How to Become a Journalist in India

Do you love the truth and love to tell good stories as well as keep power in check? Are you becoming interested in what is going on and have the ability to remember only to the point? In that case, the career in journalism could become a vocation. This guide will enlighten readers on different routes to pursue in the event they want to be a journalist by examining the skills, educational training, and work experiences required in order to succeed in this virile and essential profession. 

We are going to traverse the terrain of becoming a journalist in India, pointing out the peculiarities and the difficulties in Indian media scenario. Learning how to become a journalist in India is a first step to be able to make a good contribution to a society through knowledgeable reporting.

What is Journalism?

Journalism, in essence, entails examining and covering events, ideas, tendencies and personalities to the masses. It is associated with the collection, confirmation, generalization, and representation of information in a truthful, accurate, fair and contextualized way. 

Journalism aims at informing the people so that they are in a position to make sound decisions as well as making contributions to a democratic society. It is also through these basic principles that one learns how to be a journalist.

Role of a Journalist in Today’s World

The roles of the modern-day journalists are very versatile and do not end at being reporters only. They are:

• Information Gatekeepers: Through the merging of information, journalists control a huge body of information to give what is considered most meaningful and valid to its readers. They do control facts, authenticate sources and make sure that the news are credible.
• Social Watchdogs: Journalists are the guarantors of the interest of the whole population who secures the protection of democratic principles by investigating corruption, by revealing wrongdoing and making powerful institutions answerable.
• Digital Storytellers: Contemporary reporters need to use different digital applications that produce web content, social media, podcasts, and video platforms without losing journalistic integrity.
• Community Connectors: Journalists aid the communities to understand the local and global issues thereby ensuring there is a cultivation of a knowledgeable people who are able to discuss issues in the society and contribute to the community.

The job has changed to keep pace with technology and journalists must be more diverse, technologically oriented and adjustable than ever. 

Importance of Ethical, Skilled, and Versatile Journalists in India

The multicultural India needs a particular democracy which can manage the complex society and the journalists need to have the knowledge of what this multicultural India really is. In the conditions of India, ethical journalism is especially important, as the misinformed can lead to dramatic social outcomes.

• Ethical Standards: Ethical standards required in Indian journalism are very high because they are very diverse religiously, culturally, and linguistically. A responsible reporting will help in avoiding tensions in the community and create social peace.
• Skill Requirements: Indian journalists today have to be linguistically diverse, culturally sensitive, and technologically competent to reach a variety of audiences both in urban and the rural parts of the country.
• Versatility Needs: It is becoming clear that the internet is breaking down sources of journalism, and with it, India is becoming increasingly penetrated by digital platforms and formats. Journalists need to learn how to utilize a variety of platforms and formats to reach the audiences. Such versatility is vital to anyone who wants to know how to become a journalist in India.

Brief Overview of Different Types of Journalism

Journalism is a very niche profession. And whether it is conventional print journalism in newspapers and magazines or the high-energy world of broadcast journalism on television and in the radio, and the rapidly growing world of digital journalism on the online platforms, every wannabe journalist has their sphere. The others that are significant are photojournalism, investigative reporting, political correspondence, sports reporting and the coverage of given beats such as crime or business. The path of a journalist can be researched by learning to use these available channels. The knowledge of different types of journalism can be called essential in studying to become a journalist:

• Print Journalism: Old school newspaper and magazine reporting whereby the theme dwells on in-depth analysis and feature reporting along with investigative reporting.
• Broadcast Journalism: TV and radio journalism marking the audio-visual narration and live coverage.
• Digital Journalism: Online-first journalism, such as web articles, social media, podcasts and video journalism.
• Photojournalism: Use of photographs to tell the story, not only does it need technical skill in photography but also needs journalistic instinct.
• Investigative Journalism: In-depth reporting which involves more research, fact-verifications and sometimes takes months to complete.
• Specialized Journalism: Speak subjectively in terms of topics such as sports, politics, business, entertainment or science.

Who Can Become a Journalist?

