Kothari Industrial Corporation revives Industrial Economist: A legacy magazine returns to shape economic awareness

Kothari Industrial Corporation Limited (KICL), led by visionary entrepreneur Rafiq Ahmed, is relaunching the iconic business magazine Industrial Economist. Founded in 1968, the 57-year-old publication is set to re-emerge as a leading voice in economic journalism, embracing both print and digital formats.

Why is the Industrial Economist relaunch significant for economic discourse?

The relaunch of Industrial Economist represents more than just the revival of a legacy magazine; it is a step toward fostering greater economic awareness across India. Known for its authoritative reporting and analytical insights, the magazine carved a niche for itself in the 20th century under the stewardship of its founder, S. Viswanathan. By entering into a licensing agreement with Padma Viswanathan, a member of the founding family, Kothari Industrial Corporation Limited has ensured the magazine’s legacy will now evolve to meet the needs of modern audiences.

According to Mrs. Viswanathan, “Industrial Economist has always been a trusted source of economic analysis. Partnering with KICL brings renewed energy to this platform, enabling us to expand its reach and relevance.”

How does Kothari Industrial Corporation aim to integrate media into its broader business vision?

KICL’s decision to relaunch Industrial Economist aligns with its diversified growth strategy under Managing Director Rafiq Ahmed. The corporation, historically associated with sectors such as fertilizers, health, mining, and digital innovation, is now expanding its footprint into media—a natural extension of its vision to shape economic progress.

Ahmed articulated his enthusiasm for the magazine’s relaunch, stating, “This marks a pivotal moment for both KICL and the Indian media landscape. Our mission with Industrial Economist is to inspire confidence, disseminate valuable economic insights, and contribute to India’s growth story. By rejuvenating this magazine, we aim to bridge the gap between economic knowledge and public awareness.”

How does the relaunch tie into KICL’s other transformative initiatives?

The relaunch of Industrial Economist comes as Kothari Industrial Corporation Limited is undergoing a strategic transformation. Over the past few years, the corporation has ventured into innovative sectors, including non-leather footwear manufacturing and advanced drone technology. One of its flagship projects is the establishment of a non-leather footwear technology park in Tamil Nadu‘s Perambalur district, aimed at driving employment in backward regions.

In addition, Ahmed’s leadership has attracted foreign investment to the company, with Qatar-based FJ Global and Investment acquiring a 10% stake. This infusion of capital reflects investor confidence in KICL’s vision, which now includes empowering rural women and creating employment opportunities in underserved areas.

What challenges and opportunities does the Industrial Economist revival present?

Reviving a legacy publication in the digital age comes with its own set of challenges. The magazine must balance its traditional strengths—deep economic analysis and trusted reporting—with the demands of a fast-paced, digital-first audience.

However, this challenge also represents a unique opportunity. With KICL’s financial backing and a new team of experienced journalists, Industrial Economist is well-positioned to leverage digital platforms to broaden its reach. The publication will now cater to a generation seeking in-depth economic insights through accessible, multimedia formats.

Moreover, the magazine is poised to serve as a tool for fostering economic literacy in India, providing crucial insights to policymakers, entrepreneurs, and academics alike.

What lies ahead for Industrial Economist under KICL’s stewardship?

With the combined legacy of Industrial Economist and the innovative vision of KICL, the future holds immense promise. Ahmed envisions the magazine not merely as a publication but as a platform for driving economic education and inspiring future leaders. He believes this initiative will resonate with KICL’s broader goal of becoming a key player in India’s socio-economic development.

As Kothari Industrial Corporation Limited continues to diversify its portfolio, its investment in Industrial Economist reflects a commitment to fostering intellectual growth alongside economic empowerment. By bringing together the legacy of S. Viswanathan and the innovative drive of Rafiq Ahmed, the relaunch is poised to make waves in the Indian media landscape.