VN ki Pathshaala

 

Practical Class: IOJ

 Date: 19.08.2025

Today, the class looked at written scripts that they had submitted in the previous class. They are asked to give their suggestions and mark them out of 20.

August, 2025: Visit to District Jail, Agra on the completion of 6 years of Tinka Jail Radio

Paathshala with a difference: Education and musical renditions that are transforming lives through Tinka Jail Radio

Professor Vartika Nanda

Visit to District Jail Agra

It was a moody, overcast evening when I arrived at District Jail, Agra. The entrance stood stoic and familiar—unchanged since my first visit back in 2019, its weathered facade quietly echoing the passage of time. But as I stepped inside, the stories of change through the Tinka Jail Radio made me feel more confident as well as emotional. I have come here today to witness these changes right in front of me. As someone who had conceived and executed this jail radio, this is a moment of pride, to see how the radio has flourished.

This occasion marked six remarkable years of Agra Jail Radio, a pioneering initiative by our Tinka Tinka Foundation (TTF) of which I am the founder. This jail radio has redefined communication in the prison. 

The visit also commemorated one year since the release of the ICSSR-backed report, in which Agra Jail Radio emerged as a central force for change. Released in 2024 by the Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh, the report evaluated my extensive study on the communication needs of women inmates and their children. The findings were not only acknowledged—they were celebrated. The study was officially recognised as outstanding, highlighting the critical role of prison radio in fostering dialogue, emotional healing, and social reintegration. 

Link: Dr. Vartika Nanda: Media Educator & Prison Reformer: उत्तर प्रदेश के मुख्य सचिव ने डॉ0 वर्तिका नंदा की ‘उत्तर प्रदेश के विशेष संदर्भ में भारतीय जेलों पर आधारित विस्तृत शोध रिपोर्ट का विमोचन किया: 23 August, 2024

Now in 2025, the jail has evolved in subtle yet significant ways. The most striking innovation introduced in this jail in 2019 was the jail radio-a vibrant thread of sound and storytelling that weaves through the prison’s daily rhythm. It’s more than just a broadcast; it’s a voice for the voiceless, a platform for expression, and a surprising symbol of hope in the jail.  

Commemorating Six Years of Agra Jail Radio: A Journey of Voice and Reform

My recent visit to District Jail, Agra, holds profound significance. It was not merely a celebration- it was a tribute to resilience, transformation, and the power of unheard voices. 

Conversation with the Jail Superintendent

Once inside the jail premises, I had the opportunity to meet Superintendent Hari Om Sharma, who has been at the helm of District Jail, Agra, for the past two years. Our conversation organically gravitated toward the evolving role of jail radio—a subject close to both our hearts.

Superintendent Sharma spoke with conviction about howTinka Jail Radio has become an integral part of the prison’s daily functioning. I was happy to observe that from broadcasting crucial announcements to hosting programs on literacy and education, Tinka Jail Radio has emerged as a silent yet powerful ally in prison management. He deeply admired its role in motivating inmates to pursue academic goals, often rekindling a long-lost desire to learn. 

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/boRXgj-0h_A

The Rhythm of Broadcast

Each afternoon, from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm, the atmosphere in District Jail, Agra, hums with life. Jail Radio takes to the airwaves, offering inmates a daily dose of connection, creativity, and calm. On special occasions, the broadcast stretches longer—sometimes four, even five hours—turning into a celebration of voices and stories that echo through the prison corridors.

Even on holidays, the radio remains a faithful companion, playing for at least three hours to ensure that no day passes in silence. Whether it's music, messages, or moments of reflection, Jail Radio has become a heartbeat in the jail—a rhythm that brings comfort, continuity, and a sense of belonging to those behind bars.

Expansion of Radio Jockeys: Voices Behind the Bars

When Agra Jail Radio first went live in 2019, it began modestly- with just three radio jockeys who dared to lend their voices to a new experiment in prison communication. Today, that number has grown to eight, reflecting not just expansion, but evolution. The original trio has since been released, and five new RJs have stepped into their shoes: Uday Singh, Ravindra, Bharat, Kuldeep, and Sachin.

