Many reknowned individuals have led Indian journalism through remarkable transformations that have redefined what reporting and analysis mean in a democracy. They have shared the country’s story and helped to direct public opinion and keep holders of power responsible. Since they began working in print, these top Indian journalists have led by example, set new limits, defied norms and stayed true to their ethics. Some brave journalists have helped to change the face of Indian media, asking tough questions, covering battles and standing for people whose voices had not been heard. Because of their work, new journalistic rules and groundbreaking styles have come into being. They do more than relay information; they act as the nation’s ethical guide, watch over democracy and link the powerful with the rest of us.
Now that information moves fast and sometimes mixes with entertainment, prominent Indian journalists continue to provide honest, correct and ethical news. Platforms like 7K Network are playing a vital role in this evolving landscape by delivering credible news and fostering transparent conversations. By embracing new technology and innovative approaches, they help uphold the strong values of journalism while engaging audiences in meaningful ways.
The Crucial Role of Journalism in India
Indian journalism is part of India’s democracy and is vital for safeguarding its fine balance of power. By their actions, the country’s best journalists have proven that the media has a key role in promoting transparency, holding leaders to account and supporting well-governed India.
- Safeguarding Democracy: In the past, top Indian journalists have looked after democracy, frequently checked official actions, exposed wrongdoing and made certain regular people’s voices were considered by those in power. They have been important during emergencies, elections and crises in the constitution by helping to support the country’s democracy.
- Promoting Transparency: Thanks to dedicated reporters and thorough research, we have become aware of many scandals, lawmaking failures and problems within the system which is information that might have stayed hidden from most people. As a result of their efforts, policies have been changed, courts have intervened and administrative processes have improved.
- Public Education: The leading Indian journalists have regularly tried to educate people on difficult policy, diplomatic and economic topics. They have broken down complex government actions and international developments so everyone can understand them.
- Amplifying Marginalized Voices: They have worked to give voice to small communities, as well as women, minorities, people from rural areas and those who lack economic opportunities. Their journalism has frequently led to social actions and laws that work to fix inequality and injustice.
- Crisis Communication: Even in times of disasters, pandemics and rising tensions within the public, top Indian journalists supply information and help direct relief activities to prevent panic.
Factors That Contribute to a Journalist’s Fame and Impact
It takes a mix of special skills, high moral standards and being ready for today’s new media trends to become a top journalist in India. There are a number of special qualities that set these individuals apart from others in their field.
- Quality and Credibility: The leading Indian journalists depend on accurate, fair and complete reporting to be respected. Due to their attention to fact-checking, fair treatment of information and accurate verification, many people trust what they report.
- Ground-Level Engagement: Rather than sticking to the newsroom, they have often tracked stories and met sources in the community. They have visited isolated regions, interacted with those in need and seen things happen in person, adding true understanding to their stories.
- Innovation in Format: Numerous top Indian journalists have introduced bold new systems and ways of presenting information that have updated all types of news. Their creative methods make it easier for everyone to follow complicated matters, but still guard journalistic standards.
- Courage Under Pressure: They have proven courageous by reporting from dangerous zones, looking into strong individuals and groups and keeping their reporting free from political and business influence. They have achieved distinction by approaching tough issues and difficult stories.
- Digital Adaptation: India’s top journalists have adjusted to working in digital media by using modern technology and meeting audience needs, all the while sticking to their main standards and goals.
- Recognition and Awards: What they do has won them national and international awards which highlights their role in journalism and shows their position as leaders.
12 Top Indian Journalists
1. Shekhar Gupta
- Years of Experience: Over 40 years in journalism
- Salary: Estimated at INR 3-4 crores annually, including revenue from ThePrint and various media ventures.
For more than forty years, famous journalist Shekhar Gupta has played a major role in guiding and shaping Indian media. He began his work in politics in the 1970s and became renowned for combining both reporting in politics and policy analysis. While editorializing The Indian Express, he directed key exposés, among them the Bofors scandal, and helped develop the field of investigative journalism in India. Post that, in 2017, Gupta launched ThePrint, succeeding in shifting to the digital sector with his popular program Cut the Clutter. Its techniques use traditional ethics alongside new formats to change how we consume news. Apart from reporting, he has trained many journalists in how to practice brave, well-researched, ethical reporting.
