ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash | EP-17 | Palki Sharma, Managing Editor, Network 18

A stark imbalance emerges as a failing actor now earns more than a top editor, underscoring the shift toward content that invites intrusion into personal lives. Predatory practices in newsrooms resurface as individuals once dismissed regain positions of power, challenging ethical standards. An innovative television show broke away from conventional debates by embracing an explainer format, reshaping expectations in journalism. The remarks reflect on the future of TV journalism while highlighting gender challenges and the demand for greater accountability in media.

Redefining Television: A Journey of Editorial Freedom Twenty years of anchoring witnessed a dynamic evolution in newsroom practices that encouraged experimentation during low-oversight periods. Early roles on breakfast shows allowed creative freedom well before the era of contentious prime time debates emerged. An ill-fated experience with uncivil debates spurred a decisive break from traditional formats. A return to the medium was marked by a clear commitment to curated, value-driven content rather than relentless acrimony.

Balancing Audience Engagement with Editorial Integrity A strategic equilibrium was sought between aligning with audience interests and addressing consequential issues even if they lacked immediate popularity. Some stories, like controversial topics that did not guarantee viewership, were pursued because of their inherent importance. This blend of audience resonance and strong editorial conviction underpinned a model that valued both informative content and viewer trust. The approach reaffirmed the principle that news should both validate and challenge public perceptions.

Clarifying Complex Stories Through Simplified Explanations Personal experiences drove a focus on transforming complex narratives into plain language that is accessible to everyone. A moment of clarity, spurred by a child’s innocent query about a word, highlighted the need to demystify jargon and convoluted ideas. Simplification became a tool to empower a broad audience without diluting the essence of important stories. This method ensured that clarity and understanding remained at the forefront of storytelling.

Integrating Field Reporting to Enrich Storytelling and Empathy A novel approach integrated anchors and desk writers into field reporting, allowing them to experience firsthand the logistical hurdles and human dimensions of newsgathering. This exposure fostered a deeper empathy for reporters and enriched the overall narrative by bridging the gap between desk research and on-ground realities. Collaborative field experiences helped unearth stories from remote regions that might otherwise have been overlooked. The result was a more versatile newsroom that valued practical insight alongside traditional reporting.

Virality's Pursuit Undermines Trust News channels have sacrificed credibility by chasing viral moments, leading to content that often borders on the absurd. The drive for virality results in producers allowing unrefined actions, which ultimately alienates audiences. Accountability becomes blurred when editors, rather than reporters, are held responsible for compromising journalistic standards.

Stagnant Formats Stifle Innovation Traditional newsrooms fail to explore creative storytelling, even as social media platforms demonstrate inventive alternatives. News formats remain unchanged over decades while creative digital content, like memes and forwards, flourish. Leadership shows little willingness to experiment with new business models, leaving the industry stuck in the past.

Unsustainable Careers and Talent Exodus Journalists confront career challenges marked by low remuneration, grueling hours, and little work-life balance. Despite an abundance of journalism schools and media outlets, promising talent leaves the field in search of more viable prospects. The profession endures only because a few remain passionately committed, despite systemic neglect from top management.

Global Vision as India's Strategic Frontier There exists a compelling opportunity for Indian media to expand its influence by developing a global channel that rivals established international networks. Indian storytelling, if presented with fresh investment and innovative content, could reshape narratives on a worldwide stage. Global audiences show genuine curiosity and engagement with Indian perspectives, hinting at a vast untapped market waiting for transformation.

Pursuing Creative Independence A successful journalist left a top newsroom after realizing that his vision and approach to storytelling were being compromised. He believed that if his work did not meet his own creative standards, it was worth stepping away to pursue something more fulfilling. The decision was driven by a determination to create a team and narrative on his own terms, even at the height of success.

Upholding Authenticity Against Editorial Tampering During a live broadcast, a journalist discovered his carefully written script had been altered to include a biased political remark. Mid-sentence, he corrected himself, confronting the unseen editor responsible for changing his words without consultation. This incident underscored the tension between a reporter’s commitment to authenticity and the pressures of editorial interference.