Journalism is a field that is beautiful in the sense that it can be reached by individuals of different backgrounds. Every curious person who has skills in communication, and who is willing to be dedicated can learn how to be a journalist. Key traits include:

• Essential Qualities: A good writer should be highly qualified with some intellectual curiosity, sense of ethics, perseverance, and flexibility as the basics in any journalist career.
• Educational Flexibility: While journalism degrees are valuable, they’re not always mandatory. Some popular journalists have diverse educational background of literature, political science, economy, and even science.
• Age Considerations: Journalism welcomes people at different life stages. As a recent graduate or as someone looking to change career, there is an avenue of learning to become a journalist.
• Background Diversity: Journalism benefits from diverse perspectives. Individuals of diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and professional backgrounds have different perceptiveness of the field.

How to Become a Journalist in India After 12th

A student who is informed early in life that he/she wishes to hold a career in journalism can follow many routes once they are through with 12th standard.

Choose relevant streams

Although literally any stream can lead to journalism, humanities is the best stream such as English, History, Political Science, Sociology and Economics can help build a firm background of how to view the problems of society and acquire critical thinking which is indispensable in the art of becoming a journalist.

Recommended subjects

It is worth concentrating on the topics which complement writing and analytical skills. Good language skills, knowledge of the issues of the day, and simple computer knowledge are some of the considerations to become a journalist.

Start Writing Immediately

• Write articles on current events, local issues, or topics you’re passionate about.
• Use free platforms like:
  • Medium.com
  • Blogger.com
  • WordPress.com
• Practice writing news reports, interviews, and opinions.

Take Short-Term Journalism Courses

• Google News Initiative – Free journalism tools training
• Udemy / Coursera – Paid, job-ready journalism courses
• YMCA, New Delhi – Certificate in journalism
• AAFT, Noida – Diploma without degree requirements
• BBC Academy – Free video and editorial training

Do Internships or Volunteer: Many local newspapers, YouTube channels, or online portals accept freshers.

• Start a YouTube or Instagram News Channel
• Build a Strong Portfolio

Apply for Entry-Level Jobs

Apply for positions like:

• Content Writer / News Writer
• Junior Reporter
• Social Media Executive
• Video Journalist

How to Become a Journalist After Graduation

Graduates from any discipline can pursue a career in journalism by acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge.

A Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC) is a direct route to a career in journalism. Other relevant undergraduate degrees include BA in English Literature, BA in Journalism, BA in Mass Communication, BA in Political Science, and BA in History. These courses provide theoretical knowledge and practical training in various aspects of media and communication, essential for understanding to become a journalist.

Top colleges offering UG journalism programs

India boasts numerous reputable institutions offering undergraduate journalism programs. Some of the top colleges include:

• Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi
• Lady Shri Ram College For Women (LSR), Delhi University
• Delhi College of Arts and Commerce (DCAC), Delhi University
• Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication (SIMC), Pune
• Christ University, Bangalore
• Xavier Institute of Communications (XIC), Mumbai
• Asian College of Journalism (ACJ), Chennai (offers PG Diploma primarily, but some UG programs exist)

Researching and choosing a reputable institution is a crucial step in to become a journalist through formal education.

Learn Core Skills During College

• Writing and editing
• Communication (verbal & non-verbal)
• Research and investigative skills
• Digital tools: photography, video editing, social media
• Basic knowledge of media law and ethics

Gain Practical Experience

• Intern with newspapers, magazines, news websites, radio, or TV channels
• Freelance writing or blogging
• Join your college’s media or journalism club
• Work on campus publications or YouTube channels

Build a Portfolio

• Articles published (even on blogs)
• Videos or audio interviews
• News reports you’ve created
• Internships or freelance projects

Try to find Job.

Pursue PG courses

A postgraduate diploma or degree in journalism or mass communication can provide specialized training and enhance career prospects. Some popular PG programs include:

• Master of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC)
• Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism (PGDJ)
• MBA in Media Management

These programs often offer more in-depth training and industry exposure, further guiding how to become a journalist in India.

Upskill with internships, freelance writing, or campus media

Experience and know-how: No amount of experience can ever be enough when making the effort on to become a journalist. Internships at news organizations, freelance writing for various publications, and contributing to campus media (newspapers, magazines, radio) provide hands-on experience in reporting, writing, and editing. All of these have a great portfolio as part of the requirement as a portfolio is always important in displaying your skills and to become a journalist in real practices.