Famous Shows:
- Walk the Talk (NDTV 24×7)
- Cut the Clutter (ThePrint)
- National Interest Weekly Column
Employer:
- Founder and Editor-in-Chief, ThePrint
- Former Editor-in-Chief, The Indian Express
- Former Editor-in-Chief, India Today
Awards:
- Padma Bhushan (2009)
- G.K. Reddy Award for Journalism
- Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Memorial Award
- International Press Institute Award (multiple times)
2. Ravish Kumar
- Years of Experience: Over 25 years in journalism.
- Salary: Estimated at INR 4 crores annually.
Well-known Indian journalist Ravish Kumar has become known as a famous journalist for upholding integrity and fairness in the news by supporting social justice and local causes. Rising from Bihar, he changed Hindi news by introducing Prime Time, a show in which he gave people with issues a chance to be heard and discussed matters like rural and educational inequality. He cultivated a habit of being empathetic and backed by research and he never let strong groups take over his journalism. He has turned to independent digital platforms because he is so committed to real journalism. His reporting has changed how the top journalist in India covers people from minority communities and social differences.
Famous Shows:
- Prime Time
- Ravish Ki Report
- Des Ki Baat
- Hum Log
Employer:
- Former Senior Executive Editor, NDTV India
- Currently independent journalist and YouTuber
Awards:
- Ramon Magsaysay Award (2019)
- Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award (twice)
- Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Award
- Kuldip Nayar Journalism Award
3. Anjana Om Kashyap
- Years of Experience: Over 20 years in journalism.
- Salary: Estimated at INR 2-3 crores annually.
Hindi television journalism has welcomed a forceful leader in Anjana Om Kashyap, someone who has overcome challenges typical for women in the industry. Even though she started as a presenter on Doordarshan, her keen reporting style at Aaj Tak has helped improve political journalism. Her show Halla Bol is recognized for its bold questions and has played a big role in changing the national political dialogue.
Kashyap’s reports on elections, policy discussions and crises have gained her respect from people from all parties. Apart from journalism, she also inspires women who want to become reporters, working to bring gender diversity to the top ranks in Indian media.
Famous Shows:
- Halla Bol
- Special Report
- Desh Tak
Employer:
- Managing Editor, Aaj Tak
- Former anchor, News 24
- Former journalist, Zee News
Awards:
- Best Hindi News Anchor awards
- Excellence in Journalism recognition
- Various industry accolades
4. Barkha Dutt
- Years of Experience: Over 25 years in journalism
- Salary: Estimated at INR 2.64 crores annually.
With her fearless account of the 1999 Kargil War, famous Indian journalist Barkha Dutt, acclaimed Indian journalist, was the first to reveal the lives of Indian soldiers in conflict right into people’s homes. For her empathy and good storytelling, Dutt has not hesitated to write about widespread disasters, terrorist violations and uprisings, especially during the 26/11 events. Showcasing her belief in grassroots reporting, her platform Mojo Story dedicated much of its time to covering the COVID-19 pandemic. She has fought for freedom of the press, encouraged equality among journalists and defended the role of independent new media in Indian society—qualities that make her one of the best journalist in India today.
Famous Shows:
- We The People
- The Buck Stops Here
- MoJo Story
Employer:
- Founder, Mojo Story
- Former Group Editor, NDTV
- Former Consulting Editor, NDTV
Awards:
- Padma Shri
- Global Leader for Tomorrow, World Economic Forum
- Commonwealth Broadcasting Association Award
- Multiple Indian Television Academy Awards
5. Rajdeep Sardesai
- Years of Experience: Over 30 years spanning print, television, and digital journalism with focus on democratic processes.
- Salary: Estimated at INR 5 crores annually
For years, top journalist in India Rajdeep Sardesai has represented how TV journalism in India has expanded. At the start, he wrote for The Times of India and later moved to television, helping start NDTV and later leading CNN-IBN as they grew into major news networks. Because of his balanced and informed election reporting, Sardesai helped to establish new heights in political journalism. As a famous reporter in India, he has always supported an independent newsroom when telling stories about communal riots and policy matters. Currently with India Today Television, he keeps sharing detailed political insights and people across the nation trust his analysis during all elections.
