Department of Journalism and Media Studies, JU, organises discussion on Print and Agency Journalism

JAMMU, March 3: In its commitment to provide practical exposure to the media students by regularly organizing interactive sessions from academia and industry experts, Department of Journalism and Media Studies, University of Jammu, organized a discussion on “Print and Agency Journalism,” here today.

On this occasion, Sh Brajesh Kumar Jha, Chief Editor, Hindusthan Samachar News Agency, briefed the media students on “Print and Agency Journalism” and discussed the important role being played by news agencies in the changing contours of Journalism.

Right from the birth of Indian news agencies, Jha explained to the media students the role played by news agencies pre and post Independence. He also explained the students regarding newsroom structures, news flow, distribution of news, speech reporting, writing lead and emphasized on the importance of “presence of mind” to cover information which is beyond the surface level. He said that it is very important for budding journalists to strengthen their research and report “truth” by asking right questions.

He also shared his journey as a journalist which started from Indo Asian News Service (IANS), to Centre of Studies for Developing Society to Hindusthan Samachar News Agency where he is working at present as Chief Editor. While emphasizing on the role of language journalism Jha told the students that Hindusthan Samachar provides news in almost 21 different Indian languages. He was also very proud in sharing with the students how his agency was first in breaking news regarding China war in 1962 and also attack on Benazir Bhutoo in 2007.

He also shared his views on how the growth of digital media especially social media is a challenge for news agencies. He urged the media students to not compromise on facts and hone their skills in reporting accurately with speed in case they wish to work in a news agency. When asked on agencies as a career option, Jha replied that agency is like a “Commando” in Army training, once trained in agency, one can work anywhere in the news industry with perfection, he added.
Ms Shruti Awasthi, Regional Director, Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts, also shared her views on Indian heritage and political reporting. She urged the media students to process information carefully and not to get swayed away by rankings and ratings.

Presiding over the program, Prof Shyam Narayan Lal, Coordinator, Journalism and Media Studies, shared his views on how India is changing and emerging as a stronger nation. Dr. Garima Gupta, Incharge Head, Journalism and Media Studies also shared her views on the relevance of language journalism and its role in connecting society. Prof Shyam Narayan Lal, and Dr. Garima Gupta both welcomed the guests by presenting mementoes.

Earlier, introducing the topic in discussion, Dr. Ravia Gupta presented the welcome address. Students were motivated by the interaction and asked questions related to career prospects in news agencies.