Sky, Liberty Global renew F1 interest?

Further to advanced-television.com’s June 2014 story that John Malone’s international cable operator Liberty Global and cable networks programmer Discovery Communications were seeking to take a 49 per cent stake in Formula One Group from private equity player CVC Capital Partners, the UK’s Sunday Times is reporting that Liberty Global and Sky a considering a £4.5 billion controlling stake.

Multicultural viewers driving OTT consumption

A Horowitz Research study reveals 88 per cent of urban TV content viewers in the US have the ability to stream video content to a computer, mobile device, or directly to a TV. The study also reveals that multicultural viewers – traditionally pay-TV’s most valuable consumers—are more likely to have made OTT an integral part of their viewing lifestyle: 45 per cent of Black viewers, 46 per cent of Asian viewers, and 51 per cent of Hispanic viewers in the study report spending more than 20 per cent of their total TV viewing time watching OTT (39 per cent among White viewers).

Sword of uncertainty continues to hang over Sun TV

Although the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) was likely to go with the opinion made by the Law Ministry backed by Attorney General, Mukul Rohtagi as reported on 27th June, now the MHA has finally decided to deny security clearance to Sun TV Network.

Digital India Week to be launched in 1st July by PM Modi

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad revealed in a statement that the Prime Minister would launch the Digital India Week on 1st of July with a view to empower the people of the country through the Digital India Programme. It will aim at encouraging people’s involvement and creating awareness among them.

Sony Music acquires the music rights of Dharma Production’s upcoming movie ‘Brothers’

Sony Music Entertainment acquires the music rights of Dharma Productions’ action – drama film Brothers. Directed by Karan Malhotra, the film is an official remake of the 2011 Hollywood film Warrior. After Ageneepath, this is the second time the successful team of – Dharma Productions, Sony Music, Karan Malhotra, Ajay-Atul & Amitabh Bhattacharya will be working together. This hugely anticipated project surely promises great music and the association of Sony Music will definitely get the music dominating all charts.

New technology considerably improves communications over fiber optic cables

Electrical engineers in New York have broken key barriers that limit the distance information can travel in fibre optic cables and still be accurately deciphered by a receiver.  A research conducted by University of California, San Diego, presents a solution to a long-standing roadblock to increasing data transmission rates in optical fibre: beyond a threshold power level, additional power increases irreparably distort the information travelling in the fibre optic cable. In a breakthrough that could lead to superfast, cheaper internet, researchers have increased the maximum power, and the distance, at which optical signals can be sent through optical fibres.

Bharti Enterprise is likely to enter into STB manufacturing biz ahead of digitization

After its successful foray in the Telecom industry, Sunil Bharti Mittal-led Bharti Enterprises is now evincing interest in the set-top boxes (STBs) manufacturing business ahead of Phases III and IV digitization. It is likely to make set-top boxes in partnership with an electronics manufacturer in the country. “Bharti is planning to make set-top boxes (STBs) in Pune in partnership with an electronics manufacturing company under its commitment to support Prime Minister’s vision on Make in India,” a source said.

DTH operators issue disconnection notice to Focus News

Direct-to-home (DTH) operators’ like- Reliance Digital TV, Airtel Digital TV and Tata Sky have issued public disconnection notice to Focus News after the broadcaster has made the signals of some of its regional channels unavailable.

Focus News Network offers one national news channel in Hindi, Focus News and four regional verticals in Haryana, Odisha, Assam and West Bengal. According to the sources, Focus HiFi and Focus NE along with iTV Network’s NewsX and India News will be unavailable on Reliance Digital platform from 16th July.  Signals of NewsX and India News will not be available due to expiry of contract with the broadcaster, while, Focus HiFi and Focus NE will not be there due to unavailability of signals from the broadcaster. Sources added that Focus News had shut down the two channels last month which was operated from Assam.

On the other hand, Airtel Digital TV too had last month issued a disconnection notice to Focus News and Focus Odisha due to non-renewal of agreement, while Tata Sky disconnects Focus Haryana and Focus News.

Source: http://cablequest.org/news/dth-news/item/7317-dth-operators-issue-disconnection-notice-to-focus-news.html
Source: http://cablequest.org/news/dth-news/item/7317-dth-operators-issue-disconnection-notice-to-focus-news.html

Videocon d2h adds two new Kannada Channels Raj Musix and Raj News

Mumbai, JUNE 29th: Videocon d2h, India’s fastest growing DTH service provider has now added two new Kannada channels:  Raj News Kannada and Raj Musix Kannada on its platform. Raj Musix is a specialty music channel while Raj News is a pure news channel. With these new channels on board, Videocon d2h now offers 24 Kannada Channels & Services. 

TA Associates eyes to buy $200m stake in Atria Convergence Technologies

TA Associates, a private equity firm may invest Rs 1,280-crore or $200-million in one of the country's largest internet service providers, Atria Convergence Technologies (ACT), headquartered in Bangalore.

ACT provides broadband and cable TV access and has approximately one million subscribers across the southern states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra and Telangana. It is adding more than 20,000 new subscribers every month and has built a network of seven lakh subscribers, with a 25% share of the market in Bangalore. High-speed broadband is a lucrative business for most cable players with significantly higher average revenue per user (ARPU) levels. 

TA Associates has emerged as a frontrunner to lead a consortium of global investors, which may include GIC of Singapore and Canadian Pension Plan Investment Board, to buy majority shares in Atria.