Famous Shows:
- India Today Tonight
- News Today
- Countdown
Employer:
- Consulting Editor, India Today Television
- Former Editor-in-Chief, CNN-IBN
- Former Editor, NDTV
Awards:
- Padma Shri
- International Broadcasters Award
- Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award
- ENBA Lifetime Achievement Award
6. Rajat Sharma
- Years of Experience: Over 35 years in journalism.
- Salary: Estimated at INR 8-10 crores annually.
Rajat Sharma, a famous journalist from India, changed how political journalism worked by introducing his popular show Aap Ki Adalat two decades ago. Because it was filmed in a courtroom setting, the show pushed politicians to answer difficult questions before an audience, which changed the standard for live-television interviews. Sharma’s skill at getting people to talk openly made the show both special and repeatedly copied. He began working in Delhi and transformed India TV into a top news channel centered on messages that are meaningful to the public and focused on investigating important topics. As one of the top journalists of India, his research has had a major impact on political discussions and how people in India view policy.
Famous Shows:
- Aap Ki Adalat
- Aaj Ki Baat
- Special Report
Employer:
- Chairman and Editor-in-Chief, India TV
- Former Executive Editor, Zee News
- Former Editor, Onlooker Magazine
Awards:
- Padma Bhushan (2015)
- Indian Television Academy Hall of Fame
- Various industry excellence awards
7. Suhasini Haidar
- Years of Experience: Over 20 years specializing in international relations and diplomatic reporting.
- Salary: Estimated at INR 1.5-2 crores annually.
As one of India’s top journalists, Suhasini Haidar has become known for making complicated international relations understandable to Indians. Her well-known knowledge of foreign policy and diplomacy leads her to give clear explanations of important international events involving South Asia and India-China. As she worked in Indian media after global news, she brought a new perspective from abroad to domestic journalism. She ensures The Hindu’s reputation for strong diplomatic coverage as she works with modern forms of journalism. During world tension, she has been pivotal in clarifying international issues that impact India in the world.
Famous Shows:
- WorldView
- The World Tonight
- Diplomatic Dispatch
Employer:
- Diplomatic Affairs Editor, The Hindu
- Former Foreign Affairs Editor, CNN-IBN
- Former Senior Editor, CNN International
Awards:
- Prem Bhatia Award
- Haldighati Award
- Maharana Mewar Foundation Award
- Columbia-DuPont Broadcast Journalism Award (team)
8. Prannoy Roy
- Years of Experience: Over 40 years in media, establishing professional television news standards in India.
- Salary: Estimated at INR 7.8 crores annually during his active years, including equity and business interests.
According to many, famous Indian journalist Prannoy Roy is the main reason Indian television news made great progress by focusing on factual stories and detailed scrutiny. Because of his training in economics and statistics, he introduced a scientific way of studying and reporting on elections. When he founded NDTV, he helped end the government’s total control of TV news and started a new period of free reporting. His renowned show The World This Week presented detailed news from around the globe to Indian viewers. As a top journalist in India, Roy helped make data-based analyses an essential element of political news reporting.
Famous Shows:
- The World This Week
- Countdown
- Election Special
Employer:
- Former Executive Co-Chairperson, NDTV
- Co-founder, NDTV
- Former Consultant, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting
Awards:
- Red Ink Lifetime Achievement Award
- Leverhulme Trust Fellowship
- Queen Mary Prize
- Multiple industry honors
9. Sudhir Chaudhary
- Years of Experience: Over 25 years in television journalism, pioneering data visualization in Hindi news.
- Salary: Estimated at INR 3-4 crores annually, reflecting his popularity and influence in Hindi television news.
Sudhir Chaudhary has made a name for himself among top journalists of India because of his way of presenting and analyzing the news. Taking his data-based and visually focused way of reporting from the English program, he applied it to Hindi television journalism to make certain issues clear to many people. His strong interview manner and determined style have made him easy to find in Indian newsrooms. The way Hindi news channels package their stories has changed because of Chaudhary’s talent for blending narratives with analysis.
