Network18 and A&E Television form a JV - AETN-18 India

The JV will see the roll out of channels including History, Bio and the other popular AETN channels in India

A&E Television Networks, LLC (AETN) and Network18 Group have come together to form a JV (joint venture), called AETN-18 India.

The JV will see the roll out of channels including History, Bio and other popular AETN channels in India. The JV between the two companies will be based out of Mumbai.

AETN-18 is one of the fastest growing pay television companies in the US. It operates two of the top five Pay TV networks - History and A&E, and a women's network, named Lifetime.

The JV between Network18 Group (51 per cent) and AETN (49 per cent) will be owned by AETN and 'New TV18' eventually (the broadcasting business company post-recently announced restructuring).

The launch date of the channels is yet to be decided. BMR Advisors acted as transaction advisors to Network18 Group.

Talking about the JV, Abbe Raven, president and CEO, AETN, says, "India presents us with strong growth opportunities for AETN's global portfolio strategy. We believe that in Network18, we've found the best partner for launching AETN's brands."

Raghav Bahl, founder and editor, Network18, says, "AETN-18 will endeavour to mirror the success that channels like History have had in the US. I believe the time is right for India to have a vibrant and dynamic factual entertainment space, led by channels like History."