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Comedian Kunal Kamra Slams Mainstream Media Amid Controversy Over Stand-Up Special

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Comedian Kunal Kamra launched a scathing attack on mainstream media, calling it a “miscommunication arm” of the ruling party and comparing it to vultures. The remarks come amidst a controversy surrounding his stand-up special Naya Bharat, which took aim at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Taking to X, Kamra, 36, expressed his frustration with media coverage, stating, “Mainstream media at this point is nothing but a miscommunication arm of the ruling party. They are vultures who report on issues that don’t matter to the people of this country. If they shut shop tomorrow, it would be a favor to the nation.” The comedian did not specify a particular reason for his outburst but has been facing backlash following his latest performance. In Naya Bharat, Kamra performed a parody of Hawa Hawai from Mr. India, criticizing Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s policies. However, the video was blocked on YouTube due to copyright claims, preventing it from generating revenue. Despite this, Naya Bharat amassed over 8.2 million views within five days. The controversy escalated when Shiv Sena members vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar, where Kamra’s show was held, as well as a hotel in the same premises. Mumbai Police have since issued two summonses for Kamra to appear in connection with a complaint filed by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel over his alleged “derogatory remarks” against Shinde. The comedian, however, has maintained that he will not apologize for his statements.

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Stagwell to Boost 2025 News Ad Spend by 22%, Reinforcing Commitment to Trusted Journalism

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Stagwell (NASDAQ: STGW) has announced a 22% year-over-year increase in its 2025 advertising spend in news media, reinforcing its commitment to supporting trusted journalism. The announcement aligns with Stagwell’s second annual Future of News UK Summit and the release of a new study highlighting the importance of news as an advertising platform for EMEA CEOs and Board Directors. “At Stagwell, we believe supporting trusted journalism isn’t just good for society — it’s smart business,” said Mark Penn, Chairman and CEO of Stagwell. The Future of News initiative, launched by Stagwell, aims to strengthen the relationship between news and marketing through research, events, and discussions around brand safety. According to a study conducted by Stagwell’s research consultancy HarrisX, business leaders across the UK, France, Germany, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) see news media as a vital advertising platform: 🔹 80% believe news media is a powerful medium to reach stakeholders. 🔹 85% view advertising on news platforms as a good investment. 🔹 73% of UK and 82% of GCC CEOs believe news media is critical to democracy. 🔹 92% of GCC executives say advertising in news is a strong investment. Despite the increasing emphasis on brand safety protocols, 71% of executives believe these measures are overapplied, hurting media outlets and advertisers. James Townsend, Stagwell EMEA CEO, emphasized that while AI, politics, and brand safety remain hot topics, business leaders still recognize the power of news media in driving effective advertising. Stagwell will host panel discussions at its EMEA headquarters in London with industry leaders from CNN International, Newsquest, and The Sunday Times, focusing on journalism’s role in truth and transparency. Source: prnewswire

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IPL 2025 Opener at Risk of Abandonment Due to Orange Alert in Kolkata

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The much-anticipated IPL 2025 season opener between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens faces a serious threat of abandonment due to heavy rain forecasts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for Kolkata on March 22, predicting thunderstorms and significant rainfall in the region. According to Accuweather, there is a 74% chance of rain on Saturday, with cloud cover expected at 97%. The probability of showers rises to 90% in the evening, increasing concerns over whether the match can proceed. Adding to scheduling challenges, KKR’s home game against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on April 6 is also set to be relocated to Guwahati. The shift comes after West Bengal police cited security concerns due to Ram Navami celebrations, with over 20,000 processions planned across the state. Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Snehasish Ganguly confirmed the development, stating that rescheduling the match in Kolkata was not feasible. Despite these uncertainties, the IPL 2025 opening ceremony remains on track, featuring performances by Disha Patani and Shreyas Ghoshal. Fans will be hoping for a break in the weather to ensure the blockbuster KKR vs. RCB clash takes place as planned. Source: NDTV

