Apurv Shukla – 
Indian Newslink was established in 1999 to provide a platform to discuss topics of interest and concern to people of Indian origin and people from countries in South Asia and the Middle East.
Today as the fortnightly publication celebrates 17 years since its inception, it is time to rejoice for all those involved with the newspaper, including its management, staff, contributors, sponsors, advertisers and readers.
In a rapidly changing media industry, the future is both challenging and exciting for Indian Newslink.
As the Indian Community grows, so does its contribution to the social, cultural and economic fabric of New Zealand.
Whether it is business, academia or sports, Indians are achieving success and are active stakeholders in helping to shape the future of the country.
This gives Indian Newslink a wide gamut of stories, issues and personalities to cover. Over these years, the publication has also been organising annual events such as the Indian Newslink Indian Business Awards, Indian Newslink Sir Anand Satyanand Lecture and Indian Newslink Indian Sports Awards –all honouring achievers from the wider Indian community in New Zealand.
Changing landscape
Information technology has completely changed the world.
All industries and companies must change and adapt to a society that is fast evolving.
Newspapers are no different.
In an era where news is available on multiple platforms instantly – newspapers should alter the way in which they report, smartly choosing stories to cover if they want to to keep the readers engaged and be relevant.
Indian Newslink should draw a clear demarcation between its web and print editions.
It should concentrate on keeping its print edition as a newspaper that analyses major stories of the fortnight.
Reporting details of the story should be a daily occurrence on the website.
The print edition should have stories which connect with the audience without compromising editorial standards.
Entertainment News
More stories analysing major happenings in India, Fiji and other parts of the world should be included.
Hindi cinema has an instant connect with Indians across the globe.
Every edition should cover the latest happenings in the Hindi film industry whilst not ignoring entertainment programmes held in New Zealand.
Closely associating with events happening in the Indian community in New Zealand will not only give the paper more stories to cover, but also increase its profile, especially amongst the younger generation.
Avoid Advertorials
Advertorials in the guise of news items are disappointing additions to any publication. Indian Newslink should refrain from doing this, as it would not have a wide appeal.
The newspaper should seriously think of becoming a weekly; two weeks is a long time between stories, and the relevance and interest in them might dwindle.
The ever-increasing numbers of people of Indian origin presents a growing market for Indian Newslink.
In general, Indians have the habit of reading newspapers suggested to them at a young age. If the newspaper remains an engaging product which is presented and packaged attractively, it will continue to find patronage among the growing population.
