Self Publish My Book in India
Publishing a book has historically been a long and uncertain process, with aspiring authors often struggling to find acceptance among traditional publishing houses. However, the rise of self-publishing has completely changed the landscape, enabling writers from all backgrounds to bring their work directly to readers. For Indian authors, self-publishing presents an exciting opportunity to retain creative control, access global markets, and build an independent writing career.
If you have written a manuscript and are now wondering how to publish it on your own, this guide will walk you through every essential step of self-publishing your first book in India — from finishing your manuscript and preparing your book for publication, to choosing a platform and promoting your work effectively.
Step 1: Finalize and Polish Your Manuscript
Before you think about publishing, it is absolutely critical to ensure that your manuscript is complete and professionally written. Even though you are self-publishing, readers will expect the same level of quality they would from traditionally published books.
Complete the Writing Process
Ensure that your book is finished in its entirety. Whether you’re writing fiction, non-fiction, academic material, or poetry, your content should be complete and cohesive. Avoid publishing a “rough draft” — take the time to write the best version of your work.
Perform Thorough Self-Editing
Once your manuscript is complete, conduct multiple rounds of self-editing. During this stage, focus on grammar, sentence structure, consistency, and flow. Remove unnecessary repetition, tighten the narrative (or arguments, in the case of non-fiction), and ensure the writing is clear and engaging.
Get Feedback from Beta Readers
Once you’ve edited your manuscript, share it with a few trusted readers. These “beta readers” can provide valuable, objective feedback. Ideally, choose individuals who regularly read books in the genre you’re writing. Their input can highlight issues that you may have overlooked, such as plot holes, unclear explanations, pacing problems, or underdeveloped characters.
Consider Hiring a Professional Editor
While optional, professional editing can elevate your manuscript significantly. Editors typically work in one or more of the following areas:
- Developmental Editing – Focuses on content structure, character development, and storytelling.
- Line Editing – Improves the writing style and flow.
- Copy Editing – Corrects grammar, punctuation, and syntax.
- Proofreading – Checks for final spelling and formatting errors.
You can find freelance editors through book editing companies in india, also at Reedsy, Fiverr, Upwork, or by reaching out to writing communities online.
Step 2: Design the Cover and Format the Interior
The visual presentation of your book plays a crucial role in its success. A professional-looking cover and well-formatted interior not only attract readers but also enhance their reading experience.
Design a Professional Cover
Despite the popular saying, readers often do judge a book by its cover. Your cover should reflect the genre and tone of your book, appeal to your target audience, and look clean and visually appealing — even when viewed as a thumbnail on online stores.
There are three main approaches to cover design:
- Hiring a Professional Designer – This is the most reliable option. Indian designers may charge anywhere between ₹2,000 to ₹10,000 or more.
- Using Online Tools – Websites like Canva, Adobe Express, and BookBrush allow you to create your own cover using templates and drag-and-drop features.
- Buying Pre-made Covers – Some websites offer professionally designed, customizable covers for a fixed price.
Format the Interior for Print and Digital Versions
Interior formatting ensures your book looks consistent and readable, both in print and on digital devices.
For ebooks, formatting involves:
- Creating clickable chapter headings
- Removing unnecessary line breaks
- Ensuring compatibility with devices like Kindle and mobile phones
For paperbacks, you must consider:
- Page size and margins
- Line spacing
- Font choice and size
- Page numbering
- Chapter headings
You can either do this manually using Word, Google Docs, or design tools like Adobe InDesign, or use automatic formatting tools such as Reedsy’s free formatter. You can also hire a professional formatter if you prefer.
Step 3: Apply for an ISBN (International Standard Book Number)
An ISBN is a unique 13-digit number that identifies your book and distinguishes it from others. It is particularly important if you want your book to be listed in libraries, bookstores, or academic catalogs.
How to Obtain an ISBN in India
In India, ISBNs are issued free of cost by the Raja Rammohun Roy National Agency for ISBN, which operates under the Ministry of Education.
To apply:
- Register on the official ISBN portal: isbn.gov.in
- Fill out the required forms, including details about the author, publisher (you can list yourself), and the book.
- Upload supporting documents like a government-issued ID, manuscript sample, and book cover (optional).