Existing investor India Value Fund Advisors (IVFA) holds majority shares after having financed the company's fibre optic-driven triple-play services — broadband, television and fixed-line voice. IVFA is expected to monetize its seven-year-old investment selling shares to TA Associates and others. 

IVFA managing partner Vishal Nevatia said Atria was in discussions with multiple suitors and no deal has been concluded yet.

Source: http://cablequest.org/news/cable-news/item/7261-ta-associates-eyes-to-buy-$200m-stake-in-atria-convergence-technologies.html
Source: http://cablequest.org/news/cable-news/item/7261-ta-associates-eyes-to-buy-$200m-stake-in-atria-convergence-technologies.html

Zee Zindagi plans to bring out original content on its anniversary

On the successful completion of its one year run on 23rd June 2015, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd’s (ZEEL) premium Hindi general entertainment channel Zindagi, plans to bring out original content for its viewers.

Animal Planet gears up to welcome Monsoon

Animal Planet gears up to welcome the monsoon by airing a spectacular series LANDS OF THE MONSOON from 1st July at 8 PM. The show will be telecast from Monday to Friday and will explore how the lives of humans and animals across a vast area of the planet are affected by the transforming power of the monsoon rains. The end of the dry season in northern Australia sees 300,000 flying foxes gathering to drink while running a gauntlet of freshwater crocodiles, while in Sumatra a female orangutan guides her youngster to where she knows a fig tree fruits at this time of year. At the Delhi stock exchange, the price of rice escalates every day the rains fail to materialise and priests submerge themselves in water and beseech Varuna, god of water, to come. 

Eradicate the fear factor in Food with ‘F – FACTOR’

Asia’s first and the largest healthcare satellite channel, Care World TV is now set to help people to deal with the nuisance of food adulteration by airing a new series, ‘F – Factor’. The series will have 52 episodes with well-known microbiologists on the panel, who will demonstrate simple Do-It-Yourself (DIY) tricks and tips of testing food products at home. The series will be aired from July 1st and is aimed at informing viewers about different types of adulteration in various food items. The emphasis of the show will be to educate viewers about adulteration and its harmful health effects and will also inform them about different types of packaging done for different food items.

Pioneer of US cable TV and founder of Comcast, Ralph Roberts passes away

A pioneer of US cable television and the founder of Comcast, one of the largest entertainment companies in the US, Ralph Roberts passed away at the age of 95 in Philadelphia on 18th June. Roberts is known to build the robust and global Fortune 50 media and technology leader, Comcast from a small and region cable TV system in Mississippi.

Applications invited to fill up the post of broadcasting advisor at TRAI’s HQ

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a notice on 17th June to all ministries, Departments under Government of India, PSUs and statutory and autonomous bodies, inviting applications for the post of advisor (broadcasting and cable services) on deputation on Foreign Service terms at TRAI’s New Delhi headquarters for a period of two years. The pay scale for the post would range from Rs 37,400 to Rs 67,000 plus GP of Rs 10,000.

MHA differs in opinion with AG on Sun TV security nod

Even after gaining support from Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi on the opinion of giving clearance nod to Kalanithi Maran promoted Sun TV Network, MHA has decided to stick to its original decision of not giving clearance to the Network’s 33 channels, on the ground that investigation shows serious charges of money laundering against Kalanithi Maran. Hence, the Ministry said that it is against the opinion made by AG on the issue.

Freedom of Press curtailed by Andhra Pradesh police

Andhra Pradesh Police has served a notice to the Telugu TV news channel ‘T News’, on 19th June allegedly for airing an audio tape that dragged the name of A.P. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu into the sensational cash-for-vote case. The incident triggered widespread protest among the journalists in Telangana on 20th June, whereby they expressed their solidarity with the channel by condemning the AP police and describing it as ‘attack on the freedom of press’.

YuppTV joins the prestigious global league of Technology Pioneers & Innovators

YuppTV, a world leader in delivering over-the-top (OTT) South Asian Content, live TV, video on demand, and on-demand Movie Solutions, announced that it has won the coveted Red Herring Top 100 North AmericaAward. Red Herring annually honors the most promising private technology companies that are positioned to become market leaders within their respective sectors. YuppTV was selected from among hundreds of technology/life science companies in North America and the only company to be awarded in the entertainment & media sector.

Modi ranks 2nd after US President to use social media to the optimum level

According to a study, it is found that Prime Minister Narendra Modi emerges as the 2nd most popular politician after US President Barack Obama, to use Social Media to the optimum level in shaping his public image as a tech savvy leader.

SITI Cable celebrates International Day of Yoga

Embarking on the idea of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, ‘Embrace a Healthier Lifestyle’, and promote the age old practice of Yoga, SITI Cable Network Limited, celebrated the International Day of Yoga on 21st June by organizing Yoga sessions concurrently at 70+ cities across India. The yoga sessions at various locations saw participation from more than 50,000 people, 9000 Business Partners and 1500 SITI Employees.

Radio Mirchi plans an expenditure worth Rs 1,000 crore for phase III

India’s largest private FM station, Radio Mirchi, owned by the largest private FM broadcaster, Entertainment Network (India) Ltd (ENIL) is mulling to spend a capital expenditure (capex) of Rs 800–1,000 crore (Rs 8–10 billion) over the next three years for acquiring of new licences in the upcoming FM Phase III auctions, for migration of its existing licences from Phase II to Phase III regime and for inorganic growth of the station.

