Sakal+ wins gold at prestigious WAN-IFRA Digital Media Awards 2025

Sakal Media Group has announced that Sakal+, its premium digital news platform, has been honoured with the Gold Award at the 2025 WAN-IFRA Digital Media Awards Worldwide. This international accolade recognizes Sakal+ as the Best in the World in the Digital Subscription/Reader Revenue Project category, placing Maharashtra’s trusted media voice alongside some of the most respected news organizations globally.

A Proud Moment in a Legacy of Progress

Established in 1932, Sakal has grown from a regional newspaper into a media institution known for its journalistic integrity and public service. Over the past nine decades, the group has continuously evolved, embracing new platforms and technologies to serve its readers better. This award is a testament to Sakal’s ability to blend legacy with innovation—and lead the way in the digital era.

Recognized by Global Media Experts

The WAN-IFRA jury, composed of leading global media professionals and strategists, was particularly impressed by the strategic vision, execution, and impact of Sakal+. Among the standout achievements were:

✅ The Sakal+ Surge – A bold shift toward a subscription-first model, built on reader trust and value-driven journalism
✅ Legacy, Digitally Reimagined – Leveraging 92 years of credibility to create a modern, accessible, and engaging digital platform
✅ From Maharashtra to the World – A regional media brand that has successfully captured global attention with its user-centric approach

Leadership Reflections

Speaking about the recognition, Swapnil Malpathak, Head of Digital Business at Sakal Media Group, said:
"This is more than an award—it’s a global endorsement of our belief that readers are willing to support high-quality, independent journalism. When we launched Sakal+, we placed a strong bet on the loyalty of our readers and their willingness to pay for meaningful content. This recognition by WAN-IFRA validates that belief and honours every reader who has joined us on this digital journey."

Uday Jadhav, CEO of Sakal Media Group, shared his thoughts:
"This global recognition is a proud milestone for Sakal and a testament to our team’s dedication to excellence. It reinforces our vision of combining trusted journalism with cutting-edge digital innovation. Awards like these inspire us to push boundaries further and strengthen our commitment to delivering value to our readers and partners."

Janvi Pawar, Director at Sakal Media Group, added:
"Sakal+ represents the perfect synergy of credibility and modernity. Winning at WAN-IFRA is not just an achievement—it’s a validation of our strategy to create content that resonates deeply with our audience. This award belongs to every member of the Sakal family who has worked tirelessly to redefine digital news."

What This Means for Our Readers and Partners

This milestone not only reinforces Sakal’s position as a leader in digital media innovation but also opens up new possibilities for collaborations, content innovation, and value delivery for both readers and brand partners. With a strong and growing subscriber base, Sakal+ is redefining how local journalism can thrive in the global digital economy.

Experience the Award-Winning Platform

? Explore Sakal+: eSakal Subscription (https://www.esakal.com/subscription)
? Partnership enquiries: [email protected]

About the Awards

The WAN-IFRA Digital Media Awards are among the most esteemed recognitions in the global media industry—often referred to as the "Olympics of News Innovation." Past winners include renowned names such as The New York Times, BBC, Der Spiegel, and The Guardian. To see Sakal+ featured on this platform is not just a proud moment for Sakal Media Group, but also for Indian regional media as a whole.

As Sakal Media Group continues its journey of transformation and innovation, this award serves as a reminder of what’s possible when heritage, trust, and forward-thinking come together.