ArdorComm Media Group

Thursday, October 9, 2025 11:00 AM

Media Entertainment & Art Community

Netflix joins hands with IICT and FICCI to nurture India’s next-gen creative tech talent

Streaming leader Netflix has entered into a strategic partnership with the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) and FICCI to build and strengthen the pipeline of creative-technology professionals in India. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed during the 25th edition of FICCI Frames, marking a major step toward advancing India’s AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality) ecosystem. Under this collaboration, Netflix will utilize its Fund for Creative Equity to provide scholarships to selected students identified jointly with IICT. The fund aims to empower underrepresented talent in the media and entertainment industry by offering equitable learning and career opportunities. As part of the initiative, Netflix will actively participate in three of IICT’s national councils — R&D, Academic, and Industry Development — to foster synergy between academia, industry experts, and policymakers in shaping the future of India’s creative technology sector. Mahima Kaul, Director of Global Affairs, Netflix India, said the partnership is designed to strengthen the country’s AVGC sector and empower young creators. “Through this collaboration, we aim to equip aspiring storytellers and innovators with world-class tools and opportunities to fuel creativity and drive India’s digital entertainment economy,” she said. Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, CEO of IICT, emphasized that the alliance bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world industry experience. “By offering mentorship, practical exposure, and access to global best practices, we are preparing the next generation of creative technologists to thrive in the evolving AVGC-XR landscape,” he noted. Munjal Shroff, Chairman of the FICCI AVGC-XR Forum, added that the initiative will position India as a global hub for creative technologies. “This partnership not only builds future-ready talent but also fuels innovation and lays the foundation for sustainable growth in the sector,” he said. Source: PTI

Netflix joins hands with IICT and FICCI to nurture India’s next-gen creative tech talent Read More »

Festive Cheer Boosts Box Office: PVR INOX Records Over 50% Occupancy as Moviegoers Flock Back to Cinemas

PVR INOX Ltd is celebrating a blockbuster Dussehra weekend, witnessing a remarkable surge in footfall as audiences return to theatres in large numbers. The multiplex giant reported over 50% occupancy across its cinemas, welcoming more than 8.5 lakh movie lovers during the extended Dussehra–Gandhi Jayanti weekend. “Our theatres are buzzing with festive energy as audiences across India return to enjoy the magic of cinema,” said Gautam Dutta, CEO (Revenue & Operations), PVR INOX Ltd. With the second quarter showing strong growth momentum, the company expressed optimism for the upcoming festive season, which promises a packed lineup of anticipated releases. Titles like Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1, Jolly LLB, and One Battle After Another headline the Bollywood and Hollywood slate, while regional films continue to impress audiences nationwide. Regional blockbusters such as Idli Kadai (Tamil/Telugu), Maria (Tamil), Vada Pav (Marathi), and Nikka Zaildar 4 (Punjabi) are driving impressive box-office numbers, reflecting the vibrant diversity of India’s cinematic landscape. Currently, PVR INOX operates 1,757 screens across 353 properties in 111 cities in India and Sri Lanka, reaffirming its position as the country’s leading multiplex chain. Source: PTI

Festive Cheer Boosts Box Office: PVR INOX Records Over 50% Occupancy as Moviegoers Flock Back to Cinemas Read More »

Zee Marks 33 Years as India’s Satellite TV Trailblazer

What began in 1992 with a single channel has today grown into a powerhouse that shaped India’s television and entertainment industry. Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEEL), the country’s first private satellite broadcaster, has turned 33, celebrating its journey alongside the phenomenal growth of India’s media and entertainment sector—now valued at nearly ₹2.5 trillion and sustaining 2.8 million jobs. From the debut of Zee TV to an era of content abundance, India today hosts 900+ private satellite channels, 70+ OTT platforms, 40,000+ creative professionals, and more than 3,400 feature films produced annually. This transformation has turned homes into theatres and shaped the nation’s cultural fabric. Reflecting on the milestone, ZEEL CEO Punit Goenka said, “The story of Zee is intertwined with the rise of India’s M&E industry. Beyond numbers, it’s about the connections we’ve built and the creativity we’ve nurtured. As pioneers, we see this anniversary as an opportunity to propel forward and strengthen the creative ecosystem.” Over the years, Zee has kept pace with changing consumer tastes—fueling multilingual storytelling, expanding into music, films, digital and live entertainment, and now embracing short-form content for the mobile-first audience. With ₹1 lakh crore in foreign investment already flowing into the industry and projections estimating growth to ₹3.07 trillion by 2027, India’s entertainment sector is increasingly seen as a global cultural force. Zee’s 33-year journey is more than a corporate celebration—it’s a testament to how India learned to broadcast, binge, and beam its stories to the world. Source: Economic Times