4 New Editions of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ TV commercial launched by Minister of State for Tourism and Cultue

Dr Mahesh Sharma, the Minister of State for Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation (independent charges) in the Narendra Modi government has launched 4 new series of the TV commercial-“Atithi Devo Bhava” along with a brochure titled “India- The Land of Yoga” in New Delhi on 19th June. The films have been directed by the noted ad film maker, Shri Prasoon Joshi with an objective to create awareness about the ways of extending hospitality to tourists visiting India. It shows that by adopting an honest and helpful attitude and by maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the country, we can create a positive impression in the minds of the tourist visiting the Nation.  Veteran actor Aamir Khan has been roped in once again as the brand ambassador for these impressive films.

Shop CJ on the verge of expansion in Karnataka

After establishing warehouses in Delhi and Mumbai, the Korean home shopping player, Shop CJ is now planning to expand its distribution network in Bangaluru.

No respite for Subrata Roy as Supreme Court sets terms for his release

No respite has been granted for the Sahara Group Chief, Subrata Roy. The 65 year old Roy is in Tihar jail since 4th March 2014. The Supreme Court on 19th June said that, Subrata Roy’s release from the jail is subject to furnishing of total Rs 10,000 crore; Rs 5,000 crore in cash and Rs 5,000 crore in bank guarantee.

Attorney-General terms denial of security clearance to Sun TV Network as illegal

Attorney-General Mukul Rohatgi has come in support of Kalanithi Maran promoted Sun TV, saying that denial of security license to 33 channels of the network by the Ministry of Home Affairs on the ground of corruption charges against its promoters is not legal. 

PM launches “Narendra Modi’ Mobile App

Giving a boosts to his digital presence, our tech savvy Prime Minister launches an interactive mobile app branding under his name ‘Narendra Modi’. Modi, who uses Social Media like Facebook and Twitter in an extensive manner, launched the mobile app to keep the citizens of the country updated about his day-to -day activity through posts. The app also presents an opportunity to receive messages and emails directly from Modi.

Reliance Jio Media gets provisional MSO license from MIB

Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Jio has obtained a provisional licence from the I&B Ministry on 17th June, to operate as a pan-India multi-system operator (MSO), under the name- Reliance Jio Media Pvt. Ltd.  This has taken the company a step further towards becoming a nationwide distributor of television channels.  However, the announcement came soon after the I&B Ministry decided to issue provisional licence to MSOs who were keen to operate in DAS phase III.

MSOs and LCOs violate MIB order by dropping DD channels

In an advisory issued by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on 12th June 2015, all MSOs, LCOs and DTH operators in DAS areas found not carrying the mandatory DD channels (all 23). This will invite a serious action as provided in Cable TV Act and the Rules as well as conditions stipulated in the MSO permission.

Discovery Science reveals the true stories behind America’s most authentic national treasures in new series “secrets of the arsenal”

Discovery Science will reveal some of most important – and often hidden - treasures in a new series, SECRETS OF THE ARSENAL.

ASCI launches India's first consumer complaint mobile application

India’s first consumer complaint mobile App to address misleading advertisements has been launched by the self regulatory body for the advertising industry, Advertising Standard Council of India (ASCI) recently.  The mobile app, ASCIonline is currently available on Android and iOS.

Government approves two FDI proposals in media sector

As per the recommendations of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) in its 218th meeting held on 28th May 2015, the government of India has approved a total number of 16 foreign investment proposals worth Rs 6,751 crore, while 21 proposals have been delayed and six others were rejected. Out of the 16 approved proposals 2 were in favour of the media sector that amounts to Rs. 2502.05 crore approximately.

MIB names Bollywood Actor Kajol to complete Prasar Bharti Board

The Bollywood actor Kajol may soon make it to the Prasar Bharti Board as its member. It is learnt that the Government is mulling over the idea of changing the look and feel of the Doordarshan channel in the next few months. Hence to revamp its content and make it commercially viable, Government is looking for some accomplished personality who is also a part of the mainstream entertainment industry.

TRAI declares a Happy Ending to Cable TV Digitization in advance

The situation regarding digitization may be grim on the ground, with not even a single subscriber getting his choice of channels and itemized bill; yet, the officials of TRAI have already sounded the trumpet of successful completion by the deadline of 31st December 2016 in advance.

MIB directs media to promote yoga to the hilt ahead of IYD

With the celebration of the International Yoga day at the threshold, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has directed the media outlets to ensure the success of PM Modi’s special initiative which is scheduled to take place on June 21. In a letter generated by the MIB to the broadcasters on 29th May, it said that United Nations General Assembly has declared June 21 as the International Yoga Day (IYD) and hence, all TV channels, FM stations & community radio stations may promote the occasion by carrying special features or in any other befitting manner. “The forthcoming June 21 will be the first IYD and hence it will hold special significance for India, particularly when the practice of yoga is associated with our country and IYD has been declared at the initiative of our country,” the letter says.

Breton Players participates in the world premiere of UHD HDR broadcast

Foremost Breton players like- Envivio, Images & Réseaux, Orange, SeaEvents, TDF, Technicolor and Thomson Video Networks have come forward to participate in the world premiere of Ultra High Definition (UHD) High Dynamic Range (HDR) broadcast of the French leg of the Volvo ocean race in Lorient.

Industry compliments Plugfest after 14 companies attend UNH-IOL’s event

A total of 14 companies participated in the University of New Hampshire InterOperability Laboratory’s (UNH-IOL) interoperability event. After the participation of these vendors in the event, industry too complimented the benefits of early plugfests.  Thus support for the implementation of the G.fast standard continues to accelerate, as the Broadband Forum has completed the industry’s first G.fast equipment plugfest, part of its ongoing program preparing for widespread G.fast certification.