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India’s 2036 Olympic Bid: A Game-Changer for Sports & Infrastructure

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India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games presents a massive opportunity to boost infrastructure investment while ensuring lasting benefits for local communities, according to sports governance expert Moya Dodd. As the world’s most populous nation, India has yet to host an Olympics. However, it has previously organized the Asian Games (1951, 1982) and the Commonwealth Games (2010). The city of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is expected to be at the heart of the Olympic bid, though a multi-city approach remains a possibility. A Catalyst for Growth Dodd, a former FIFA Council member and part of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Athlete Entourage Commission, emphasized the long-term benefits of developing world-class sports infrastructure. “It’s a great opportunity to turbo-charge investment into sports infrastructure that will bear fruit for years,” she stated at the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit. She also stressed the importance of inclusive development, ensuring investments serve communities beyond the Games. Global Competition for the 2036 Olympics Several nations, including Indonesia, Turkey, and Chile, have already declared their interest in hosting the 2036 Olympics, with Egypt and South Korea also expected to join the race. Dodd highlighted the need for a legacy-driven approach, ensuring the event uplifts communities rather than extracts resources. “Sport should be a force for good. Hosting the Olympics should not cause disadvantage or suffering but deliver benefits along the way.” India’s Olympic Performance & Future Investments Historically, India has won 41 Olympic medals, including 10 golds, primarily from hockey (1928-1980), athletics, and shooting. The country secured its best-ever seven-medal haul in Tokyo 2021. Former India hockey captain PR Sreejesh, who played a key role in securing bronze medals at the Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024 Olympics, stressed the importance of grassroots investment. “If we aim for success in the 2036 Olympics, now is the time to identify and nurture young talent, especially in the 12-14 age group,” said Sreejesh, now coaching India’s junior men’s hockey team. With the right investments, planning, and vision, India’s Olympic bid could reshape the country’s sporting landscape and infrastructure for decades to come.

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Digital Transformation to Boost Indian Media Revenue Growth to 8% by FY2027

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The Indian media industry is projected to witness annual revenue growth of 8% by FY2027, driven by the increasing shift toward digital platforms, according to a recent CRISIL Ratings report. This marks an improvement from the 5% annual growth recorded between FY2019 and FY2024. The report, which analyzed 20 media companies accounting for 55% of the industry’s revenue, estimates that media revenue will reach approximately ₹60,000 crore by FY2027. Alongside revenue expansion, operating margins are expected to improve by nearly 500 basis points (bps) to 18%, aided by cost rationalization. Key Growth Drivers: Rising digital ad revenue as consumer preferences shift to online content Growth in traditional ad revenue from print, fueled by domestic retail demand in FMCG, automobiles, education, e-commerce, and real estate Increasing smartphone penetration, low-cost mobile data (approx. $0.2 per GB), and widespread 5G adoption Despite the delayed digital transformation by Indian media firms, the segment’s revenue share is expected to increase from 12% in FY2024 to over 18% by FY2027. However, high manpower, content creation, and marketing costs have kept digital ventures unprofitable, with the industry reporting a 20% operating loss in FY2024. Manish Gupta, Senior Director at CRISIL Ratings, stated: “To better leverage the digital wave, media companies have begun focusing on OTT platforms, social media, and mobile apps.” However, improved targeted advertising and customer segmentation are expected to enhance digital profitability, according to Ankit Hakhu, Director at CRISIL Ratings. At least 8 out of 20 companies in the study have successfully identified the right audience fit, allowing for more cost-effective promotional strategies. The report also warns of potential risks, particularly fluctuations in newsprint (NP) prices, which account for 30-40% of costs. Unexpected price surges, like the 23% spike in FY2023, could impact overall industry profitability. Conclusion: With an accelerated digital shift and stronger ad revenues, India’s media industry is poised for sustained growth. However, firms will need to optimize digital investments and mitigate supply chain risks to fully capitalize on this transformation. Source: Business Standard

