RTL Group, the leading European entertainment network, and Reliance Broadcast Network Limited, one of India’s youngest media conglomerates, today announced the signing of a joint venture agreement to launch thematic television channels in India, operated by an equally owned joint venture company.

The initial scope of the investment will include two English-speaking TV channels; a reality channel with international content, mainly from RTL Group’s production arm FremantleMedia; and a channel primarily targeting male viewers with action-oriented content.

Andreas Rudas, Executive Vice President Regional Operations & Business Development Central and Eastern Europe of RTL Group, says: “RTL Group believes strongly in the Indian market – a market with a young population which loves TV and impressive potential for further growth. We are thrilled to have such a strong local partner as Reliance Broadcast Network for our first broadcasting venture in Asia.”

Tarun Katial, CEO of Reliance Broadcast Network Limited, says: “This joint venture brings Europe’s leaders to India, and Reliance Broadcast Network is proud to be at the core of creating a revolution in the Indian English entertainment space. We are committed to offering Indian audiences unprecedented international television content, and RTL Group’s extensive library and lineage compliment the partnership perfectly. The synergies, values and visions that both companies share will allow this joint venture to offer value to audiences and marketers alike.”