Zee 24 Ghanta is a popular Bengali-language news channel based in India. Owned by the Zee Media Corporation Limited, a subsidiary of the Essel Group, it primarily caters to Bengali-speaking audiences, delivering round-the-clock news coverage on regional, national, and international affairs. The channel plays a significant role in the Bengali media landscape, providing timely updates on politics, business, sports, entertainment, and social issues.
History and Ownership
Zee 24 Ghanta was launched on March 30, 2006, as a dedicated Bengali news channel under the Zee Media Corporation. It emerged as a prominent player in the regional news sector, competing with other Bengali-language news networks such as ABP Ananda, Republic Bangla, and Kolkata TV. Over the years, the channel has built a reputation for its extensive coverage of West Bengal’s political scenario, cultural events, and breaking news updates.
Programming and Content
The channel offers a diverse range of programming, including:
- Breaking News: Provides real-time updates on significant developments across West Bengal, India, and the world.
- Political Analysis: Covers West Bengal’s dynamic political landscape, including elections, government policies, and debates featuring political leaders and analysts.
- Business and Economy: Reports on financial markets, business trends, and the economic impact of policies on the common people.
- Crime and Investigative Journalism: Features in-depth investigative reports on crime, corruption, and legal issues.
- Entertainment and Lifestyle: Covers Tollywood (Bengali film industry) news, celebrity interviews, cultural programs, and lifestyle segments.
- Sports Coverage: Provides updates on cricket, football, and other major sporting events, with a focus on teams and players from Bengal.
The channel broadcasts live bulletins throughout the day, ensuring that viewers stay informed about the latest developments.
Digital Presence and Social Media
Zee 24 Ghanta has expanded its presence beyond television to digital platforms. It has an active website and mobile application that provide real-time news updates, video content, and live streaming services. The channel also engages audiences through social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, where it shares news clips, discussions, and exclusive interviews. This digital expansion has helped Zee 24 Ghanta reach a wider audience, including Bengali-speaking viewers across India and abroad.
Role in Bengali Media
As one of the leading Bengali news channels, Zee 24 Ghanta plays a vital role in shaping public opinion. It covers major political events such as West Bengal Assembly elections, Lok Sabha elections, and civic body polls, often influencing public discourse. The channel is known for its interviews with key political figures, discussions on government policies, and live coverage of major events in the state.
Competition and Challenges
Zee 24 Ghanta faces stiff competition from other Bengali news channels like ABP Ananda, Republic Bangla, TV9 Bangla, and News18 Bangla. The growing influence of digital news platforms and social media has also posed challenges for traditional television news networks. However, Zee 24 Ghanta continues to adapt by strengthening its online presence and diversifying content to cater to changing audience preferences.
Conclusion – Zee 24 Ghanta
Zee 24 Ghanta remains a key player in the Bengali-language news segment, delivering comprehensive news coverage to millions of viewers. With its strong focus on regional and national affairs, digital expansion, and commitment to journalistic excellence, the channel continues to be a trusted source of news for Bengali-speaking audiences.
