Network18 has emerged as the No.1 news network on YouTube in April 2026, clocking over 5.5 billion overall views across its platforms. The performance comes during a high-intensity election period, where the network led both in scale and audience engagement across key moments.

According to a Network18 press release, the network’s leadership extended beyond YouTube, with strong performance across Linear TV, Connected TV (CTV), and social media platforms. The data indicates that Network18 outpaced major competitors, reinforcing its position as one of the most widely consumed news networks across both digital and broadcast ecosystems.

The network maintained consistent leadership not just across the month, but also during crucial election phases, including polling days and exit poll coverage. Its flagship channels such as News18 India, CNN-News18, CNBC-TV18, and CNBC-TV18 Awaaz drove strong viewership across languages and regions, contributing to its overall dominance.

The performance reflects a broader shift in news consumption behaviour, where audiences are increasingly engaging across multiple platforms simultaneously. From live polling updates to real-time analysis, viewers gravitated towards platforms that offered speed, depth, and credibility, particularly during high-stakes election coverage.

Network18’s cross-platform strength is backed by integrated newsroom operations, extensive on-ground reporting, and a multi-language distribution strategy designed to cater to diverse audiences. This approach has enabled the network to maintain consistent engagement across television, digital, and social ecosystems.

Commenting on the milestone, Pranav Bakshi, Chief Growth Officer at Network18 Connected, said April marked a defining moment for the network, highlighting both scale and audience trust. He noted that the strong viewership across platforms reflects a clear shift in how audiences choose where to consume news, particularly during critical moments like elections.

With digital platforms continuing to shape the future of news consumption, Network18’s April performance signals a broader trend towards integrated, cross-platform media leadership, where scale and real-time relevance go hand in hand.