Javed Farooqui

Leading TV distributors like Tata Play and Airtel Digital TV are pushing for lower content fees from broadcasters. Facing subscriber losses and escalating channel prices, these platforms find current deals unsustainable. While some broadcasters are offering discounts, major players with strong channel portfolios are expected to resist demands for a 5-7% reduction, as the pay-TV market continues to shrink.

HarperCollins India has secured the global rights to Rajiv Bakshi's first literary work, which serves as a practical roadmap for achieving success in the modern corporate landscape. Leveraging his vast experience in leadership, Bakshi's book addresses essential decisions and habits for both burgeoning and seasoned professionals. The ultimate goal is to arm readers with the assurance needed to fulfill their professional ambitions.

Sony Pictures Networks India reported a significant profit increase for FY26. This growth was primarily fueled by a cricket-heavy sports calendar and strong advertising revenue. The company's net profit rose to ₹556 crore from ₹481 crore a year earlier. Revenue from operations also saw a healthy increase of nine percent year-on-year.

Indian broadcasters and streaming platforms are significantly increasing investment in premium non-fiction content. Unscripted programming now accounts for nearly thirty percent of all content across platforms. Companies are betting on reality and comedy formats to attract viewers and build franchises. Netflix and Prime Video are expanding their unscripted content with homegrown and international shows. Broadcasters like Star Plus and Sony are also strengthening their non-fiction offerings to boost viewership.

Star Plus is strategically re-entering premium non-fiction programming after a long hiatus. The channel has launched India Ke Top 1%, an adaptation of a global quiz show. This move aims to attract wider audiences and deepen viewer engagement. Non-fiction formats offer richer integration opportunities for advertisers and brands. The channel will evaluate future non-fiction investments based on audience reception.

Netflix India plans four weekly releases in the latter half of 2026. The platform is broadening its programming beyond scripted shows to include new genres. It will feature reality formats and longer-form series for greater audience engagement. Netflix is also collaborating with digital creators for exclusive and co-exclusive content. This expansion reflects evolving Indian streaming audience preferences for varied content.

The recent observation by Google indicates that more users are turning to conversational queries, opening up exciting new possibilities for advertisers. As AI influences search advertising, companies are reevaluating their traditional approaches. This transition towards conversational search facilitates quicker consumer decision-making. Moreover, India's unique regional languages provide a tremendous opportunity for advancing conversational search capabilities and enhancing user engagement.

Indian marketers embrace artificial intelligence with high ambition and investment. However, many companies mistake experimentation for true transformation and measurable impact. The gap between ambition and reality is wider in India than globally. Companies making progress redesign workflows and invest in data and employee upskilling.

India's esports market is expanding into a multi-game sector with growing publisher investments. Regulatory clarity is encouraging more game launches and ecosystem development across India. The gaming industry is projected to reach $2.4 billion by 2029 with 600 million gamers. JioBLAST is diversifying its offerings to cater to this evolving competitive landscape.

New draft rules propose telecom-style regulation for broadcasting services and internet television, leaving broadcasters worried about internet inclusion in terrestrial transmission and IPTV definitions. Stricter penalties and authorisation requirements have also raised significant industry concerns. consulting on regulating application-based linear television distribution services.