As a famous reporter in India, it is clear from his career—starting at Zee News and then at Aaj Tak—that he is flexible and has strong bonds with people watching. Many members of his audience have remained loyal in spite of these changes, revealing what a big role he plays in Hindi news. Arvind has proved that Indian media can combine extensive coverage of important stories with broad popularity.
Famous Shows:
- DNA
- Black & White
- Daily News Analysis
Employer:
- Consulting Editor, Aaj Tak
- Former Editor-in-Chief, Zee News
- Former CEO, Zee News Network
Awards:
- Ramnath Goenka Award for Excellence in Journalism
- Several industry recognitions for news presentation
- Best News Anchor awards
10. Nidhi Razdan
- Years of Experience: Over 20 years in journalism.
- Salary: Estimated at INR 3 crores annually.
Nidhi Razdan is known among top Indian journalists for her talent in blending ethical journalism with the latest demands of media. She always worked hard, gave no bias and through her popular show Left, Right & Centre inspired debates with a balance in today’s world. Razdan avoided the sensational and showed a caring side to the problem in Kashmir. While she was in academia, she underscored the link between media literacy and what journalists do every day and then returned to the field to demonstrate her dedication to upholding democratic values in her reporting.
Famous Shows:
- Left, Right & Centre
- The Big Fight
- India Decides
Employer:
- Former Executive Editor, NDTV
- Former Primary Anchor, NDTV 24×7
- Visiting Faculty, journalism institutions
Awards:
- Ramnath Goenka Award
- Teacher’s Achievement Award
- International Press Institute Award
- Best News Anchor Award
11. Arnab Goswami
- Years of Experience: Over 25 years across multiple channels.
- Salary: Estimated at INR 12 crores annually.
Arnab Goswami’s direct and confrontational manner on TV has transformed Indian journalism, helping him reach the status of a top journalist in India. His show The Newshour on Times Now achieved the highest ratings of any English news program in India and influenced lots of journalists. As a famous journalist, Goswami’s bold and enthusiastic interviews shattered the usual rules in political journalism. Starting Republic TV showed Arnab’s ability to set up a media business that competed on an equal footing with established broadcasters. Even though there was controversy, it’s clear how much Jon Stewart affected the media, especially those eager for strong calls for accountability.
Famous Shows:
- The Newshour
- Nation Wants to Know
- Frankly Speaking
Employer:
- Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief, Republic Media Network
- Former Editor-in-Chief, Times Now
- Former Senior Editor, NDTV
Awards:
- Ramnath Goenka Award for Excellence in Journalism
- Asian Television Award
- Society Young Achievers Award
12. Raj Kamal Jha
- Years of Experience: Over 25 years in print journalism.
- Salary: Estimated at INR 2-3 crores annually.
He is considered one of the leading Indian journalists who have preserved traditional journalistic values through times of media transformation. The Indian Express is under his guidance and he has led major fact-finding tasks, highlighting the Panama Papers and always maintaining strict editorial independence. Because Jha works as a novelist, her writing for the paper has a deeper storytelling quality along with a clear journalistic approach. On top of editing, he actively supports young journalists and helps maintain the strong, independent tradition of the well-known Indian publication for which he works.
Famous Shows:
- Editorial Leadership at The Indian Express
- Various literary works and journalism pieces
Employer:
- Chief Editor, The Indian Express
- Former Editorial Team Member, The Statesman
- Various international publications
Awards:
- Commonwealth Writers Prize
- Rabindranath Tagore Literary Prize
- International Press Institute India Award
- Editor of the Year (IAA Awards)
Legacy and Impact of Indian Journalists
The way they have changed the Indian media goes well past what they achieved individually. They have built journalism into a formidable tool for calling outside forces to account, guiding changes in society and teaching Indian citizens. In spite of political, business and technology challenges, the best Indian journalists have shown that good journalism can still succeed. Young men and women often join journalism because of journalists’ strong dedication to representing the truth and serving the public.
