IndiaOwnership & classification
Founded: 2011
Ownership
Firstpost is an English-language news website owned by the Network18 group. Network18 Media & Investments Ltd, originally built by Raghav Bahl in the 1990s, came under the control of Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries through a financing arrangement in 2012 and a full takeover finalised in May 2014. Reliance, via Independent Media Trust, holds the controlling majority stake, making Firstpost ultimately part of India's largest private conglomerate.
Funding
Firstpost is financed by digital advertising and is cross-subsidised within the broader Network18/Reliance media empire (which also owns CNBC-TV18, CNN-News18 and Moneycontrol). It does not rely on a hard paywall.
Affiliation & stance
Because Firstpost is controlled by Reliance Industries, an industrial conglomerate with extensive business ties to the Indian state and a record of editorial coverage seen as favourable to the Modi government, it is classified as DEPENDENT rather than independent. Critics and media monitors note the conflict between Reliance's commercial interests and editorial neutrality. This corporate-oligarch control, not party membership, is the basis for the DEPENDENT label, which matches the site's existing guess.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Conservative
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 561
62/100
Factual
56/100
Objective
644
Articles
644
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
Trump Offers Help To Russia After Suspected Plague Death, Quarantines
A laboratory worker at a plague research institute in Siberia became seriously ill and later died under unclear conditions. This incident has led local authorities to implement quarantines for dozens of individuals, likely as a precautionary measure to prevent any potential spread of disease. The exact cause of the worker's illness remains unconfirmed, and there is no indication yet of a broader outbreak. The situation has raised concerns about biosecurity within the facility, though no official statement has been released regarding the nature of the illness or the measures being taken.
Yemen's Houthis claim striking Riyadh airport, other sites in Saudi
The Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen claimed responsibility for missile strikes targeting Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport, an Aramco refinery, and other sites in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi-led coalition responded by conducting airstrikes against Houthi positions in Hodeida on the Red Sea coast, destroying weapons depots and facilities. The conflict has escalated with Pakistan and Turkey pledging military support to Saudi Arabia under a new defense pact. The Houthis have recently seized control of strategic coastal areas in Yemen, threatening vital shipping routes, and have been launching attacks on Saudi territory since the resumption of Yemen's civil war. The situation has prompted urgent diplomatic coordination among Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey.
Flydubai co-pilot 'intended to kill' Captain Machchhar, crash plane into Tel Aviv skyscraper: Report
A report by Firstpost claims that a Flydubai co-pilot allegedly intended to kill Captain Machchhar and deliberately crashed the plane into a Tel Aviv skyscraper. The report suggests the incident involved intentional actions by the co-pilot, though no official confirmation has been provided. The event raises serious concerns about aviation safety and crew behavior during flight operations. Details remain under investigation, and further information is expected from authorities.
Globe at a glance: From Houthi strikes on Saudi Arabia to Nigeria plane crash
The article provides a brief overview of recent global events, including Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and a plane crash in Nigeria. It mentions these incidents without elaborating on their causes, impacts, or broader implications. The content appears to be a condensed summary of international news highlights, offering minimal detail on each event.
Cocaine Drug Lord 'Protected in Africa' | Firstpost Africa
The article discusses allegations that a prominent cocaine drug lord is being protected in Africa. While specific details about the individual or the extent of protection are not provided in the limited text available, the claim suggests potential involvement of African authorities or entities in shielding the drug trafficker. Such claims often raise concerns about corruption, organized crime networks, and international law enforcement challenges. The situation could have implications for regional security and transnational criminal activities.
'It's a Domestic Crisis': Ethiopia's Rivals Unite as Abiy's Army Conquers Tigray | Firstpost Africa
The article reports on the escalating conflict in Ethiopia, where Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's forces have taken control of the Tigray region, prompting concerns among rival factions within the country. The headline suggests that this development has triggered a domestic crisis, with various political rivals uniting in response to the military actions. The piece highlights the growing tensions between different regional groups and the central government, indicating a potential deepening of internal divisions. While the focus is on the military advances and their implications for national stability, the article does not provide detailed information on the broader geopolitical context or international reactions.
