Journalism in a democratic society is the life-giving thread that weaves together, enlightens, and keeps power in check within the complex fabric of governance. As the largest democracy in the world, India offers immense opportunities for aspiring journalists. The media and entertainment industry was valued at an astounding INR 2.5 trillion (US$29.4 billion) in 2024, with digital journalism emerging as the dominant force—contributing 32 per cent of total media revenues. The rise of online news platforms is evident from India’s 806 million internet users, 96 per cent of whom access the web via mobile phones—reflecting a monumental shift in news consumption and storytelling methods.
In this rapidly evolving media ecosystem, the demand for qualified, ethical, and versatile journalists is greater than ever. If you’re wondering how to become a journalist in India, this article offers a complete roadmap—from career options and specializations to essential skills and accreditation processes. Whether you’re planning a career after 12th or switching fields, this guide helps you understand every step to thrive in the Indian journalism landscape.
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What is Journalism?
Fundamentally, journalism is the exercise of collecting, evaluating, producing, and distributing news and information. It is the art of gathering, confirming and delivering news of occurrences, matters and patterns to a bigger audience. Journalism is more than a job, it is a service to the people, the foundation of a free society, the so-called Fourth Estate that acts as a watchdog to the government and other establishments.
Role of a Journalist in Today’s World
The job of a journalist has therefore grown and become more important than ever before in a world where there is too much information and a lot of that information is false. The main duties of a journalist are:
- Informing the Public: Giving the citizens proper and timely information on local, national and international events empowers them to make informed decisions.
- Investigating and Exposing: Probing and reporting on wrongdoing, corruption and power abuse by investigating and digging out the truth.
- Holding Power Accountable: Standing as a watchdog to the government, corporations and other powerful bodies to make sure they act in the common good
- Amplifying the Unheard Voices: Amplifying the issues and experiences of oppressed groups and individuals that risk being unnoticed
- Public Discourse: Providing a venue of free and informed discussion of important issues in society.
- Context and Analysis: looks beyond the facts that are on the surface to provide the why and how something happened, making the complicated things comprehensible to the general population.
Why India Needs Journalists Who Are Ethical, Well-Trained, and Multi-Skilled
The relevance of ethical, talented and all-rounder journalists in India, in points:
- Supporting Democracy: By supplying factual, objective information ethical journalists help to ensure an informed citizenry discussion and democracy.
- Countering Misinformation and Disinformation: In the era of fake news and propaganda, professional journalists are needed more than ever to fact-check information, expose misinformation, and deliver the truth to the audience.
- Enhancing Social Cohesion: Multiskilled journalists will be able to report extensively on various topics, including social injustices, and cultural activities that will ensure that various communities in India understand and empathize with one another. Moral journalism can avert the transmission of polarizing stories.
- Catalyzing Development and Awareness: Journalists have been known to be very crucial in escalating developmental matters, health-related matters, environmental matters, and scientific inventions or innovations thus enlightening the masses and making policy.
- Upholding Public Trust: Ethical behavior and professional excellence are the key issues that help journalists to preserve their credibility and gain trust of the audience that is core to the effectiveness and influence of the press.
- Giving Voice to the Voiceless: Excellent journalists are able to research and write about the marginalized community and give voice to their issues and viewpoints, cast a spotlight on their problems and defend their rights.
- Promoting Critical Thinking: Journalists promote critical thinking among masses by delivering high quality and sophisticated reports on various issues, as opposed to unquestioningly trusting information.
Types of Journalism in India
The journalism profession is wide and diverse with numerous areas of specification. Among the noticeable ones are:
- Print Journalism: It is the old type of journalism that exists in newspapers and magazines.
- Broadcast Journalism: Broadcasting or delivering of news via the electronic media such as television and radio.
- Digital/Online Journalism: This is the coverage and selling of news via the internet sites, social networks and other online media.
- Investigative Journalism: Deep research to bring out hidden information of interest to the people.
- Photojournalism: Storytelling with the use of strong, suggestive imagery.
- Data Journalism: Data journalism is the use of data to identify and narrate stories in an engaging and logical manner.
Who Can Become a Journalist?
In points, here is how to become a journalist n India nowadays:
- Upcoming Storytellers: Journalism can be chosen by every individual who is highly interested in what is happening around, inquisitive and wants to share great stories. This involves people with various academic orientations.
