The Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards 2023 celebrated outstanding journalism in India. This prestigious event brought into light exceptional stories from various fields. Award winners were recognised for their courage and commitment to uncovering the truth. The ceremony took place in New Delhi, with President Droupadi Murmu as the Chief Guest.
Acknowledging Excellence in Journalism
The Ramnath Goenka Foundation established these awards to honour journalistic achievements. The awards cover 13 categories, including investigative journalism, sports, politics, and feature writing. This year, 20 stories were selected for their impact and quality. The awards aim to inspire journalists to pursue excellence in their craft.
Notable Jury Members
The jury for the 19th edition included prominent figures. Justice B N Srikrishna, Prof C Raj Kumar, and Dr S Y Quraishi were among them. Their diverse backgrounds provided a comprehensive evaluation of the entries. They assessed stories from various regions and languages, ensuring a wide representation of Indian journalism.
Challenges Faced by Journalists
Winners faced numerous challenges while reporting. Many stories involved ground reporting in difficult conditions. Journalists took risks to expose corruption and societal issues. This dedication exemplifies the essence of journalism in India . The jury noted the vibrancy and resilience of the field, countering perceptions of journalism’s decline.
Encouraging Young Journalists
The awards serve as an inspiration for young journalists. The jury members emphasised the importance of storytelling. They encouraged aspiring journalists to learn from the nominated stories. About real issues on the ground is crucial for effective journalism. The younger generation’s commitment to rigorous reporting is promising for the future.
Diverse Range of Stories
The nominated stories covered a wide array of subjects. Some were heartbreaking, while others were uplifting. For instance, stories from Manipur brought into light pressing social issues. Conversely, tales of elderly women returning to education showcased resilience. Such diversity reflects the complexity of Indian society.
Future of Journalism in India
Despite challenges, good journalism continues to thrive in India. The awards highlight the ongoing relevance of investigative reporting. They remind us of journalism’s role in holding power accountable. The jury believes that these stories should be shared widely, especially in media schools. This will inspire future journalists to engage with real-world issues.
Importance of Ground Reporting
Ground reporting remains a vital aspect of journalism. It allows journalists to connect with communities directly. This approach provides depth and context to the stories being told. The jury noted that many winning entries involved extensive fieldwork. Such dedication is essential in uncovering the truth.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of investigative journalism in a democratic society.
- What are the challenges faced by journalists in conflict zones? Point out effective strategies to overcome these challenges.
- Estimate the impact of regional media on public awareness and accountability in India.
- With suitable examples, discuss the significance of storytelling in journalism and its influence on society.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the role of investigative journalism in a democratic society.
- Investigative journalism uncovers corruption and abuse of power, holding authorities accountable.
- It informs the public, enabling informed decision-making and encouraging transparency.
- Investigative pieces often lead to policy changes and reforms, enhancing democratic governance.
- This form of journalism serves as a watchdog, crucial for a healthy democracy.
- Challenges include threats to journalists, censorship, and the need for ethical standards.
2. What are the challenges faced by journalists in conflict zones? Point out effective strategies to overcome these challenges.
- Journalists face physical danger, including threats to their safety and lives in conflict zones.
- Access to reliable information can be limited due to chaos and misinformation.
- Emotional and psychological stress is prevalent due to exposure to violence and trauma.
- Strategies include using protective gear, establishing strong local contacts, and prioritizing mental health support.
- Training in conflict reporting and risk assessment can enhance safety and reporting quality.
3. Estimate the impact of regional media on public awareness and accountability in India.
- Regional media provides localized news that resonates with community issues, enhancing public awareness.
- It often covers stories overlooked by national media, denoting grassroots concerns.
- Regional outlets encourage accountability by exposing local corruption and governance failures.
- They empower citizens by giving a voice to marginalized communities and diverse perspectives.
- Increased access to regional media can lead to greater civic engagement and informed citizenry.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the significance of storytelling in journalism and its influence on society.
- Storytelling humanizes complex issues, making them relatable and understandable to the audience.
- For example, narratives of individuals affected by policy changes can drive public empathy and action.
- Effective storytelling can mobilize communities, as seen in social movements sparked by compelling media narratives.
- It encourages cultural understanding and awareness, bridging gaps between diverse societal groups.
- Good storytelling encourages critical thinking and discussion, shaping public opinion and societal norms.
