Has the Indian Media Ethos Diminished?

Indian journalism has been a topic of considerable concern in recent years. In 2014, a notable transition occurred that arguably marked the decline in the ethical standards of media in India. Unqualified individuals, known as useless roadside vendors, were suddenly thrust into anchor roles and then underwent a makeover to present themselves as corporate CEOs. Their primary responsibility became relentless propaganda 24/7 on television and social media, often without proper ground reporting or fact-checking. This shift marked a significant departure from journalistic integrity.

The Tragic Loss of Ethical Journalism

Ironically, some of these individuals were even self-declared as the best and most neutral journalists. The reality, however, was far from ideal. The media landscape in India is now dominated by various factions, each beholden to political and business interests. Fear, threats, and complacency have inevitably led to a significant erosion of ethics within the sector.

On one side, there are media outlets bought and owned by business tycoons and political parties. These entities prioritize TRP (Television Rating Points) and advertising revenue over genuine news and educational content. The media is now often seen as a mere puppet, serving the interests of the ruling parties at both the state and central levels. The ethical standards that once defined journalism have been overshadowed by the pursuit of commercial gain.

Understanding the Current State of Indian Media

Let us delve into the current landscape. What is news, after all? It should be something that informs and enriches our minds. Unfortunately, the Indian media often falls short in this regard. Instead of providing substantial and balanced coverage, the media focuses on sensation-seeking content. For instance, the media frequently invests valuable airtime in interviews with IAS toppers and grand debates on talk shows hosted by Arnab Goswami, with little regard for the broader range of issues and stories that need coverage.

People's attitudes towards politics are increasingly negative, tainted by media portrayals that highlight only the negative aspects of public figures and political processes. Media coverage tends to center around scams, gossip, and trivial matters, often at the expense of meaningful content. This bias towards scandal and triviality has contributed to a climate of cynicism and distrust in politics.

Rebuilding the Ethos of Indian Journalism

There is a pressing need to reinvigorate journalism with a commitment to truth, integrity, and public service. Here are some suggestions for what the Indian media should focus on in order to regain public trust:

Inspirational Stories: The media should shift the focus from merely covering politicians and leaders to uplifting everyday heroes and success stories. Profiles of entrepreneurs, businessmen, and political figures who have made significant contributions to society would provide a more balanced and inspiring narrative. Positive Content: Media should aim to showcase more positive stories, highlighting the good deeds being done around the world. For example, coverage of individuals and organizations making a difference could create a more positive and optimistic perspective. Quality Content: Instead of sensationalizing trivial matters, the media should provide in-depth analyses of historical, international, and economic issues. This would help educate the public and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the world. Minimal Hype: Avoid overhyping events and focus on substance. Dedicating excessive coverage to single incidents can distort the public's perception of reality and create unnecessary panic or excitement.

While there are success stories, such as NDTV's campaign to save tigers, these efforts are often overshadowed by the prevailing trend of prioritizing commercial over ethical considerations.

It is important to recognize and celebrate the positive aspects of the Indian media. However, the current state of affairs is not ideal, and there is a lot of room for improvement. By working towards a more ethical and informed media landscape, we can hope to foster greater trust and understanding among the general public.