Central Jail 2, Hisar is set to launch Prison Radio, Expanding Haryana's Trailblazing Prison Reform Initiative

Central Jail 2, Hisar is set to launch Prison Radio, Expanding Haryana's Trailblazing Prison Reform Initiative

A 32-year-old inmate will be one of the radio jockeys for the soon-to-start Jail Radio in Central Jail 2, Hisar. He has successfully cleared auditions held earlier this month. The facility, one of the newest correctional institutions in the state which has total 20 prisons, joins 13 other Haryana jails already operating successful prison radio programs.The remaining correctional facilities are now in various stages of initiating their own radio stations, ushering the transformative power of inmate broadcasting to every prison of the state.

Haryana's Radio Revolution Began in Panipat

Haryana launched its first prison radio on January 16, 2021, in District Jail Panipat. It was inaugurated by Shri Ranjit Singh, Jail Minister of Haryana. What began as a single experiment has now blossomed into a statewide phenomenon, with a total of  13 jails subsequently implementing the Tinka Prison Radio Model, creating India's most systematic prison radio network.

Conceptualized by Tinka Tinka Foundation (TTF) 

This groundbreaking initiative is the brainchild of Tinka Tinka Foundation, a Public Charitable Trust dedicated to prison reforms through art, culture, literature, and media. Founded by renowned prison reformer Professor (Dr.) Vartika Nanda, a former journalist, first woman to head a crime beat on Indian electronic media and currently the Head of Department of Journalism at Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University. The Foundation aims to connect jails and inmates across India through creative expressions.

Tinka Tinka Foundation has been instrumental in every phase of the implementation of prison radio, from conceptualization and inmate auditions to training, content creation, and broadcast execution. The Foundation's approach focuses on reducing inmate stress and depression while building self-confidence and communication skills through radio broadcasting.

About Tinka Tinka Foundation

Tinka Tinka Foundation continues to spearhead prison reform across India, having started its first prison radio in District Jail Agra, Uttar Pradesh, on July 31, 2019. The Foundation's work spans multiple states including Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Chhattisgarh, with initiatives ranging from jail radio and libraries to music production and literary awards for inmates. The foundation is also credited to start exclusive awards - Tinka Tinka India and Tinka Tinka Bandini Awards for prison inmates and prison staff in 2015. 

National and International Recognition

This prison radio initiative has garnered significant attention and acclaim:

Literary Recognition: The prison radio initiative is extensively documented in an exclusive book "Radio in Prison: Towards New-Age Reform”, published by National Book Trust (NBT) in 2024/ 2025. The 188-page volume chronicles the transformative impact of prison radio on inmate rehabilitation. 

https://www.youtube.com/@tinkatinkaprisonreforms4559

International Media Coverage: BRUT India, produced an exclusive 10-minute documentary titled "Inside Panipat Jail's Radio Revolution". The documentary, released in 2022, highlighted the journey and impact of Tinka Jail Radio, giving special recognition to participating inmates and boosting morale for continuous constructive engagement.

International Representation: Tinka Tinka Foundation represented India at the first International Prison Radio Conference in Oslo, Norway (2022), where Dr. Nanda presented a detailed research paper on "Prison Radio in India with reference to Tinka Jail Radio". Oslo Prison Norway: Vartika Nanda: First International Prison Radio Conference : वर्तिका नन्दा

Government Recognition: The initiative has been acknowledged by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), with presentations at the 7th National Conference of Heads of Prisons.

References

https://tinkatinka.org/

2025: https://www.youtube.com/@tinkatinkaprisonreforms4559

2025: Tinka Tinka Prison Reforms at the Foundation Day। NHRC। Vartika Nanda - YouTube

2025: Radio in Prison। National Book Trust India। जेल। Tinka Tinka जेल Radio ।Vartika Nanda - YouTube

2022: Oslo Prison Norway: Vartika Nanda: First International Prison Radio Conference : वर्तिका नन्दा

 

Columns in Journalism

1. Definition

A column is a regularly appearing article in a newspaper, magazine, or online publication, usually written by the same author (called a columnist).

Unlike straight news reporting, columns reflect the writer’s opinions, analysis, or personal perspective on current events, social issues, or cultural topics.

2. Purpose

To provide interpretation and commentary beyond factual reporting.

To establish a distinct voice or personality within the publication.

To engage readers with opinions, insights, and arguments.