Murdoch’s News Corp hikes stake in Elora Technologies to 30%

Rupert Murdoch led News Corp has decided to hike its stake in the Singapore based company Elora Technologies to 30 %, from earlier 25%, by acquiring an additional stake of 5%. Elora Technologies is the parent company of the real estate portal, PropTiger.com and News Corp acquired 25% of its stake in November 2014 for $30 million. However, the terms of the deal remains undisclosed till the filing of this report. 

Indian Movie buffers get another Movie Channel ‘Wow Cinema’

The Indian television industry, which is by now flooded with more than 800 Pay TV Channels, is now set to get a new Free-to-air (FTA) Hindi Movie Channel, ‘Wow Cinema’ that has already made its foray and is setting its footprints. The test run for the channel has already kick- started , and will be soon available across the country through all Direct to Home (DTH) operators as well as major multi system operators (MSOs).

TRIAX A/S (Group) Annual Report for the Financial Year 2014/15

In 2014/15, the TRIAX A/S Group realized a turnover of 82 Million €. That is 1.7 Million € more than in 2013/14 where turnover amounted to 80 Million €. This increase has been created despite difficult market conditions, with market shares on several European markets increasing.

Bright Lights Media Selects Globecast and MEASAT for Media Management, Playout and Distribution Services

Globecast announced that it has been selected by Bright Lights Media to provide a comprehensive suite of services for the launch of ‘Simply Money’, a new High Definition pay-TV channel in Southeast Asia. Producing locally relevant high-quality personal finance-lifestyle content, Simply Money will also acquire premium world class programming from around the world, carefully selected for viewers in Southeast Asia.

AsiaSat Announces New Organisational Structure

Asia’s leading satellite operator Asia Satellite Telecommunications Co. Ltd. (AsiaSat) announced its new organisational structure to power the growth of the company in key Asian and global markets.

NTV Blocked in Andhra Pradesh for airing CM’s scam tapes

In the ongoing tussle between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, media has played a prominent role. Two prominent Telegu News Channels, N TV and Sakshi News have been continually telecasting the video clippings of the cash-for-vote case along with the audio clipping of TS nominated MLA Elvis Stephenson’s alleged conversation with AP Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu ever since the issue came to light. This has led the AP CM, Mr. Naidu to ban NTV in the state. It is learnt that the CM has sent notices to the AP cable operators to stop the services of NTV channel in all 13 districts of Andhra Pradesh. The CM is also planning to block Sakshi TV, owned by YSR Congress chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy.

National Dairy Development Board agrees to provide content to DD Kisan

DD Kisan Channel and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) have signed an agreement, whereby NDDB will provide farm and dairy related content to the channel. According to the agreement, the association aims at providing latest technical know-hows to farmers, improve their livelihood and income of the farming community by enhancing their knowledge, and provide information on various technical issues related to farming.

Dark clouds creep over Sun Group with High Court notice to Kal Cables

Dark cloud continues to creep over SUN TV Network owner, Kalanithi Maran and his brother Dayanidhi Maran. On 15th June, the Central government filed an appeal in the Madras High Court challenging a single judge order of last September that had put a stay order on the centre’s directive to the Multi System Operator (MSO), Kal Cables, whereby the MSO was directed to shut down their services. Kal runs Sumangali Cable Vision (SCV), a cable distribution arm of the Sun Group.

CNBC-TV18 complaints ASCI against ET Now

CNBC business news Channel of TV 18 group has complaint to the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) against an ad campaign launched by ET Now on 31st May. In its campaign, ET Now has claimed itself to be ‘India’s No. 1 Business Channel’ based on the data released by BARC.

Journalist attacked once again in U.P

Before the state could recover from the scars of murder of a social media journalist in Shahjahanpur, who was set on fire for writing against a Minister in the Akhilesh Yadav government, the news of attack on another TV journalist from Pilibhit district has come to light.

Haidar Khan, a stringer for a local TV news channel and a resident of Sherpur Kalam alleged that he was attacked by a local criminal, Arvind Prakash, while reporting on cases of land grabbing. He said that on June 13 he received a phone call about an important story in a nearby village but when he reached the spot he was attacked by Prakash and his two friends.

An FIR has been registered against Prakash and his associates under various sections of IPC and the associates have been arrested.

Source: http://cablequest.org/news/national-news/item/7199-journalist-attacked-once-again-in-u-p.html

Source: http://cablequest.org/news/national-news/item/7199-journalist-attacked-once-again-in-u-p.html

BSNL mulls to expand its broadband reach in NE India

With a notion to expand the reach of its broadband services, the state run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) is all set to form collaboration with a Bangladesh based cable company. The collaboration will be formed with an aim to improve internet connectivity in the northeast part of the India.

Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific Acquires Setanta Sports Asia

Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific (DNAP), a division of the #1 pay-TV programmer Discovery Communications announced its acquisition of Setanta Sports Asia Limited, a premium sports channel specialising in rugby. 

International Yoga Day to get a mega coverage in Doordarshan

Doordarshan is likely to make International Yoga Day event a mega one. It is learnt from the sources that the Public broadcaster would deploy more than 20 hi-definition cameras for the coverage of the event on June 21st. The event will take place at New Delhi’s Rajpath, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the event.

