MUMBAI: Star Group announced the launch of five popular Asian television channels on the Dish Network platform. Dish Network is one of the largest satellite TV service providers in America. The deal represents the biggest US distribution pact to date for Star, and complements Dish Network’s existing South Asian and Chinese Channel line-up.

Beginning 19 March, Dish Network’s industry-leading suite of international programming will include Star India PLUS and Star India ONE, two of Star’s most popular Indian Channels; three of Star’s leading Mandarin-language Channels, Star Chinese Channel, Star Chinese Movies 2 and music Channel Channel [V] Taiwan will be added on 26 March.

"This partnership with Star and the addition of these top-quality international Channels further proves Dish Network’s commitment to delivering the best quality and variety of international programming," said Dish Network vice president of International Programming Tracy West. "We’re thrilled to make these popular Indian and Chinese Channels available to our customers."

"Today’s announcement allows us to significantly expand the reach of our services to the Asian Diaspora in the US," said Star’s senior vice president for distribution and sales and head of Star’s North American and European offices David Wisnia. "We look forward to entertaining Chinese, Taiwanese and Indian viewers with the top-notch programming that has made Star a household name in Asia, in essence giving them a chance to feel a little closer to their home countries."