New Delhi
The government is considering a 26 per cent increase in advertisement rates for print media as part of broader reforms to support traditional media amid growing competition from digital platforms, sources said on Saturday. An official notification is expected after November 15, 2025.
Officials highlighted that the shift from conventional to online media has affected the revenue and livelihoods of people working in print media. With advertising income declining, the proposed rate hike aims to provide a boost to traditional newspapers and protect jobs in the sector.
The government is also looking at reforms in radio, television, and DTH services. For radio, efforts are underway to remove regulatory restrictions that have limited growth. TV channels face distortions in the rating system, and officials are working to ensure a level playing field for all broadcasters. A consultation paper on rating reforms has already been completed.
In the DTH sector, reforms are being considered to increase reach and make the cost structure for free dish services more efficient, aiming to balance accessibility with sustainability for service providers.
The move to revise advertisement rates is part of a larger plan to modernize the media ecosystem, ensuring traditional outlets remain viable while adapting to the digital era. Sources said the government is working at multiple levels to safeguard media workers’ livelihoods and improve overall transparency and efficiency in the industry.
Observers noted that this overhaul reflects the government’s recognition of conventional media’s continuing role in providing credible news and information, even as online platforms continue to expand rapidly.
