Media outlets offer readers ePaper, PDF version of newspaper

Mid-day, a Mumbai-based tabloid under the Jagran Group, however, has found a new way of reaching out to its readers.

After the 21-day complete lockdown was announced by prime minister Narendra Modi on March 25 in view of the Covid-19 pandemic across the country, Mid-day started reaching out to its readers by sharing PDF versions of the full newspaper and ePapers to its readers through registered phone numbers. The digital version of the newspaper is being shared free of cost.

In a letter shared with the readers, Tinaz Nooshian, executive editor, Mid-day, stated: "With the state government putting in place restrictions on movement as a precautionary measure to tide over the challenging times we find ourselves in, we are prioritising the safety and well-being of our vendors and deliverymen. We will continue of course, to bring you credible, verified and well researched news and entertaining features, like we always have."

Similarly, Indian Express has made its ePaper available free to its readers. Meanwhile, The Hindu is offering 20 free articles a month, up from 10, on its website. The newspaper stated that it was part of its efforts to bring accurate information about the Covid-19 pandemic to a larger audience. The newspaper has also made available its reports on the coronavirus as an eBook that readers can download for free.

The Financial Times, on the other hand, is offering 30 days complimentary access to its Coronavirus Business Update newsletter. Deccan Herald has also initiated an exclusive coronavirus newsletter - DH Coronavirus Newsletter - to its readers.

Most of the media outlets such as the Times of India, Hindustan Times, Mumbai Mirror, The New Indian Express have free access to the latest edition of its ePapers. However, to access its archives or previous editions, readers may have to subscribe. Meanwhile, the PrintWeek team will be bringing you all the latest news and updates in the print industry.