ALi’s system-on-chip chipsets provide operators a high-quality and cost-effective solution for migration to HEVC, a cutting-edge, high-efficiency video compression standard for improved delivery of high definition content over existing networks.

Setting the issue of Interconnect Agreements between MSOs and LMOs

Bombay High Court issued directions to TRAI resolve the matter within two weeks. The direction was given in the case of, Maharashtra Cable Operators Foundation Vs

The States of Maharashtra & Others vide Writ Petition no. 1122 of 2014.

FM Phase III auction Day 27: Rs 1155 crore bid for 96 channels

E-Auction of the first batch of private FM radio Phase III channels re-commenced today on 1st September 2015 at 09.30 AM and during the day, four rounds of bidding took place. Till now, 108 rounds of bidding are over.

MEASAT and Fashion One Launch World’s first English UHD Fashion Channel

MEASAT Satellite Systems and New York-based Fashion One Television LLC., the leading fashion, entertainment and lifestyle television network, have taken the next big step in broadcasting with the launch of the first English language Ultra HD channel in the world, Fashion One 4K, on the MEASAT-3a satellite.

New server set-top box allows watching TV simultaneously on two screens

In August 2015, the GS Group holding company released a new twin-tuner server set-top box under the General Satellite brand, designed for the Russian market – GS E502. The latest-generation digital set-top box allows watching satellite TV simultaneously on two screens: TV and tablet or smartphone. Tricolor TV, the leading Russian digital TV operator, has already confirmed its interest in this equipment.

BARC India & TAM form meter Management Company to supply raw data

Indian television ratings monitoring agencies BARC India and TAM India have joined hands to form a new meter management company.

Sun TV signs content deal with HOOQ

Sun TV and HOOQ, the video-on-demand service has signed a content deal to offer several regional movies and TV shows on the VOD platform.

RBI granted Hathway’s FDI proposal

Hathway Cable and Datacom has received approval from Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to increase the foreign direct investment in the company from the current 49% to 74%. The MSO had earlier received a nod from the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB).

MIB grants two permanent MSO and 20 new provisional licences, registered MSOs gone up to 375 of which 146 are provisional

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has granted two permanent and 20 provisional multi-system operator licences.

FM Phase III auction Day 24: Rs 1143 crore bid for 94 channels

E-Auction of the First Batch of Private FM Radio Phase III Channels re-commenced today on 27th August 2015 at 09.30 AM and during the day, four rounds of bidding took place. Till now, 96 rounds of bidding are over.

Half US Internet homes own connected TV device

The CE industry reached a milestone in the second quarter with half of US Internet homes now owning a Connected TV device. This includes connected TVs, video game consoles, streaming media players, and Blu-ray Disc players that consumers connected to the Internet allowing them access to apps such as Netflix and Hulu.

Lebara Play adds Hindi, Bengali, Punjabi content

Lebara, the universal brand for the world’s migrant community, is continuing the rapid expansion of its new entertainment service, Lebara Play.  Customers can now subscribe to watch free and premium, fully licensed Hindi, Bengali and Punjabi live television and on-demand movies, in addition to existing Tamil, Turkish, French West African and English West African content.  Additionally, the Lebara Play app can now be downloaded in 39 European country app stores.

DTH leads HD boom in the SAARC region

The high-definition television (HDTV) segment in the SAARC region is expected to boom over the next three years, according to a research report published by Dataxis. The report notes that the steady increase in HDTV subscribers and the number of HDTV channels in the region, driven by the digitisation drive, could lead to robust growth in the segment.

Magicsky to Showcase Amimon’s CONNEX at 2015 BIRTV Show

CONNEX, Amimon’s zero-latency HD wireless video link, will be shown by Magicsky, an Amimon reseller, at booth 1B122 during this year’s Beijing International Radio, TV & Film Exhibition (BIRTV) show, which will be held August 26-28 at the China International Exhibition Center in Beijing.