During my visit, I got the opportunity to meet four of them—all undertrial inmates, each carrying a unique story and prior experience in broadcasting. Their familiarity with the mic predates their incarceration, making their transition into jail radio both natural and transformative.

For these men, jail radio is far more than a daily routine. It’s a meaningful engagement—a way to reclaim identity, channel creativity, and connect with others. It offers recreation, yes, but also redemption. In a space often defined by silence and confinement, the radio studio becomes a sanctuary of sound, purpose, and possibility. For many, it is nothing short of a lifeline.

Agra Jail Radio Playlist: https://shorturl.at/JBCPX

Music Requests and the Quiet Power of Learning

Every day, nearly 30 song requests pour into the jail radio station-each one a handwritten note, a small but powerful act of expression. Since 2019, Tinka Jail Paathshaala has upheld a simple yet transformative tradition: all music requests must be submitted in writing. What began as a logistical choice has blossomed into an unexpected educational initiative.

This practice has quietly nurtured literacy among inmates. Over time, handwriting has improved, and many prisoners—especially those who were previously illiterate—have been inspired to learn basic grammar and writing skills. The desire to hear a favorite song has become a gateway to learning, self-improvement, and dignity.

In a space where formal education often feels out of reach, these handwritten requests have become symbols of progress. They reflect not just musical preferences, but personal growth—proof that even behind bars, the human spirit continues to seek connection, creativity, and change.

Documenting Change: The Power of Programming

A dedicated register is meticulously maintained to chronicle every broadcast aired through Agra Jail Radio—a quiet testament to the discipline and purpose behind the initiative. Among the wide array of programs, those focused on literacy, education, and legal awareness consistently emerge as the most popular.

Radio in Prison: National Book Trust, India

Coming back, inmates and the jail staff were excited to hold copies of Radio in Prison, published by NBT India. They were aware that District Jail, Agra is at the centre of this book, as the most powerful study. Buy Radio in Prison Towards New-Age Reform Book Online at Low Prices in India | Radio in Prison Towards New-Age Reform Reviews & Ratings - Amazon.in

The impact:

Agra Jail Radio has become more than a medium—it is a movement. It offers inmates a platform to express, connect, and rebuild. For women inmates especially, it has opened a channel to share their stories, reach their children, and reclaim their identities. In a space often defined by silence and isolation, the microphone has become a lifeline. Jail Superintendent also shared how the radio has been instrumental in addressing behavioral challenges. Programs designed to tackle indiscipline and aggression have shown promising results, fostering a more reflective and cooperative environment among inmates. What was once a tool for communication, has now become a catalyst for transformation.

Undoubtedly, the influence of the jail radio on the prison environment has been profoundly positive, fostering informed dialogue, reducing anxiety, and encouraging inmates to engage with their rights and responsibilities.

Music, too, plays a vital role in this ecosystem of reform. Among the most requested songs are the emotionally charged classics “Chitthi Aayi Hai” and “Sandese Aate Hain”—melodies that speak of longing, connection, and the enduring bond with loved ones beyond the prison walls. These requests reflect not just musical taste, but the deep emotional undercurrents that run through the lives of those incarcerated.

Together, these programs and songs form a tapestry of healing and hope—documented, preserved, and played back each day as a reminder that even in confinement, transformation is possible. Some of these transformation based stories have become a part of Tinka Jail Radio podcasts, which are also not funded by anyone like the other tasks taken up by TTF. 

This visit was a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come—and how much further we must go. It reaffirmed the belief that communication is not a luxury, but a necessity. And in the echo of every broadcast, there lies the promise of reform, dignity, and hope.

Agra Jail Radio has given rhythm to silence, purpose to confinement, and dignity to those often forgotten. Each program, each song request, each handwritten note is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of communication to heal and uplift.

Future Initiatives: Envisioning the Next Chapter

During my conversation with Superintendent Hari Om Sharma, I proposed that a special program be curated to mark Teachers’ Day—an occasion that resonates deeply within the educational ethos of the jail radio initiative. The idea was met with enthusiasm, and discussions have already begun to shape new concepts that will celebrate the spirit of learning and mentorship within the prison community.

These upcoming initiatives aim to further elevate the educational and cultural impact of Agra Jail Radio. From thematic broadcasts honoring educators, to inmate-led storytelling sessions about transformative teachers in their lives, the radio is poised to become an even more dynamic platform for reflection, growth, and celebration.

