Question

Write the characteristics of Indian Press. Or, Throw light on the role of press in Independent India.

Answer 1

There are three features of Indian press-

1. In the first half of 19th Century due to lack of public awareness the circulation of newspapers was low due to lack of public awareness. Journalism was a loss making business. Nevertheless, criticism of bias in Judicial decisions, religions interference and racial discrimination by newspapers gave impetus to the religious and social reform movement and Indian public opinion was awakened.
2. After the revolt of 1857, the nature of the press was divided on the basis of caste. There were two types of it. Anglo Indian Press and Indian Press. The progress and size of the Anglo-Indian press was foreign. It followed the policy of divide and rule among Indians. By this the Indian leaders were accused of being non-loyal to the govt. The Anglo-Indian Press had a close relationship with the government. Government news and advertisement were given to this.
3. Indian Press were published in English and other Indian languages. Where the Anglo Indian Press was privileged. At the same time, Indian Pace was often banned. Despite this, Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Surendra Nath Banerjee, Balgangadhar Tilak, Dadabhai Naoroji, Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Muhammad Al Maulana Azad etc. Made the Indian Press powerful and effective in the 19th and 20th centuries.