Apply for Jobs

• Reporter / Correspondent
• Sub-editor / Content Editor
• Anchor / News Presenter
• Social Media Manager
• Video Journalist
• Copywriter (in media agencies)

Top recruiters: Times of India, NDTV, The Hindu, India Today, Reuters, ANI, and online platforms like The Wire, Quint, Scroll, etc.

How to Become a Journalist Without a Degree in Journalism

Whereas a degree in journalism can come in handy, it is not the only option towards becoming a journalist particularly due to the digital age.

Importance of portfolio over degree in digital journalism era

A well-rounded portfolio is typically valued more than a degree in the current digital media environment. You have to be able to create powerful and truthful writings in order to show how one can become a journalist.

Freelance writing, blogging, vlogging, podcasting

Such platforms give the chance to train your skills, create a portfolio, and become visible. Production of quality content on a regular basis on the topics of your interest may draw the interest of editors and news organizations, showing them your abilities on to become a journalist.

Getting published in online platforms or local newspapers

A good tip is to pitch your articles to online bullets and local newspapers; this will help you have your work published and make you a credible writer. This is the field experience, which is necessary to learn the ins and outs of being a journalist in the real life.

Certifications & short-term courses (Coursera, IIMC, etc.)

Many online courses (and certifications) are available on platforms such as Coursera as well as an institute such as IIMC with a focus on different topics of journalism be it investigative reporting, data journalism, or digital storytelling. These may offer specialized training and improve your insight on the process of becoming a journalist.

Types of Journalists and Career Paths

The profession of a journalist is diverse to an extent that a reporter can have a variety of options in specialisations and careers:

Print journalist (newspapers, magazines)

Print journalists are researchers, reporters and editors of a newspaper and magazine. This is one of the underlying attributes of the process of becoming a journalist.

• Start writing articles or blogs regularly.
• Read top newspapers daily (The Hindu, TOI, etc.) to understand news style.
• Intern with a local newspaper or print magazine.
• Learn new writing format: Headline, lead, body, conclusion.
• Use tools: Google Docs (writing), Grammarly (editing)

Broadcast journalist (TV, radio)

Television and radio reporters pass on the news and dab in live reporting, interviewing and news production by the broadcast journalists. The first thing to know on to become a journalist on broadcast is the requirements of this medium.

• Practice speaking clearly and confidently—record mock news reports at home.
• Create a sample video report using your phone (news story or event).
• Learn basics of voice modulation and body language.
• Try internships at local TV stations or community radio.
• Use tools: InShot or CapCut (video editing), Audacity (audio editing).

Digital journalist (online portals, YouTube)

Digital journalists produce news content on the Internet, on websites and social networks and may use multimedia-compatible materials, such as videos and interactive charts and graphs. The ability to adjust to the digital environment is certainly essential as far as how to become a journalist in India today is concerned.

• Get a personal blog or news portal from a reputed News Portal Development company like Traffic Tail & 7k Network.
• Build a presence on Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, or Twitter/X.
• Learn basic SEO, hashtags, and headline writing.
• Take free courses on digital journalism (Google News Initiative).
• Follow leading digital-first news outlets like The Quint, Scroll, and The Wire.

Photojournalist

Photojournalists narrate news and stories in emotionally compelling portrays in very strong photographs. The dimension is visual storytelling which occupies a significant place in the question of to become a journalist.

• Start by clicking photo stories using your phone or camera.
• Share your work on Instagram or Flickr with news-style captions.
• Learn the basics of composition, lighting, and photo ethics.
• Take free/cheap courses on photo editing (like Canva or Snapseed).

Investigative reporter

Investigative journalists perform intense research on issues that are difficult to understand and in many instances they expose misdeeds and make authorities responsible. This involves expertise and commitment in the way of becoming a journalist in this major task.

• Read investigative stories from The Wire, The Reporters’ Collective, ProPublica.
• Learn to use RTI (Right to Information) and public data.
• Practice writing in-depth reports or case studies.
• Follow journalists who specialize in this field and study their methods.
• Take free online courses on investigative journalism (available on platforms like Coursera or DataLEADS).

Political correspondent, sports reporter, crime beat, etc.

These are reporters who deal with particular fields and therefore know a lot and have access to sources in the beat. Niching down on a certain beat is a good method to position yourself as an expert and show to become a journalist in a certain niche.

