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