Paper Title
HEALTH COMMUNICATION AND COVERAGE OF HEALTH ISSUES IN HINDI NEWSPAPERS: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY

Abstract
Effective health communication plays a vital role in promoting public health awareness and encouraging informed decision-making. Newspapers, as traditional yet impactful mediums, continue to influence public opinion, particularly in countries like India, where print media retains significant reach. This study explores the role of Hindi newspapers in disseminating health-related information, analyzing the nature, depth, and quality of health coverage provided. The research investigates how Hindi newspapers address various health concerns, including communicable and non-communicable diseases, sanitation, maternal and child health, mental health, and pandemic responses. It evaluates whether the coverage emphasizes preventive measures, treatment options, or government health programs. Furthermore, the study examines the extent to which these newspapers adopt a people-centered approach to health communication, integrating expert opinions, data-driven content, and relatable narratives to enhance public engagement. Using content analysis as the primary methodology, the study evaluates leading Hindi newspapers over a specified timeframe to identify patterns and gaps in health reporting. The findings highlight the frequency and prominence of health articles, their placement within newspapers, and the use of visual aids such as infographics and photographs. Additionally, the study measures the linguistic accessibility and cultural relevance of health messages, addressing whether the language used effectively resonates with diverse readership segments. The results reveal that while Hindi newspapers do provide substantial coverage of health issues, there is a tendency to prioritize sensational stories and crisis reporting over sustained health education. The study also notes gaps in coverage related to rural health challenges, mental health stigma, and long-term policy analysis. Recommendations emphasize the need for more investigative journalism, consistent reporting, and collaborations with health professionals to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness. This research underscores the importance of strengthening the role of Hindi newspapers as reliable sources of health communication. It advocates for capacity-building programs for journalists, partnerships with public health agencies, and the integration of digital tools to enhance health reporting in vernacular languages. Such efforts can bridge the information gap and contribute to improving public health outcomes in India. Keywords - Health Communication, Hindi Newspapers, Public Health Awareness, Health Journalism, Media Coverage, Health Literacy, Rural Health, Mental Health, Content Analysis, Health Policy.