It’s not all good news, but a policy of publishing at least 40 per cent positive news has seen print readership expand for Sach Kahoon.
Based in Sirsa, Haryana, India, the publisher is thriving, as manager Vikas Baghla explained in an INMA Ideas blog.
“In an era where digital platforms are redefining news consumption, traditional print media is facing a steady decline,” he says. “However, our unique editorial approach – which prioritises constructive, ethical, and uplifting journalism – has played a pivotal role in strengthening its presence in both print and digital formats.”
The rise of affordable internet and smartphone penetration has transformed news consumption habits. According to industry reports, while digital media reach increased from 28 per cent in 2018 to 64 per cent of the global population in 2025, print media readership experienced a decline. Many newspapers have either reduced circulation or shut down unprofitable editions due to changing audience preferences and rising costs.
The story of selfless young men donating blood resonated with readers.
“The decision to focus on 40 per cent positive news was not made arbitrarily,” he says. “It is backed by years of audience engagement and strong readership results in both print and digital formats.
“Over the past few years, Sach Kahoon has observed that:
-readers appreciate content that inspires and uplifts rather than induces stress or negativity;
-ethical and constructive reporting builds long-term reader trust; and
-the demand for socially responsible journalism is increasing, especially among families and young readers.”
A study by Stanford University further supports the approach, indicating readers who consume motivational and constructive stories tend to be more engaged and optimistic about their surroundings.
When a fire broke out in a public space, residents jumped in to help extinguish it instead of waiting for the fire brigade to arrive.
Sach Kahoon editor at Shri Tilak Raj says the goal is not just to report the news but to shape perspectives that contribute positively to society. “The idea is simple: News should inform, educate, and inspire, not just shock and sensationalise,” he says.
“Based on Sach Kahoon’s track record, it is possible that other media houses adopting a similar positive news policy could experience similar benefits. A balanced approach – where positivity and constructive journalism form a significant portion of content – can attract and retain more readers in the long run.”
Despite the shift to digital platforms, print media remains a vital source of information in rural India, with the 2023 IRS report showing print readership in rural areas had increased by three per cent. In addition to print, Sach Kahoon has expanded its digital presence.
When residents gathered together to clean up public spaces, Sach Kahoon covered the story.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, Sach Kahoon remains committed to its ethical and uplifting journalism model. The newspaper’s success serves as an example that quality journalism focused on positive impact can not only survive but also thrive in the digital age.
“By encouraging more media houses to adopt a 40 per cent positive news policy, we believe the entire industry can benefit – not just in terms of readership but also in creating a more constructive and inspiring media environment for society as a whole.”