More than 600 delegates attend FIPP Congress in India

After a spectacular welcome reception at the Taj Palace in New Delhi, India, last night (10 October), the 38th FIPP World Magazine Congress officially began this morning.

Aroon Purie chairman and editor-in-chief, India Today Group, welcomed delegates to the Congress, taking place in the Leela Kempinski Hotel, by saying that the Indian media space has now “opened up to the world.” Speaking about the situation two years ago compared to now, Purie said that we have transitioned from the “digital disruption” to “digital delight” and said that we now have a “cultural embrace of media and technology.” He added that it is now possible for publishers to monetise the digital space, and online content no longer has to be free. Purie concluded by saying: “Magazine publishers can face up to any challenges – they have strong brands, great loyalty and understand what content consumers want.”

Purie then introduced Ambika Soni, minister of Information and Broadcasting, India, who said: “Indian magazines truly represent the entire spectrum of publications, from luxury titles to those published at a low cost.” She said that the future is clear, and magazine publishers should focus on three things: Innovation, adaptation and expansion. Soni said there is always room for innovative ideas, adaptation to new platforms and new revenue streams to be monetised.