• Choose your interest: e.g., if you love sports, cover local matches.
• Start a niche blog or Instagram Or Youtube page.
• Study field-specific language and major players or institutions.
• Connect with local sources: police, politicians, coaches, etc.
• Try to attend or report on real events—post your updates online.

How to Become a Famous Journalist in India

Becoming noticeable in education on the way to becoming a journalist will also take strategy:

• Develop Expertise: Working on certain beats or topics will allow drawing authority and recognition in special fields.
• Consistent Quality Work: Earning reputation by the consistent provision of quality reporting and analysis in time.
• Network Building: Building networks with sources, co-workers and industry contacts to rise in the career.
• Digital Presence: Ensuring up to date social media and personal sites to develop brand and fan base.
• Award Participation: Sending entry to journalism awards and recognition schemes to secure an industry stamp of approval.
• Speaking Engagements: Speaking at conferences, seminars and panel discussion to develop thought leadership.
• Apply for Accreditation

What Is Accreditation?

Accreditation is an official recognition given to journalists by:

• Press Information Bureau (PIB) – For central government access.
• State Information Departments – For state-level recognition.
• Sometimes by media organizations or journalist unions.

Why Get Accredited?

• Access to press conferences, government events, and briefings.
• Entry to Parliament, ministries, and restricted zones.
• Official Press ID card.
• Sometimes, it includes benefits like insurance, pensions (for senior journalists), etc.

Who Grants Accreditation in India?

• Central Level: Press Information Bureau (PIB) – under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.
• State Level: State’s Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR).
• RNI (Registrar of Newspapers for India) is indirectly involved in the journalist accreditation process—but primarily for print journalists and publications.

Eligibility Criteria

Typical requirements (for PIB accreditation):

• Must be employed full-time with a recognized news organization (print, TV, or digital).
• Minimum 5 years of professional experience (3 years for video journalists).
• Media outlet must have a minimum circulation/viewership (for print or electronic).
• For freelancers: Must submit a regular volume of published work for a defined period.\

Important Notes: Accreditation is not required to be a journalist, but it helps in official coverage. Not granted to influencers, bloggers, or PR professionals unless they meet strict criteria. Digital media journalists are now eligible but must meet PIB’s guidelines.

Journalist Salary in India

Learning to be a journalist should ensure that one understands compensation:

• Entry Level: ₹2-4 lakhs annually for fresh graduates in tier-2 cities, ₹3-6 lakhs in metropolitan areas.
• Mid-Level: ₹5-12 lakhs annually with 3-7 years experience, varying by organization size and specialization.
• Senior Level: ₹12-25 lakhs annually for senior reporters, editors, and specialized correspondents.
• Top Level: ₹25+ lakhs annually for chief editors, news directors, and celebrity journalists.
• Freelance Earnings: Highly variable, ranging from ₹500-5000 per article depending on publication and expertise.
• Factors Affecting Salary: Organization type, location, specialization, experience, and performance significantly impact compensation.

City-Wise Differences

• New Delhi: ₹30,000–32,000/month (~₹3.6–3.8 LPA)
• Bengaluru, Chennai (media hubs): likely higher, consistent with the national average range.

By Specialization / Role

From UpGrad data:

• Print Journalist: ~₹6 LPA
• Broadcast Journalist: ~₹4.8 LPA
• Digital Journalist: ₹3–15 LPA (depending on skills, SEO, etc.)

Steps to Build a Career in Journalism

Structured method applicable among students learning to become a journalist:

• Step 1: Education Foundation: Earn appropriate education in the form of either a degree or in other ways.
• Step 2: Skill Development: Learn how to master writing, research, interviewing and digital skills which are fundamental in the modern journalism.
• Step 3: Portfolio Building: Develop a variety of portfolio with various formats of journalism and content of expertise.
• Step 4: Networking: Build relationships with industry professionals, sources, and potential employers.
• Step 5: Internship Experience: Gain practical experience through internships with various media organizations.
• Step 6: Entry-Level Position: Take up any first journalism job (the better the better) to be able to develop some skills in the field.
• Step 7: Specialization: Become an expert in certain beats or types of journalism according to interests and market sensation.
• Step 8: Career Advancement: Seek promotions, better opportunities, and leadership roles within organizations.
• Step 9: Continuous Learning: Read, shared and discussed industry development trends, technology, and professional possibilities.
• Step 10: Personal Branding: Earn reputation and recognition by doing good constant quality work and being professional.

