News Broadcasting
News18’s extensive programming for Bihar assembly elections
NEW DELHI: As the excitement builds up for the upcoming assembly elections in Bihar, the first amidst the Covid2019 pandemic, major political parties are gearing up for a fierce battle. Capturing the latest happenings from ground zero, News18 Network’s News18 India and News18 Bihar-Jharkhand, have lined-up extensive programming. The extensive plan will aim to keep the viewers apprised about every single political development in the state leading up to the counting day.
Reinforcing its commitment of bringing the most comprehensive electoral reportage through a wide array of diverse formats, News18 India will present its election programming under the umbrella branding ‘Sabse Bada Dangal’. Comprising channel’s renowned shows, – Bhaiyaji Kahin and Lapete Mein Netaji –, the programming will highlight the ground realities, connecting with the voters and viewers alike. Bhaiyaji Kahin, the unique travelogue-cum-chaupal show, will travel to Bihar giving voters there a platform to voice not only their concerns but also expectations from the next government. While, Lapete Mein Netaji will bring famous poets and politicians together for their unique take on the upcoming elections. A flagship show of the channel, it aims to bring much-needed humor and satire to intense political issues. Other specials are also being planned which will incorporate top stars from the state to flavor the intense electioneering with some local entertainment. The programming on the channel will also consist of debate shows which will bring focus on both key issues faced by voters as well as the political strategies being adopted by key political formations.
News18 Bihar-Jharkhand will also be carrying extensive programming – Bihar Mein Kiski Bahar – on the biggest elections of 2020 in India. A number of special shows like Bahas Bihar Ki, a high-impact debate show will aim highlight issues that concern the voters the most. Through the unique show Bhabhiji Maidaan Mein Hai, the channel aims to decode what’s on the voter’s mind from a women’s perspective – a special character Bhabhiji, the anchor for the show, travels on-ground to capture the pulse of the voters through direct dialogue. Another special show “Litti Par Charcha” travels across popular Litti Chokha joints and engages in discussion with people at these eateries. Apart from these there will be a variety of other shows and segments giving viewers an unparalleled access and insight into these important elections.
Bringing top newsmakers from across the leading political parties on a single platform, the channels will present the most impactful debates, discussions and innovative programming on Bihar elections. Supported by a team of experienced anchors, on-ground reporters and eminent experts, News18 Network will offer viewers unmatched coverage of these crucial state elections.
News Broadcasting
Parikshit Luthra exits CNBC-TV18 after 20-year run
Former bureau chief to take brief pause before next role
NEW DELHI: Senior journalist Parikshit Luthra has signed off from CNBC-TV18, marking 28 February 2026 as his final day and closing nearly two decades with Network18 Media & Investments Limited, including eight years at the business news channel.
During his tenure, Luthra interviewed prominent business leaders and Union ministers, reporting on economic policy, corporate strategy, the automobile sector and financial markets. His coverage spanned key inflection points in India’s economic narrative.
He also led new programming formats such as Newscentre, Global Eye and Global Lens, shows that examined politics and foreign policy through an economic prism, reflecting the channel’s push towards globally linked business reporting.
In a LinkedIn post, Luthra said his final weeks were spent covering the Union Budget, the India AI Summit, India’s trade agreements with the US and EU, and the group’s flagship Rising Bharat Summit 2026. He added that he continued anchoring until his last day and briefly met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his closing assignments.
Luthra joined CNBC-TV18 in June 2018 as assistant editor, later rising to senior editor and chief of bureau, a position he held for over two years. Before that, he worked with Republic TV and CNN-News18.
He said he plans to take a short break before embarking on his next professional chapter.
