TV9 Network, India’s largest television news network, has expanded its editorial capabilities in the digital space. With two senior-level hires, TV9 Digital’s proposition is set to gain a competitive advantage as it embarks on a massive expansion plan.

Ajith Vijay Kumar will lead the English text digital platform, while Panini Anand will lead the Hindi offering, alongside other regional digital text assets, including proposed launches in this space.

Anand previously worked as the executive editor of Aaj Tak Digital, and Kumar previously worked as a senior news editor for Times Now Digital, media statement from TV9 Network said.

Panini brings two decades of experience reporting on socio-political movements to his new role, as well as a wealth of editorial knowledge. He has previously worked for reputable media outlets such as Rajya Sabha TV, Outlook magazine, BBC, and Rajasthan Patrika.

In less than three years, TV9 Network’s Hindi news platform, tv9hindi.com, has quickly established its presence in the fiercely competitive space.

The website now aims to take the lead with a diverse range of content covering politics, business, education, careers, science, technology, farming, agriculture, entertainment, and viral news, the network said in a statement.

The recent launch of TV9 Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh Uttarakhand digital channels has further strengthened the network’s leadership position, with the channel quickly gaining currency among the most discerning audiences across the Hindi heartland.

news9live.com, the English digital service, focuses on thought-provoking stories from around the world on topics ranging from breaking news, politics, defense, finance, entertainment, and sports to social media trends, wellness, technology, and the latest in science. The platform is currently being reimagined to provide readers with a never-before-integrated news experience.

Commenting on the appointment of the two digital leaders, TV9 Network MD & CEO Barun Das said, “TV9 Network has scripted a historical growth in the broadcast space leading to the Network achieving national leadership position. We want to replicate our success in the digital space. As part of an aggressive digital growth strategy, we have lined up some out-of-the-box propositions such as News9 Plus and Money9. We are now prepared to begin our journey towards the next big leap.

“The current year boasts of a very busy news calendar leading up to the mega news event of 2024 when general elections are due in India. Panini’s valuable editorial experience will further elevate our editorial content. Ajith too is a seasoned induction. There will be further beefing up of our digital firepower.”

Commenting on his appointment, Panini said, “TV9 Network has disrupted the news television genre beating legacy players. Its phenomenal broadcast success is also mirrored in its ever-growing digital presence. I am happy to be part of this acclaimed turnaround story driven by the mission to create a new compelling digital experience for the ever-demanding and politically alive HSM news aficionado.”

“I am elated to join TV9 Network, among the most successful news media companies that have not only bucked the trend but also set a new benchmark. I look forward to some learning and unlearning as News9 Live aims to be a truly distinct English news offering,” said Kumar.