NDTV: From Doordarshan Collaboration to Adani Acquisition NDTV, founded in 1984 by Radhika and Prannoy Roy, began as a news production house for Doordarshan. Its weekly program, "The World This Week," became highly popular, leading to contracts for election coverage and budget specials. NDTV's innovative approach to election result telecasts set a new standard for Indian broadcasting. Initially operating under Doordarshan, NDTV transitioned to a fee-based arrangement in 1989. Collaborations with CNN and later, a five-year contract with Rupert Murdoch's Star Network, marked significant milestones. Star News, launched in 1998, became India's first independent 24x7 news channel, benefiting from NDTV's production expertise and journalistic reputation. The partnership, while initially successful, ended in 2003 due to editorial disagreements. NDTV subsequently launched its own channels, NDTV India and NDTV 24x7, achieving considerable viewership. The network diversified into lifestyle and entertainment, though this expansion, coupled with the 2008 financial crisis, led to financial difficulties. Subsequent years saw divestments, legal battles, and allegations of government pressure impacting editorial independence. A notable event was the 2016 government ban on NDTV India, later rescinded. Despite challenges, NDTV maintained a significant presence, notably in digital media. However, in 2022, the Adani Group acquired a controlling stake, sparking concerns about the future of independent journalism within the network. The Adani takeover, along with several high-profile resignations, has raised significant questions regarding media freedom in India.