CNN-News18 launches Raw Report with Shawan Sen to bolster original reporting

New Delhi: Getting to the raw truth is now part of the daily schedule. CNN-News18 has launched Raw Report, a new weekday news programme anchored by senior journalist Shawan Sen, as the broadcaster sharpens its focus on original reporting and enterprise journalism.

The show premiered on August 3 and will air every weekday at 12 pm and 10 pm across television, connected TV (CTV) and YouTube.

Designed to blend live reporting with in-depth analysis, Raw Report aims to move beyond headline-driven coverage by delivering exclusive stories, on-ground reportage and contextual analysis of the day’s biggest developments. Each edition will seek to present viewers with a fresh angle on the most significant news story by leveraging the network’s reporting resources.

The afternoon edition will centre on the day’s agenda-setting story, explaining developments through field reporting, detailed visuals and data-driven graphics rather than simply breaking the news. The late evening edition will provide a comprehensive wrap-up of the day’s major national and international developments, offering viewers broader context and analysis.

The programme will also feature an exclusive news break and a key newsmaker in every episode, reinforcing its emphasis on enterprise reporting.

The launch coincides with Sen’s return to CNN-News18 as executive editor, enterprise and special investigations, marking his second stint with the network. He previously worked as senior correspondent at CNN-IBN between 2012 and 2016, covering crime, defence and intelligence agencies. During his career, he has also held editorial roles at Republic TV, The Times of India, The Indian Express and Times Network.

CNN-News18, editorial affairs director, Rahul Shivshankar said, “News consumption is changing rapidly, and as the country’s leading English news channel, we have to keep evolving with it. At CNN-News18, we’re constantly experimenting with formats that make our journalism more engaging without compromising on credibility.”

He added that Raw Report is built on original reporting, enterprise journalism and meaningful analysis, while Sen’s return strengthens the network’s editorial team with an experienced field reporter known for breaking stories.

CNN-News18, executive editor, enterprise and special investigations, Shawan Sen said, “Coming back to CNN-News18 is special because it’s a newsroom that has always believed in strong reporting.”

He said the programme is built around first-hand, verified reporting and aims to cut through the noise by helping viewers better understand the day’s biggest stories.

With Raw Report, CNN-News18 is expanding its investment in original journalism at a time when broadcasters are increasingly looking to differentiate themselves through exclusive reporting and multi-platform news delivery.