Gaurav Banerjee, Managing Director and CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India. The appointment, effective August 1, comes as part of BARC’s leadership transition and underscores the council’s commitment to industry-led, data-driven media measurement.
Banerjee succeeds Shashi Sinha, Executive Chairman of IPG Mediabrands India, who served as BARC India Chairman for over three years. Under Sinha’s leadership, BARC saw expanded coverage, greater technical robustness, and a renewed focus on audience trust.
A seasoned media executive, Banerjee brings over two decades of experience in content strategy, broadcasting, and digital media. He previously helmed content for Disney+ Hotstar and Star India, and currently serves as Vice President of the Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF). He is also a long-standing member of BARC India’s Technical Committee.
Speaking on his appointment, Banerjee said:
“It is an honour to chair BARC India at such a transformative time for the media industry. I look forward to furthering BARC’s mission of providing reliable, transparent, and inclusive television measurement for all stakeholders.”
BARC CEO Nakul Chopra welcomed the new leadership, stating:
“Gaurav’s deep understanding of both content and consumer behaviour will be instrumental in guiding BARC through its next phase of innovation.”
Banerjee’s appointment comes at a critical juncture, with the Indian media landscape rapidly evolving amid the rise of digital platforms and growing demand for integrated audience insights. His leadership is expected to play a key role in steering BARC’s vision forward and ensuring its continued relevance in a converged ecosystem.
