The evolution of press in Kashmir region

The local press in Jammu and Kashmir region traces its origins in the nationalist movement during the Dogra regime in the State. The press proved to be an effective tool of dissent for the local leaders who were spearheading the movement against the Dogra hegemony and authoritarianism in the state. The local newspapers have consolidated their role in the tumultuous politics in the region and have maintained a significant position in the local political discourse. The state-owned Doordarshan maintained a monopoly in regional news broadcasting, however, the local cable television that facilitated an unbridled access to a variety of news, entertainment and sports channels for the local audience, came up as a challenge to DD. The paper discusses the evolution of regional press in Kashmir region which also constitutes the regional television broadcasting.