- Superb Communicators: A proficiency in writing is essential, but exceptional journalists must also be comfortable speakers who are also talented interviewers and capable of communicating complicated topics in ways that are both clear and succinct.
- Critical Thinkers & Researchers: It is essential to be able to analyze information, check the facts, find biases, and do proper research. These include critical thinking and adherence to precision.
- Ethical & Responsible Individuals: A high level of moral ethicalness and obligation to journalistic ethics of fairness, objectivity, and accountability are not open to negotiation.
- Flexible & Versatile Personalities: The news is very rapid, and erratic. Journalists should be capable of working under pressure and within strict deadlines as well as adjust to the changing technologies and ways of reporting.
- Bachelor Degree Holder (Most Desired): Although it is not always a required must, a degree in journalism, mass communication, English, political science or any other relevant field will form a good background. Nevertheless, formal qualifications can be substituted by the relevant experience and a strong portfolio.
- People Who Love to Learn Throughout Their Lives: The media field is very dynamic and this means that a journalist has to keep on updating his skills and knowledge.
How to Become a Journalist After 12th
That is why a well-planned academic program can help them to get a good start in the journalism profession, in case they want to join the profession immediately after completing their secondary school.
Choose Relevant Stream
Although there is no strict stream combination required, a Humanities/Arts background is generally seen as the most compatible, since it ensures a good grip on such subjects as Political Science, History, Sociology and Economics, which make the core of the world that journalists write about.
But students with Commerce and Science backgrounds also take up journalism and they offer fresh ideas in areas such as business and science journalism.
Recommended Subjects
Areas of study that can be particularly helpful also are:
- English (for excellent language and communication skill)
- Political Science (especially if it includes a study of political systems, and governance)
- History (for providing contexts for current events)
- Economics (as this will help with reporting in business, and finance)
- Sociology (so one may understand the structures and issues of society)
- Psychology (to help with interviewing and analysis to be more insightful)
Start Writing Now: Publish on Medium, Blogger, or WordPress, Write news, interviews, opinions
Take Short-Term Courses
- Google News Initiative (Free)
- Coursera / Udemy (Paid)
- YMCA Delhi, AAFT Noida (Cert/Diploma)
- BBC Academy (Free training)
Intern or Volunteer: Local newspapers, YouTube channels, online portals
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Build a Portfolio: Showcase your best articles, videos, and interviews
Apply for Entry-Level Jobs
- Content Writer
- Junior Reporter
- Social Media Executive
UG Courses to Pursue
A number of undergraduate courses can lead to a career in journalism:
- Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC): A great undergraduate degree. A three-year degree. Provides a comprehensive overview of journalism and mass media.
- Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (BA Journalism): First Focuses entirely on journalism principles and practices.
- Bachelor of Mass Media (BMM): A wider course which includes journalism, advertising, and public relations.
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English/Political Science/History: All of these degrees would develop excellent analytical and writing skills, which are qualities in journalism.
Top Colleges Offering UG Journalism Programs in India
- Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), New Delhi (offers Post-Graduate Diploma courses which are highly reputed)
- Symbiosis Institute of Media & Communication (SIMC), Pune
- Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR), New Delhi
- Christ University, Bengaluru
- Delhi College of Arts and Commerce, University of Delhi
- Indraprastha College for Women, University of Delhi
- Madras Christian College (MCC), Chennai
- St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai
Also Read: Best Journalism Colleges in India
How to Become a Journalist After Graduation
For those who opt for journalism after earning a bachelor’s degree in another field, a few possibilities
Take PG Courses
A postgraduate degree or diploma in journalism could provide the professional training and industry exposure you will need.
- Master of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication (MA JMC): A two-year program with in-depth knowledge facilitators and specialization choices.
- Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism (PGDJ): A 1-year program with intense practical skill development.
Top PG Journalism Colleges:
- Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), New Delhi and its regional campuses
- Asian College of Journalism (ACJ), Chennai
- Xavier Institute of Communications (XIC), Mumbai
- A.J.K. Mass Communication Research Centre, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
- Symbiosis Institute of Media & Communication (SIMC), Pune
Also Read: Best Mass Communication Colleges in India
Upskill with Internships, Freelance Writing, or Campus Media
Practical experience is irreplaceable. Graduates start looking for internships with media houses, freelancing articles for online publications or participate in their journalism programs at campus papers, radio or television stations, so they can add to their portfolio and practice.
