Adani and NDTV: A Year in Review

It has been a year since we at exchange4media.com broke the story of Adani Group’s takeover of NDTV. The one-year period since Adani Group’s acquisition of NDTV has been a transformative journey and one of continuity for this venerable news network. Over the past 12 months, NDTV has undergone a big shift, transcending traditional news reporting, reflected in its recruitment strategies, programme diversity, and regional expansion. NDTV has emerged stronger, though its viewership ratings have temporarily taken a hit and revenues are under pressure in a VUCA environment and a tough year for the media overall. NDTV under AMG has been recalibrated for take-off and acceleration in 2024.

Since the Adani Group took the reins, one noticeable thing is that NDTV has emerged as a top recruiter of editorial talent. Amid uncertainties in the media industry, marked by layoffs, NDTV has defied the trend by nurturing talent, recruiting an impressive 250 people in the past year, solidifying its position as the largest media recruiter.
The network has strategically augmented its team, underscoring a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, thereby influencing the broader media landscape. The recent acquisition of news agency IANS has further consolidated Adani Group’s clout in the media landscape.

Eminent names like Sumit Awasthi, TM Veeraraghav, Nikunj Garg, Maria Shakil, and others have joined NDTV, making a significant impact on prime-time shows. While well-known faces of the network -Sonia Singh and Vishnu Som continue to lead various new initiatives. This influx not only exemplifies NDTV’s commitment to diversity but also provides a platform for voices resonating across a wide spectrum. Veeraraghav’s South Show, addressing a myriad of issues from politics to societal norms, stands out as a testament to NDTV’s dedication to presenting a diverse perspective.

The year gone by has also witnessed a big focus on the network’s part to build a world-class infrastructure. The newly inaugurated newsroom at NDTV Profit in BKC has garnered acclaim, highlighting the network’s dedication to fostering journalistic excellence. NDTV Profit has a long way to go but it will need much more aggression and differentiation to take on existing entrenched players.

Over the last one year, NDTV has maintained a newsroom-driven approach, empowering editors to shape narratives beyond the tumult of politics. Comprehensive coverage of global events, such as the Israel-Hamas conflict, Russia-India relations, and the G20 Summit, positions NDTV as a vanguard of editorial independence.

Venturing beyond traditional news broadcasts, NDTV’s expansion into regional channels, coupled with the revamped NDTV Profit, signals strategic growth. Manvi Sinha’s thought-provoking show exemplifies the network’s commitment to serious journalism, fostering nuanced discussions on complex issues.

In an era grappling with reduced advertising spending, NDTV has managed to attract top advertisers with its renewed editorial approach. Initiatives like the Hyundai show on disability and participation, along with efforts like Dettol Banega Swach India, underscore the network’s commitment to championing causes with broad resonance.
NDTV’s introduction of NDTV World as a vertical on ndtv.com solidifies the network’s global outreach. In a digitally connected era, this move positions NDTV as a global contender.

The term ‘godi media,’ once a subject of debate regarding potential corporate influence on editorial independence, has simmered down in the last 12 months. Contrary to expectations that NDTV might become a mouthpiece for the ruling party, the editorial leadership and coverage over the past year have dispelled such concerns.
As NDTV marks this milestone, it envisions a future characterized by diversity, inclusivity, independence, and progressiveness. The network’s journey under the Adani Group stands as a testament to the evolving media landscape and its ability to adapt to changing times.

NDTV’s one-year journey under the Adani Group has been marked by strategic recalibrations, diverse narratives, and an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity whatever the naysayers or critics may like to believe or spread as part of their biases. At the crossroads of media evolution, NDTV navigates challenges while embracing the transformative power of information. As it continues to evolve, NDTV remains a stalwart in the ever-changing media landscape, setting new standards and redefining its role in the broader narrative of news dissemination.