Indian media, which is considered to be the fourth pillar of the democracy and the watch dog of the government, has become more of a circus.
Various newspapers, periodicals and news channels which have to sustain themselves by earning profits are forced to give up the credibility, integrity and independence of the profession.
If we trace back to the history of Indian media, it started as a mission, when the visionaries used this medium to empower the masses and thereby to attain independence. In the post independent India, mission gave way to profession. And now, in this 21st century, it has become commercialization. Media being owned by the corporate companies are being totally driven by the profit motive. Most often it is caught in the trap of building circulation or surrendering to the tyranny of Television Rating Points. And the three Cs-Cinema, Cricket and Crime have become their success mantra.
In India there are channels especially dedicated to news, entertainment, lifestyle, fashion, religion and channels owned by political parties. But it is ironic that we do not have a channel for development. This is a dangerous phenomenon as it completely destroys the capacity of the media to intervene effectively in society.
Media can serve the society, be an effective partner in nation’s development if they realise that they are serving the citizens not the consumers. It can have a catalysing role in the development of India. Many a times journalists forget the fact that media is placed to bring about a change in the lives of people, especially the marginalized and by making the development process more inclusive of the concerns and needs the people, particularly the underprivileged.
One original purpose of journalism is to inform and educate the masses. Once they are educated, they can become more aware citizens who are capable of contributing to the nation building. But the truth is that our communication media have never assumed this crucial responsibility of defining, reviewing and its role with regard to social concerns and people’s problems.
The former Indian President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam observes: "The media must play a nation-building role because excellence in journalism vitalises the nation". Yes, it is the time for media to overcome the pressures of the market though success on this path is very difficult to achieve, but not impossible.
2 comments:
Given the commercialisation of the media, the viewers too are not much different..the the media barons focus on their audience which sees media as a respite from the monotony and troubles of their own lives. they do not want to switch on to their tv sets and watch the figures of poverty and illeteracy plaguing the country. the want to see what's happening in AB's life and the latest movie on.
I agree that there is a small section of the population that is interested in development news..but perhaps not enough. the media persons are after all, from the same society as the viewers.
nice
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