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Discovery Communications launches ID, TLC HD and Animal Planet HD World
MUMBAI: Further expanding its reach and distribution, Discovery Communications has launched three new channels in India taking its network portfolio to 11 channels in all. The first is a Hindi entertainment channel ID Investigation Discovery dedicated to offer compelling true stories of crime and suspense, the second is TLC HD World and Animal Planet HD World.
ID is already available across the country on digital and analogue networks including leading platforms like Hathway (channel no. 24), Siticable (channel no. 127) and Dish TV (channel no. 128). On the other hand, TLC HD World and Animal Planet HD World are available on Dish TV (49 and 52) respectively.
Discovery Communications India EVP and general manager south Asia, Rahul Johri believes that with this move it will now satisfy the curiosity of millions of viewers in India. “We have had a fantastic growth trajectory in India. We have consistently enhanced our product offerings, successfully implemented our localisation strategy and presented path-breaking India productions.”
He is confident that ID will deliver unmatched entertainment through its impactful and investigative programming. “Strengthening our leadership in the HD genre, TLC HD World and Animal Planet HD World will accelerate the high definition drive in the country,” adds Johri.
Providing fascinating stories of human nature, ID’s alluring series, in-depth specials and thought-provoking one-offs will challenge viewers’ perceptions. Some of the fascinating series that will premiere on ID include stories of married couples where one spouse has hidden a shocking secret that will have viewers shake their heads in disbelief in Who The (Bleep) Did I Marry?
Follow the unpredictable twists of missing person cases and track investigations aimed at solving how and why people simply vanish in Disappeared. Watch how great marriages are nearly ruined when a maniacal, meddling mother-in-law oversteps her bounds in Evil-In-Law. Exciting true-crime series, Blood Relatives investigates homespun murder mysteries where everyone is a suspect and every suspect shares a last name. Watch forensic analysts, trace evidence experts, crime scene technicians, handwriting experts and more as they work together to help solve compelling murder cases in Solved.
Viewers can prepare for a culinary adventure, set out on an immersive journey, gain myriad experiences; all in all Live More through TLC HD World’s programmes such as: Great Cruises that offers an inside view of the multi-billion dollar cruise industry; savour jaw dropping stories, histories, people and places behind your favourite Asian cuisines in Culinary Asia; feast to The World’s Greenest Homes where luxury and ecology co-exist to create a harmonious balance and watch the interesting story of Karl as he travels to the Seven Wonders in An Idiot Abroad.
With its ‘Surprisingly Human’ proposition, Animal Planet HD World will offer audience an exciting and new blend of programming that will unravel mysteries, discover unexplored habitats, enjoy cuddly pets and witness extraordinary adventures of wildlife enthusiasts.
Some of the immersive launches scheduled include Wildest Arctic that will showcase the last great wilderness on earth – arctic, explore the unique hidden worlds lying beneath the seas and oceans of the seven continents and Tanked follows business partners, best friends and arch rivals Wayde King and Brett Raymer, as they run the largest aquarium manufacturing company in America. Witness the sport of catching catfish with your bare hands with Hillbillies in Hillbilly Handfisn’ and tune in to the most comprehensive dog encyclopedia showing over 800 dog breeds recognised worldwide in Dogs 101.
Discovery’s existing portfolio in India includes 11 channels: Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, Investigation Discovery-ID, TLC, Discovery Kids, Discovery Science, Discovery Tamil, Discovery Turbo, Discovery HD World, TLC HD World and Animal Planet HD World.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
