The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has approved a revised rate structure for government advertisements, implementing a 26% increase aimed at bolstering the financial health of the print media ecosystem. The enhancement has raised the black-and-white advertisement rate for one lakh copies of dailies from Rs 47.40 to Rs 59.68 per sq. cm, while also introducing new premium categories for colour advertisements and preferential positioning.
The Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), the nodal unit responsible for government publicity across media platforms, has been operating with rates last revised in January 2019 based on the recommendations of the 8th Rate Structure Committee. These rates had remained valid for three years before the Ministry initiated a fresh review.
To undertake this revision, the Ministry constituted the 9th Rate Structure Committee on 11 November 2021 under the chairmanship of AS&FA (I&B). Over multiple sessions between November 2021 and August 2023, the Committee has evaluated inputs from key newspaper associations, including INS, AISNA, SMBNS, and other stakeholders. It has examined factors influencing cost structures such as WPI inflation on newsprint, wage components, imported newsprint trends, and processing expenses. The Committee submitted its recommendations on 23 September 2023.
The government has stated that the rate revision has offered critical revenue support to print media organisations, especially as they navigate rising operational costs and intense competition from digital platforms. The enhanced rates have enabled publishers to sustain operations, invest in content quality, and strengthen local news delivery.
By recognising the evolving dynamics of media consumption and reaffirming the value of print within a diversified communication landscape, the government has sought to ensure that its outreach efforts continue to be effective and far-reaching across platforms.