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State Govt Allocates ₹10 Crore for Advanced Media Monitoring Cell

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The Maharashtra state government has approved a ₹10 crore budget to establish and operate a media monitoring cell under the Directorate General of Information and Public Relations (DGIPR). The initiative aims to systematically track, analyze, and report news across print, electronic, social, and digital media. A specialized agency will be appointed for a one-year term, with a potential extension of two years based on performance. This agency will manage a media monitoring centre, providing real-time data through dashboards and mobile applications to enhance the government’s responsiveness to media trends. According to the government resolution (GR), the cell will observe and categorize media content as positive or negative, enabling authorities to counter misinformation swiftly. The first phase will cover news websites, online apps, and traditional media. Future expansions will incorporate emerging media formats. The monitoring centre will operate from 8 AM to 10 PM, tracking content hourly and generating daily, weekly, and monthly reports on media trends, public sentiment, and policy reception. Additionally, it will issue alerts on misinformation, fake news, and misleading narratives to prevent disruptions in the state. Key Features of the Media Monitoring Cell: Real-time tracking of print, digital, and social media Categorization of news by topic, section, and event Hourly trend analysis on mood and tone Dashboards & mobile apps for seamless information access Misinformation detection to maintain public order This scientific approach to media monitoring will help the government assess public perception and respond to critical issues more efficiently. Source: TOI

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A weakened Australia put up a strong fight, but India’s experience ensured a successful chase of 265, reaching the target with 11 balls to spare

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India 267 for 6 (Kohli 84, Iyer 45, Rahul 42*, Ellis 2-49, Zampa 2-60) beat Australia 264 (Smith 73, Carey 61, Shami 3-48, Jadeja 2-40, Varun 2-49) by five wickets. Dubai will host the Champions Trophy final, and India will be there after overcoming a resilient Australian side in an intense semi-final. Though Australia had their moments, India’s class and composure ultimately secured their victory. Virat Kohli, a symbol of consistency, played a pivotal role once again. Having earlier crafted a chase-masterclass against Pakistan, he looked set for another century before an unexpected shot ended his innings at 84. However, by then, he had surpassed 8000 runs in ODI chases and had left India requiring only 40 off 44 balls. KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya finished the job efficiently, with Rahul sealing the victory in style with a six over long-on off Glenn Maxwell. Despite Australia hitting more boundaries (20 fours and eight sixes) than India (16 fours and seven sixes), India’s game plan revolved around calculated aggression and smart running between the wickets. They faced just 124 dot balls compared to Australia’s 153 and ran 158 of their runs, significantly more than Australia’s 129. India’s four-spinner strategy proved effective on a slow and low pitch. While the surface didn’t offer extravagant turn, the Indian spinners controlled the game better than their Australian counterparts, maintaining pressure by attacking the stumps and restricting scoring areas. Their collective dot-ball percentage stood at 50%, whereas Australia’s was just over 39%. Australia showed promise at multiple junctures. Choosing to bat first, they eyed a total of 300, with three key batters threatening to turn the game in their favor. However, all three fell just as they seemed to be taking control. Source: ESPN

A weakened Australia put up a strong fight, but India’s experience ensured a successful chase of 265, reaching the target with 11 balls to spare Read More »

India to Face Australia in Dubai Semi-Final; New Zealand to Meet South Africa in Lahore

