Are newspapers still relevant? Pros and Cons

In this digital age and with 24×7 news channels, the question arises: are newspapers still relevant? In this article, we will discuss both the merits and demerits of the newspaper and get the answer to the question.
The media is the fourth pillar of democracy. Media can be divided into two parts: print and electronic media. Newspapers and magazines are print media. The newspaper is one of the oldest sources of information for us. At present, many electronic channels are available. We have a cheap internet connection to watch digital media. Still, the newspaper has maintained its relevance.

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Are newspapers still relevant? Yes

More trustworthy: These days, many electronic news channels have emerged that provide 24×7 news. Still, people prefer printed news in the form of a newspaper because it is a more trustworthy source. Once the news is published, it is not possible to modify or delete it. So, those who publish newspapers take great precautions while publishing news.
Less Expensive: A newspaper is not very expensive; by spending 4-5 Rs. We can keep ourselves updated with all the news. Even one newspaper can be shared by many people. So, it costs very little.
Complete Information: The newspaper is a complete source of information. We get a variety of news from one source. Newspapers, page by page, provide information about national news, international news, local news, economic news, sports news, and entertainment news. It helps us stay up-to-date with current affairs.
Improves Language: Reading a newspaper increases our vocabulary and makes us good readers and speakers. Many people enhance their English reading and speaking skills by reading newspapers.
Helps in forming opinions: Newspapers have a views section, also known as an editorial section. On this page, many writers express their opinions. We can read the expert opinion on any topic and enhance our knowledge.
Readers can raise issues: The newspaper has a readers’ section. In this section, we can write a letter or send an email to the newspaper and bring the issue to the government.
Mind Games: There are several mind games, like Sudoku and crossword puzzles, also available in the newspaper.
Government information: Governments also give important information in a newspaper. Which we can read and keep ourselves updated.
Boon for rural areas: In rural areas, there is still an electricity shortage. So, watching the news on TV or on a mobile phone is impossible for them. So, still, they rely on newspapers.
Easy to carry: Newspapers are lighter in weight; hence, they are easy to carry anywhere.

Are newspapers still relevant? No

Not environment-friendly: It creates a bad impact on the environment as a huge amount of paper is used by cutting trees.
Delayed update: During this era of electronic media and mobile phones, we get the news very quickly. For the newspaper, we must wait for the next morning. That is why the viewership of newspapers is decreasing day by day.
Not useful for everyone: Newspapers cannot be read by visually challenged people. Several people in our country are still unable to read and write. For them, electronic media like TV or radio are the best sources for updates.
Less engaging: These days, as the craze of digital media is on the rise, it carries images and videos. On the other hand, newspapers do not stand out before digital media or even electronic media. It can be called somewhat boring.

Conclusion:

So, are newspapers still relevant? We can say that even in this age of digital media and 24×7 news channels, newspapers will still be able to maintain their relevance. But it is also true that, with the changing scenario, in the coming days, the newspaper will have to face very fierce competition, and the upcoming days will be very difficult for the newspaper.