To stimulate public debate and discussion.

3. Characteristics

Regularity: Appears on a fixed schedule (daily, weekly, monthly).

Authorship: Written by a named columnist, often with a recognizable style.

Subjectivity: Expresses opinions, unlike news reports which are objective.

Topicality: Focuses on current issues, trends, or events.

Personal voice: Conversational, persuasive, or reflective tone.

4. Types of Columns

Type

Focus

Opinion/Editorial Columns

Commentary on politics, society, or public affairs.

Humor Columns

Satirical or light-hearted takes on events.

Advice Columns

Guidance on personal, social, or professional issues.

Specialized Columns

Cover niche topics like sports, fashion, technology, or health.

Personality Columns

Showcase the columnist’s unique perspective or experiences.

5. Role in Journalism

Adds diversity of voices within a publication.

Provides analysis and interpretation that news stories cannot.

Builds reader loyalty through consistent style and viewpoint.

Influences public opinion and policy debates.

6. Structure of a Column

Headline: Catchy, often witty or provocative.

Lead/Opening: Engages the reader, sets the tone.

Body: Develops argument, analysis, or narrative.

Conclusion: Summarizes or leaves readers with a thought-provoking idea.

7. Example (Hypothetical)

A columnist writing about climate change might:

Begin with a personal anecdote about unusual weather.

Present facts and statistics to support their viewpoint.

Critique government policies.

WORLD STORYTELLING DAY

On World Storytelling Day, we celebrate the timeless art of sharing stories — tales that connect hearts, bridge divides, and give voice to those often unheard.

At Tinka Jail Radio, storytelling takes on a truly transformative role. Behind prison walls, voices find freedom through words, songs, and narratives. These stories are not just entertainment — they are windows into resilience, hope, and humanity.

The books by Dr. Vartika Nanda carry this mission forward, weaving together narratives of reform, empathy, and justice. Her work reminds us that storytelling is not confined to pages; it is a living, breathing force that can change lives.

Through the Tinka Tinka Foundation, storytelling has been reimagined in an exclusive format — one that empowers incarcerated individuals to narrate their journeys, reflect on their past, and envision brighter futures. This is storytelling with purpose, storytelling that heals.

Adding to this powerful movement, NBT’s Radio in Prison initiative amplifies these voices, ensuring that stories from within reach the world outside. It is a pioneering step in using radio as a bridge — connecting society with those who are often forgotten.

On this World Storytelling Day, let us honor these unique formats of storytelling that go beyond tradition. Let us celebrate the courage of voices rising from silence, and the platforms that make them heard.

Stories are not just told — they are lived, shared, and remembered. And sometimes, the most powerful ones come from the places we least expect.

Backgrounders in Journalism

1. Definition

A backgrounder is a detailed, factual document prepared by organizations, institutions, or PR professionals to provide journalists with contextual information about an issue, event, policy, or personality.

Unlike press releases, backgrounders are not breaking news but serve as reference material.

2. Purpose

To inform and educate journalists about complex topics.

To provide depth and context that helps reporters write accurate, balanced stories.

To establish the organization as a credible source of information.

To ensure consistency of facts across media coverage.

3. Characteristics

Comprehensive: Covers history, causes, implications, and current status.

Neutral tone: Avoids overt persuasion; focuses on facts.

Structured: Organized logically for easy reference.

Supplementary: Often accompanies press releases, speeches, or announcements.

4. Typical Contents

Section

Description

Introduction

Brief overview of the issue/event.

Historical Background

Origins, timeline, and evolution.

Current Situation

Present status, statistics, and facts.

Key Players

Organizations, individuals, or stakeholders involved.

Implications

Social, economic, political, or cultural impact.

Supporting Data

Charts, tables, references, or official documents.

Conclusion

Summary of key points and possible future developments.

5. Types of Backgrounders

Issue-based: Explains a social, political, or economic issue.

Event-based: Provides context for upcoming or past events.

Profile-based: Gives detailed information about a person or organization.

Policy-based: Explains government or institutional policies in detail.

6. Role in Journalism

Helps journalists avoid superficial reporting.

Provides ready-made factual material for articles.

Acts as a bridge between PR and media.

Encourages informed public discourse by ensuring accuracy.

7. Example (Hypothetical)

If a university launches a new scholarship program:

Press Release: Announces the scholarship.

Backgrounder: Explains the history of scholarships at the university, funding sources, eligibility trends, and the broader impact on higher education access.

