MUMBAI: India Today TV is sharpening its prime-time edge. Starting 28 April 2025, Gaurav Sawant, one of Indian journalism's most battle-tested voices, will anchor India First at 8 pm, replacing Newstrack in the coveted slot.

Known for his fearless field reporting, Sawant has covered India's defining moments, from the Kargil War and Kandahar hijack to the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, Uri, Pulwama, Nagrota, and the India-China Galwan standoff. His journalism has taken him deep into conflict zones across Iraq, Libya, Lebanon, Egypt, Ukraine, and Israel, not to mention terror attacks in London and Bangalore.

Sawant’s frontline credentials are unmatched. He earned Para Wings from the Indian Navy after completing five para jumps, including an assisted free fall from a Sea King helicopter at INS Dega-a rare honour for a civilian journalist—and has completed eight para jumps in total.

His commitment to telling India’s stories runs deep. As the author of ‘Dateline Kargil: A Correspondent’s Nine-Week Account’ from the Battlefront, and the creator of the Veergatha series on Param Vir Chakra awardees for schoolchildren, Sawant has consistently placed service above self, even refusing government remuneration for projects honouring India's bravest.

"India Today’s vibrant and democratic newsroom has always built its own leaders, training, trusting, and empowering talent ready to take charge," the network said in its announcement.

Now as managing editor, Sawant brings a clarity of purpose and credibility to India First, promising reportage rooted in fact over frills—a reflection of the same values that have defined his storied career.