Join the Newsreel Asia Community: Journalism That Serves People, Not Politics
We invite you to become part of the Newsreel Asia Community — a meaningful membership program that allows you to actively engage with journalism that puts people first.
Across India and South Asia, the rise of sectarianism and corruption is reshaping both media and society. As many media outlets struggle under ideological pressure, the space for honest storytelling has narrowed. Newsreel Asia was created to push back — not through confrontation, but through credible, people-centred journalism.
We focus on how events affect ordinary lives — not just political actors. Our stories aim to build empathy and understanding across divides. We believe that political ideologies must serve public wellbeing — and never come at the cost of overlooking human suffering.
For four years, we’ve held fast to this belief. These years have been both exciting and difficult.
While we’ve stayed independent and reached wide audiences, traditional models like advertising and paywalls are no longer reliable. We also believe that putting stories behind paywalls limits public access and weakens journalism’s ability to inform. This is why we are launching a paid membership model — not just a subscription — to offer you significantly more than what our general audience receives.
This is not a donation. It is a paid membership with clearly defined benefits that enables your voice to be part of meaningful civic dialogue.
We understand how difficult it is today to speak freely — whether online or in conversation. This membership offers a space to engage with news constructively, contribute ideas and perspectives, and connect with others without confrontation.
Members can participate in three key ways:
First, by suggesting the kinds of stories we should pursue — ideas that our editorial team will consider, as per our policies.
Second, by contributing to our new member blog, WE-E The People. “WE-E” stands for Wise, Empathetic and Engaged Citizens.
Third, by using our tools and trainings to speak effectively and responsibly on social media, participate in online events and raise public concerns with clarity and confidence.
We’ll offer regular training in public communication for those who are interested.
Newsreel Asia is powered by a women-majority editorial team from a wide range of regions, religions and communities. Our work reflects the complexity of India, not just its headlines.
This membership is for those who believe journalism should inform and connect, not divide — and who want to be part of the solution.
Membership Tiers: Choose Your Role
Patrons (₹60,000/year): Participate in online editorial meetings every two months, suggest story ideas as per editorial policy, attend exclusive events, get behind-the-scenes access, attend online community meets and receive our weekly newsletter.
Supporters (₹30,000/year): Join online editorial meetings every four months, suggest story ideas, attend select events, attend online community meets, and receive the newsletter.
Friends (₹12,000/year): Join editorial meetings every six months, receive event invitations, share suggestions for stories, attend online community meets and receive the newsletter.
Associates (₹6,000/year): Join one editorial meeting a year, share suggestions for stories, attend online community meets, and receive event invitations and the newsletter.
Contributors (₹3,000/year): Receive event invitations, share suggestions for text stories, attend online community meets, and receive the newsletter.
Well-Wishers (₹1,000/year): Share regular suggestions for text stories, attend online community meets, and receive the newsletter.
Your membership gives you a direct line to journalism that reflects your concerns and ideas.
To learn more or become a member, write to us at admin@newsreel.asia and we’ll guide you through the process.
Warm regards,
Team Newsreel Asia
Terms and Conditions: Newsreel Asia Community Membership
1. Nature of the Membership
Newsreel Asia Community is a paid membership program offered by Newsreel Asia, a for-profit media company. This membership is not a donation or charitable contribution. All payments are considered fees for access to specific member benefits described below.
Membership is open to Indian citizens and residents aged 18 and above who agree to abide by the values and participation guidelines of Newsreel Asia. Newsreel Asia reserves the right to deny or revoke membership in cases of misuse, misconduct, or violation of the community’s principles of respectful and constructive engagement.
2. Member Benefits
By purchasing a membership, you are entitled to the following:
· Invitations to participate in specific editorial meetings as per the tier chosen
· The ability to suggest story ideas and themes, subject to editorial discretion
· Access to exclusive events and member-only newsletters
· Opportunity to contribute to our WE-E The People blog
· Training sessions in public communication and digital storytelling (as available)
Please note that participation does not confer editorial control, voting rights or influence over our editorial independence. All final decisions rest solely with the Newsreel Asia editorial team.
3. Payment Terms
Membership fees are annual and non-refundable. Members will receive a payment receipt upon completion of registration. Fees are inclusive of all applicable taxes, and GST will be charged as per prevailing rates. Invoices can be requested for tax purposes.
4. No Foreign Members
At this time, membership is available only to Indian citizens and residents with Indian bank accounts. This is to streamline operations and ensure smooth member services. We may extend access to international members in the future.
5. Communication Policy
Members may receive emails, messages or calls related to their membership, including event invitations, training updates and feedback opportunities. Your contact information will not be shared or sold to third parties.
6. Content Participation
Suggestions from members are welcome but not binding. Submissions to the WE-E The People blog will be subject to our editorial review and approval. Newsreel Asia reserves the right to edit or reject any content at its sole discretion 7.
7. Confidentiality
Members who attend editorial meetings or access internal discussions may be privy to information not available to the public. By participating, members agree to maintain confidentiality and not disclose any such information outside the community.
8. Limitation of Liability
By joining the membership program, members agree that Newsreel Asia is not liable for any outcomes resulting from member participation or public engagement facilitated through our platform.
9. Dispute Resolution
In the event of any dispute arising from the membership or related activities, both parties agree to make all reasonable efforts to resolve the matter amicably and in good faith through mutual discussion.
FAQ: Newsreel Asia Community Membership
Who can join the membership?
Any Indian citizen or resident aged 18 or above is eligible. Members are expected to engage respectfully and align with the values of civil, inclusive dialogue.
Is this a donation to support journalism?
No. This is a paid membership that gives you access to benefits and activities. It is not a donation, and should not be treated as one.
Can I get involved in deciding which stories you publish?
You may suggest stories and themes, but all editorial decisions are made independently by our team. Participation is consultative, not directive.
Is this open to people outside India?
At this time, we can only accept members who are Indian citizens or residents with Indian bank accounts.
Do I get anything in return for the fee?
Yes. Each tier comes with specific benefits such as event invitations, editorial discussions, story suggestion rights, training, and access to exclusive content.
Can I write for Newsreel Asia?
You may contribute to our WE-E The People blog, which is open to members. All submissions will be reviewed and edited according to our editorial standards.
Is my personal data safe?
Yes. We do not share your contact information with third parties. Communications are limited to membership-related updates and opportunities.
Can I get a refund?
Membership fees are non-refundable. If you’re unsure about joining, feel free to contact us at admin@newsreel.asia with your questions before signing up.