Al Jazeera English Granted Indian Broadcast License

DOHA: India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has given Al Jazeera English a license to launch its 24-hour news and current-affairs network in the country.

The channel has been given the go-ahead to downlink its feed in India, following a long application process that began in 2006. Al Jazeera English says it has received interest from a number of platforms to offer the channel.

“This is an exciting breakthrough that has been in the works for several years, and we are extremely pleased that Al Jazeera English’s groundbreaking news and programming will soon be available in India,” said Al Anstey, managing director of Al Jazeera English. “We know there is a great demand for our award-winning content. Through our dedicated resources in India, Al Jazeera is already presenting important stories from India to our global audience in more than 100 countries. We are delighted that we now have the opportunity to present viewers in India with Al Jazeera English’s in-depth coverage and rich context of today’s most important global events.”

The network already has a New Delhi bureau, offering coverage of, among other events, the Mumbai attacks of 2008, the general elections, the Commonwealth Games and U.S. President Barack Obama’s recent visit. "With India’s increasing engagement in world affairs and strong interest in international events, we are certain that Al Jazeera English will have a substantial following throughout the country," noted Anmol Saxena, Al Jazeera English’s Bureau Chief in New Delhi.

Diana Hosker, head of distribution for the region, added: “With the prospect of reaching an estimated 115 million households in India, this important market will be significant as we continue to expand our global reach.”