Meerut, located just 80 kilometers northeast of Delhi, has quietly but significantly emerged as a major center for educational book publishing and printing in India. While the proximity to the national capital — itself a major publishing hub — certainly plays a role in its growth, the city has carved its own identity in the print industry through a combination of historical legacy, skilled manpower, and a robust industrial ecosystem.
Meerut’s association with the printing industry dates back several decades. Originally known for its role in the production of stationery and general printing, the city’s publishing landscape took a definitive turn with the rise in demand for academic books — from school textbooks to competitive exam guides. Today, several renowned publishers have set up operations here, making it one of the largest contributors to educational publishing in North India.
The city boasts a highly skilled workforce experienced in typesetting, binding, offset printing, and digital publishing. Meerut is home to numerous small- and medium-sized printing presses equipped with modern machinery, capable of handling large-scale print orders. Many of these units work in collaboration with publishers, enabling a smooth end-to-end production process.
Dozens of educational publishing houses have flourished in Meerut over the past two decades. From producing school textbooks for state and CBSE boards to entrance exam prep books and guidebooks, Meerut’s publishers cater to a broad and growing academic market. The city also hosts several paper and binding material suppliers, making it a one-stop-shop for the industry.
Meerut’s blend of tradition and adaptability positions it well to remain a vital node in India’s educational publishing landscape. As the demand for quality, affordable academic content continues to rise across the country, this once-quiet town is fast becoming a printing powerhouse.