News Broadcasting
ZEE 24 Ghanta’s Ananya Samman 2024 achieves phenomenal success in spotlighting inspirational stories
Mumbai: ZEE 24 Ghanta’s 15 edition of Ananya Samman 2024 has once again achieved remarkable success in showcasing inspirational stories, solidifying its position as a beacon of honour and recognition. This year’s event, held on-ground, was a resounding triumph, spotlighting individuals who have defied adversity to make significant contributions to society.
Ananya Samman, renowned for its credibility and authenticity, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of the Bengal market, resonating deeply with the audience. The evening was filled with touching tributes and poignant moments, leaving a profound impact on all who attended.
The prestigious Maha Samman was rightfully awarded to the legendary tennis icon, Sania Mirza, in acknowledgement of her unparalleled achievements and unwavering dedication to excellence. Additionally, luminaries such as Jeet, Sunil Chhetri, Rupam Islam, Subrata Gangopadhyay, and D. Ashish were honoured for their outstanding contributions to their respective fields. Moreover, the Ananya Sadharon category celebrated the exemplary work of Pradeep Bhattacharya, Joyita Mondal, Chamak Chhetua, Azharuddin Khan, and Pabitra Mandal, shedding light on their commendable efforts across diverse spheres. These awardees exemplify the spirit of resilience and altruism, inspiring others with their remarkable efforts to give back to their communities despite facing personal struggles.
Among the distinguished attendees were Shashi Panja, serving as the industry minister; Chandrima Bhattacharya, the finance minister; Snehasish Chakraborty, holding the portfolio of transport minister; Bratya Basu, guiding the education ministry; and Aroop Biswas, leading the sports ministry. The event also featured luminaries such as Usha Uthup, the renowned Superstar Dev, Kalyan Chaubey, President of AIFF, the melodious Singer Sreeradha Bandyopadhyay, Anirban Bhattacharya, Abhishek Dalmia and the esteemed Poet Subodh Sarkar and many other senior bureaucrats adding further grandeur to the occasion.
Zee Media Corporation Ltd CEO Abhay Ojha highlighted, “Ananya Samman epitomises the triumph of the human spirit and the profound impact of recognition. It goes beyond being just an event; it’s a potent platform that celebrates the unsung heroes whose remarkable achievements inspire positive change in our society. The overwhelming success of this year’s ceremony underscores the profound influence of honouring individuals whose stories deeply resonate with our audience.”
Zee Media Corporation Ltd CRO Mona Jain further added, “As we honour their achievements, we also reaffirm our commitment to uplifting and empowering communities through meaningful storytelling. Each story shared at Ananya Samman serves as a reminder of the transformative power of perseverance and determination. Through this event, we aim to inspire our viewers to embrace positivity and make a difference in their lives and communities. The overwhelming success of Ananya Samman is a testament to the enduring impact of recognising and celebrating the achievements of individuals who have overcome adversity.”
Ananya Samman 2024 was fortified by a network of esteemed partners, each contributing significantly to its success. Co-presenting partners Sreeleathers Ltd, SPS Steels Rolling Mills Ltd, and Mukharochak, alongside co-powered entities Indian Institute of Hotel Management and Berger Home Shield, spearheaded the event’s mission to recognise excellence and community impact. Additionally, the invaluable support of gold partner Orient Gems & Ornaments Pvt. Ltd, driven by Tata Ace and, special partner Narayana Health, and broadband partner Alliance Broadband elevated the event’s reach and impact. Lastly, our silver partners, including Samata co-operative Development Bank Ltd, Eastern Institute for Integrated Learning in Management (EIILM) – Kolkata, Square Mark Homes Private Limited, Go Everywhere, and Alteus Biogenics Pvt Ltd, played a crucial role in amplifying the event’s message of positivity and empowerment, collectively embodying the spirit of Ananya Samman 2024.
As we reflect on the achievements of Ananya Samman 2024, let us be reminded of the transformative power of perseverance, excellence, and community solidarity. Together, we can forge a brighter future for generations to come.
News Broadcasting
Network18 Q4 revenue grows 9.7 per cent, EBITDA at Rs 30 crore
PAT improves to Rs 306.6 crore, margins steady amid cost pressures.
MUMBAI: Not all news is breaking, some of it is quietly improving. Network18 Media & Investments Limited appears to be doing just that, tightening losses and stabilising margins even as costs continue to weigh on the business. For FY26, the company reported revenue from operations of Rs 1,955.1 crore, up from Rs 1,896.2 crore in FY25, signalling modest top-line growth in a challenging media environment. Total income stood at Rs 1,978.2 crore, compared to Rs 1,913 crore a year earlier.
Profit after tax came in at Rs 306.6 crore for the year, a sharp turnaround from Rs 3,225.4 crore in FY25, largely reflecting the absence of large exceptional items that had inflated the previous year’s numbers. On a more comparable basis, the company’s operating performance showed signs of gradual stabilisation.
However, the quarterly picture remained under pressure. For the March quarter, Network18 reported a loss of Rs 53.1 crore, narrower than the Rs 98.1 crore loss in the same period last year, but still indicative of ongoing cost challenges.
Expenses continued to track high. Total expenses for FY26 stood at Rs 2,235.7 crore, up from Rs 2,197.8 crore in FY25. Key cost heads included operational expenses of Rs 765.9 crore, employee benefits of Rs 475.9 crore, and marketing, distribution and promotional spends of Rs 427.1 crore, underlining the continued investment required to sustain reach and engagement.
At an operating level, margins remained under strain. Operating margin stood at 2.33 per cent for FY26, marginally higher than 1.77 per cent in FY25, while net profit margin remained negative at -13.02 per cent, though improved from -14.89 per cent.
On the balance sheet, total assets rose to Rs 8,957.6 crore as of 31 March 2026, from Rs 8,317.5 crore a year earlier. Equity strengthened to Rs 4,958.7 crore, while borrowings increased to Rs 3,112.8 crore, reflecting a higher reliance on debt to support operations.
Cash flows told a mixed story. While financing activities generated Rs 83.9 crore, operating cash flow remained negative at Rs -24 crore, highlighting ongoing pressure on core cash generation. Cash and cash equivalents, however, improved to Rs 33.9 crore from Rs 1.8 crore.
The numbers point to a company in transition growing revenues, trimming losses, but still grappling with structural cost pressures. In a sector where scale often comes at a price, Network18 seems to be inching towards balance, one quarter at a time.
