JOURNALISM

This career is concerned with collection and dissemination of news through the print media as well as the electronic media. Journalism has a long and well-established tradition in India. The Indian press has always been vigilant towards safeguarding the democratic values in the country and fearless in reporting even at times like emergency when attempts were made to thwart its freedom.

Print Journalism includes the newspapers, magazines and journals. Newspapers could be broadsheets like the morning dailies, or tabloids like the evening or weekly papers. These carry news of different types, comments and analyses of current events. Apart from general newspapers that cover all fields, there are also dedicated newspapers and magazines for different fields like sports, films, business and information technology. There are also niche publications that look into specific products or subjects like photography, automobiles, fashion, interiors, women, textiles, etc. Audio-visual (A/V) journalism refers to television, which is the main A/V medium to dispense news. This combines information and video footage and includes recording, scripting, editing and presentation.

Journalists work in diverse areas, such as politics, finance and economics, culture and sports for newspapers and periodicals besides radio and television networks carry their stories and reports. They do not just inform but analyze an issue or a news item or an incident and influence people’s opinion on them. They wield an enormous influence on the society and therefore journalism is also referred to as the Fourth Estate.

There are highly scope in journalism is increasing especially with the diversification of the media. More than 60% of the Indian population (i.e. more than half a billion people!!) over the age of 14 are exposed to one or the other kind of media, giving immense challenge to those interested in media related careers. With over 25,000 newspapers/periodicals/magazines/ journals in the print medium, a network of government and commercial radio channels as well as the national and private TV networks etc., the challenge for journalists is evident.

There are various type of job available like: (1) Writing (2) Editing (3) Photography.

Educational Qualification:
The basic qualities for success in journalism include: ratlike cunning and tact to get people to disclose vital information; a plausible manner and the ability to draw people out; and a fair literary ability to be able to express ideas lucidly and concisely. Other qualities that make a true journalist are open-mindedness, unbiased approach, curiosity, sensibility to atmosphere, stamina, courage and willingness to work long hours. Then there are qualities that add to the overall ability of the journalist, like a knack with telephones, transport system and petty officials, total recall; knowledge of more than one regional language; and the ability to believe passionately in what you do.

In the radio and TV media, all presentation jobs demand a good voice quality and modulation. In TV, specifically, a good photogenic appearance and strong camera presence are essential. All those in the writing and editing section need to have good writing ability. Reporters need to be curious and determined. Photographers need to have good graphic and photo skills, with an ability to photograph all kinds of subjects.

There are various institutions around the country offer courses in journalism. These courses are usually part of a wider program on mass communication studies. Some universities also offer degree courses in journalism at undergraduate or postgraduate level. The entry level into these courses has need generally graduation in any discipline University. The minimum duration of courses is one year.

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