Resisting External Political Pressure in Media Newsrooms have historically faced pressure from government sources, with officials influencing which stories are broadcast and how narratives are shaped. Journalists experienced such interference firsthand, having to balance the imperatives of maintaining multiple viewpoints with the demands of power brokers. Despite evolving practices and diverse perspectives, the struggle to insulate journalism from external political meddling continues.

Viral Trends Redefine Newsroom Priorities Social media now acts as a viral editor that determines the news agenda, with trending topics overshadowing traditional journalistic balance. Newsrooms chase viral stories, where personalized feeds replace diverse reporting and amplify inherent biases. The rise of influencers on platforms and TV shows has blurred the lines between expert analysis and mere popularity, reshaping public discourse.

Authenticity and Dedication Sustain Modern Journalism A two-way media landscape demands that journalists consistently deliver engaging and reliable stories while actively incorporating real-time audience feedback. Commitment to punctuality, authenticity, and a genuine connection with viewers builds trust in a rapidly evolving news environment. Only those who persistently pursue quality storytelling and respect their audience will continue to thrive amidst the influence of transient digital trends.

Facing Digital Hate Amid Crisis Experiences of online hate and even life-threatening kill lists during the Covid crisis reveal the harsh realities journalists face. Personal accounts detail battling severe mental stress, coping with health challenges, and enduring the loss of colleagues. The narrative reflects a choice to dismiss trolls and maintain resilience despite the pervasive hostility.

Resisting Trolls and Unwarranted Critique Journalists describe a digital landscape where critics, including fellow professionals, use social media to disparage and undermine their work. These detractors prioritize sensationalism and view petty critiques as a means to gain attention. By choosing silence over confrontation, they deny the trolls the satisfaction of engagement while preserving their integrity.

Defying Stereotypical Appearance Standards The discussion exposes relentless pressures on women to conform to rigid norms regarding appearance and behavior, with criticism for both softness and aggressiveness. Senior figures openly reject these outdated mandates, embracing individual style and asserting professional autonomy. Incidents involving discriminatory remarks related to weight, health, and pregnancy shed light on the persistent double standards in media.

Combatting Gender Disparities in Professional Culture Women’s experiences highlight systemic gender imbalances with unequal assignments, salary gaps, and exclusion from critical networking opportunities. Traditional practices, such as after-hour informal gatherings, further marginalize those with familial responsibilities. Despite gradual progress, entrenched biases continue to create an uneven playing field within newsrooms.

Building Supportive and Accountable Media Environments The conversation underscores the need for empathetic leadership that actively supports mental well-being and respects professional boundaries. Leaders are encouraged to listen to team members and provide accommodations during personal and professional challenges. A generational shift is seen as key to cultivating safer, more accountable spaces where ethical journalism thrives over outdated, predatory practices.

Secretive Resurgence Amid Industry Uncertainty A new vision is taking shape behind a deliberate veil, with plans to return to the air only when confidence is at its peak. Amid widespread layoffs and negative headlines, a talented team is being carefully assembled. The focus is on building something exceptional that prioritizes both resilience and quality. Every step is measured to ensure the comeback has a meaningful impact on the industry.

Navigating Editorial Challenges and Creative Constraints The creative process in journalism is portrayed as a rigorous journey marked by persistent editing and multiple rewrites. There is an emphasis on refining a story until it meets exacting standards, much like an educational process that demands improvement at every turn. Balancing one’s own thoughts with prepackaged content underscores the tension between originality and established guidelines. These experiences highlight the need for perseverance and effective collaboration in a tightly controlled editorial environment.

Transforming from an Outsider to a Confident Voice A path from humble beginnings to a commanding presence in journalism is depicted through personal challenges and self-education. Facing cultural and social isolation in a competitive media scene led to a deep reliance on reading and observation for growth. Early struggles to fit in gradually transformed into a solid resolve to embrace a unique narrative voice. This journey underscores how overcoming exclusion can fuel resilience and professional confidence.

Empowering the Future in an Inclusive Newsroom A call to the aspiring and creative minds in journalism emerges from a shift towards a more egalitarian and confident newsroom culture. The transformation from elite, cliquish environments to inclusive, merit-based spaces is celebrated. Young reporters are encouraged to bring fresh perspectives while learning on the job with pride and authenticity. The narrative champions passion, collaboration, and mentorship as vital ingredients for the industry’s future.