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  • Amid the IPL trend, TV and OTT services predict a brief 20% drop in traffic

    Amid the IPL trend, TV and OTT services predict a brief 20% drop in traffic

    Broadcast and video streaming platforms are bracing for the customary drop in viewership during the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League. These services, primarily focused on entertainment programming, anticipate a 20% decline in viewership and engagement for non-sports genres and in most cases, find it wise to defer new big-ticket releases until the end of the cricket tournament.

    Some OTT platforms will adopt marketing strategies to maintain user engagement and attract new viewers during the IPL season, which is on from 22 March to 25 May this year. They will continue with niche programming targeted at varied segments in order to lure viewers not interested in cricket or sports as a whole.

    “The IPL draws a massive audience, particularly among male viewers, leading to a shift in engagement,” said Nitin Gupta, chief content officer at Chaupal, a platform specialising in Punjabi, Haryanvi and Bhojpuri content. “This could result in a temporary dip in daily viewership and may deter major releases during the season.”

    Platforms that target male consumers could face a challenge with ad revenue at this point and those with smaller marketing budgets or limited resources may struggle to secure ad slots during the season, Gupta added. However, platforms with premium content can still benefit by targeting audiences who are less interested in cricket, such as female viewers or those looking for different entertainment options.

    Ad revenue
    Advertising money on IPL will always flow and during this time, there is definitely a 25-30% impact on every aspect of the business across linear TV and OTT, according to Navin Kathuria, executive vice-president at media agency Mudramax.

    “OTT is a very different beast given that it is not appointment viewing and if there is content that is gripping enough, then people binge watch – whether it is during the evenings, through the night or through the weekend. However, matches begin and end at a particular time and that is the only time you can view it live, so while it is the largest impact property, consumption will be skewed towards IPL,” Kathuria said.

    Sujata Dwibedy, CEO of dentsu X India, emphasised that IPL has been running on OTT for a while now and the trend mirrors what happens on television.

    “Every year during IPL, the platform which airs the tournament sees a huge surge in viewership and then it tapers down. But mobile viewers are individual viewers, so each one can choose to run their own preference on their screens. The dip comes from single CTV (connected TV) households, where co-viewing increases on sports, hence the entertainment genre suffers,” Dwibedy pointed out.

    Experts agreed that the IPL consistently dominates prime time attention and reshapes media consumption patterns during its run. Munish Raizada, vice-president of Primus Partners, a management consultancy firm, said this kind of viewership diverts attention away from competing OTT platforms and also leads to delays in high-profile content releases.

    “Though IPL is viewed as a live event, which runs for a limited duration, the average viewing time of OTTs in India is approximately 70 minutes a day. Viewers prefer to watch IPL when the season is on and do not intend to watch content on other OTT platforms during this time,” Raizada said.

    Strategy, profile
    He added that the extent of the impact also depends on a platform’s content strategy and audience profile. Generally, platforms schedule major releases before or after the IPL season. This way, they are able to mitigate the risk of low traction. Also, catering to non-cricket-watching segments can help maintain daily active users, to an extent.

    Platforms that focus on regional and niche content cater to a highly engaged and loyal audience that seeks out hyper-local, culturally rich storytelling beyond mainstream cricket entertainment, said Kaushik Das, founder and CEO of AAONXT, a platform specialising in Odia content. Regional players continue to thrive by offering content that IPL does not compete with—original narratives rooted in local storytelling.

    “OTT platforms focusing on niche content such as original web series or regional language content might not be significantly impacted. Some services will also adopt targeted marketing strategies to maintain user engagement and attract new viewers during this IPL season,” said Rajat Agrawal, chief operating officer of Ultra Media & Entertainment Group. LiveMint

  • A bill to fund medical AI was filed in the US Senate

    A bill to fund medical AI was filed in the US Senate

    US Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), co-chairs of the Senate Artificial Intelligence Caucus, today introduced legislation aimed at improving health outcomes for Medicare patients by encouraging the use of cutting-edge, artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled medical devices. The Health Tech Investment Act establishes a consistent and predictable Medicare payment pathway for these technologies, providing patients with earlier and more accurate diagnoses.

    “Medicare patients deserve access to the life-changing care that artificial intelligence-enabled devices can offer,” said Rounds. “There is currently no clear Medicare payment system for these devices, meaning that it can take years to be approved and paid out by Medicare accurately. This legislation would create that system, improving diagnoses and encouraging the adoption of AI devices in clinical settings.”

    “I’m proud to cosponsor legislation that expands Medicare coverage of new technologies and helps New Mexicans get the best, most affordable high-quality care they need when they need it,” said Heinrich.

