SATELLITE & CABLE: HBO launches ad-supported channel in India

<p>HBO will launch an ad-supported South Asia service in India, </p><p>Pakistan, Bangladesh and the Maldives next month. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>Turner International India will exclusively handle the distribution and </p><p>advertising sales of HBO South Asia; in Pakistan, however, the service </p><p>will be distributed by Leo Communications. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>HBO Asia president and CEO Dan Murrell described the development as "a </p><p>significant milestone" for both the cable industry and for viewers in </p><p>India and South Asia. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>HBO will manage the new markets through a new joint venture known as HBO </p><p>South Asia, comprising Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures Entertainment, </p><p>Time Warner Entertainment and Universal Studios. </p><p><BR><BR> </p>