TV channels say they reported the Yakub hanging story to inform the Public

The three television news channels ABP News, NDTV 24×7 and Aaj Tak, which were issued showcause notices by the MIB for showing disrespect to the judiciary and the President by airing certain content on the day 1993 Mumbai blasts convict Yakub Memon was hanged, have replied that the story only to inform the public, which is their duty.

Ex-Star TV CEO Peter Mukerjea’s wife Indrani Mukerjea arrested for murder

The Mumbai Police arrested Indrani Mukherjea, former chief executive officer of INX Media Ltd., and wife of Ex-CEO, Star TV and her driver for allegedly murdering her sister, Sheena Bora, and dumping the body in Raigad district, near here, three years ago.

FM Phase III auction Day 23: Rs 1139.3 crore bid for 94 channels

E-Auction of the First Batch of Private FM Radio Phase III Channels re-commenced today on 26th August 2015 at 09.30 AM and during the day, four rounds of bidding took place. Till now, 92 rounds of bidding are over. 

ALi Introduces Innovative Set-top Box plus Sound Bar Application

ALi Corporation, a leading Set-Top Box (STB) chipset solution provider, introduced a pioneering application of its chipset product—DVB set-top box with sound bar. The innovation features ALi’s STB chipset supporting DVB-C/T2/S2 and IPTV video streaming and combines capability of premium-quality streaming music delivery to bring ultimate home entertainment experience.

Videocon d2h adds two Malayalam Channels Flowers TV and People TV

In celebration of Onam, the largest harvest festival in the Indian state of Kerala, Videocon d2h has announced the launch of two new Malayalam channels, Flowers TV and People TV. 

CBI to inquire Karunanidhi’s secretary

The Central Bureau of Investigation has reportedly asked DMK MP Kanimozhi, party leader M. Karunanidhi’s personal secretary K. Shanmuganathan, IPS officer M.S. Jaffar Sait and former CEO of Kalaignar TV Sarath Kumar Reddy to appear before it for voice analysis. This is in connection with a few audio tapes containing conversations allegedly between Mr. Sait and others that went viral.

Sanjeev Srivastava resigns Focus TV, Shailesh Kumar replaces

Sanjeev Srivastava has resigned as Group Editor of Focus TV after two years. Srivastava made this announcement on Twitter on 25 August.

Pavithra KR promoted to National Sales Head of Colors

Pavithra KR has been promoted and made the National Sales Head for Colors and Pritesh Magodia has been promoted to National Sales Head for Rishtey & Colors HD. 

Anupama Mandloi resigns as Fremantlemedia India MD

Fremantlemedia's India operation Anupama Mandloi has resigned from the post of managing director.

Viacom18 wins 5 awards at Asia’s Best Employer Brand Awards 2015

Viacom18, the joint venture between TV18 and Viacom Inc, has won the ‘Dream Companies To Work For’ award at the recently concluded Sixth Edition of Asia’s Best Employer Brand Awards 2015, at Singapore. 

FM Phase III auction Day 22: Rs 1136.6 crore bid for 94 channels

E-Auction of the First Batch of Private FM Radio Phase III Channels re-commenced today on 25th August 2015 at 09.30 AM and during the day, four rounds of bidding took place. Till now, 88 rounds of bidding are over.

Asianet launches mobile app

Asianet, the leading Malayalam entertainment channel, has launched Asianet Mobile TV, an app for live streaming of Malayalam channels.

Amol Palekar appointed chairman of India’s Oscar jury

Veteran actor-filmmaker Amol Palekar has been appointed the chairman of India’s Oscar jury by the Film Federation of India (FFI), which will select the country’s official entry in the best foreign film category of the 88th Academy Awards.

TDSAT pulls up MSO for demanding advance subscription as pre-condition to give signals to LCO

The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has asked Sun Distribution Services to show cause as to why action should not be taken against it for denying signals to local cable operator (LCO) Prabhu Cable Network despite the Tribunal’s orders.

