HIT Entertainment has joined forces with Turner International in India in a strategic partnership that extends the existing association of television rights to include licensing of preschool properties “Bob the Builder” and “Thomas and Friends.” The shows are aired on Turner’s kids’ channel Cartoon Network.

The licensing rights for “Thomas and Friends” and “Bob the Builder” cover apparel and accessories, stationery, toys and games, and will be handled through Cartoon Network Enterprises, the licensing and merchandising division of Cartoon Network.

Antonio Huab, vice president, Asia HIT Entertainment, says, “India is an important and growing market for HIT, and Cartoon Network offers a perfect broadcast and merchandise licensing partner for HIT’s properties.”

Adds Jiggy George, executive director of Cartoon Network Enterprises, India and South Asia, “Preschool is a critical segment for us both on the network and on the licensing front. The shows are already a huge hit on our channels and given our expertise and success with promoting products based on television series, we aim to make ‘Thomas and Friends’ and ‘Bob the Builder’ products a must-have for Indian consumers.”