Akangjungla
The Russian invasion of Ukraine since its start has been perceived as a war that is quite far away from Nagaland, and many continue to remain indifferent in spite of the catastrophic loss of human lives, damage of property and the displacement of thousands. For those who follow the politics and impact of the Russia-Ukraine crisis, especially for the newspapers, they are aware of the damaging consequences. One of the industries in India affected greatly by the war is the Newspaper industry which braces itself for a big blow as it struggles with the supply of newsprint and its rising cost. Russia accounts for almost 45 per cent of Indian newsprint import, according to the Times of India.
The Newspaper industry was greatly affected by the COVID-19 induced lockdown and even before it had a chance to recover; it is hit by another crisis. As per the data made available by Volza Grow Global, India imports most of its newsprint paper from Russia. With 145 buyers, India is the top 1 import market for newsprint paper and as the largest importer of newsprint paper it accounts for 8,568 shipments. “These facts are updated till March 19, 2022, and are based on Volza’s India Import data of newsprint paper sourced from 70 countries export import shipments with names of buyers, suppliers, top decision maker's contact information like phone, email and LinkedIn profiles,” the data records.
Along with the war, the hike in fuel prices and other commodities, the newsprint prices too are going up and likely to further escalate. According to experts, the unpredictability in foreign exchange markets can further force newsprint prices to rise higher.
The Russian-Ukraine crisis has occurred in a time when the newspaper industry is already in deep difficulties following the COVID-19 pandemic, the lockdowns and sluggish economy. For more than two years, the newspapers all over the world are struggling to keep the operational aspects functional. Many have been forced to shut down the business or cut down the strength of the human power. The pressure for survival and keeping alive the oldest industry is now crashing flat under these terrible conditions.
Unless there is a government intervention, both from the Centre and State, in some form of the much needed relief, the newspapers will be left staring at very large bills, mounting losses or more closures of newspapers.
Forced by the crippling impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Nagaland newspapers publishers and editor wrote a joint letter in May 20, 2020 to the Chief Minister of Nagaland seeking a stimulus package. Almost two years later, there has been no response till date. There is urgency for the Government of Nagaland to assess the impact of the pandemic and current Russian-Ukraine war on the newspaper Industry in the state and make constructive intervention in support of the fourth pillar of democracy.
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