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The alternative press has emerged as a . result of the need of some of the groups such as feminists, environmentalists, ethnic minorities or political activists, etc. to permit their point of views Many such groups feel that their voice is not heard and mainstream press is complacent and biased. So they publish their own papers and news sheets. Many such newspapers have grown into profitable journals. But many find it difficult to attract advertising or to have good distribution because of their radical views. They perform a valuable function in offering a platform for a wide spectrum of opinion.
There are magazines and journals which are started by individuals or groups or organizations which are involved with the serious issues of social concern. These journals have created distinctive niche in the print media. No data is available regarding the number of such journals, their frequency, circulation, financial viability and so on. No systematic content analysis of these journals has been done.
These journals/magazines provide space for the ideology or viewpoint of the concerned activists, academicians or policy makers. These journals are produced by NGOs, academic institutions, or mass organizations, who want to communicate their specialized interests and viewpoints to others, more so, since each activist group is convinced not only of the correctness but the centrality of its ideas. Few of these journals have been able to maintain their frequency and status, which are the one brought out by reasonably funded institutions.
These journals have contributed to raising new ideas, refining them and raising the level of both academic and activist debate. Many such journals disappear from print world for many reasons. Such as, lack of funds, followers, dedicated team of workers, and lack of market or death of the pillar person or founder member.
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