Zee Marks 33 Years as India’s Satellite TV Trailblazer Read More »

WaveX Expands with Seven New Incubation Centers for Media, Entertainment & AVGC-XR Startups

WaveX, the startup accelerator platform under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting’s WAVES program, has unveiled seven new incubation centers across India, strengthening its commitment to nurturing startups in Media, Entertainment, and the AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality) ecosystem. This expansion builds on the flagship incubator at the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), Mumbai, marking India’s first dedicated nationwide incubation-cum-acceleration initiative tailored for this sector. New Incubation Hubs The fresh incubation centers will be hosted at: Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi IIMC, Jammu IIMC, Dhenkanal (Odisha) IIMC, Kottayam (Kerala) IIMC, Amravati (Maharashtra) Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), Kolkata  With this network, startups will have access to cutting-edge facilities for film production, game design, editing, and immersive content creation. IICT Mumbai already boasts world-class infrastructure, including an 8K Red Raptor Vista Vision camera, Dolby Atmos-enabled 4K HDR preview theatre, high-performance Alienware workstations, LED-wall-based virtual production stages, photogrammetry systems, sound and color-mix studios, 4K HDR editing suites, VR testing kits, and next-gen gaming consoles. Comprehensive Startup Support WaveX incubatees will benefit from: Co-working zones, digital/AV labs, and professional studios High-speed connectivity, hosting servers, AI compute services, and cloud credits (AWS/Google) Sandbox testing across OTT, gaming, VFX, animation, and immersive media Expert mentorship, global masterclasses, and curated investor-connect sessions Partnerships with IITs, T-Hub, and other incubators for cross-learning opportunities  Additionally, selected startups may collaborate with I&B Ministry media wings such as Doordarshan, AIR, FTII, PIB, Publications Division, New Media Wing, and EMCC, with the possibility of receiving priority in outsourced projects. Application Details Batch Size: 15 startups per center  Fee: ₹8,500 + GST per month  Eligibility: Media, entertainment, and AVGC-XR startups preferred  How to Apply: Submit applications at wavex.wavesbazaar.com under the “Apply for Incubation” option.  Source: PIB

WaveX Expands with Seven New Incubation Centers for Media, Entertainment & AVGC-XR Startups Read More »

Ashwini Vaishnaw Pushes for Indigenous Film Equipment, Model Cinema Rules

Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Tuesday emphasized the importance of manufacturing advanced film equipment such as professional-grade cameras in India under the ‘Make in India’ programme. Speaking at the National Film Awards ceremony, he highlighted the government’s commitment to boosting local production capabilities in the entertainment sector. Vaishnaw also revealed that the Centre is preparing Model State Cinema Regulation Rules aimed at harmonising permissions and approvals across states to make film production processes more seamless. The minister stressed the need to build a live concert economy, supported by clear policies, simplified permissions, and uniform guidelines, noting that such steps could significantly expand India’s creative industries. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of positioning India as a global content hub. To further this goal, Vaishnaw said the country’s first International Institute of Cinema and Technology (IICT) has already started operations at the NFDC campus in Mumbai. The institute is offering 17 specialised courses in partnership with global technology giants such as Meta, NVIDIA, Microsoft, and Google. Highlighting global outreach, he mentioned that Indian creators are finding new opportunities abroad through the government-backed Waves Bazaar, which has been showcased in countries including Australia, South Korea, and Canada. Source: PTI  

Ashwini Vaishnaw Pushes for Indigenous Film Equipment, Model Cinema Rules Read More »

