Stories
Streaming Surpasses TV in Indian Content Investment for First Time

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CNBC TV18•27-09-2026, 08:00
Streaming Surpasses TV in Indian Content Investment for First Time
- •For the first time in Indian media history, streaming platforms have captured the largest share of content creation budgets, surpassing linear television.
- •Online video accounted for 46% of India’s video content investment in 2025, exceeding linear television’s 42%, a significant shift from 2024.
- •The shift is driven by the Connected TV (CTV) surge, mass-market bundling of OTT subscriptions, and the power of live sports to attract viewers and advertisers.
- •Despite the investment shift, television still commands massive household reach, but streaming is gaining due to future growth potential, digital ad dollars, and reusable intellectual property.
- •Streaming operators are now focusing on tightening production fees, multi-season franchises, and regional-language storytelling to ensure profitability and sustainable growth.
Key Questions Answered
According to the Media Partners Asia report, online video accounted for 46% of India's video content investment in 2025, surpassing linear television's 42% share for the first time.
Active paid OTT subscriptions rose to 172.6 million in 2026, while India's active Connected TV user base surged by 60% in a single year to reach 206.9 million viewers.
The television ratings blackout was caused by license non-renewals under updated government guidelines, which cost the Broadcast Audience Research Council an estimated ₹60 crore.