Cable Mahabharat in Mathura, UP

A dispute created by DEN MSO in handing over control of their Mathura Operations from one JV to another lead to shooting incurring many. A large posse of police persons from a number of police stations had to rush to the spot to take things under control.

Removed of satellite channels Puthiya Thalaimurai and Thanthi TV

DMK treasurer M. K. Stalin on 22 August said it was condemnable that the Arasu Cable TV Corporation Ltd had removed satellite channels Puthiya Thalaimurai and Thanthi TV from its cable network.

Doordarshan Freedish adds Slots to 6 TV Channels for Rs. 23.2 Crore in 21st e-Auction

Doordarshan Freedish has added its 6 slots to different TV channels and earned Rs. 23.2 crore from the 21st e-auction were held on 12-13 August, 2015. The e-auction was conducted by Noida-based C1 India on behalf of Prasar Bharati.

Yakub Memon’s coverage: Only NDTV replies to I&B notice

Only one of the three TV news channels that were issued a show-cause notice for their coverage related to the hanging of the 1993 Mumbai blasts convict Yakub Memon, has replied to the I&B ministry. The ministry had asked three leading TV news channels ABP News, NDTV 24x7 and Aaj Tak to explain why action should not be taken against them, alleging that their coverage of the issue was inappropriate.

DD India set to go off air at end of the month as its satellite licence expires

DD India is set to go off air from August 31 as its satellite licence expires. The channel was launched in 1995 as DD World and was later renamed as DD India in 2002.

Govt planning more Doordarshan channels for North-East

The Information and Broadcasting Ministry is planning to increase the number of Doordarshan channels in the North-East region.

Vikas Gupta to join &TV as head of fiction programming

Vikas Gupta is set to join &TV, Zee Entertainment Enterprises’ new Hindi GEC, as head of fiction programming. 

FIC elevates Keertan Adyanthaya as EVP Hong Kong & Southeast Asia

Fox International Channels head of entertainment and factual channels for Hong Kong & Southeast Asia Keertan Adyanthaya has been elevated as executive vice president – content and communications – Hong Kong & Southeast Asia with effect from 1 September.

Delhi HC stays TV telecast of film ‘Grand Masti’

On 21 August, Delhi High Court has stayed the premiere of Indra Kumar’s adult comedy ‘Grand Masti’ on television, which was scheduled to premiere on ZEEL’s Hindi movie channel &pictures on 22 August 2015 @10 PM.

BBV is first to sign on to ABOX42-powered IPTV service

ABOX42 and Zattoo for a while label IPTV multiscreen service for its members, German broadband provider BBV has signed to become the service’s first adopter.  BBV’s new multiscreen offering will go live this autumn.

SC stays ED order attaching Sun TV’s assets in Aircel-Maxis case

The Supreme Court on 21 August stayed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) from provisionally attaching Sun TV Networks’ assets worth Rs742 crore in the Aircel-Maxis deal case.

TDSAT to examine Patna MSO's allegations over LCOs shift

The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Arbitration Tribunal (TDSAT) has appointed an Advocate Commissioner to probe allegations made by Patna-based multi-system operator (MSO) Siti Maurya Cable Network that seven local cable operators (LCOs) have been trying to migrate to another MSO.
[CQ Spreading Spiritualism Indian Spiritual & Religious Website | EN]

FM Phase III auction Day 20: Rs 1130.51 crore bid for 94 channels

E-Auction of the First Batch of Private FM Radio Phase III Channels re-commenced on 21st August 2015 at 09.30 AM and during the day, four rounds of bidding took place. Till now, 80 rounds of bidding are over.

Minister inaugurates three day North East film festival

The Directorate of Film Festival under the aegis of Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is organising the three day festival “Fragrances of the North-eastern films”.  The festival provides a platform to cine lovers to view films from the North East. The festival is being held at the Siri Fort Auditorium Complex from August 21st – 23rd, 2015.

9 Story Media takes hold of Brown Bag Films

Animated children's series producer 9 Story Media Group has swooped to acquire award-winning animation studio Brown Bag Films.