Kalli Purie takes over as Group Editorial Director, B’cast & New Media: India Today Group

Kalli Purie, who joined India Today group as a marketing executive and reporter for the flagship magazine, India Today in 1996, will now take over as the group’s new Editorial Director for broadcast and New Media. The new role came to her after the channel rebranded itself in the first week of June. Prior to this Kalli Purie was Group Synergy and Creative Officer of the organisation.

Radio Operators Association, India voices concern over Maran’s Red FM

Voicing concern over denial of security clearance to Sun Group-owned Red FM, the Association of Radio Operators for India, has issued a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ministry of Home Affairs, whereby it said that, “We have noted with concern the various reports in media and otherwise that the Home Ministry has refused security clearance to Red FM (part of Sun Group) which could result in closure of over 45 stations being operated in the country.” The association also added that radio is the only free-to-air media in India and it has come as a “surprise” that these stations face closure, due to a pending investigation against the major shareholder.

Open house meeting with broadcasters scheduled on 22nd June: MIB

The TV-INSETS section of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has issued a notice to the broadcasting companies asking their authorized representatives to participate and to send the issues to be discussed in the open house meeting, which is scheduled to be held on 22nd June 2015 at Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi.

Top Indian M&E companies streamline work process through ERP

Prime Focus Technologies, a part of the world’s largest integrated media services company, Prime Focus Ltd. has made an effort to provide the Indian media industry with Media Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution in order to streamline its workflow and reduce cost.

Cisco’s Chairman and CEO to address Indian Employees from Bengaluru

The Chairman and the new CEO of Cisco, John Chambers and Chuck Robbins will be visiting India shortly and will address 12,500 Cisco’s India employees via Cisco TV on 19th June. The duo will host an “India All Hands” meeting from the Bengaluru campus of Cisco, wherein Chambers will introduce the new CEO, Chuck Robbins, who will take over the reigns from July 26th as the company enters into the new FY 2016 on August 1st.

Videocon d2h strengthens its bouquet of HD Channels

Videocon d2h has added a new HD channel, TLC HD to its bouquet and has further magnified its channels and services. With the new addition, the d2h provider now has 35 HD Channels & services in its platter. Conforming to the HD quality, the channels provide superior picture quality giving more depth and sharpness to the picture, crystal clear digital picture and HD digital quality sound. 

BSNL launches free roaming facility

As per the announcement made by the Union Telecom Minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad on 2nd June, the state run BSNL has launched its free roaming services on 14th June 2015. As per the scheme, from now onwards the customers of BSNL mobile across the country will be able to receive incoming calls free of cost while roaming. 

MIB to fund DAVP

A Parliamentary Standing Committee has given green signal to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s (MIB) proposal to grant a funding of Rs 350 crore for the Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity (DAVP).

Number of television channels shrinks to 826 in India

After Anil Ambani promoted Reliance Big Broadcasting and Rajeev Chandrasekhar-promoted Asianet News Network (ANN) has surrendered four non-news and one news & current affairs channel licences respectively, the total number of television channels in India has shrunk to 826 from 832.

Aadhaar cards at e-service centers of ARASU in Tamil Nadu

The Tamil Nadu Arasu Cable TV Corporation, who has been in a cold war with the MIB has started e-service centers to issue Aadhaar cards to the public, who have already applied for the card in the 10 taluks in the district. According to a release by the district administration, the centers will be functioning on all working days, from 9.45 a.m. to 5.45 p.m.

MIB to offer provisional registrations to MSOs for DAS phase III

According to the recent report from the I&B Ministry, a total of 169 MSOs have been granted permanent registration for operating a digital addressable system (DAS).Also more than 600 applications are pending to get approval for one or the other reason, mostly waiting for security clearance from MHA though the deadline for Phase III of DAS is approaching nearer. But, as the delay continues on the part of the MHA to give clearance, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has once again invited the applicants to file fresh applications.

Arnab Goswami takes in as President and Editor–in-chief of ET Now

Arnab Goswami, a prominent face of English news Channel, Times Now has been promoted as the President (News) cum Editor-in-Chief of Times Network owned News channels, Times Now and ET Now , while Jagdish Mulchandani will be President – Finance and Distribution for both the channels. The announcement was made by Times Group Chairman, Vineet Jain, in an internal mail sent to Times Network employees recently. In the mail Mr. Jain wrote, “Arnab has successfully achieved and maintained the leadership position for Times Now in English General News for the past several years. In addition to the Times Now editorial responsibility, he will now lead the ET Now editorial team with immediate effect.”

Acquisition of Radio city gives a boost to Jagran Prakashan’s share

The share price of the leading Publication house, Jagran Prakashan Ltd. witnessed a hike soon after it announced the acquisition of the popular FM station Radio City. The company in their board meeting on Dec. 16, 2014 had approved the entry of the company into the radio industry via acquisition of Music Broadcast Private Ltd. (MBPL) that operates the popular FM station Radio City. JPL runs leading dailies like- Dainik Jagran Midday, Naiduniya, I-Next, City Plus and Punjabi Jagran.

Rupert Murdoch hands over the baton to son James Murdoch

James Murdoch, 42, the younger son of the Media mogul Rupert Murdoch will now take over as the new CEO of the global empire , while his elder son Lachlan Murdoch will act as the executive Co-Chairman. The 84 year old Murdoch will continue to remain as the executive chairman of the company. However, till the filing of this report, it is not clear as to when the reorganization would take place.

Sun TV singled out: says Kalanithi Maran

Soon after MHA wrote to I&B Ministry denying the security nod to 33 channels and FM stations of Sun TV group on the ground of economic security, the Group's chairman and managing director, Kalanithi Maran issued a memorandum to finance and I&B minister, Arun Jaitley, where he has complained that his company was being unjustly singled out.

