Newsmakers' choice

Dhanraj Pillay, Former India hockey captain and four-time Olympian

DNA is a paper that everyone wants to be associated with. Since its inception, it has stood out for really good coverage of sports. As a sportsperson, the last two to three pages of any newspaper are very important, and that's what I look out for in DNA. What I would like to see DNA do in the future is introduce a section on the greats of Indian sports. Every 15 days or once a month, the paper can have a half or full page dedicated to interviews of former sporting stars of the country. By doing so, the current generation can understand how various sports were played, how they have evolved, and feel inspired.

Satish Mathur, Director General of Police (Maharashtra)

I like the analytical articles in DNA. Also, the news reports are insightful and informative. The paper also has a good layout. I would like to read some more news about the rest of the state in the paper.

Sumaira Abdulali, Founder, AWAAZ Foundation

DNA has reported on environmental issues since its inception. It has often carried in-depth stories providing detailed knowledge to citizens on tackling these issues at the grassroots and informing them on policies. It was the only paper that published a full page on the environment every day, making it possible to speak about environmental issues on a continuous basis.

The coverage of the anti-noise pollution movement in Mumbai helped it become the only Indian city where noise levels reduced during the festival season last year. I look forward to greater and more in-depth coverage of environmental issues

Ashish Shelar, President, BJP (Mumbai)

It's hard to believe that DNA Mumbai completes 12 years! Right from its launch, DNA has continued to be 'a newspaper for the people and by the people'. Reading DNA with my morning cuppa is an unmissable part of my daily ritual. I appreciate the insighful reporting of local, state, national and international issues, not to forget its breaking news scoops.

As a Bandra resident, I enjoy reading its After Hrs section for the latest gossip and happenings, because you never know which celebrity you will bump into at the traffic signal. The Money segment has helped enrich my understanding of our economy, its global linkages and its impact on the common man.
Thank you, DNA! Tum jiyo hazaaro saal....

Dr Sanjay Oak, CEO, Prince Aly Khan Hospital

DNA's print quality is extremely good and matches that of the newspapers in the West. The opinions expressed are unbiased, and the paper does not seem to be sold out to any party which is important to me as an independent citizen of the society.

I would like to read more about contemporary issues and the opinion of various people who can fearlessly and clearly explain issues. Newspapers should not just be about entertainment. I would like to see the use of more pictures as it makes the whole article interesting to read and catches one's eye.

Amish Tripathi, Author

DNA stands out from the pack for its in-depth coverage and analysis of local affairs in the city pages. It has always been at the forefront of highlighting social issues through their campaigns. Their editorials cover a host of topics. DNA has been moving from strength to strength for over a decade. I wish DNA the best on their 12th anniversary.

Parmesh Shahani, Head, Godrej India Culture Lab

I adore DNA's features sections, and admire the fact that in today's day and age, when news is becoming more and more 'bite-sized', DNA dedicates itself to a longer and deeper exploration of things that matter. I especially like the fact that there is an extensive focus on sexualities — the wide range of experiences and identities that make us who we are as humans and as citizens of one of the most plural societies in the world. I would like to see a continued focus on gender and sexuality over the next few years, and also, a widening of the stories about these to include experiences from small towns.

Kailash Kher, Musician, Padmashri awardee

I find the name DNA itself quite attractive. I like the layout, the colours, and the content. The newspaper has a unique look and style. I am fond of reading

After Hrs. I think there should be a daily space dedicated only for music, which should focus on not just film music, but also music across India and the world. Music is in everyone's DNA and that is why the paper should promote music through this page.

Sanjeev Kapoor, Celebrity chef, Padmashri awardee

I clearly remember the day DNA was launched. I was quite excited. I had a lot of expectations from the paper. I am pleased to say that it has fulfilled all my expectations. The paper is a superb combination of news, opinions, and entertainment. More power to DNA! Wish all of you continued growth and success.

Devita Saraf, Founder and CEO, Vu Televisions

I like that DNA has city-specific content. If you live in Mumbai, you want to know more about the place. A few months ago, I saved a woman from being abused by her boyfriend on the streets of Mumbai. It became the front page news, because it matters to DNA that such occurrences are thrown to light with appropriate solutions.

I'd like to see a bit more of business news so that we are more aware of the economy, and can steer our careers and lives accordingly. Readers don't care about wars in business houses, but more about the consumer patterns and market insights that will help a shopkeeper and a CEO alike.

Amit Agarwal, Fashion designer

True to its name, DNA reveals who we are. It's an important part of my morning. I'd like to see more stories about new inventions that make life more efficient, people's efforts towards a better earth, achievements of the young and dynamic, overcoming hunger and unemployment... It sends out good vibes at the start of the day.

Kiran Manral, Author

I have always liked DNA's layout and the willingness to have articles that are longer, and more detailed. There is also a good emphasis on visuals and that's always a relief for the reader. Also, the page titles, the second front page, as is the use of coloured bars in the layout on the top of each page, are quirky.

But After Hrs is too Bollywood heavy. I'd like to read a bit about the local events, arts and culture circuit, stories we've not heard. There's so much happening in Mumbai these days. I think something on science and education would be nice. And also a dedicated page every day to books, music, theatre, culture.