Eight regional channels to launch operations in Kerala

Kerala seems to be set for a `channel war'. At least eight more new regional channels are likely to be launched within two years.

Jumping into the fray is Malayala Manorama TeleVision (MMTV), promoted by the100-year- old Malayala Manorama Publications Group. It will air its programmes from July 12.

Seven more channels are expected to commence operations within 12-18 months.

The state has a dozen channels, including the regional channel of Doordarshan. Despite cut-throat competition for advertisement pie and mounting operating costs, a host of business, media and religious groups are in the process of entering the glamourous world.

MMTV, which has the most modern technological support, plans to introduce a new concept in telecasting of regional news for the first time in the country. According to sources at the channel, the 24-hour channel would have three regional news bases -- Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode -- to telecast news according to regional preference. Most of the prominent district bureaus would have full-fledged outside broadcasting (OB) vans. The trial transmission of the channel is in full swing.

Jai Hind is another channel, which is getting ready to air its programmes during the Onam festival season in September. The 24-hour news channel is promoted by a group of Gulf-based businessmen, while a senior Malayalam journalist, Sunnykutty Abraham, is heading the operation side.

Bharath TV is yet another channel, which is in the offing. Based in Thiruavananthapuram, the promoters of the channel are planning to start operations in 12 regional languages.

Vying for the airwaves are a host of devotional channels. Power Vision, based in Changanassery near Kottayam has already commenced test transmission. Guru Vision, which is planning to propagate the ideology and teachings of Sri Narayana Guru is also in the initial stages of commencing operations.

Surya TV, under the aegis of Sun TV network, is also planning a 24-hour news channel within six months, sources at the channel told Business Standard.

Amritha TV, which is controlled by Sri AmrithanandaMayi Mutt, is planning for diversification into 24-hour news channel in Malayalam.

India Vision, the pioneer in news channel in the state, has announced an entertainment channel in near future. Recently, the Kerala branch of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and Mini Muthoot, a major business group in Kerala, have invested in the channel.

Meanwhile, a committee appointed by the government to revamp the operations of the public relations department has recommended launching a channel to give wide publicity to government activities though officials have so far not given serious attention to it.