MEDIA OWNERSHIP CONCENTRATION IN INDIA: AN EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION OF MARKET POWER AND DEMOCRATIC DISCOURSE

Abstract This study investigates the concentration of media ownership in India and its implications for editorial independence, media pluralism, and democratic discourse. Using quantitative market analysis with regulatory examination, the study mapped ownership structures across print, television, and digital media segments. Our findings reveal significant concentration levels, particularly in regional markets where the top two newspapers often control over 60% of readership shares. The Hindi print market shows the highest concentration, with four major outlets capturing 76.45% of readership. Corporate takeovers by conglomerates like Reliance and Adani have intensified these trends, with Reliance controlling over 70 television channels and Adani acquiring majority stakes in NDTV. The study analyses regulatory frameworks through policy documents and RTI responses. Results indicate fragmented and largely ineffective ownership regulations, creating substantial gaps in safeguarding media pluralism. These findings suggest urgent need for comprehensive policy reforms to preserve diverse voices in India's democratic discourse.