FYI Heads to India

NEW YORK/BALI: A+E Networks and TV18 are set to launch FYI TV18, a factual lifestyle and entertainment network, in India this July.

The network will be available across DTH and cable platforms, launching with more than 100 hours of Hindi-language programming. The initial slate includes three locally produced shows.

“FYI has been a tremendously strong brand for us in the United States, as the most upscale network in cable,” said Sean Cohan, president of international and digital media at A+E Networks. “India presents strong growth opportunities for A+E Networks’s global portfolio strategy and we’d like to replicate the success of HISTORY TV18 as well as other powerful global brands in our bouquet, starting with FYI TV18.”

Adil Zainulbhai, chairman of Network18, added, “The launch of FYI TV18 is in-sync with our philosophy of providing fresh, modern content for an India on the go. After redefining news and general entertainment for Indian audiences, we believe the time is ripe for another disruption in the lifestyle space.”

Avinash Kaul, CEO of IBN News Network and president of A+E Networks | TV18, said, “India is changing rapidly and this generation of Millennials is at the forefront of radical upheavals in technology, family dynamics, gender equality, entrepreneurship, etc. We believe there is a need for a sounding board to cater to this community, which finds itself at fault-lines of change. FYI TV18 will be that sounding board.”