‘Homebound’ picked as India’s official Oscar entry for 2026

Hindi film Homebound has been selected as India’s official submission for the 96th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. The announcement was made in Kolkata by filmmaker N. Chandra, chairperson of the 12-member selection committee, on Friday. Chandra revealed that 24 films across various Indian languages were in the race, calling the final choice “a very difficult decision.” He added, “We were not judges but mentors, looking for storytellers who have truly left an impact.” Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and jointly produced by Karan Johar and Adar Poonawalla, Homebound features Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in pivotal roles. The film follows the journey of two childhood friends from a modest village in northern India as they pursue a police job that offers them long-sought dignity and recognition. Source: PTI  

‘Homebound’ picked as India’s official Oscar entry for 2026 Read More »

Parliament Panel Seeks Legal, Tech Framework to Combat AI-Driven Fake News

A parliamentary panel has urged the government to put in place robust legal and technological mechanisms to track, identify, and penalize those responsible for spreading AI-generated fake news. In its draft report, the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology — chaired by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey — emphasized the need for a balanced use of Artificial Intelligence. While AI is being applied to detect misinformation, the report cautioned that the same technology can also generate and amplify it. The report has been submitted to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and will be tabled in the upcoming session. The committee has recommended stronger coordination between the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and other concerned departments. Among its proposals are exploring licensing requirements for AI content creators and introducing mandatory labelling for AI-generated text, videos, and images. It also highlighted ongoing government-backed projects such as deep learning-based speech detection systems and software tools designed to identify deepfake videos and images. The MeitY has already set up a nine-member panel to study deepfake-related challenges. While ministries have cautioned that AI in its current state cannot independently fact-check complex issues, the committee suggested using AI as a first filter to flag suspicious content, followed by human verification. Calling fake news a “serious threat” to democracy and public order, the panel urged amendments in penal laws, higher fines, and greater accountability. It also suggested mandating fact-checking units and internal ombudsmen in all media organizations, while stressing that such measures should be built through consensus among stakeholders. Although committee recommendations are not binding, they often guide government policy due to their bipartisan weight. Source: PTI

Parliament Panel Seeks Legal, Tech Framework to Combat AI-Driven Fake News Read More »

Extreme Heat Could Put 2026 World Cup at Risk, Warns Report

A new study has raised serious concerns about the impact of climate change on the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, warning that extreme weather conditions could pose unprecedented challenges for players, fans, and organisers. The report, “Pitches in Peril” — compiled by Football for the Future, Common Goal, and Jupiter Intelligence — reveals that 10 out of the 16 host venues are at very high risk of extreme heat stress during the tournament. By 2050, nearly 90% of these stadiums will require significant adaptation to cope with soaring temperatures, while a third could face severe water shortages. Researchers also extended their analysis to future World Cup sites in 2030 and 2034, while drawing attention to grassroots football pitches worldwide, including those once used by global stars like Juan Mata, Mo Salah, and William Troost-Ekong. Mata, reflecting on Spain’s devastating floods in Valencia last year, said: “Football has always united people, but now it also reminds us of what we stand to lose.” Recent competitions already highlight the risks. At this year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the U.S., players described conditions as unbearable, with extreme heat and storms forcing FIFA to implement emergency measures such as shaded benches, misting fans, and additional cooling breaks. According to the study, 14 of the 16 stadiums across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico already exceed safe-play thresholds for multiple hazards — including extreme heat, heavy rainfall, and flooding. Thirteen stadiums experience summer days breaching FIFA’s drinks-break benchmark of 32°C Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), while cities like Dallas and Houston endure WBGT readings of 35°C or higher for weeks at a stretch — a level scientists deem the upper limit of human adaptability. Though some venues, like those in Dallas and Houston, will rely on stadium roofs to mitigate heat, experts stress that climate risks extend far beyond elite facilities. For instance, Mo Salah’s childhood pitch in Egypt could see over a month of unplayable conditions annually, while Troost-Ekong’s hometown ground in Nigeria may face nearly year-round extreme heat by mid-century. Piers Forster, director of the Priestley Centre for Climate Futures, cautioned: “Without drastic measures, like moving major tournaments to cooler months or regions, the risks will only escalate.” The 96-page report calls on the football industry to commit to net-zero emissions by 2040, publish robust decarbonisation strategies, and establish adaptation funds. It also highlights that 91% of fans surveyed across the host nations want the 2026 edition — the biggest in World Cup history — to serve as a benchmark for sustainability. Yet, despite those hopes, another analysis by Scientists for Global Responsibility, the Environmental Defense Fund, and the Sport for Climate Action Network warns that the 2026 tournament, with 48 nations and 104 matches across three countries, is on track to become the most climate-damaging World Cup ever. Source: Reuters