Format change led by Indian journalists has allowed them to respect traditional media ways by joining new platforms and technology. They have shown other media firms how to migrate from traditional to digital services. What they have done for India’s democracy is almost beyond measurement. In their journalism, these journalists have revealed corruption, kept public officials accountable, explained difficult matters to people and given a voice to a wide range of interviewees. Work done by these people has helped changes in laws, legal actions and public movements that benefited many.
Salary of Journalists in India As per 2025
Understanding the compensation structure for journalists in India provides insight into the professional prospects and career trajectories in this field. The salaries vary significantly based on experience, specialization, media organization, and geographical location.
Salary by Specialization
| Specialization | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
| Investigative Journalist | 5-6 Lacs |
| Broadcast Journalist | 5-6 Lacs |
| Print Journalist | 4-5 Lacs |
| Crime Journalist | 6-7 Lacs |
| Sports Journalist | 6-7 Lacs |
| Lifestyle Journalist | 6-7 Lacs |
| Photojournalist | 4-5 Lacs |
| Political Journalist | 6-7 Lacs |
Salary by Designation
| Designation | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
| Editor in Chief | 15-17 Lacs |
| Managing Director | 8-9 Lacs |
| Assignment Editor | 4-5 Lacs |
| News Editor | 6-7 Lacs |
| Visual Production Specialist | 6-7 Lacs |
| Sub Editor | 4-5 Lacs |
Salary by Qualification
| Qualification | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
| Postgraduate Courses | 8-9 Lacs |
| Certificate Courses | 3-4 Lacs |
| Diploma Courses | 4-5 Lacs |
| Undergraduate Courses | 6-7 Lacs |
Salary by Media Organization
| Media Organization | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
| India Today Group | 14-15 Lacs |
| Times of India | 12-13 Lacs |
| ABP Limited | 11-13 Lacs |
| Zee News | 12-13 Lacs |
| HT Media | 14-15 Lacs |
| Dainik Jagran | 8-10 Lacs |
| Dainik Bhaskar Group | 9-10 Lacs |
Conclusion
The top Indian journalists I’ve highlighted demonstrate integrity, fearlessness and commitment to helping people through their journalism. Drawing on many ways of working, they prove that excellence looks different while still maintaining principles. Apart from covering India’s development, they have helped direct national debates, supported the nation’s democracy and given citizens more opportunities to be heard. Profit indicates that reporting properly can change the world and remain sustainable.
By advancing in technology, India ensures future generations of journalists are built on honesty and willingness to change. Thanks to them, India’s democracy has grown, as journalism highlights wrongdoing, keeps those in power responsible and helps bring about improvements.
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FAQs
What are the names of the top Indian journalists who are active now?
Prominent Indian journalists you should know are Shekhar Gupta, Rajdeep Sardesai, Barkha Dutt, Sudhir Chaudhary, Arnab Goswami, Anjana Om Kashyap, Prannoy Roy, Rajat Sharma, Suhasini Haidar, Nidhi Razdan and Raj Kamal Jha. They have made valuable contributions to print, television and digital forms of media.
What makes some journalists successful in India?
Top Indian journalists can be distinguished by their quality news coverage, visiting and reporting on the scene, discovering different ways to present their stories, reporting daringly from conflict areas, using digital methods and receiving prestigious honors. Time and again, these journalists show integrity and work to ensure their editorial decisions are not influenced, helping Indian democracy grow stronger through what they do.
What is the average annual salary of top Indian journalists?
Journalists in India tend to earn very different amounts given their skills, the platforms they use and hw much reputation they have built. According to experts, the highest earners in journalism such as Arnab Goswami, make around INR 12 crores each year, while others such as Ravish Kumar, Rajdeep Sardesai and Shekhar Gupta get between INR 3-5 crores per year. Nevertheless, their earning totals include several kinds of income such as experience from shows, online platforms, written works and paid lectures.
How have the best Indian journalists managed to use new technology?
The most respected journalists in India have switched to digital media by setting up their own portals, starting YouTube channels, adjusting to mobile-friendly content and talking to audiences through social networks. For example, Shekhar Gupta has ThePrint, Barkha Dutt launched Mojo Story and Ravish Kumar can be found on YouTube.
