India is home to a multitude of daily newspapers, with several thousand titles being published across the country. While English-language newspapers and periodicals continue to exert considerable influence, the significance of regional language publications is progressively expanding, both in absolute numbers and in their relative impact on society. Prominent among the highest circulation newspapers are The Times of India and Hindustan Times, published in English; Hindustan and Navbharat Times, in Hindi; and Anandabazar Patrika, in Bengali. The book publishing sector is flourishing in India, with academic publications constituting a significant share of the market, alongside a robust demand for literary works. Generally, the press operates with minimal governmental interference, except under circumstances that pertain to national security, during states of emergency, or to prevent the escalation of communal tensions, such as after riots or similar disturbances. The Press Trust of India, established in 1947, stands as the nation’s premier news agency, while the United News of India was founded in 1961.

Radio broadcasting commenced in India with private initiatives in 1927 but was later monopolized by the colonial authorities in 1930. Renamed All India Radio in 1936, and also known as Akashvani since 1957, this government-run service broadcasts across the nation through an extensive network of transmitters. Television broadcasting was first trialed by Akashvani in 1959, with regular programming beginning in 1965. It was restructured as an independent entity called Doordarshan in 1976, which was subsequently rebranded as Doordarshan India. Educational and television content is disseminated through the Indian National Satellite (INSAT) system. The advent of Zee TV in 1992 marked the launch of the first Hindi-language cable channel, leading to the proliferation of additional cable and satellite services.

Telecommunication infrastructure exhibits a high density in urban locales, yet many rural areas are not as well connected. Cellular phone usage mirrors this pattern, being widespread in metropolitan regions. Internet cafes are a common sight in prosperous districts, and a significant number of Indian households have internet access via telephone and cable connections. The country boasts several high-tech hubs and maintains global connectivity through international cables and satellite links.