India’s J-Schools Must Evolve to Survive Journalism’s Existential Crisis

Published : Dec 28, 2024 19:02 IST - 13 MINS READ In June this year, the Indian Institute of Journalism & New Media in Bengaluru shut down after 24 years of existence. “Most people, especially in the current generation, no longer rely on TV, let alone the newspaper for news: They check social media instead.” Social media has indeed become an integral source of information. “Whether J-schools teach such subjects and skills, media organisations are now looking to candidates being proficient in writing, reporting, and copy editing.” Another student, Shikhar Pathak, who is pursuing his postgraduate diploma at IIMC, digital journalism especially videos, is shaping the future of journalism. I have also heard that some media houses in Kerala charge students for internships.” Even when schools introduce courses that teach visual media-related skills, rather than look at ways to integrate technology into journalism, they provide surface-level knowledge that can be applied only for short-term projects. Ayyalusamy said: “Under crony capitalism, fascism, and declining democracy it’s losing its grounds of authenticity and fair play.” This seems to be one of the reasons legacy media houses are struggling to balance both print and digital journalism, while independent media houses, which are on the rise in India, are finding ways to establish themselves, gaining popularity with people.