Business

Broadcaster seeks regulatory permission for six new news networks while absorbing Sapphire Media

Originally reported by ET Industry as: BIG FM applies for six more news channels, acquires Sapphire Media’s news business

27 Oct 2026, 11:06 am IST · Xecute.finance News Desk

The crisp read

The radio network formally petitioned the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to establish six additional news outlets. This strategic acquisition of Sapphire Media's news operations supports a larger plan to build a national broadcast ecosystem. The upcoming outlets will deliver rapid reporting and region-specific digital content.

Deep dive - the full story

Radio broadcaster BIG FM has submitted a formal application to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting seeking clearance to launch six new news channels. As part of this expansion strategy, the company has also acquired the news operations of Sapphire Media to bolster its broadcast capabilities.

This corporate move is designed to establish a unified national news network that integrates traditional broadcasting with digital mediums. The newly proposed channels intend to prioritize prompt news delivery alongside hyper-local programming specifically designed for online audiences, operating under the broader ONE BIG WORLD media framework.

Observers must track the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for formal regulatory approvals regarding the six channel applications. Stakeholders in the media sector should watch how the integration of Sapphire Media unfolds as the network rolls out its digital-first programming.

Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com

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