ABP receives approval from I&B to launch Gujarati news channel

ABP news Network that had plans to launch a Punjabi news channel earlier has now shifted its interest to launch a Gujarati news channel. It is learned that the group has received a green signal from the I&B Ministry to change the name of its proposed Punjabi news channel ABP Sanjha to ABP Samachar Gujarati.

Telangana to get Cloud computing platform from Amazon

One of the world’s leading E-Commerce portal, Amazon is likely to launch Amazon Web Services (AWS), a collection of remote computing services that make up a cloud computing platform, in Telangana.

Godfather Communications alleges Taj TV of violating TDSAT order

Godfather Communications, an Amritsar based MSO has lodged a complaint against Taj Television with TRAI, alleging that the broadcaster has violated the orders passed by TDSAT. It alleged that Taj Television has denied it signals of Zee group channels despite an audit by Broadcast Engineering Company (India) Ltd (BECIL) as directed by the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Arbitration Tribunal. The audit by the BECIL was conducted in compliance with the directions of TDSAT in a case filed by Godfather last year as the broadcaster had made an excuse that headend of Godfather communication was not in compliance with DAS Regulations.

Germany based Kartina TV deploys Harmonic to improve video quality

Kartina TV, a German-based service provider serving Russian-speaking individuals around the globe, has deployed Harmonic's Electra™ XVM virtualized media processor for OTT multiscreen delivery. Harmonic is the worldwide leader in video delivery infrastructure. Utilizing the software-based media processing platform for real-time HEVC encoding, Kartina TV can deliver 150 SD and 30 HD channels to subscribers on a variety of devices using less bandwidth, with a low total cost of ownership (TCO) and industry-leading video quality. Powered by Harmonic's VOS™ virtualized media processing platform and architecture, which operates on common hardware platforms in IT data center environments, the Electra XVM media processor simplifies Kartina TV's infrastructure, increasing flexibility, scalability and operational efficiency. 

Siti cable appoints Anil Jain as new CFO

Essel Group-promoted multi-system operator (MSO) Siti Cable has appointed Taj Television SVP finance, Anil Jain as its new chief finance officer (CFO).

Shop Owner penalised for selling unauthorized subscription services of Dish TV

A shop owner in Abu Dhabi has been heavily penalized by court alleging that the shopkeeper was selling subscription services and set-top boxes (STBs) from Indian direct-to-home (DTH) operator Dish TV in an unauthorized manner.

TDSAT asks Vishal Cable to pay Rs 1.5 million to Star India

In a directive issued by Telecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) a Mumbai based MSO, Vishal Cable Network has to pay Rs 1.5 million to Star India in three equal fortnightly installments and in return the broadcaster has to restore the supply of its signals to the MSO.

Da Vinci Media to launch its channel inndia

The educational television channel, Da Vinci Media has entered into a 50:50 partnership with 'The Quint' a digital project, founded by media veteran Raghav Bahl, along with his wife Ritu Kapur. The partnership has been formed in order to launch Da Vinci Media in India and to form a complete horizontal digital multimedia edutainment platform. 

Digital TV homes break the billion barrier

The digital TV market has surged over the last four years, with 455 million additions in homes bringing the total past the billion mark says a report from Digital TV Research.

New Ultra HD channel as BT sets its stall out for European football

The concept of scheduled live free-to-air (FTA) Champions League football for English fans has been kicked into Row Z after BT Sport announced the pricing tariffs for the European football games it now has rights to.

ErosNow ties up with Pakistan’s HUM TV for online content

The online arm of Eros International, ErosNow, has announced content acquisition deal with Pakistan’s on-air and digital content company HUM TV.

TDSAT gives interim relief to UCN, directs Taj TV to restore signals

The Telecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) on 9 June has directed Taj Television, distributor of Zee Turner channels to restore signals of its channels to Nagpur-based multi-system operator (MSO) UCN Cable Network by 10 June, provided the latter clears its outstanding dues. 

Sun TV crashes on stock market after denial of security nod

After denial of security clearance to 33 television channels of Kalanithi Maran’s Sun TV Network by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the group has faced a deep crisis in the stock market.

Investors prompt Eros International to focus on mobile internet market

Shareholders of Eros International has prompted the Bollywood’s biggest studio to focus on building a digital streaming service in India's mobile internet market instead of focusing on making a foray in the television industry. 

SmarDTV unveils new INSTANT ACCESS CAM products

SmarDTV S.A, a Kudelski Group company, Switzerland, has announced the launch of a new range of INSTANT ACCESS CAM products with Conax security. The new CAMs are designed to accelerate subscriber acquisition and reduce subscriber acquisition costs (SAC) by providing a means to instantly access pay-TV services for the subscribers. Leveraging  the strengths of both the companies, this is achieved by bundling smart cards with CAMs at the production facilities and pre-pairing and pre-authorizing the bundle eliminating any waiting time or hassle for new subscribers. The solution is designed to facilitate operator logistics and includes an option to embed the pre-entitled smart card inside the CAM; particularly attractive for operators wishing to promote their products in retail.

