Jagran Prakashan Limited has received a GST demand order of ₹32,83,687 from tax authorities, which the company intends to challenge based on legal advice. The media company disclosed this development under SEBI regulations, maintaining that it has a strong case on merit against the order.

GST Demand Order Details

The Deputy Commissioner, Central GST & Central Excise, Ranchi issued the demand order dated December 29, 2025, under section 74 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017. The order covers the period from 2018-19 to 2022-23 and includes several components:

Nature of Alleged Violations

The GST demand order primarily relates to Input Tax Credit entitlement issues. According to the company's disclosure, the order seeks tax payment on the entitlement of Input Tax Credit availed by Jagran Prakashan and corresponding reconciliation with various parameters mentioned in the order.

The company received the order via email on December 29, 2025, and has disclosed the matter in compliance with SEBI regulations regarding material developments.

Company's Response and Legal Position

Jagran Prakashan has expressed confidence in its legal position regarding the GST demand. Based on legal advice obtained, the company believes the order is not tenable and maintains it has a strong case on merit. The media company has indicated it will pursue legal remedies to challenge the demand.

Financial and Operational Impact

According to the company's assessment, there is no expected impact on financials, operations, or other activities of Jagran Prakashan pursuant to the receipt of the order. This assessment is based on legal advice indicating that the order is apparently not tenable and the company has a strong case on merit.

The company has fulfilled its disclosure obligations under Regulation 30 of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, and has made the information available on its website at www.jplcorp.com for stakeholder reference.

Jagran Prakashan Limited (JPL), India's leading media conglomerate and publisher of the country's most-read daily 'Dainik Jagran', has announced robust financial results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2026 (Q2FY26), demonstrating resilience in a dynamic media landscape.

Financial Highlights

JPL reported a significant uptick in its standalone performance for Q2FY26:

The company's consolidated results also showed positive momentum:

Segment Performance

Print Business

The print business led the growth with advertisement revenue increasing from ₹237 crores to ₹270 crores, while operating profit rose from ₹64 crores to ₹84 crores.

Digital Business

Jagran New Media (JNM) maintained its position amongst the top 15 in India's news/information category, reaching approximately 65 million unique visitors.

Radio Segment

Music Broadcast Limited (MBL) maintained an 18% market share in Q2FY26, with 42% of total clients advertising on Radio City.

Outdoor and Events

This segment registered a 16% revenue growth, driven by asset-based businesses.

Key Developments

• JPL has distributed ₹1,900 crores to shareholders through dividends and buybacks, maintaining a net cash position of over ₹1,000 crores at the group level.
• The company paid an interim dividend of ₹6 per equity share (300% on face value of ₹2 per share) on June 12, 2025, for the financial year ending March 31, 2025.

Outlook

Jagran Prakashan's strong performance in advertisement revenue and profit growth suggests a positive outlook for the media sector. The company's ability to maintain market leadership in print while expanding its digital footprint positions it well for future growth.

As the media landscape continues to evolve, JPL's multi-platform approach and strong financial position provide a solid foundation for navigating market challenges and capitalizing on emerging opportunities.

Note: All financial figures are in Indian Rupees (₹).