Extreme Heat Could Put 2026 World Cup at Risk, Warns Report Read More »

Dish TV Targets 25% Revenue from Non-DTH Business, Launches VZY Smart TV Range

Dish TV India is reshaping its business model with a strong push beyond traditional direct-to-home (DTH) services. The company expects 25% of its revenue to come from non-DTH businesses within the next 18–24 months, according to CEO and Executive Director Manoj Dobhal. Marking a bold step into the smart TV market, Dish TV has introduced its VZY (Vibe, Zone & You) series, an integrated entertainment solution that combines DTH, OTT platforms, and live TV in a single device. The VZY range currently offers seven models, from 32-inch HD to 55-inch 4K UHD QLED, priced between ₹12,000 and ₹45,000. Dish TV has already ventured into digital platforms with its OTT service Watcho (launched in 2019) and the quick-commerce platform Shopzop (launched in August 2025, now offering 4,000+ products). These, along with future innovations, are expected to strengthen its non-DTH revenue streams. “Dish TV will no longer be seen only as a DTH brand. In two years, we want to be recognized as a complete content ecosystem player, spanning devices, streaming, and linear TV,” Dobhal said at the VZY launch. In FY25, Dish TV posted revenue of ₹1,567.6 crore, down from ₹1,856.5 crore in FY24, largely due to declining Pay TV subscribers and stagnant ARPU. The company sees its new product strategy as a pivot to regain growth momentum. Unlike other smart TV makers, Dobhal emphasized that VZY’s integrated model is “unique,” eliminating the need for additional set-top boxes or separate OTT subscriptions. Currently powered by Google TV, Dish TV also plans to roll out its own operating system within the next two years. The VZY range will be available nationwide through retail outlets and e-commerce platforms, with the company encouraged by strong initial demand. Source: PTI

Dish TV Targets 25% Revenue from Non-DTH Business, Launches VZY Smart TV Range Read More »

GST on Premium TVs Cut to 18%: A Game-Changer for Media, Entertainment, and OTT

At its 56th meeting, the GST Council delivered a festive-season boost to consumers and the electronics industry. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that starting September 22, all televisions above 32 inches will now attract 18% GST, down from 28%. This tax relief significantly reduces the cost of premium LED, Smart, and 4K TVs, making them more accessible to middle-class households and potentially reshaping the way Indians consume content across TV and OTT platforms. Bigger TVs, Lower Prices Previously, larger televisions were categorized as luxury items, putting them out of reach for many. With the revised GST slab, prices will drop noticeably. For example, a 40-inch smart TV priced at ₹22,000 earlier attracted ₹6,160 in tax, pushing the final price to ₹28,160. Under the new rate, the tax is just ₹3,960, bringing the final price down to ₹25,960 — a saving of ₹2,200. Boost for Consumer Electronics and Manufacturing The tax cut not only makes large-screen TVs more affordable but also encourages upgrades from smaller sets. Industry experts say this will spur sales during the festive season, particularly Diwali, while helping manufacturers by reducing supply-chain distortions and improving profitability through input tax credits. Increased demand is expected to stimulate fresh investments in production capacity. Connected TVs to Drive OTT Adoption As larger smart TVs become mainstream, they are set to accelerate the growth of Connected TV (CTV) viewership. With built-in streaming capabilities, households will have easier access to platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, and others. The shift toward bigger screens is expected to drive subscription growth and normalize high-quality OTT viewing as part of everyday entertainment. Advertising Opportunities on the Rise The ripple effect will also benefit advertisers. With more viewers consuming content on CTVs, brands gain opportunities for targeted, interactive ad campaigns. This creates a strong incentive for the advertising ecosystem, further boosting the revenue potential of streaming platforms. A Win-Win for Consumers and the Media Sector Overall, the GST cut on premium TVs is poised to be a triple win—consumers enjoy affordable upgrades, manufacturers see higher demand and investment opportunities, and the media & OTT sector benefits from increased viewership, subscriptions, and advertising growth. Source: TOI  

GST on Premium TVs Cut to 18%: A Game-Changer for Media, Entertainment, and OTT Read More »