Gain Practical Experience
- Intern with newspapers, TV, radio, or news websites
- Do freelance writing or start a blog
- Join your college media or journalism club
- Work on-campus publications or YouTube channels
Build a Portfolio
- Blog or published articles
- Video/audio interviews
- Self-made news reports
- Internships or freelance work
Apply for Jobs
- Reporter / Correspondent
- Sub-editor / Content Editor
- Copywriter (in media agencies)
- Anchor / News Presenter
- Video Journalist
- Social Media Manager
Top recruiters: NDTV, The Hindu, Times of India, India Today, Reuters, ANI, and online platforms like The Wire, Quint, Scroll, etc.
How to Become a Journalist Without a Degree in Journalism
A formal degree in journalism is not a requirement for success in the digital age. A solid portfolio and ability can outweigh a degree.
Portfolio versus Degree in the Digital Age
For online platforms, your ability is more significant than what is on your degree. A polished portfolio that has your writing skills, multimedia projects, plus an understanding of digital publishing may be the ticket to get your foot in the door.
Freelancing, Blogging, Vlogging, Podcasting
Start doing. Have an area of expertise or a niche you are enthusiastic about: start a blog, Get a News Portal from Best News Portal Development Company in India like 7k Network, develop a YouTube channel or discuss current affairs in a podcast. If you’re able to create high quality work regularly it can build an audience and help provide you with credibility as a journalist.
Getting Your Work Published with Online Platforms or Local Papers
Approach online news portals and local papers to pitch your story ideas. You will gain valuable bylines to enhance your portfolio and gain practical experience.
Certifications and Short-term Courses
There are several institutions that offer short-term certificate courses that can provide you with further specific skills.
- Coursera, Udemy: are good platforms, and offer a large number of online courses in journalism, writing, and digital media.
- Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC): offers short-term courses in several specializations.
How to Become a Famous Journalist in India
Becoming a well-known and trusted journalist in India will take a relationship of skills, commitment and career moves.
- Find a Niche: Establish yourself as an expert in one area. People will come to you because of it.
- Create Your Personal Brand: Use social media more, share your work and interact in reasonable discussions.
- Break Exclusive Stories: Do more than be another video provider of the press release. Attempt to find stories that no one else has.
- Get Accreditation
- Build your Network: Build personal contact with sources, journalists and editors.
- Be Uncompromisingly Ethical: Credibility is a journalist’s greatest asset.
- Hone the Skill of Storytelling: On print, screen or audio, the ability to tell a story is all important.
What Is Accreditation?
Accreditation is an official recognition given to working journalists that allows them to access key events and restricted areas. In India, it’s issued by:
- Press Information Bureau (PIB) – for central government coverage
- State Information Departments – for regional access
- Media organizations or journalist unions – occasionally issue their credentials
Why Is Accreditation Important?
Getting accredited offers several professional advantages:
- Entry to press conferences, government briefings, and official events
- Access to Parliament, ministries, and restricted areas
- A valid Press ID card
- Sometimes, it includes additional benefits like insurance, health schemes, or pension support for senior journalists
Who Issues Accreditation in India?
- At the National Level: The Press Information Bureau (PIB), under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, is the central authority.
- At the State Level: The Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) handles accreditation for state-level journalists.
- Note on RNI: The Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI) plays a supporting role, especially for print media, by verifying newspaper registrations and circulation data. While it doesn’t issue press cards, RNI certification is often required for the accreditation of print journalists.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for PIB accreditation, journalists typically must:
- Work full-time with a recognized news outlet (print, digital, or broadcast)
- Have at least 5 years of professional experience (or 3 years for video journalists)
- Be employed by a media house that meets minimum circulation or audience criteria
- Freelancers must show consistent, high-quality published work over a defined period
Key Points to Remember
- Accreditation is optional, not mandatory, to be a journalist—but it’s often essential for covering official events and accessing high-security venues
- Not available to influencers, bloggers, or PR professionals unless they meet strict journalism criteria
- Digital journalists are eligible, provided they meet PIB’s updated guidelines
Journalist Salary in India
The salaries aides in journalism will vary, and significantly based on experience, location, organization, and type of journalism practiced. Salary estimates for various journalists as of 2025 are:
- Entry Level (0-2 years of experience) – ₹2.5 to ₹4 lakhs/year.