    “Too often the prolonged pathway to coverage for medical devices and technology delays patient access to the critical care they need,” said Randall Rutta, CEO of the National Health Council. “This issue has intensified as the pace of innovation has increased. The National Health Council is pleased to support the Health Tech Investment Act to help patients gain timely access innovative health solutions.”

    “Senator Rounds’ legislation to create a Medicare coverage pathway for AI-enabled medical devices will be an important development for cancer patients in South Dakota,” said Jane Veerman, an oncology clinical research nurse at Sanford Health. “Patients in rural regions of the country are too often the last to be able to access medical innovation since too many rural providers lack the resources to invest in innovative technologies. Senator Rounds’ bill would give Medicare patients certainty that their hospitals and physician offices would be reimbursed for investing in AI-enabled technologies and bringing them to patient care.” Senator Mike Rounds

  • WHO states that major delays to medical services originated via funding cuts

    WHO states that major delays to medical services originated via funding cuts

    Speaking on Thursday at a press conference in Geneva, Tedros said that in around 25 per cent of countries, some health facilities have had to close completely due to cuts, according to figures from more than 100 countries compiled by WHO.

    Severe disruptions
    Out-of-pocket payments for health services have led to disruptions to the supply of medicines and other health products, as well as rising job losses in the healthcare sector.

    As a result, “countries are revising budgets, cutting costs and strengthening fundraising and partnerships,” said the UN health agency chief.

    From aid dependency to self-reliance
    Having to revise budgets, cut costs and strengthen partnerships and fundraising, some countries are relying on WHO’s support to transition away from aid dependency towards sustainable self-reliance.

    “We are now supporting countries to accelerate that transition,” said Tedros, citing examples of countries such as South Africa and Kenya, who are successfully working towards averting the health impacts of sudden and unplanned cuts.

    WHO recommendations
    Tedros provided countries with several recommendations on ways to mitigate funding cuts:

    • The world’s poorest populations need prioritising by limiting their exposure to out-of-pocket spending
    • Resist reductions in public health spending and protect health budgets
    • Channel donor funds through national budgets, rather than parallel donation systems
    • Avoid cutting services or closing facilities, and absorb as much of the impact as possible through efficiency gains in health system

    New revenue sources
    Through short and long-term tools, WHO also encourages countries to generate new sources of revenues.

    Immediate measures such as introducing or increasing taxes on products that harm public health is another effective tool to maintain spending on health, he added.

    Countries such Colombia and the Gambia, which in recent years have introduced such taxes, have seen revenues increase and consumption fall, said Tedros.

    In the longer term, WHO is advocating for social and community-based health insurance policies, where individuals or families can contribute a small amount to a fund which boosts health service financing.

    Although not all measures will be right for every country, WHO is “working with affected countries to identify which measures are best for them, and to tailor those measures accordingly.” UN News

  • Global Tariff & Trade Helpdesk is operationalized by the center

    Global Tariff & Trade Helpdesk is operationalized by the center

    The Department of Commerce and DGFT are actively tracking developments in global trade, particularly in relation to tariff changes, import surges, and export-related challenges. Given the evolving trade landscape and the introduction of various tariff and counter-tariff measures, there may be both new export opportunities and heightened import pressures from specific countries or product sectors. Exporters and importers experiencing such shifts are encouraged to share their inputs and suggest potential support measures. In this context, DGFT has operationalised a dedicated ‘Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk’ to assist stakeholders in navigating emerging trade issues.

    The ‘Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk’ would look into issues relating to Import and Export Challenges, Import Surges or Dumping, EXIM Clearance, Logistics or Supply Chain Challenges, Financial or Banking issues, Regulatory or Compliance Issues, and Other Issues or Suggestions. The Help desk would also collect and collate trade-related issues concerning other Ministries/Departments/Agencies of Central Government and State Governments and will co-ordinate to seek their support and provide possible resolution(s).

    Export-Import community may submit information on the DGFT website and submit information relating to their issues on which support is required using the following steps-

    • Navigate to the DGFT Website (https://dgft.gov.in) — > Services — > DGFT Helpdesk Service
    • ‘Create New Request’ and select the Category as ‘Global Tariff and Trade and Issues’
    • Select the suitable sub-category (Import Challenges, Export Challenges, Import Surges or Dumping, EXIM Clearance, Logistics or Supply Chain Challenges, Regulatory & Compliance Issues, and Other Issues and Suggestions), enter the other relevant details and submit.

