-

 Journalism in India

How It Has Changed and Why It Matters in CP ( communication media, psychology)

In recent years, Indian journalism has witnessed radical change. Historically, journalism functioned as a vehicle for independence; whereas today, journalism is one of the most important influencing factors in the digital economy and has always adapted to changing social requirements, political requirements and technological advances. The historical growth patterns of journalism help us understand democracy; therefore, journalism is a key element of the CP program.

Journalism's Early Years

As a war against the British, journalism was originally used as an instrument of war to resist colonisation rather than an instrument to communicate information. Many of India's most famous leaders wrote newspapers in order to bring their ideas to the masses, including Mahatma Gandhi, who used his media capability to promote involvement in the fight against colonial rule. Journalism served to promote the values of independence, equality and justice to the masses.
In the period following independence from Great Britain, journalism continued to be an essential tool for the development of India as a nation. Newspapers reported on the debates and decisions within parliament as well as on social reform initiatives. Journalists were expected to act as responsible, professional communicators in order to give people accurate information and to hold their leaders accountable.

The Shift of Journalism to Mass Media and Commercialization.

We saw a major turning point in journalism during the 1990's as a result of economic liberalization and the arrival of private television news channels. The way we consumed media as well as the types of journalism changed rapidly due to increased speed, increased visual content, increased competition and the 24/7 news cycle that focused heavily on 'breaking news', debates, and maximized viewer ratings. This was a period in time when there was an overwhelming amount of information made available. However, it also created its own challenges, such as:
Sensationalism and exaggeration
Pressure from advertising and corporate interests 
Less depth to reporting 
So journalism had to balance the desire/need for 'public interest' verses the desire for 'profit'.

Digital and Social Media Era

In today's age of journalism, the Journalism industry is highly influenced by the internet and social media. News is being reported and shared almost instantly via platforms like WhatsApp and X (Twitter) with just the click of a button. Anyone who has a smartphone and access to the Internet can share their information, video footage, or opinions with the world in just seconds. As a result of the increase in sharing of information on the Internet and social media, journalism has become much more participatory and accessible, however, there are also new problems that arose from the increase in sharing on the Internet and social media such as:

  • Fake news and misinformation
  • Decrease in fact checking
  • What is news vs opinion blurred
Journalists now compete with not only other news organizations but with influencers, content creators and viral posts.

Why Journalism is a Part of the CP Course

 journalism has been included in the CP course so that students understand it is a cornerstone of democracy. A democracy cannot exist without citizens being informed.
Through the study of journalism, students will gain an understanding of: 

  • How public opinion is formed
  • The role of journalism in the formation of public opinion
  • The importance of journalism in a self-governing society
  • The importance of ethical journalism "truth-telling".

Conclusion 

In India, Journalism has progressed from having been an instrument of liberty through to a complicated and strong establishment, formed by technological and market forces. Though the way that journalism is conducted is different today from what it was when journalism was first introduced, the primary role of journalism remains as was founded, namely to inform citizens and uphold democratic principles. For this reason, journalism is not however exclusively a topic relating to the media, but is also a vital element of the CP curriculum that develops students’ understanding of their rights, responsibilities and their ability to be knowledgeable participants in society.

 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

-
What Journalism Means to Me "The smaller the Journalists are the better off society is" - Warren Buffett  At first, it might seem odd to say this, but it gets across an important point: journalism is more effective when it is even-handed, accountable to the public, and committed to serving the public good rather than pursuing power or status. To me, being a journalist isn't about being seen and heard — it's about being honest, ethical and responsible.  Understanding of Journalism Journalism is described as gathering, editing, and producing news, information, and features about events that will be communicated publicly through various forms of distribution such as newspapers, television, or online publications, in order to provide people with timely, accurate information with which to make informed decisions regarding their lives and the world around them. Journalism also acts as a public service and a conduit for democracy. To me, journalism is a public service . It a...
Read more
-
 Letter to Editors What is a Letter to the Editor? A Letter to the Editor is a way for readers to write to a newspaper or other media source sharing their opinions, feelings, and suggestions regarding matters of public interest. By writing these types of letters, citizens have an opportunity to express themselves directly to the media, as well as call attention to situations or issues involving social, political, and civic matters in daily life. Letters to the editor are an essential aspect of any democratic society. They provide a venue for public dialogue and show various points of view on topical issues. For students studying journalism, writing letters to the editor assists with developing clear, accountable expression of ideas while also providing the opportunity to learn how to use the media to create awareness and promote accountability. The format teaches writers to present their ideas in a clear, fact-based manner that is written with respect for the seriousness of the sub...
Read more
-
 Crime Beat A shocking crime in  Bengaluru  has left neighbourhoods in Nelamangala reeling after a 68‑year‑old woman was brutally murdered and robbed inside her home while her husband lay bedridden beside her    ( https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bengaluru/2026/Feb/20/woman-robbed-killed-in-front-of-bedridden-husband-in-bengaluru ) Woman robbed, killed in front of bedridden husband in Bengaluru The crime came to light around 6.30 pm when a physiotherapist arrived for the husband’s session and found him lying beside his wife’s body. Police claim that the incident took place at the residence of a couple located on Pete Beedhi Street. The alleged perpetrator, who has been identified as a 35-year-old male (a neighbour and a wholesale shop owner), is said to have tricked the woman into letting him into her home by falsely requesting water; once he gained access to the home, he is said to have cut the woman's throat and stolen the gold bangles she was wearing. ...
Read more