Challenges and Realities of Journalism

It is imperative to understand challenges when learning how to become a journalist:

• Financial Challenges: The low initial wage compared to other professions, it is not always the case that freelancers will have even income.
• Work-Life Balance: Arbitrary working hours, work during weekends, and time limits may affect the personal life to a large extent.
• Safety Concerns: Investigative reporters can be attacked or be in hostile circumstances during reporting.
• Ethical Dilemmas: Finding the combination of the common good and the privacy right, source protection and the pressures of editing.
• Technological Disruption: The constant necessity to follow new technologies, platform, and changing media consumption habits.
• Competition: The level of competition to get positions, particularly in organizations with best reputations and beats that are popular.
• Misinformation Battle: In their effort to fight fake news, rising accountability is to retain the credibility that journalism holds.
• Economic Pressures: Financial pressures are emerging in the media industry posing threat to the employment and working standards.

Conclusion

Becomeing a journalist in the 21 st century media environment is a task requiring commitment, open mindedness and never ending education. The prevailing key messages to succeed in journalism are to acquire a good base to develop and nurture essential skills, innovation in portfolio creation and upholding the ethical practices regardless of whether the professional is into pursuing formal education or through other alternatives. The pathway on how to become a journalist in India has many entrances and professional directions.

We will always have the old papers to pursue, but there is a wide variety of possibilities to explore more on the digital media innovation to those people who love what they are doing and can fit in, adapting to the current and new demands in the industry. It takes a curious individual to succeed in journalism; it requires a professional ability to know the difference between being good and doing good. It demands an ethical or a moral code to achieve success in the field, and the trait of innovation on the part of an individual to help them succeed. When you get into the learning process of becoming a journalist, put an emphasis on acquiring these attributes and establishing your professional experience and networks.

The future of journalism can go to the journalism that will be able to endure the shift brought forth by technology and still retain the main principles of what journalism is all about; being accurate, very fair, and working solely to serve the people. The roles you play in learning to become a journalist add to the eventual advancement and relevance of this noble profession to the contemporary society.

Also Read:

• How to Become a Collector
• How to Become an Income Tax Officer in India
• How to Become a Judge in India

FAQs

Can I become a journalist without a journalism degree?

Well, you might study to become a journalist without taking a journalism degree. Many successful journalists come from diverse educational backgrounds. Pay attention to the creation of a powerful database, the development of writing skills, and experience gained during internships, freelance jobs, and online hubs. Digital journalism has opened up the discipline to individuals who have indicated abilities as opposed to degrees.

How old should I be in order to learn how to become a journalist?

Learning to become a journalist is good at any age. Whereas the number of those who start immediately after graduating is high, those preparing a career change in 30s, 40s, or even 50s can easily move towards journalism. As a rule, life experience may offer good insights and help to strengthen journalistic activities. The key is having curiosity, communication skills, and willingness to adapt to the digital media landscape.

What is the period required to build career after knowing to become a journalist?

The timeline for establishing a journalism career varies significantly. Within 6 to 12 months of the learning period on how to become a journalist, fresh graduates can land an entry-level job whereas career switching would take 1 to 2 years to establish the portfolio and credibility. Typically, it takes 5-10 years to become recognized and hold senior positions through solid and uniform professional growth and development.

When one is learning to become a journalist, should freelance journalism be considered?

Freelance journalism may be very viable among the young generating ideas on to become a journalist in the digital era. It provides flexibility, wide experience and chances of making improved income with peer-to-peer repute. It however necessitates self-discipline, business acumen and money management since it is characterized by lumpily income. Most of the journalists work as freelance reporters whenever they have some part time jobs.

What are the essential skills during the process of learning how to be a journalist?

Important skills in the learning process on becoming a journalist would be: a very good command of writing and communication skills, the ability to research and fact-check, interviewing skills, a rudimentary knowledge of media law and ethics, digital/social media and content management system literacy, multimedia journalism (including photography and video), time management to meet deadlines and working with new technologies and platforms. These skills have to be acquired by training and learning on the go so as to succeed in journalism.