A new report from PwC projects India's media and entertainment industry to grow to $36.7 billion by 2030, marking a 7.4% annual growth rate. The sector is transitioning from scale-based growth to a focus on sustainable monetization, with internet advertising and digital content leading the expansion.
The Indian media and entertainment sector is entering a significant growth phase, with projections indicating the industry will reach a valuation of $36.7 billion by 2030. According to the latest 'Global Entertainment & Media Outlook 2026-2030' report by PwC released in August 2026, the sector is set to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.4%, a pace that notably outstrips the global industry average of 4%.
The industry is shifting its strategic focus from aggressive user acquisition to sustainable monetization and user engagement. Internet advertising is expected to be the primary engine for this growth, with revenues projected to climb to $14.3 billion by the end of the decade, reflecting a 13.9% annual growth rate. Companies are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence to optimize content delivery and improve audience targeting, which is seen as a crucial step to improve operational efficiency.
While digital segments are expanding rapidly, traditional media such as television and print continue to demonstrate resilience within the Indian market. Unlike global trends where these segments often face sharp declines, Indian television is expected to maintain steady demand, with revenues projected to reach $7.5 billion by 2030. The newspaper segment is also expected to show a modest rise to $3.5 billion, supported by sustained consumer trust and the enduring strength of regional markets.
Other growth segments include Over-the-Top video platforms, which are evolving their business models by blending subscription tiers with advertising. These platforms are forecasted to reach $3.6 billion in revenue, while the gaming and esports segment is expected to carve out a niche worth $2.6 billion.
Investors and market observers should monitor the execution risks associated with this shift. While the growth projections are positive, the ability of companies to maintain operational discipline and successfully integrate technology, such as AI, without excessive spending will be critical. Additionally, because the sector relies heavily on advertising revenue, it remains sensitive to broader economic cycles. The long-term performance of media companies will depend on how effectively they manage these cost pressures while scaling their digital operations to meet the evolving demands of the Indian consumer.