Indian print Media Adapts and Innovates: Key Takeaways from the WAN-IFRA Printing & Distribution Summit
The Indian newspaper industry is demonstrating remarkable resilience and a commitment to innovation, even as digital media continues to evolve. Recent discussions at the WAN-IFRA Printing & Distribution Summit highlighted strategies for navigating this changing landscape, focusing on strengthening editorial quality, optimizing distribution, and embracing automation. Here’s a breakdown of the key insights and developments.
The Enduring Power of print – and the Need to Evolve
Despite the rise of digital platforms, print maintains a meaningful foothold in India, particularly in areas were digital access remains limited.Jayant Mammen Mathew, Executive Editor and Director of Malayala Manorama Company, pointed out that print thrives “where TV and digital have not been able to penetrate.”
However, simply existing isn’t enough. To retain readership, publishers must prioritize editorial excellence.As Mathew emphasized, “Unless we are editorially superior, it will be very arduous for our readers to stick with us.”
Tanmay Maheshwari, Managing Director of Amar Ujala, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of delivering added value to your audience.This means going beyond simply reporting the news and offering content that truly resonates with readers’ lives.
Streamlining Operations Through Automation
The Summit dedicated significant attention to how automation can improve print operations. Publishers are actively exploring system-level changes to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
These advancements aren’t just about cutting expenses; they’re about freeing up resources to focus on what matters most: quality journalism and reader engagement.
Rethinking Distribution for a Modern Era
Distribution remains a critical challenge for Indian newspapers. the Distribution Summit showcased how publishers are transforming longstanding delivery issues into new business opportunities.
Case studies from India, Sri Lanka, and Japan revealed diverse approaches to staying competitive. From optimizing delivery routes to exploring option distribution models, publishers are adapting to meet the evolving needs of their readers.
Recognizing Excellence: The Best in Print Awards 2025
The Summit also celebrated outstanding achievements in print production with the annual Best in Print Awards.This competition recognizes excellence in reproduction quality and fosters healthy competition within the industry.
Here are the 2025 winners:
Winners (Less than 150K circulation)
* Gold: Bennett Coleman & Co.[The Times of India, Pune]
* Silver: Bennett Coleman & Co.[The economic Times, Lucknow] & ABP Pvt Ltd [The Telegraph, Kolkata]
* Bronze: DB Corp [Dainik Bhaskar, jaipur VKI]
Winners (Greater than 150K circulation)
* Gold: Bennett Coleman & Co. [The Times of India,Mumbai]
* Silver: ABP Pvt Ltd [Anandabazar Patrika,Kolkata]
* Bronze: Bennett Coleman & Co. [The Times of India, Bengaluru]
Digital’s Influence: Pushing Print to Innovate
The overarching theme of the Summit was clear: digital isn’t replacing print, but it is challenging it to become better. Magdoom Mohamed,Managing Director of WAN-IFRA South Asia,highlighted this dynamic during the closing session.
Mohamed, who also presented early findings from World Press Trends 2025-2026, observed that the increasing participation in the event, coupled with the industry’s passion for print and its strong local connections, signals a positive outlook. “Digital is pushing print to do more,” he stated, and the Indian news media industry appears ready to rise to the occasion.
Looking ahead:
The Indian print media landscape is dynamic and evolving. By focusing on editorial quality,embracing innovation,and adapting to changing reader habits,publishers can ensure a lasting future for print in the digital age. You, as a reader, benefit from this commitment to quality and relevance.
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