Mehbooba seeks restoration of govt ads to rescue Kashmir’s ailing print media

SRINAGAR — PDP President Mehbooba Mufti has raised alarm over the worsening state of print journalism in Kashmir, urging the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister to intervene and restore government advertisements, a vital source of revenue for local publications.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the former Chief Minister said, “Suspension of government advertisements vital for both small and leading publications has thrown print journalism into complete disarray across the Valley. It’s only further deepened the crisis in the local media ecosystem, depriving hundreds of families who rely on it for their livelihood. Request @CM_JnK to take cognisance of this issue.”

Mehbooba’s appeal comes amid growing distress within Kashmir’s print media, which has seen a steady decline since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The withdrawal of government ads—once the financial backbone of regional publications—has crippled operations for many newspapers. While a few outlets continue to operate with limited support, the majority are battling severe financial constraints, forcing them to reduce circulation, cut staff, or cease publication entirely.

Media professionals and observers believe that the denial of advertisements has become a means to sideline voices critical of the administration. What was once a diverse and active media landscape is now struggling to survive, with fears mounting that the continued economic chokehold could lead to the collapse of independent journalism in the Valley.

Press associations and journalists have repeatedly flagged the issue, warning that the erosion of press freedom is also robbing hundreds of media workers, reporters, editors, designers and printers of their livelihoods.

With rising costs of newsprint, printing, and distribution, local media outlets say survival is impossible without a transparent and fair advertising policy.

Mehbooba Mufti’s call is the latest in a series of appeals for institutional support to preserve what remains of Kashmir’s embattled media ecosystem.