- Mid-Level (3-7 years of Experience) – ₹5 to ₹10 lakhs/year.
- Senior Level (7+ years of Experience) – ₹12 to ₹25 lakhs/year or more.
Broadcaster/ Digital media salaries depending on the stature and range of position will also be on par with higher expected ranges.
Steps to Build a Career in Journalism
The following are the procedures to start a career in journalism:
- Establish a Firm Educational Background: Although this is not often a requirement, a bachelor degree in journalism or mass communication, English or a related major offers the necessary skills in reporting, writing and media ethics. Seek out programs that have applied learning aspects such as student newspapers or television studios.
- Build Core Competencies: Concentrate on your writing, research, interviewing and critical thinking skills. Write good, strong, and interesting copy. Get information on how to fact-check and source reliably.
- Acquisition of Practical Experience: This is essential. Begin by writing in your school newspaper or a local community paper or work on the internet sites. Apply to internships in recognized news companies – newspapers, TV, radio stations or online news websites. These are invaluable sources of real-life experience and contacts.
- Make a Portfolio: Take a record of everything you do. This can be written articles, audio clips, video packages or even social media material that you have created. A good portfolio assists your abilities to be seen by prospective employers.
- Become Fluent in Mastering Digital Tools: Get acquainted with content management systems, social media analytics, rudimentary video editing, and digital storytelling styles. The contemporary newsroom is extremely computerized.
- Network Unceasingly: Go to industry events, LinkedIn connect with journalists, and contact them to ask informational interviews. Mentorships and job opportunities can be attained through networking.
- Be Informed and Flexible: Constantly read and follow various news outlets, be aware of what is happening in the world and be ready to adjust to the constantly changing world of media, new technologies, and ways of reporting.
Challenges of Career Journalism
Although a journalist has a satisfactory job, it has its own problems especially in a diversified and fastest moving country such as India:
- Pressure and Deadlines: Journalists are always under huge pressure of beating the competition by being the first to report the news, confirm the information, and have very strict deadlines which frequently result in working long hours and experiencing great amounts of stress.
- Combating Misinformation and Fake News: The spread of fake news and disinformation, in particular via social media, is making it exceedingly difficult for journalists to keep the faith of the population and safeguard the veracity of their articles. It is an uphill struggle against fact-checking.
- Political and Corporate Influence: Concentration of media ownership and demands of political parties or business organizations may jeopardize the editorial freedom and independence resulting in self censorship or selective reporting.
- Economic Instability: The journalism profession is in a massive transition, and the old methods of revenues are falling. It may result in job insecurity, reduced pay, and pressurizing the journalist to churn out work at a fast rate, often at the cost of more investigative journalism.
- Loss of Public Credibility: The decrease in the credibility of the mainstream media among the people due to the allegations of biases and sensationalism ensures that the reporters and editors find it difficult to carry out their watchdog responsibility effectively.
- Mental and Emotional: Reporting on traumatizing events, human pain, and facing ethical issues may have a severe impact on the mental and emotional state of a journalist.
Conclusion
Journalism in India is a difficult and highly fulfilling profession. Journalists are people of passion and purpose, and truth must be their purpose. In a world of “infodemic,” it has never been more important for journalists to be the conduit for verified information and truth-seeking. For people with a curiosity about the world, a desire to be of service, and an innate distrust of power, journalism offers the greatest chance to be agents of change, filling the role of the fourth estate and providing a voice to an energetic and dynamic nation.
FAQs
Is a journalism degree a requirement for a journalist in India?
No. While a degree may offer a good start to their career, many well-regarded and equipped journalists find success in journalism today without formal training in journalism and with diverse degrees.
What are the major skills required of a journalist?
Superior writing and communication skills, Ability to research and analyze, Integrity and a good sense of ethics, Ability to adapt to new technologies and Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
What can a fresher in journalism in India expect to earn?
A current fresher in journalism in India can expect the start range for pay to be in the ₹2.5 – ₹4 Lakhs per annum. This will change based on the city, the media organization and the role.
What is the future of print journalism in India?
Around the world readership of print newspapers is decreasing. That said, in the Indian context print still holds some sway because of a large number of readers who still read their newspapers and build their news diet on print materials.
