Nainital Samachar, started on 15th August 1977 has been pillar of local journalism in Uttarakhand (a state carved out of Uttar Pradesh in 2000 and known as Uttaranchal till 2007). Launched in an era when there was a void in local news coverage—especially after 1975—this fortnightly became a vital source of information for the people in the hills. At that time, even the major newspapers from Delhi and Lucknow would arrive only by evening or the following day, making quick access to news nearly impossible. The only immediate sources of information were radio broadcasts from Aakashvani or BBC. Sensing this gap, Nainital Samachar emerged to fill the void, providing timely and relevant news to the local populace.
The publication was spearheaded by three dynamic men—Rajeev Lochan Sah, Harish Pant, and Pawan Rakesh—who were in their early twenties. Their vision breathed new life into regional journalism, creating a platform that was not only informative but also deeply connected with the issues of the time.
The late 1970s marked a period of intense activism in Uttarakhand, especially with the forest movement that was gaining momentum. Nainital Samachar underwent a significant transformation during this period, becoming the voice of mass movements, including the Nasha Nahi Rozgar Andolan and the eventual Uttarakhand State Movement. It documented and actively supported countless small and large struggles that shaped the socio-political landscape of the region.
Over the past 47 years, Nainital Samachar has remained an unwavering advocate for the people of Uttarakhand. It has been a platform where the aspirations, frustrations, struggles, and joys of the local populace have found expression. The newspaper didn’t just report the news—it became a part of the very movements it covered, embodying the fighting spirit of the region.
Moreover, hundreds of young people who started their careers with Nainital Samachar went on to become full-time journalists, shaping the media landscape both locally and nationally. Through its in-depth coverage of local issues and its commitment to authentic journalism, the newspaper has provided a comprehensive window into the life of Uttarakhand, documenting everything from grassroots struggles to cultural milestones.
Even after 47 years, Nainital Samachar continues to thrive. Its vibrancy, commitment to truth, and unwavering dedication to the people of Uttarakhand have made it an enduring symbol of journalism with a purpose. Its legacy as both a voice for the voiceless and a training ground for future journalists remains intact, and it continues to shine with the same brilliance, enthusiasm, and fighting spirit that characterized its early years.
About the Collection: The back issues of fortnightly newspaper were donated by its editor, Rajiv Lochan Sah. The collection includes issues from 1977 to 2023, making it a valuable source for scholars and historians alike. There are rare photographs from Mahatma Gandhi’s visit to Nainital in 1929 and 1931, two handwritten volumes of the Nainital Bulletin (September-October 1994), and a book on the 25-year journey of Nainital Samachar, offering insights into the paper’s history and evolution. The collection is important for researchers studying Uttarakhand’s social, cultural and political developments over the past five decades.
Donor: Rajiv Lochan Sah
Acquisition: 2024