- Submit the application and wait for approval, which typically takes between 1 to 3 weeks.
You will need a separate ISBN for each format (paperback, hardcover, and ebook editions).
Step 4: Choose a Self-Publishing Platform
Next, you need to choose a publishing platform. Your choice will depend on your goals, your target audience (Indian vs. global), and your budget.
Global Self-Publishing Platforms
These platforms provide international reach and are ideal for ebook distribution:
- Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) – Best for reaching global and Indian audiences. Offers both print-on-demand and Kindle ebook services.
- Draft2Digital – Distributes to multiple platforms like Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and more.
- Google Play Books – Popular in India for ebook distribution.
- Smashwords – Similar to Draft2Digital, with a wide distribution network.
Indian Self-Publishing Companies
These companies provide packages that may include editing, design, printing, and distribution:
- Astitva Prakashan – Offers complete editing, publishing and marketing services.
- Notion Press – Offers publishing packages and tools for both print and ebooks.
- Pothi.com – A budget-friendly print-on-demand service for Indian authors.
READ MORE: TOP SELF PUBLISHING COMPANIES IN INDIA
Note: Always read customer reviews, compare packages, and avoid services that make unrealistic promises or charge high fees without transparency.
Step 5: Set the Price and Understand Royalties
Pricing is a strategic decision. Your book’s price should reflect its length, genre, and perceived value, while also remaining competitive with other titles in the market.
Royalties on Amazon KDP:
- Ebook royalties: 35% or 70% (based on pricing and country).
- Paperback royalties: 60% of list price minus printing cost.
Example: If your paperback is priced at ₹299 and printing costs ₹120, your royalty will be (₹299 – ₹120) × 60% = ₹107.40 per copy.
Royalties on Indian Platforms:
Most Indian platforms offer royalties in the range of 40% to 70%, depending on the services used and the distribution channels.
Make sure you understand:
- The breakdown of distribution fees
- Printing costs (if applicable)
- Payment frequency and minimum payout thresholds
Step 6: Launch and Promote Your Book
Publishing your book is only half the journey. You also need to market it actively to gain visibility and attract readers.
Pre-Launch Marketing Strategies
- Announce the upcoming book on social media.
- Build a website or blog where readers can learn more about your work.
- Collect email addresses and start a newsletter to inform potential readers.
- Share sample chapters or quotes to generate interest.
Launch Week Activities
- Run promotional pricing or offer your ebook for free for a limited period.
- Ask friends, family, and early readers to leave reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.
- Post consistently on social media about your book’s availability.
Post-Launch Promotion
- Reach out to book bloggers, podcasters, or influencers in your niche.
- Organize online events such as author Q&As or live readings.
- Use Amazon or Facebook Ads to drive traffic to your book.
- Create content (articles, videos, social posts) related to the book’s theme.
Offline Marketing in India
- Collaborate with local bookstores to stock your book or host a launch event.
- Approach schools, colleges, or libraries, especially if your book is educational.
- Participate in literary festivals and book fairs (e.g., Delhi Book Fair, Chennai Book Fair).
You can also take book marketing services from top book marketing companies in India.
Step 7: Monitor Performance and Engage with Readers
After the book is live, make it a habit to track your progress regularly. Most platforms provide dashboards with sales data and royalty information.
Key Metrics to Monitor
- Total units sold
- Reviews and ratings
- Click-through and conversion rates (for ads)
- Reader feedback
Collecting and analyzing feedback will help you:
- Understand what readers love (or don’t love)
- Improve your future writing
- Engage with your audience and build a community
Final Thoughts: Empower Yourself as an Author
Self-publishing in India is no longer just a fallback option — it is a powerful and legitimate way to become a published author on your own terms. It gives you full creative and financial control, opens doors to both local and global readers, and allows you to experiment with marketing strategies and multiple book formats.
While the process requires effort, planning, and persistence, the satisfaction of seeing your name on a published book — and knowing you did it yourself — is unparalleled.
Whether you’re writing fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or academic content, your story matters. And now, you have all the tools and information needed to bring it to life.
Need Help Getting Started?
If you are working on your first manuscript or need assistance in choosing the right platform, editor, or marketing strategy, feel free to reach out or leave a comment below. Let’s build a thriving community of independent Indian authors helping each other grow.