'$20 Mn Aid Suspended': EU Punishes Sierra Leone over a Dutch Cocaine Trafficker | Firstpost Africa
The European Union has suspended $20 million in aid to Sierra Leone due to concerns over the country's failure to address the activities of a Dutch cocaine trafficker operating within its borders. The decision comes amid international pressure on Sierra Leone to improve its law enforcement capabilities and combat drug trafficking networks. The trafficker, identified as a Dutch national, is alleged to have used the country as a transit point for cocaine shipments. The suspension highlights the EU's willingness to withhold financial assistance from member states or partner nations that fail to meet certain legal and security standards. While the EU has not provided specific details on the evidence supporting the suspension, the move underscores growing scrutiny of countries involved in transnational criminal activities.
Libya: How a Series of Drone Strikes Derailed Trump's Unification Push | Firstpost Africa
The article discusses how a series of drone strikes in Libya disrupted President Donald Trump's efforts to promote unification among the country's warring factions. It highlights the geopolitical implications of these strikes, suggesting they undermined diplomatic initiatives aimed at stabilizing Libya. The piece frames the situation as a setback for U.S. foreign policy in the region, emphasizing the challenges of achieving lasting peace in a politically fragmented state.
'Get Out of the Kitchen': US-South Africa Rift Widens Amid Lamola-Bozell Spat | Firstpost Africa
The article discusses growing tensions between the United States and South Africa, centered around a dispute involving South African Foreign Affairs Minister Naledi Pandor and U.S. Ambassador John Bozell. The conflict reportedly stems from disagreements over diplomatic protocols and South Africa's foreign policy stance toward the U.S. The phrase 'Get Out of the Kitchen' appears to reference a controversial remark made by Bozell during a meeting with South African officials, which was interpreted as disrespectful and unprofessional. The incident has sparked broader discussions about the relationship between the two nations, particularly regarding South Africa's alignment with African interests versus Western priorities. While the exact nature of the spat remains unclear, the situation highlights ongoing challenges in bilateral relations.
'Racist' Youtuber Slapped on Livestream | Firstpost America
The article reports on an incident where a YouTube creator was physically assaulted during a livestream, with the attacker labeling the creator as 'racist.' The event took place in the United States, and the incident has sparked discussions around online harassment and hate speech. The article highlights the tension between free speech and the responsibilities of content creators, particularly in the context of live streaming platforms. It notes the involvement of law enforcement and the broader implications for internet safety and community standards.
Ohio: Can Trump Save Ramaswamy? | Firstpost America
The article titled 'Ohio: Can Trump Save Ramaswamy?' explores the potential impact of Donald Trump's endorsement on the political prospects of Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican candidate running for the U.S. Senate in Ohio. The piece examines how Trump's influence might sway voters in a crucial swing state, particularly among conservative and independent voters who could be pivotal in determining the outcome of the election. It highlights the strategic importance of Ohio in national politics and the challenges Ramaswamy faces in gaining broader support despite Trump's backing. The article suggests that while Trump's endorsement could provide a significant boost, it may not be enough to overcome existing obstacles in a competitive race.
"Ultimate Heroism": flyadeal Executives Praise Captain Smit Machchhar
Captain Smit Machchhar, a pilot with flyadeal, is being praised for his heroic actions during an emergency situation that resulted in saving the lives of over 170 passengers and crew members. The incident has drawn attention to his bravery and quick thinking under pressure. Machchhar is currently receiving medical treatment in the hospital as he recovers from the ordeal. His actions have been highlighted by flyadeal executives, who have commended him for his professionalism and courage. The event underscores the critical role of aviation personnel in ensuring passenger safety during crises.
Trump’s India-Brazil Mix-Up Goes Viral Amid US' Slow Midterm Voting | Vantage on Firstpost
The article reports on a viral incident where former U.S. President Donald Trump mistakenly referred to Brazil as 'India' during a speech, which sparked widespread online discussion. This mix-up occurred amid slow voter turnout in the U.S. midterm elections, drawing attention to both the political climate and Trump's public appearances. The event highlights the potential for miscommunication in international relations and the role of social media in amplifying such moments. While the focus is on the error itself, the timing coincides with broader discussions around election dynamics in the United States.