How to Pitch a Story to The Patna Times
The Patna Times is an independent digital platform committed to evidence-based research and policy analysis on Bihar. We ask the critical questions about governance, politics, development, and society, seeking answers grounded in research, data, and lived experiences.
Our primary format is the Op-Ed, typically 800-900 words, that offers sharp analysis and argumentation on issues affecting Bihar. Like essays, our op-eds must be evidence-based—grounded in facts, data, research, or verifiable experiences—not merely opinion. We value pieces that combine insight with rigor, written with clarity and accessibility for an engaged, curious readership.
Who Writes for The Patna Times?
We welcome pitches from:
- Academics and researchers working on Bihar-related subjects
- Development professionals, activists, and civil society members with ground-level insights
- Individuals with compelling personal experiences that illuminate larger issues of governance, politics, or development
- Young graduate, post-graduate and doctoral students
We especially encourage:
- Early-career writers from Bihar
- Writers from smaller towns and districts beyond Patna
- Those who can bring underreported stories and marginalized voices to light
If you have significant expertise, lived experience, or investigative insights relevant to Bihar, we want to hear from you—even if you haven’t written extensively for publication before. We believe in working with dedicated writers who have important stories to tell.
The Editing Process
- We work closely with our writers through multiple drafts to ensure accuracy, clarity, and impact.
- You can expect 1-3 rounds of revisions, including fact-checking and copyediting.
- If you’re not comfortable with collaborative editing and responding to queries about sources and facts, this may not be the right fit.
- The process typically takes 2-4 weeks from acceptance of a pitch to publication.
- You’ll work directly with our editorial team throughout the process.
A Successful Story for The Patna Times
- Focuses primarily on Bihar – its people, politics, governance, economy, society, culture, or development challenges
- Is evidence-based – grounded in facts, data, research, documents, or verifiable personal experiences (not just opinion)
- Is concise and focused – makes a clear argument within 800-900 words
- Has lasting relevance – explores systemic issues, not just breaking news (though timely angles are welcome)
- Brings new insights – offers fresh perspectives, original analysis, or underreported angles
- Shapes public debate – contributes meaningfully to conversations about governance, rights, development, or social change
We publish op-eds that:
- Analyze policy, political, or development issues affecting Bihar
- Draw on personal experiences to illuminate broader systemic problems
- Use data and research to make compelling arguments
- Challenge conventional wisdom with evidence
- Propose solutions grounded in reality
A Successful Pitch
- Clearly states your argument – what position or analysis you want to present
- Explains why it matters – why readers should care about this issue now
- Shows your evidence – what data, research, or experiences support your argument
- Demonstrates your expertise – why you’re the right person to write this piece
- Shows your passion – your genuine interest in and connection to the subject
Your pitch should be 200-300 words and include:
- A compelling headline or working title
- The core argument you’ll make
- Key evidence, data, or experiences you’ll cite
- Your background and relevant expertise
To better understand what we publish, please explore the sample articles for ideas and writing style.
What We Don’t Publish
- Opinion pieces without substantial evidence or research
- Responses or rebuttals to other publications (unless part of a broader argument)
- Press releases or promotional content
- Sponsored content
- Breaking news commentary without deeper analysis
Submission Guidelines
Please submit pitches, not completed drafts. We prefer to work with writers from the pitch stage to shape the piece together. However, if you have a timely, well-developed op-ed ready (800-900 words), you may submit it for consideration.
Submit your pitch through our pitch submission form. We only accept pitches through our pitch submission form.
Due to the volume of pitches we receive, we may not be able to respond to every submission. If we’re interested in pursuing your story, we’ll typically respond within 2-3 weeks.
Terms and Conditions
If your pitch is accepted, we will provide you with deadlines, and other terms before you begin work.
Questions? Email us at editorial@thepatnatimes.com
The Patna Times is an independent initiative committed to evidence-based reporting on Bihar. We believe in the power of stories to shape public understanding and drive positive change.