    Alternatively, issues may be sent to email id: dgftedi[at]nic[dot]in with the subject header: ‘Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk’, or call the Toll-Free No at 1800-111-550

    The status of resolutions and feedback may be tracked using the status tracker under the DGFT Helpdesk Services. Email and SMS would also be sent as and when the status of these tickets are updated. Trade stakeholders are encouraged to make appropriate use of these support facilities.
    TheNewsBit Bureau

  • Joining the Center’s health initiatives, PM Modi hails Delhi

    Joining the Center’s health initiatives, PM Modi hails Delhi

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday lauded the implementation of twin central government health schemes, including an insurance cover programme, in Delhi as a revolutionary step in the national capital. “This mission of the double engine government is going to be very beneficial for lakhs of brothers and sisters in Delhi. I am delighted that people of Delhi, too, can now received treatment under the Ayushman scheme,” he said on X.

    After signing a Memorandum of Understanding on April 5 to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), the BJP government in Delhi signed another MoU with the Centre on Thursday for the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM).

    PM-ABHIM was launched in October 2021 to ensure that the public health infrastructure effectively manages future pandemics and outbreaks of diseases.

    The previous AAP dispensation had declined to adopt the schemes.

    Union Health Minister J P Nadda said on Thursday the state governments opposed to these programmes are being voted out by people. PTI

  • MS Dhoni returns CSK as captain for the 2025 IPL despite Gaikwad’s injury

    MS Dhoni returns CSK as captain for the 2025 IPL despite Gaikwad’s injury

    MS Dhoni will captain CSK for the remainder of IPL 2025 after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out of the tournament with an elbow fracture. Head Coach Stephen Fleming confirmed the development on Thursday (April 10), the eve of the team’s home game against Kolkata Knight Riders.

    Gaikwad, 28, sustained a blow to his elbow while facing Tushar Deshpande in CSK’s against Rajasthan Royals on March 30. Though he featured in the next two games, against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, scans have now confirmed a fracture.

    The injury is a major setback for the five-time winners, who have lost four of their first five matches and sit ninth in the standings. With Gaikwad out, they lose a key figure in an already misfiring top order. Notably, he also has been CSK’s leading run-scorer in three of the last four seasons.

    Gaikwad’s injury setback means 43-year-old Dhoni will return as CSK captain, reclaiming a role he’s held for the majority of the franchise’s storied history. He briefly handed over the reins to Ravindra Jadeja in 2022, only to take charge again midway through a turbulent season. Dhoni stepped aside once more before the 2024 season, but now finds himself back at the helm, tasked with reviving CSK’s faltering 2025 campaign.

    In all, Dhoni has captained CSK in 235 of their 268 matches, guiding them to an unmatched level of consistency and success. Under his leadership, CSK clinched five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023) and two Champions League T20 trophies. Remarkably, the team finished outside the top four in just two IPL seasons – 2020 and 2022 – while reaching the final on 10 occasions, including four years in a row from 2010 to 2013. Cricbuzz

  • The number of LEO satellites in orbit will soar to 42,600 by 2032

    The number of LEO satellites in orbit will soar to 42,600 by 2032

    According to a new report from global technology intelligence firm ABI Research, the total number of active LEO (including VLEO) satellites in operational orbit will increase from 7,473 in 2023 to approximately 42,600 by 2032. As China and Europe intensify their efforts and make significant investments in the LEO satellite market, there is a growing emphasis on space technologies for both national and commercial strategies. With more companies entering this sector, there are vast opportunities to expand across various industry verticals to capture the potential the space domain offers.

    “As we observe more competitors innovating their technologies and upgrading their satellite constellations to stay ahead in the space race, we anticipate a surge in commercial investment in satellite services and applications, including the Internet of Things (IoT), remote sensing, and global satellite communications. Additionally, advancements in real-time data processing and analysis, coupled with growing competition in value-added services such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and edge processing, will spur increased applications in the Earth observation industry. These factors are expected to drive significant growth in the LEO satellite market in the coming decade,” explains Rachel Kong, Research Analyst at ABI Research.

    Many satellite network operators are seizing this opportunity to invest in their networks or collaborate with technology companies. In the AI and edge processing space, companies like AWS, Spire Global, Telesat Lightspeed, D-Orbit, Anduril, and Ubotica are exploring new opportunities to deliver advanced systems that integrate these technologies into satellite networks.

    Chinese operators such as Spacesail, China Satellite Network Group, and Shanghai Landspace Technology are also accelerating the development of their satellite constellations to strengthen national defense and security systems. This includes their ambition to become global leaders in communications and other key space capabilities.

