Four regional channels to be launched

The Rathikant Basu promoted Broadcast India has planned to launch four encrypted regional channels--Bangla, Punjabi, Gujarati and Marathi. The channels are expected to be on air within the next six months through Insat 2E. The company is under negotiations with Videsh Sanchar Nigam Limited (VSNL) for uplinking.
Broadcast India is also in the process of content creation for their forthcoming Internet project. The company also has plans to get in the radio market once the Government reviews its policies.

Murdoch owned News Corporation has a 5 per cent stake in the company which be raised only till 20 per cent as per the Government regulations.

Basu has pumped in RS 1200 million for the regional channel venture and the leading consulting firm Arthur Anderson will work on the business plan. Venture capital funding will be seeked by Basu.

The regional channels will be a part of the Star TV bouquet following the distribution agreement with Star TV.