Conax demonstrates its Conax Contego at Anga Cam 2015 for easy entry into secure multiscreen content delivery

Conax, a part of the Kudelski Group Company and a leader in total service protection for digital TV and entertainment services via broadcast, broadband and connected devices, demonstrated its new and advanced security hub, Conax Contego, supporting a portfolio of leading DRM technologies at AngaCom 2015, taking place from 9th June to 11th June 2015. The highly secure, future-proof and flexible  solution is developed to eliminate operator challenges, amongst others support for browsers which will soon no longer provide NPAPI support - such as Chrome in September. At the show, Conax will also be featuring the pre-integrated Xtend Multiscreen and benchmark entry-level GO Live solution for Over-the-Top content distribution, in addition to displaying the latest products in the CAM portfolio. Conax will be co-exhibiting with Kudelski sister companies, NAGRA and SmarDTV at AngaCom, E11, Hall 10.2

Harmonic and WISI Communications Partner to Provide Next-Generation Cable Access Solutions

Harmonic the worldwide leader in video delivery infrastructure, and WISI Communications, a provider of world-class TV and broadband network solutions, today announced a partnership that provides cable operators with next-generation cable access solutions. Under the joint collaboration, Harmonic and WISI will develop products that allow operators to keep pace with ever-evolving business and industry requirements such as CCAP, DOCSIS 3.1 and Distributed Access Architecture with digital fiber transport. Through their powerful cable access solutions, Harmonic and WISI offer the service provider, hospitality, enterprise and MDU markets a flexible, scalable network architecture that optimizes the delivery of video, data and voice services, while lowering capital and operating expenses.

I&B Ministry provides fund of Rs 7.12 crore to the CBFC

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which is supposed to work independently according to the Cinematograph Act, 1952 now seems to totally depend on the Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry as far as its budget is concerned.

Epic Channel now available for free preview

India’s first segmented Hindi entertainment channel, the Epic Channel is now available on Dish Tv platform for free preview. The channel is available for free till 1st July to all Dish TV subscribers.

Videocon d2h, media planners’& Niche advertisers’ dream platform

Videocon d2h India’s fastest growing DTH service has opened up new avenues for advertisers. Fresh from its listing on NASDAQ, Videocon d2h has made giant strides in the DTH industry; Videocon d2h is now offering advertising options available on its platform making it the preferred DTH player for niche and targeted advertising. 

Media Trials ‘An intervention with the Justice system’

On 22nd April 2015, soon after a farmer from Dausa district of Rajasthan committed suicide by hanging from a tree in Delhi’s Jantar Mantar during Aam Admi Party’s anti-land acquisition rally, the news created an uproar in the media. Politicians in their crisp linen attires began beating their breasts and blaming their opponents, while a few people threw hash tags at each other leading to an outrage in TV studios. 

Cable operator shot at, by bike borne assailants

A 26 years cable operator, Sunil Kumar was shot at in South East Delhi’s Jaitpur on Thursday evening by some unidentified bike borne assailants. According to the Police, he was attending a marriage ceremony while he was fired at by two assailants on a bike. The incident took place a few meters away from the local police station and a case of attempt to murder has been lodged, added the police.

DEN JV partners to form separate association

Indian MSO, DEN Network is on the verge of parting away from its joint venture partners in Phase III and IV of digitization by taking the direct distribution route from its existing joint venture partners across the country.

JAINHITS meets LCOs in Odisha

Participating in a road show in Odisha recently, headend-in-the-sky (HITS) operator, JAINHITS made an attempt to educate the LCOs about the HITS model. 

Confusion over DAS boundary prevails in Hyderabad

Despite of being a hub of IT industry, confusion over DAS boundary prevails among the multi-system operators (MSOs) in Hyderabad.

DD to launch news programme in Sanskrit

Doordarshan is all set to launch a weekly based news programme in Sanskrit at 12 noon on June 28th (Sunday), coinciding with the World Sanskrit Conference to be held in Bangkok, twitted Prasar Bharti Chairman A Surya Prakash .

Rajendra Prasad elected as new MAA president

Actor G. Rajendra Prasad was elected as the new president of Movie Artistes’ Association (MAA), Telangana on Friday, bringing a week- long high voltage campaign to an end. Actor, Sivaji Raja was declared as General Secretary, while actor Mohan Babu’s daughter Manchu Lakshmi and actor Sivakrishna were elected as vice-presidents.

BSNL partners with ASI to to make Taj Mahal a Wi-fi free Zone

Soon after Union Telecom Minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad’s announcement to strengthen the broadband connection throughout the country, state-run telecom operator BSNL declares to provide free Wi-Fi internet facility across the sprawling campus of Taj Mahal in Agra from 16th June 2015. BSNL also revealed that it has partnered with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to provide WiFi hotspots for tourists at the Taj Mahal for half an hour. Users exceeding 30 minutes will be charged Rs.30 per hour.

Punjab Cable Operators challenges State Excise Department in court

Cable operators of Punjab have filed a writ petition in the High Court of Punjab and Haryana on 29th may 2015 challenging the notice issued by the State Excise Department for recovery of service tax arrears.

Telangana Cable TV operators Association alleges Hathway of harassment

Hathway Cable & Datacom Ltd. has disconnected the feed of popular channels to the State cable operators of Telangana without giving a mandatory of 21 days notice which is stipulated in TRAI Quality of Service Regulations. Apart from this, it is also alleged that the MSO has increased the subscription fees without any prior notice to the LCOs. 

I&B and AYUSH Secretaries to co-chair meeting with Broadcast Industry representatives for International Yoga Day on 21st June

On the occasion of the International Yoga Day on 21st June, 2015, Information and Broadcasting Secretary, Shri Bimal Julka and Secretary AYUSH, Shri Nilanjan Sanyal co-chaired a meeting with the representatives of broadcasting industry seeking their participation in the event across various platforms in the broadcasting domain.

