CNBC Awaaz goes live on DistroTV as Network18 expands free streaming

CNBC Awaaz is now available live and free on DistroTV in India, after Network18 and the streaming platform announced a partnership. The initial phase of the tie-up brings four Network18 channels to DistroTV, including CNN-News18, News18 India, CNBC TV18 and CNBC Awaaz.

Viewers can tune into CNBC Awaaz live without any cable subscription, as DistroTV operates on an ad-supported model. The move is aimed at expanding the channel’s reach beyond traditional television, according to the announcement.

Free live streaming of Network18 channels begins

The partnership between Network18 and DistroTV is positioned as a step to make news content more accessible to Indian audiences. DistroTV, a global streaming service, has added the four channels to its India lineup. The service is available immediately, and Network18 confirmed that more channels could be added in later phases, though no timeline was specified.

For CNBC Awaaz, which focuses on business, markets and personal finance, the free live stream could attract a younger, digital-first audience. The channel’s market coverage, including stock market updates and corporate news, is now accessible without a paywall.

Which channels are in the initial phase

The four Network18 channels now streaming on DistroTV are CNN-News18, News18 India, CNBC TV18 and CNBC Awaaz. These cover a range of news genres, from national and regional news to business and financial reporting. The launch is part of a broader trend of Indian news channels moving to free streaming platforms to counter the decline in cable subscriptions.

DistroTV’s India service is available across web, mobile and connected TV devices. Users can watch the channels live without registering, though creating an account may be required for some features. The exact app and platform availability were not detailed in the announcement.

CNBC Awaaz gears up for Union Budget 2024

Separately, CNBC Awaaz has unveiled a special programming lineup for Union Budget 2024. The channel has adopted the theme ‘Budget 2024: Sapne Hoge Sach’ for its coverage, which aims to offer live and in-depth analysis of the government’s financial proposals.

The programming will include pre-budget discussions, live coverage of the finance minister’s speech, and post-budget expert panels. CNBC Awaaz has not disclosed the full schedule or the list of anchors and guests, but the channel has promised extensive coverage leading up to and on the day of the budget presentation. The live stream on DistroTV is expected to carry this budget special as well, making it accessible to a wider audience.