BIG FM has applied to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) for licences to launch six new digital-first news channels. The move follows its acquisition of Sapphire Media’s existing news business, including India Daily 24×7, and marks a significant step toward building a national news presence under the BIG News Network banner.
The network aims to combine the reach of broadcast with the scale and accessibility of digital platforms. The proposed channels will prioritise timely, accurate and credible reporting, supported by hyperlocal and vernacular coverage, regional perspectives and micro-content formats designed for digital audiences. The ambition is to build one of India’s largest news networks.
The expansion fits within ONE BIG WORLD, BIG FM’s AI-powered integrated media ecosystem spanning radio, news, digital platforms, digital out-of-home (DOOH) media and live experiences. The news vertical will extend the ecosystem’s reach across platforms and markets.
Ashit Kukian, CEO, BIG FM, said, “We see a strong opportunity to grow our presence in the news broadcasting space by bringing together our existing capabilities and new digital-first formats. As audience preferences evolve, our focus is on making news more accessible, relevant and engaging across platforms, languages and regional markets.”