Veena Jain may stay as DG of DD News

Minister of Information and Broadcasting of India, Arun Jaitely informed that Veena Jain may stay on the position of Director General of DD News.

Image nation joins hands with Discovery to launch ‘Quest Arabiya’ in the Middle East

Image Nation and Discovery have entered into joint venture to create and launch a new Arabic television channel ‘Quest Arabiya’ for the audiences of Middle East and North Africa.

First workshop of State Level Nodal Officers held to pursue 3rd Phase of Cable TV digitization by 31st December, 2015

On 3rd June, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting organized a one-day workshop for state level nodal officers. Speaking on the occasion, Shri J. S. Mathur, Additional Secretary, Ministry of I&B welcomed the representatives of various states and emphasized that priority should be given to this initiative. Elaborating on its importance, Shri Mathur said that a lot of work has been done by the Ministry of I&B in this regard and that it would be beneficial even for the states as it would eventually lead to increase in revenue and job creation. 

Disney to extend its TV series to mobile game and consumer products

Disney India has announced its plans to extend its TV series ‘Arjun: Prince of Bali’ to a mobile game and consumer products. 

Downton Abbey voted best TV drama of 2014

Downton Abbey, a British drama series has been voted the best TV drama of 2014 at the Voice of the Listener and Viewer Awards. The drama, which returns for its sixth and final series later this year, was the only ITV programme that won an award.

185 out of 230 complaints upholded in March: ASCI

In March 2015, the Advertising Standards Council of India’s (ASCI) Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) upheld complaints against 185 out of 230 advertisements. Out of 185 advertisements against which complaints were upheld, 81 belonged to the Personal and Healthcare category, followed by 57 advertisements in the Education category, and 47 advertisements in other categories. According to ASCI, these ads are either misleading or false and hence violating ASCI's code.

nexGTv, Fluence colloborate to create mobile serials

NexGTv - India's preferred entertainment destination on the mobile, from Digivive Services, has entered into a strategic tie-up with CA Media Digital's first venture Fluence – India's largest celebrity digital network, to create celebrity led ‘mobi-serials.' Taking the next step in digital entertainment, Fluence will create and produce for the first time in India clutter breaking, original content for nexGTv.

Raj Kundra, Akshay kumar & Chiyann Vikram to launch Big Deal TV in Chennai

Entrepreneur Raj Kundra, bollywood actor Akshay Kumar and Tamil actor Chiyaan Vikram came together to launch a 24x7 shopping channel ‘Big Deal TV’ in Chennai on 3rd June.

Videocon d2h posts its fiscal result for 2014-15.

Videocon d2h Limited announced its financial results for the fiscal year 2014-15. The company under the leadership of its Executive Chairman, Saurabh Dhoot, is supposed to hold two conferences to discuss the results on June 4th, 2015. This is the Company’s first earnings release since the listing of its American Depositary Shares on the NASDAQ on April 1st, 2015. 

ARRIS celebrates 25th anniversary of digital TV

IP, video and broadband technology specialist ARRIS is marking the 25thanniversary on June 1st of its involvement in the birth of digital TV under a previous entity (General Instrument Corporation, subsequently acquired by Motorola) in a FCC proposal that launched a new standard for TV and paved the way for today’s TV experiences.

Tata Sky picks IBM to launch its app ‘mSales’ for business growth

Tata Sky has selected IBM to launch a new app, mSales for its 14 million subscribers across the country. 

Epic TV to launch mobile app in July

Epic Television Networks, a segmented entertainment channel is set to go digital with the launch of its mobile app in July.

Sudha Chandran to host Zee Tamizh’s show ‘Solvathellam Unmai’

Sudha Chandran, an ace dancer and actor has been roped in by Zee Tamizh to host its reality talk show Solvathellam Unmai.

$4.8 bn for Hong Kong video entertainment market: LeTV

China’s LeTV, a content provider is all set to invest $4.8 billion in Hong Kong video entertainment market. 

Broadcast Audience Research Council set to post TV ratings on Twitter

Broadcast Audience Research Council is set to post its weekly television data on Twitter through the hashtag #BARCTweet. 

Madras HC reserves its order on plea of Sun TV against ED attachment

On 3rd June, the Madras High Court reserved orders on petitions filed by Kalanidhi Maran-owned Sun TV and Kal Communications challenging the recent attachment of their properties by Enforcement Directorate in connection with its money laundering probe in the Aircel-Maxis deal.

Ineligible firms got spectrum licenses by A. Raja: Enforcement Directorate

On 1st June, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) admitted before a special court that the former Telecom Minister, A. Raja, had allocated 2G spectrum licenses to certain ineligible companies in lieu of which Rs 200 crore was supposedly transferred to Kalaignar TV, owned by DMK supremo M Karunanidhi’s family. 

Hathway Cable to spend Rs 700 crore as capital expenditure for FY16

Hathway Cable & Datacom, a largest Multi-System Operator (MSO) in India has allocated Rs 700 crore as capital expenditure for the Financial Year 2016.  The MSO will invest Rs 420 crore in cable TV and Rs 280 crore in broadband, said a senior executive. 

Prasar Bharati Chairman, CEO annoyed with the appointment of DG of DD News

The appointment of Veena Jain as Director-General of Doordarshan News, without seeking the approval of the Prasar Bharati Board, has become a debatable issue with the Chairman of the Prasar Bharati Corporation, Surya Prakash, and Chief Executive Officer Jawhar Sircar taking the matter to the I&B Ministry.