News Broadcasting
CNN show to address tec discoveries and implications
MUMBAI: International news network CNN has announced the launch of Spark, a monthly technology show that focuses on the discovery, application and implication of technology in the global world of commerce.
The show will debut on 22 August 6:00 pm with a repeat on 28 August at 4:00 pm.
Hosted by CNN’s technology expert Kristie Lu Stout, Spark provides an in-depth look at how technologies and innovations are affecting the way people live and do business. Stout is an experienced journalist in reporting and analysing high-tech innovation and business trends in the world technology.
The show offers latest technology stories from across Asia, Europe and America, in addition to interviews with entrepreneurs, scientists and industry leaders, stated an official release.
The half-hour show also features a regular segment Bright Sparks showcasing the rising stars of the world of technology, plus News Flashes on the latest scientific breakthroughs and high-tec gadgets, adds the release.
For the month of August, CNN’s sailing show MainSail has its host Liz George visiting Cork in South West Ireland, home of the annual Cork Week regatta. The half-hour program hears from the international sailing fraternity as well as the smaller boat owners at this regular feature in the yachting calendar.
The show will air on 15 August at 6:00 pm, 18 August at 7:00 pm and on 29 August at 6:00 pm.
News Broadcasting
News18 hosts Tamil Nadu town hall ahead of 2026 polls
MK Stalin headlines ‘Next Big Leap’ event from 10am on 23 February in Chennai with leaders and icons.
MUMBAI: Tamil Nadu’s political pot is simmering and News18’s town hall is stirring it up just in time for the 2026 assembly elections boilover. Set for 23 February from 10am onwards in Chennai, the News18 Network Town Hall gathers heavyweights under the banner ‘The Next Big Leap for Tamil Nadu’ to dissect the state’s political pulse, economic edge, and cultural clout. With the 234-seat assembly contest looming as a fiercely competitive showdown, the event spotlights how Tamil Nadu’s identity-driven politics and engaged voters continue to ripple across national debates.
Chief minister MK Stalin leads the charge with a keynote on the theme, sketching his government’s blueprint for governance, development, and staying power pre-polls. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin chimes in on ‘Voices, Vision & Way Forward’, unpacking generational shifts and fresh narratives. From the opposition corner, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami tackles ‘Baton Change at the Ballot?’, floating alternatives to the status quo.
Economic vibes get a nudge from industries minister TRB Rajaa on ‘Investment Story Intact?’, probing the state’s draw for big bucks. BJP’s K Annamalai dives into ‘People, Trust & Political Ideology’, positioning his party in the Dravidian-dominated turf. IT Minister Palanivel ThiagaRajan explores ‘Code, Capacity & Citizenship’, on tech’s role in citizen-focused services. TVK’s KG Arunraj questions if ‘Winds of Change are Possible’ in this pattern-prone state.
A panel on innovation features IIT Madras director Prof V Kamakoti, M&M’s Velusamy R, and Electronic Industries Association’s Dr Sasikumar Gendham, musing how AI and knowledge hubs are remaking opportunities. Culture gets its due with composer Anirudh Ravichander on ‘Tamil Music for the World’.
CNN-News18, editorial affairs director Rahul Shivshankar noted, “The News18 Network Tamil Nadu Town Hall… reflects our core editorial focus, to capture the political mood of the state and spotlight the ideas that will shape the next phase of governance and growth.”
Network18, CEO of English & business news Smriti Mehra added, “As Tamil Nadu moves closer to a defining electoral moment… we see it as our responsibility to drive informed and meaningful conversations.”
Network18 managing editor for South, Vivek Narayan said, “The News18 Network Townhall in Tamil Nadu is designed as a platform where policy, politics and public interest intersect.”
Backed by associate partners Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles and Reliance Industries, the live event streams on CNN-News18, News18 Tamil, CTV, and Youtube from 10am on 23 February perfect for catching the sparks, even if you’re not knee-deep in Dravidian drama.
