BIG FM has applied to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting , Government of India, for permission to launch six additional digital-first news channels. The move is part of the company’s plan to expand its news broadcasting business and build a national news network under BIG News Network.

According to a press release issued by BIG FM today, the company has acquired Sapphire Media’s existing news business, which includes the Hindi news channel ‘India Daily 24×7’. The proposed channels will focus on timely and accurate reporting, hyperlocal news, regional perspectives, content in different languages and short-form news formats for digital platforms.

Through BIG News Network, the company aims to combine traditional broadcasting with digital platforms to make news more accessible to audiences across India. It also aims to expand its reach across regional markets and languages, with the ambition of building one of India’s largest news networks.

The expansion is part of BIG FM’s ‘ONE BIG WORLD’ initiative, an AI-powered integrated media ecosystem that brings together radio, news, digital platforms, digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising and live experiences. The initiative aims to connect these services and strengthen the company’s presence across the media and entertainment sector.

Commenting on the development, BIG FM CEO Ashit Kukian said the company sees an opportunity to expand its news broadcasting business by combining its existing capabilities with digital-first formats. He added that the focus is on making news more accessible, relevant and engaging across platforms, languages and regional markets.

The six proposed news channels will require approval from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting before they can be launched.