WWE launches mobile service on Vuclip

Mobile video-on-demand (VOD) service Vuclip has announced a partnership with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) to engage WWE fans in emerging markets of the world with video clips on their mobile phones.

Discovery channel completed 20 years in India

Discovery Channel celebrated the completion of its 20 years in India with a special line-up of its most iconic programmes on August 15 and 16, from 8 AM to 6 PM.

DishTV launched its first Home Video System–DishFlix in India

DishTV launched ‘DishFlix’ a push VOD service that will redefine the home movie viewing. With the introduction of one of its kind and innovative Push VOD service, “DishFlix,” DishTV aims to empower consumers to enjoy uninterrupted Ad-Free (No Commercials) entertainment.

TDSAT directs Hathway to pay Rs. 14.56 cr to MSM

The Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has directed Hathway Cable and Datacom to pay Rs. 14.56 crore towards subscription fee dues to MSM Media Distribution.

ZEEL appoints Ruchir Tiwari and Ali Zaidi as biz heads

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) has made two senior level changes in its Hindi Cinema Cluster and English Cluster.

Ruchir Tiwari has been elevated to Business Head – Cinema Cluster. Prior to this, he had been heading the Hindi Cinema Cluster as Deputy Business Head. He will continue to report to Sunil Buch, Chief Business Officer, Zee.

Ali Zaidi, who has been handling the English Cluster as Deputy Business Head, will now take charge as Business Head – English Cluster, heading Zee Studio and Zee Café. Zaidi too will continue to report into Sunil Buch.

The two promotions are effective immediately.

Source: http://cablequest.org/index.php/news/m-s-news/item/7719-zeel-appoints-ruchir-tiwari-and-ali-zaidi-as-biz-heads

Source: http://cablequest.org/index.php/news/m-s-news/item/7719-zeel-appoints-ruchir-tiwari-and-ali-zaidi-as-biz-heads

ZDCL names Sharlton Menezes as biz head of digital content

Zee Digital Convergence Limited (ZDCL) has named Sharlton Menezes as business head of original digital content.  Menezes was earlier heading programming and marketing at Zee Café and Zee Studio. 

AFL signs new six-year, $2.5 billion broadcast rights deal with Murdoch's Seven & Foxtel

The AFL will reap a major financial windfall after striking a colossal new six-year broadcast rights agreement for $2.508 billion. The new deal will see Channel Seven, Foxtel and Telstra continue as the League's broadcasters, which will run from 2017 to 2022.

FM Phase III auction Day 17: Rs 1116 crore bid for 93 channels

E-Auction of the First Batch of Private FM Radio Phase III Channels re-commenced on 18th August 2015 at 09.30 AM and during the day, four rounds of bidding took place. Till now, 68 rounds of bidding are over.

First Lady Mrs Suvra Mukherjee, President Pranab Mukherjee's wife, passes away

India's first lady President Pranab Mukherjee's wife Suvra Mukherjee passes away on 18 August. She left for her heavenly abode at 10:51 am and died after a cardiac arrest. She was 74.

Grant Investrade to invest $20 mn to expand digital network

Hinduja Group's Headend-In-The-Sky (HITS) network NXT Digital is targeting 2000 operators across five cities Hyderabad, Kurnool, Vijayawada, Vishakhapatnam and Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

TRAI Open House becomes a battleground for stakeholders

The Open House Discussion (OHD) on commercial tariffs held on 18 August at PHD Chambers of Commerce, because a battleground between broadcasters and distribution platform, with broadcasters demanding more revenue from commercial establishment and distribution companies wanting no distribution between commercial and domestic subscribers.

Linear TV viewing continues decline in UK

Average daily viewing on the TV set fell by 11 minutes in 2014 compared to 2013 according to Ofcom’s latest Communications Market Report. This is the second consecutive year of decline, following a nine-minute decline in 2013 compared to 2012.

Key findings from the report, using BARB measurements, include: