Starting a newspaper involves several key steps to ensure compliance with regulations and successful launch. Here’s a simplified guide to get you started:

Step-by-Step Guide

1.      Title Verification

1. • Objective: Ensure the name of your newspaper is unique and available.
   • Process: Apply to the Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI) for title verification. Include details like the proposed name, language, periodicity, owner’s name, and place of publication.
   • Verification: The District Magistrate will review your application and forward it to the RNI. If the title is available, RNI will issue a verification letter.

2.      Declaration Filing

2. • Objective: Officially declare your intent to publish.
   • Process: Submit a declaration to the District Magistrate using the prescribed format. You can start publishing once this step is completed.

 3.      Publishing the First Issue

3. • Deadline: Print and distribute the first issue within 45 days for dailies or weeklies, and within 90 days for other periodicities.

 4.      Registration Application

4. • Documents Needed:
     • Attested copy of the declaration
     • Title verification letter
     • First issue of the newspaper
     • 'No Foreign Tie-up' affidavit (notarized)
   • Submission: Send these documents to the RNI for official registration.

5.      Newspaper Details

5. • Must Include:
     • Volume number, issue number, title (prominently displayed)
     • Date line and page numbers on all pages
     • Imprint line with printer, publisher, owner, editor details, and address of the printing press

6.      Separate Declarations

6. • If the printer and publisher are different, each needs to provide a separate declaration.

Post-Registration Requirements

• Submit Copies: Send a copy of each issue to the RNI.
• Annual Statement: By the end of May, submit Form II annually. Daily newspapers might need to file an additional Form AR-R.
• Changes: Notify the RNI about any changes in publisher, printer, owners, periodicity, or printing press by filing a fresh declaration.

RNI & Rules Overview

About RNI:

• Established on July 1, 1956
• Headquarters in New Delhi, with regional offices in Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai
• Responsible for implementing the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867

Services Provided by RNI:

1. Title Clearance: Verifies and approves newspaper titles.
2. Newspaper Registration: After title verification, apply for registration within two years using the required documents.
3. Revised Registration Certificate: Apply if there are changes in publisher, printer, printing press, place of publication, or periodicity.

Required Documents for Revised Registration:

• Original Certificate of Registration (or affidavit for loss)
• Latest declaration (authenticated by District Magistrate)
• 'No Foreign Tie-up' affidavit (notarized)
• Latest issue of the publication
• For ownership changes, an affidavit for transfer certified by a First Class Magistrate

By following these steps and requirements, you can successfully start and manage your newspaper.

To apply for RNI registration in India, connect with PSR Compliance for complete guidance and a stress-free experience.