Journeys and Journalism in India is a fascinating testimony of the multi-faceted art and human craft which till date is the core essence of Indian society. The freedom to think, to express, and to seek knowledge from all around the world is what India has given the world with its remarkable contribution to the world economy. The fourth pillar of democracy, Journeys has given vast exposure to the world and Indian culture through a variety of means, and by preserving its vibrant cultural diversity. A popular saying in India is “Nothing is forever new in India”. Since independence this philosophy has been living in the country and is continually being enriched by the changing face of Indian politics and society.
There have been many instances where the voice of India’s citizen has been oppressed and harassed by the myriad powers of government machinery. But the people, in all innocence, have clung on to their freedom to continue with their Journalism in India. Whether it is print media, radio, television, or online media, the spirit of freedom of expression and vigorous media functioning is alive and flourishing in India. Reporters and editors are working day and night to serve the people in a better way.
The freedom to think, to criticize, and to seek knowledge from all around the world, is what precludes the downfall of a genuinely free press. It is an irony that the same freedom safeguards the fundamental right of free speech. Reporters and Editors are consistently being victimized for expressing their honest opinions in their work. The brutal attacks on media houses have left a deep imprint in the psyche of Indian citizens, who regard any attack on the press as an attack on their freedom of speech and expression.
Reporters and journalists are not only targeted due to their work, but also because of their association with various organizations, institutions, and parties. The media blackout on the media house owned by the ruling party (led by the then prime minister Rajiv Gandhi) during the Emergency period was one of the worst moments for the freedom of the press in India. However, since the banning of the Emergency laws, there has been a gradual improvement in the conditions of Indian media. But this is only possible if the government fulfills its promise to bring in more reforms and policies for the media. Only then can the media enjoy its constitutional rights without fear of legal persecution.
Media organizations need to be more vigilent and proactive against attempts to tarnish their good name. Editors and reporters should always remain alert to the slightest hints of attempt to tamper with their reporting. They must also be cautious of encroaching undue influence over the news stories they are covering. In order to safeguard themselves from undue media scrutiny, media organizations should constantly upgrade their knowledge about current affairs, global politics, and international news.
With the advent of the Internet, the scope of journalism in India has widened dramatically. Now Internet savvy people from different parts of the country can access information of almost any sector of life from home. This has led to a boom in the industry of freelance journalism. A great deal of research and analysis is required in any field of journalism, but when it comes to Internet-based journalism, the entire task is much simplified.
India has a thriving and vibrant market for advertising and marketing. Many media houses depend largely on advertisements to fund their operations. Freelance advertising helps them make the most of this medium. However, this form of advertising requires large sums of money to be spent in a short span of time. Therefore, the best way to attract customers and generate revenue is to hire an effective website design company.
Freelance media professionals work as independent contractors for media houses. This enables them to work in the comfort of their home, and enjoy flexible working hours. Moreover, such services offer lucrative compensation packages and attractive benefits. They can select the type of freelance work and projects according to their convenience.