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India will take on Australia in the first semi-final of the Champions Trophy in Dubai on Tuesday after securing a 44-run victory over New Zealand in their final group-stage match. Meanwhile, New Zealand will travel to Lahore to face South Africa in the second semi-final on Wednesday. A complex scheduling situation has resulted in logistical challenges for some teams. Both Australia and South Africa had initially flown to Dubai in preparation for the knockouts. However, South Africa will now have to return to Lahore for their semi-final match against New Zealand. An ICC official stated that the decision to keep Australia in Dubai was made to provide them with maximum preparation time for the semi-final on March 4. The tournament schedule was impacted by India’s refusal to play any of their matches in Pakistan. As a result, their semi-final was pre-determined to be held in Dubai, regardless of their standing in Group A. The PCB had earlier attempted to convince India to play in Lahore, but the BCCI cited a lack of government approval for travel to Pakistan. New Zealand is set to fly to Lahore early Monday morning, while South Africa will return to Pakistan later in the day after spending roughly 36 hours in Dubai. Following India’s dominant group-stage performance, captain Rohit Sharma emphasized the importance of momentum heading into the knockout stage. “You try to win every game and correct mistakes quickly,” Rohit said. “Australia has a rich history in ICC tournaments, but we’ll focus on our game and look forward to the contest.”

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White House to Control Press Access to Trump, Breaking Long-Standing Tradition

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The White House announced on Tuesday that its officials will now decide which news outlets can regularly cover President Donald Trump up close, marking a significant departure from a century-old tradition where an independent press pool held the president accountable on behalf of the American public. The move, alongside the government’s arguments in a federal lawsuit filed by The Associated Press over media access, has sparked concerns among free speech advocates and journalists. Critics argue that it represents an unprecedented attempt to control coverage of the presidency, potentially limiting transparency and press freedom. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the decision, stating that the changes aim to modernize the press pool by rotating traditional outlets and incorporating streaming services. She framed the shift as a way to enhance inclusivity and restore access to the American people who elected Trump. However, media experts warn that allowing the president to selectively choose coverage raises serious First Amendment concerns. Three major wire services that distribute news globally criticized the decision, emphasizing that restricting press access could hinder the dissemination of reliable information about the U.S. president. Free speech advocates have also voiced alarm, warning that such control over media access sets a dangerous precedent for democracy. The announcement adds to growing tensions between the Trump administration and the press, with concerns that limiting access could undermine journalistic independence and public accountability. Source: Business Standard

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India’s Got Latent Controversy: Govt Urges OTT, Social Media to Follow Regulations

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Amid the controversy surrounding remarks made by YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia on comedian Samay Raina’s YouTube show India’s Got Latent, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has reiterated the importance of adhering to the Information Technology (IT) Rules, 2021. According to a Livemint report, the MIB has advised OTT platforms and social media networks to ensure compliance with content regulations, particularly regarding age-based classifications. The ministry emphasized self-regulation and the need for strict adherence to guidelines for content rated “A”, aiming to protect children from exposure to inappropriate material. Government’s Advisory on OTT and Social Media Following public backlash over Allahbadia’s comments regarding parents and sex, the MIB issued an official advisory, marking the second reminder in two months on content regulation. The ministry highlighted concerns raised by Members of Parliament, statutory bodies, and the general public over the alleged spread of obscene and vulgar content on digital platforms. The advisory stated: “OTT platforms must comply with applicable laws and the Code of Ethics under IT Rules, 2021, particularly in maintaining age-based content classification. Self-regulatory bodies of these platforms should proactively take action against violations of the Code of Ethics.” Parliament & Supreme Court’s Response The issue has also reached the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology and Communications, which expressed concerns about the lack of proper regulation of digital content. Lawmakers have called for stricter enforcement of IT laws to prevent the spread of explicit material. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court weighed in on the matter while hearing Allahbadia’s bail plea. With multiple FIRs filed against him across states for obscenity, the top court granted interim protection from arrest but issued strong warnings regarding online content moderation. The Supreme Court observed: Social media influencers must be mindful of their societal impact. Popularity does not grant immunity from accountability. Freedom of speech has limitations and does not justify inappropriate remarks. A bench of judges remarked: “Would anyone find such language acceptable in any setting? He is insulting people, including parents. His mindset, reflected in his words, is deeply troubling.” The court also hinted at government inaction in regulating digital platforms, stating: “If the government does not take action, we will step in. There is a regulatory vacuum that needs to be addressed.” With growing scrutiny, the controversy has reignited debates over freedom of expression, content moderation, and government intervention in digital media.

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