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9X optimistic about future despite reports Dec 02, 2008 06:15 PM| Read / Post comments

9X has denied media reports that the channel is facing financial difficulties as it plans the next phase of its programming strategy.

A source at INX Network (general entertainment channel 9X, music service 9XM and NewsX) told AgencyFAQs that the funding issue it was facing has been resolved.

“It seems that there have been some speculative and inaccurate news stories, which cast doubts on the future of the Hindi GEC, 9X. But the recent period of TV producers’ industrial action has redefined the leadership stakes in the category and there is no certainty that the earlier leader will regain leadership status, post the fresh ratings reports. We are, therefore, using this period of disruption to revisit our future content strategy,” the company official adds.

During this period of economic slowdown and disrupted viewing patterns, it is not easy to decide which channel will emerge as the No. 1 player. “Due to the global economic uncertainty, recent industrial issues and also due to viewers switching to news channels, we believe that the audience shares for GECs will fragment more quickly than was originally anticipated. This new reality will then provide fresh opportunities,” says the senior company official.

It was reported on TellyChakkar last week that 9X is axing a slew of shows (not currently broadcasting in the UK) ‘Chak De ��� Shaher Di Kudiyan Te Galli De Gunde’, ‘Kissmet Ka Khel’, ‘Ajeeb’, ‘Rubi’ and ‘Indira Gandhi’. Whilst channels in India reverted back to original episodes of daily soaps on Monday, 9X continues to screen re-run episodes. AgencyFAQs said 9X has not given a go-ahead to most of its producers to start shooting fresh episodes. The channel is hoping to win back its lost audience with a fresh lineup.

9X will be unveiling a new line-up of shows in the coming days. Keep it with BizAsia.co.uk for the news break.