As the radio continues to evolve, its role as a bridge between confinement and creativity grows stronger—offering not just information, but inspiration.

Website Link of Agra Jail Radio: https://tinkatinka.org/jail-radio/

Reflections on the Journey

As I stepped out of the gates of District Jail, Agra, a quiet sense of fulfillment washed over me. What began in 2019 as a modest experiment—a handful of voices and a borrowed microphone-has, by 2025, blossomed into a vibrant platform of hope, creativity, and transformation.

This journey is far from over. In fact, it is only just beginning. This radio and several other radios established by TTF, boast to be the most systematic prison radios in India. Despite no financial support, these radios have proven their worth. With every passing day, the radio reaches deeper into the hearts of inmates, staff, and reformers alike—poised to scale new heights, spark new ideas, and continue rewriting the narrative of incarceration in India. 

Young minds are invited to join as interns and delve into a world of emotions, helping the society further. www.tinkatinka.org

​#agrajailradio #oldestprison #tinkatinkafoundation #indianprisonreformer #vartikananda

BREVITY: IOJ: 2025

 BREVITY

(Disclaimer: This content has been compiled by the students from various sources. These notes are to be used purely for academic purposes. No copyright infringement intended. The blogger will not be responsible in any manner whatsoever, regarding the authenticity of the information included in the notes.)

DEPARTMENT: B.A. (Hons) Journalism

SEMESTER: I

PAPER: INTRODUCTION TO JOURNALISM

UNIT: I

TOPIC: Brevity

Time Period: The mentioned topic was discussed in class in the fourth week of August, 2025. 

Brevity refers to the quality of being concise and to the point, particularly in writing. In the context of news writing, brevity is crucial because it allows journalists to deliver information quickly and clearly, ensuring that readers can grasp essential facts without unnecessary details. This quality is essential for capturing audience attention and maintaining engagement in fast-paced media environments. It is a highly prized attribute of communication in journalism often associated with clarity which is a major goal in communications. It is the quality or state of being brief in duration. When applied to writing, it means using as few words as possible to communicate a message or idea. This can be done through the use of short sentences, active voice, and specific language. 

         However, brevity does not mean sacrificing quality or accuracy. A journalist must still be able to tell a story and provide context in a limited amount of space. But with practice, it is possible to communicate effectively without being wordy. Thus, brevity should be proportional, neither leaving out anything necessary nor including more than is needed.

Importance of Brevity:

Brevity enhances the effectiveness of hard news writing by allowing journalists to present key information quickly and clearly. In a world where readers often skim content, concise writing ensures that essential facts are communicated without unnecessary details. This helps maintain reader engagement and ensures that the most important points are highlighted right from the start.

Journalists use various techniques to maintain brevity while conveying important details, such as employing the inverted pyramid structure, which places the most crucial information at the beginning of the article. They also focus on using active voice, short sentences, and eliminating jargon or filler words that do not contribute to the message. These strategies help create a tight narrative that delivers essential information efficiently.

In today's digital news landscape, brevity significantly impacts reader comprehension by catering to shorter attention spans and fast-paced consumption habits. Readers are more likely to engage with articles that get straight to the point and present information succinctly. This trend emphasizes the need for journalists to hone their skills in concise writing, ensuring that critical information is easily digestible while maintaining clarity and impact.

Simplifying Complex Ideas

Simplifying complex ideas is a crucial aspect of concise writing in journalism. To achieve this, journalists can employ several techniques:

Identify the key elements of the story and focus on those: By distilling the story down to its essential elements, journalists can avoid unnecessary tangents and keep the narrative focused. This involves identifying the main theme, key players, and critical events that drive the story forward.

Use analogies and metaphors to explain complex concepts: Analogies and metaphors are powerful tools for making complex ideas more relatable and accessible to a wider audience. By drawing parallels between unfamiliar concepts and everyday experiences, journalists can create a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Avoid using technical jargon or overly complex terminology: Using technical jargon or overly complex terminology can alienate readers who are not familiar with the subject matter. Journalists should strive to use clear and concise language that is free from technical terms unless they are essential to the story.

