AETN in Indian JV

NEW YORK/MUMBAI: AETN International is set to launch its channel brands into India via a joint venture with Network18 Group.

AETN-18 India will launch HISTORY, BIO and other AETN channel brands into India, with timelines to be announced in due course. The venture will be based in Mumbai. Network18 already operates a host of networks in India, including CNBC-TV18, CNBC AWAAZ, CNN-IBN, IBN7, IBN-Lokmat and, in partnership with Viacom, the top-rating Hindi-language general entertainment channel Colors, as well as MTV, VH1 and Nickelodeon.

Abbe Raven, president and CEO of AETN, commented, “India presents us with strong growth opportunities for AETN’s global portfolio strategy. We believe that in Network18, we’ve found the best partner for launching AETN’s brands. We look forward to a long and successful partnership in this important market.”

Raghav Bahl, founder and editor, Network18, added, “AETN-18 will endeavor to mirror the success that channels like HISTORY have had in the US. I believe the time is right for India to have a vibrant and dynamic factual entertainment space, led by channels like HISTORY.”

“We believe that industry leader Network18’s extensive infrastructure and local market expertise matched with AETN’s acclaimed brands and content will create a formidable media presence in India,” noted Steve Ronson, executive VP of enterprises at AETN.

Haresh Chawla, group CEO of Network18, added, “We hope to be able to create a unique position in the Indian market and become the number one player in the factual entertainment space. I am confident that AETN’s programming prowess will be matched with Network18’s skill sets in brand building, distribution and monetization. Greater addressability and growth in the pay TV market will help us capitalize on this significant, but relatively ‘under-serviced’ space. AETN-18 will endeavor to redefine the factual entertainment genre in India.”