Chennai-headquartered The Hindi Group is reaching more than 5000 Indian schools, thanks to a daily broadsheet and a fun Sunday Weekender.
Brand activations assistant general manager for the school vertical Varsha Budhrani Hingorani says the belief that informed, curious and meaningfully engaged young minds are the foundation of a stronger future powers The Hindu In School, the group’s flagship children’s brand for students aged 11-17.
In an INMA Ideas Blog, she tells how the masthead transforms complex news and knowledge into engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences. “Delivered directly to schools, the daily broadsheet provides concise yet insightful coverage of current affairs, science, technology, arts and culture,” she says.
“On Sundays, The Hindu In School Weekender edition adds colour and fun to learning with puzzles, visuals, activities and creative features. Together, they foster a habit of reading and a love for learning among thousands of students across India.
“Our mission is simple yet profound,” she says: “to nurture tomorrow’s leaders by helping young readers become informed, engaged, and responsible citizens. “We strive to curate content for tomorrow’s consumers by blending rigorous journalism with creativity and interactivity.
“We do that through:
-deepening news comprehension with daily quizzes, infographics, and thought-provoking ‘Crack It’ challenges inspired by civil service exams;
-sparking creativity and problem-solving through puzzles, DIY activities, and ‘Fun with Maths’;
-encouraging active engagement via interactive features like ‘Eye for an I’, ‘Qwikipedia’, and 20-minute activity sheets;
-fostering community and participation by providing students and schools a platform to showcase their ideas, art, and achievements.
She says the approach has yielded remarkable results. “Special issues around occasions such as Independence Day and World Nature Conservation Day have sparked excitement and boosted readership.
“Subscription drives tied to creative campaigns have grown our base by double digits. Most importantly, partnerships with schools, libraries, and educational bodies have expanded our reach to over 5,000 schools, representing a 40 per cent increase in enrolment compared to last year.
“But the true impact lies in classrooms and libraries, where young readers eagerly engage with puzzles, reflect on editorials, and contribute their own voices. Teachers have observed better comprehension, improved academic performance, and stronger critical thinking among students who regularly read The Hindu In School.
“As media consumption habits evolve, the challenge of nurturing reading among the next generation is both urgent and vital.
“At The Hindu In School, we remain committed to innovating, adapting, and inspiring. Because every puzzle solved, every quiz attempted, and every article read takes our young readers one step closer to becoming the thoughtful leaders of tomorrow.”