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When
contacted for their comments, a KPMG spokesperson said, “We
do not comment on client matters.” The India spokesperson
for BBC too did not offer a comment.
However, BBC Worldwide’s latest annual report says, “The
Global Channels business is developing its strategy and
partnerships in India with a view to launching channels in
the region. The size and diversity of the territory offers
exciting possibilities for future growth across all
businesses.” Sources close to the development said the Tatas
have been identified as the preferred joint venture partner
in the KPMG report, followed by the Mittals and Reliance.
The sources could not, however, say if there are any more
groups identified for this purpose.
Sources said that among the bouquet of channels, BBC would
start a 24-hour news channel in English. While English is
its prime interest, the British broadcaster is also
interested in launching local language channels and may look
at launching a vernacular channel at a later date. The model
would be similar to the one used by CNN-IBN.
It has been reported already that Reliance Industries itself
has decided to enter the television business and has drawn
up plans to launch three channels, and is scouting for
global as well as local partners. |
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