Digital Media Broadcasting to bring about change in Sports Broadcasting : Goel

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi: Minister of state (I/C) for Youth Affairs and Sports Vijay Goel on Wednesday said that digital media broadcasting will play a critical role in bringing about change in sports broadcasting in India. Addressing the Big Picture Summit 2016 here, he said increasing penetration of internet, mobile devices and cheaper data services especially in rural areas will prove game changer in this direction. He said Broadcasters must focus on how sports are delivered to these audiences.

Goel said the data suggests that more than 60% of the Digital Audiences in India is in the age group of 13-35 years. This is the base that sports needs to capture to build up the overall Business of Sports. He said there is a need for brands and advertisers to come forward and recognize the power of sports. The Minister said the government is committed to work towards building up a culture of sports and improving the business of sports. He said all stakeholders must work towards this common objective, according to a PIB release.

Outlining the importance of sports, Goel said, it is evident that more and more people are taking up sports. Sports in India has already taken its first step in the right direction in the last 3 years. A majority of Sports Leagues have been launched including Football, Kabaddi, Wrestling, Hockey, Tennis, Badminton and more. He said this has been made possible by persistent efforts by various stakeholders.

The Minister said packaging of the Sports League as entertainment has been the game changer. This clearly reflects in more than 450 million viewers of Indian Super League. The most interesting revelation has been Pro Kabaddi League with a viewership of more than 500 million. He said, what is even more interesting to note is, that some of these leagues have more than 40% female viewers on television.