Indian publishing according to Sanat Hazra

The World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers (Wan-Ifra) has shared a presentation made by Sanat Hazra of Bennett, Coleman & Co on the overview of Indian publishing industry.

12 Apr 2017 | 7300 Views | By PrintWeek India

Hazra, who holds a BS in Photographic Science & Engineering and MS in Printing Technology and who previously, worked at the New York Daily, lists the following industry and macro economic trends:

  • The environment is more dynamic than stable
  • Vernacular dailies witnessed more fluctuations
  • Slow down in Realty sector and government spending had high impact
  • Telecom and eCommerce sectors shifting to television and digital
  • Newspaper business continues to grow at 8%
  • Publishing houses integrating digital via mobile apps and web pages
  • Overall positive macroeconomic environment and optimistic GDP projections keeps investor confidence high
  • According to IMF, India could be the fastest growing economy in the world with GDP growing above 7.5%

On newspaper and magazines, Hazra notes:

  • Many newspapers around the world are downsizing or transitioning towards digital
  • India is holding strong with readership increasing in smaller towns, aided by young and aspiring population
  • Literacy rates are improving across the country and expected to improve further
  • Newspapers still contribute around 96% of the print revenue
  • Magazine space is struggling to overcome the onslaught of digital and dropping demand.
  • Many publications have discontinued the print versions

On internet penetration, Hazra says:

  • In contrast to western countries, India still has 70% of population without access to internet
  • Newspapers are still the medium with deep reach and credibility
  • Television news channels compliment newspapers as people turn to newspapers to validate facts and analysis heard and seen on television
  • Newspapers are still the most trusted media
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