Using Language Effectively

Using language effectively is critical to concise writing in journalism. To achieve this, journalists can employ several techniques:

Use active and descriptive verbs to bring the story to life: Verbs are the engines of language, and using active and descriptive verbs can add depth, nuance, and emotion to a story. This helps to create a more immersive experience for the reader.

Use concise and clear language to convey the message: Clear and concise language is essential for effective communication. Journalists should avoid using ambiguous or vague terms that can confuse or mislead readers.

Avoid using clichés and overused phrases: Clichés and overused phrases can make a story feel stale and unoriginal. Journalists should strive to use fresh and innovative language to convey their message.

Challenges of Brevity in Journalism

While brevity is essential in journalism, it also presents several challenges. Journalists must balance the need for conciseness with the need to provide sufficient context and detail. This can be particularly challenging when dealing with complex or nuanced topics.

To overcome these challenges, journalists can employ several strategies, including:

Conducting thorough research to gain a deep understanding of the subject matter

Creating an outline to organize the story and ensure clarity

Using clear and concise language to convey complex ideas

Conclusion:

Brevity in journalism is a crucial aspect of effective news reporting. By focusing on clear, concise writing, journalists can deliver the most important information to their readers in a straightforward, easily and digestible manner. Brevity in journalism allows readers to quickly grasp the essence of a story, and stay informed about the world around them.

Links for notes on Brevity from the year: Year 2023

https://vartikananda.blogspot.com/2023/02/attribution-brevity-on-record-off-record.html 

IIM, INDORE: 6 September: Speaker: हिन्दी पत्रकारिता- चुनौतियां और अवसर

Moderation: Professor Himanshu Rai, Director, IIM, Indore

Panelists:  Nitishwar Kumar, IAS(Additional Secretary, Ministry of Women and Child Welfare, Government of India), Jai Prakash Pandey ( Journalist, Sahitya Tak, India Today Group) and Professor (Dr.) Vartika Nanda.

इस चर्चा में भारत सरकार के एडीशनल सेक्रेटरी श्री नीतीश्वर कुमार, टीवी टुडे/इंडिया टुडे ग्रुप के संपादक श्री जयप्रकाश पांडेय और दिल्ली विश्वविद्यालय के लेडी श्री राम कॉलेज की प्रो. वर्तिका नंदा ने विचार साझा किए। चर्चा में यह भी सामने आया कि किस प्रकार सोशल मीडिया ने हिंदी को नई ऊर्जा दी है और वैश्विक मंचों तक पहुँचाने का माध्यम बना है। भाषा की गरिमा बनाए रखते हुए उसे सरल और प्रभावी ढंग से प्रस्तुत करना आज की सबसे बड़ी आवश्यकता है। पूरे संवाद का अनुभव अत्यंत प्रेरणादायक और उत्साहवर्धक रहा, जिसने हिंदी पत्रकारिता के भविष्य को लेकर आशा और विश्वास दोनों को मजबूत किया।

यह कार्यक्रम आईआईएम इंदौर में हिंदी भाषा के गौरव और उसके प्रसार के प्रति हमारी प्रतिबद्धता को दर्शाता है। हम सभी भारतीय भाषाओं को संरक्षित और प्रोत्साहित करने के लिए समर्पित हैं।

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Press clipings IIM Indore,

Link: Vartika Nanda at IIM, Indore। 2025।इंदौर। भारतीय प्रबंधन संस्थान हिन्दी - YouTube

RADIO IN PRISON: CELEBRITIES HOLDING THE BOOK

 RADIO IN PRISON: CELEBRITIES HOLDING THE BOOK

Dr. Jitender Singh, Union Minister of State (independent in-charge) for Science and Technology, browsing at RADIO IN PRISON at book national fair 2025.

Shri. Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor, Jammu and Kashmir holding RADIO IN PRISON in hands with shri. Yuvraj Malik, director, NBT, India at international book fair, 7th February 2025

3rd September, 2025: Aaj Tak

Shweta Singh holding RADIO IN PRISON,

3rd September, 2025: Aaj Tak

Shams Tahir Khan holding RADIO IN PRISON,

4th September, 2025

Keshav Chandra, IAS, Chariman, NDMC holding radio in prison