    “To capitalize on the growing opportunity in the satellite market, it is essential for ecosystem players to recognize the potential in emerging markets such as Asia-Pacific, Southeast Asia, and Africa,” adds Kong. “These regions offer vast untapped opportunities, though a lack of investment and regulatory barriers currently limits them. Moving forward, it will be crucial to collaborate with local governments and ecosystem players to align regulatory policies, expand broadband access, and strengthen digital infrastructure.” ABI Research

  • Confirmed: Universal Studios UK theme park

    Confirmed: Universal Studios UK theme park

    Universal Studios will open its first mega UK theme park in 2031 – after ministers gave the multi million pound project the green light.

    The announced they have secured the site to build their first Universal themed park in Europe after the UK government said yes to plans.

    The resort will be built in Bedfordshire and will take six years to build and finish. The agreement between Universal, the Government and the local council was finalised yesterday (Tuesday) and is expected to rake in £50 billion for the UK economy.

    As well as the new theme park, the 476 acre site will boast a retail and entertainment complex as well as a new hotel and expects to attract 8.5 million visitors within the first year.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer backed the plans, saying the attraction will create around 28,000 jobs – 20,000 in the construction period and 8,000 working on the site when it opens to visitors in 2031.

    He said: “It is not just about numbers; it’s about securing real opportunities for people in our country.

    “Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive.”

    New railway and transport links are to be built around the new park after UK ministers made promises to make sure the investment will be easily accessible for visitors.

    The project ties in with other work around the Oxford-Cambridge corridor, including support for the expansion of Luton Airport with Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the investment is “a vote of confidence in Britain as a place to do business”.

    Mike Cavanagh, the president of Universal’s parent company Comcast Corporation said: “We could not be more excited to take this very important step in our plan to create and deliver an incredible Universal theme park and resort in the heart of the United Kingdom.

    “[This] complements our growing US-based parks business by expanding our global footprint to Europe.”

    Universal has five entertainment and resort complexes around the world – Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood in the USA, Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, Universal Beijing Resort in China and Universal Studios Singapore.

    Mark Woodbury, chairman and chief executive of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said: “Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe.”

    Nearly 20,000 jobs will be created during the six-year construction period, with a further 8,000 new jobs across the hospitality and creative industries when it opens in 2031.

    Starmer added: “Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.

    “This is our Plan for Change in action, combining local and national growth with creating around 28,000 new jobs across sectors such as construction, AI, and tourism.

    An artist’s rendering of what the park could look like, published today for the first time, includes a huge lake at the centre, with several ‘lands’ around the outside.

    Although details of attractions have yet to be confirmed, the rendering shows three large outdoor rollercoasters, as well as showbuildings to house dark rides, children’s rides and two outdoor theatres. MSN

  • Fremantle starts Imaginae Studios

    Fremantle starts Imaginae Studios

    Fremantle has launched Imaginae Studios, a standalone label that will harness the power of artificial intelligence to “push production boundaries and drive innovation in storytelling,” according to the production and distribution giant.

    Fremantle is known for hit unscripted shows like “American Idol” and “America’s Got Talent,” drama series like “Normal People,” and films such as Luca Guadagnino’s “Queer” and Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Poor Things.”

    Imaginae will “leverage all AI solutions, technologies and tools for the creative community, embracing experimentation, innovation and vision,” the company added. The label will offer “opportunities for the next generation of creative talent, with the hire of a dedicated team of creatives with a passion for innovation in storytelling.”

    Andrea Scrosati, Fremantle’s group chief operating officer and CEO Europe, is spearheading the launch of the independent label, whose creative team will work exclusively within the new business.

    Scrosati said: “Our mission is, and will always be, to give creatives the best tools and the best support to deliver incredible content for audiences globally. AI offers incredible new opportunities to transform ideas into images, video, sound and art.

    “The mission of Imaginae Studios will be exactly that – to serve as a bridge between extraordinary human creativity and cutting-edge technology, fostering a creative sanctuary where innovation meets experimentation. We believe that behind every powerful AI tool, there must be a brilliant creative mind guiding its potential.”

    Fremantle said Imaginae “reinforces its commitment and investment in creative talents, ideas and innovation with the goal of delivering cutting-edge, high-quality entertainment to audiences worldwide.”

    The company would adhere “to the strictest intellectual property and compliance standards,” it added. Variety

  • Weather delays Amazon’s initial Kuiper internet satellite launch

    Weather delays Amazon’s initial Kuiper internet satellite launch

    Amazon on Wednesday had its launch of the first 27 initial Kuiper internet satellites postponed over bad weather, the launch provider United Launch Alliance said. Reuters