Bilal Bashir Bhat
Editor-in-Chief, Daily Srinagar Jang
There can be little doubt that the advent of social and digital media has profoundly impacted traditional journalism, especially print media, and Urdu newspapers have borne the brunt. The era when the first act upon waking was to reach for the newspaper is now a relic of the past. As digital media has ascended, the readership of traditional Urdu newspapers has inevitably declined, primarily because younger audiences now prefer to consume news online.
While it is an uncomfortable truth, it must be acknowledged that many Urdu publications have been sluggish in adapting to digital technologies in this part of the world. Numerous newspapers have failed to deliver quality journalism precisely because of this hesitation, often relegating editorial decisions to designers rather than seasoned journalists. This negligence and delay in embracing digital evolution have greatly hindered Urdu newspapers’ ability to reach broader online audiences.
This issue is not confined to unfamiliar publications alone. Even prominent newspapers heavily rely on syndicated news agency content, resulting in a near-identical stream of news across different outlets, down to the headlines and the recurring spelling errors. A cursory glance reveals the homogeneity that most Urdu papers mirror each other’s reports, sourced from news agencies. Unlike their counterparts in other languages, few Urdu newspapers offer readers fresh editorials, features, or exclusive reports.
Compared to English or Hindi journalism, Urdu media has struggled to establish a robust online presence. Urdu journalism is seldom the subject of widespread online searches, making its reach relatively limited.
Ironically, despite English media outlets frequently broadcasting multimedia programs in Urdu, Urdu journalism has failed to capitalize on digital platforms adequately. Discussions in private circles often point to economic challenges as a fundamental reason. Indeed, many Urdu newspapers aspire to grow but are constrained by a lack of private advertising revenue, as the entrenched “Old is Gold” mentality persists. Heavy dependence on sporadic government advertisements only exacerbates their difficulties.
About a decade ago, as a young journalist, I realized that Urdu’s emotional expressiveness offers unique advantages over other languages in the Kashmir Valley. Equipped with significant experience in digital journalism in English, I endeavored to apply my skills to Urdu journalism, not to boast, but to offer a model for my peers.
In July 2022, under my editorship, Daily Srinagar Jang became the first Urdu newspaper in the region to introduce QR codes in its print edition, enabling readers to access videos and extended stories through their smartphones. I believe this innovation helps bridge the gap between print and digital media, encouraging greater engagement via mobile devices.
Building upon this foundation, in 2023 and 2024, Srinagar Jang broadened its content beyond the conventional and narrow news reporting. We began dedicating full daily pages to arts, culture, current affairs, traditions, politics, personalities, unsung heroes, interviews, history, and developmental issues, accompanied by refined design standards. These pages will soon be compiled into a compendium for publication.
Our ongoing mission is to ensure that our newspaper’s coverage does not rely solely on news agencies. Instead, we cultivate editors and reporters capable of producing fresh, late-night news stories, supported by tech-savvy staff, ensuring our morning editions deliver timely and original content. While local acknowledgment remains sparse, we are grateful to national organizations like exchange4media and the Media Federation of India, who have recognized and appreciated our modest efforts.
Of course, the renaissance of Urdu journalism cannot rest on the shoulders of a few individuals alone; it demands a collective endeavor from all stakeholders. Authorities bear the responsibility of safeguarding Urdu print media, particularly by financially supporting genuine and professional institutions through advertising allocations.
It is imperative for the government to approach Urdu journalism with renewed vision and to facilitate the younger generation’s involvement in preserving this rich heritage. Equally, readers must actively engage with Urdu newspapers, read and discuss their content, and amplify it, both offline and online. Sharing articles on social media plays a crucial role in attracting new readership.
Finally, alongside readers and editors, the few remaining senior Urdu journalists must mentor the upcoming generation with maturity and wisdom. Without their guidance, Urdu journalism risks being reduced to a handful of clichéd phrases like “ Kahin na kahin,” “ Agar hum baat karein,” “Hamare saath baat karne ke liye” or Nazreen-o-kiram.”
Urdu journalism’s future depends on proactive, concerted, and heartfelt efforts, now more than ever.