Tinka Tinka Foundation recognised by the Ministry of Women & Child Development, Government of NCT Delhi: 17 March, 2026:

 

17 March, 2026: The Ministry of Women & Child Development, Government of NCT Delhi recognised the efforts of Tinka Tinka Foundation today and made a special mention of it during the ‘Nari Utsav’programme that was held at the Nirmal Chhaya Complex with Rekha Gupta, CM, Delhi as the Chief Guest. Vartika Nanda, Founder of Tinka Tinka Foundation was honored by Dr. Rashmi Singh (IAS), Secretary, WCD. 

Online Poster Presentation on “Women & the Society” : 13 March, 2026

Event Report: Online Poster Presentation on “Women & the Society”

An online poster presentation on “Women & the Society” was organised by Tinka Tinka Foundation on 13th March, 2026, to encourage meaningful academic engagement with issues related to gender, social justice, and women’s rights.

The event provided a platform for participants from different academic backgrounds to present research-based and creative poster work addressing diverse dimensions of women’s experiences in society. The presentation aimed to promote critical dialogue, visual communication, and sensitivity towards structural inequalities affecting women.

A number of entries were received following the call for submissions, out of which six posters were selected for presentation during the online session. The selected participants presented their work before the organisers, highlighting themes related to gender awareness, representation, rights, and social challenges.

The event also contributed to strengthening research orientation and presentation skills among participants while creating space for interdisciplinary discussion on contemporary social concerns. Certificates are provided to the selected participants, and their work is added here for wider recognition through the foundation’s platform.

Dr. Devender Kakkar (Retd Faculty , Delhi University), Jaideep Karnik (Head, Digital Media, Amar Ujala), Nitin (bureaucrat) and Professor Vartika Nanda were the jury. We are sharing the selected posters here.

1. Harpreet Kaur from Punjabi University, Patiala

2. Pooja Goswami, Hansraj College, University of Delhi

3. Gagandeep Kaur, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College, University of Delhi

4. Tanzida Parvez Oishe, Lady Shri Ram College, University of Delhi

5. Muskan Giri, Lady Shri Ram College, University of Delhi

6. Indrani Bhadra, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi 

Special interaction at Dainik TRIBUNE, Chandigarh: 2 March, 2026

 ।।।शुक्रिया दैनिक ट्रिब्यून।।।

साल 1987। दैनिक ट्रिब्यून में जालंधर दूरदर्शन पर एंकर किए जाने वाले बच्चों के कार्यक्रम पर कई सुंदर टिप्पणियां. 1988 और 1990 में रविवारीय पेज पर बड़े इंटरव्यू, 1993 में मेरी लिखी कहानी- सितारों भरा आशमान- को दैनिक ट्रब्यून की कहानी प्रतियोगिता में पहला पुरस्कार, 2013 से आज तक तिनका तिनका पर अनगिनत स्टोरीज, 2025 में अखबार के इतिहास में पहली बार किसी जीवित व्यक्ति पर एक पूरे पेज की कवरेज। इसी दैनिक ट्रिब्यून में आज यादों का बड़ा पिटारा खोलने और संवाद का अनूठा अवसर मिला। शुक्रिया संपादक Naresh Kaushal जी की आपने मुझए इस सम्मान के योग्य समझा। मीनाक्षी लेखी जी, अरुण नैथानी जी और केवल जी समेत चैनिक ट्रिब्यन के कई पत्रकारों से सारगर्भित संवाद हो सका। चंडीगढ़ प्रवास सार्थक हुआ।  

नरेश सर आज से अपनी एक नई पारी शुरु कर रहे हैं। उनके लिए असीम शुभकामनाएं। 

Online Poster Presentation on “Women & the Society” : 8 March, 2026

Tinka Tinka Foundation is organising an Online Poster Presentation focused on Women & the Society, to encourage meaningful dialogue, research, and awareness around gender issues and social justice.

Key Dates

 • Last Date for Submission & Registration: 8th March

 • Notification of Acceptance: 10th March

 • Poster Presentation: 13th March

 • Mode: Online

Who Can Participate?

• Undergraduate Students

• Postgraduate Students

• Research Scholars

• Practitioners

Registration Fee: ₹200

Perks

• Certificates for all participants

• Selected posters will be featured on the Foundation’s website

For queries:

Email: tinkatinkaorg@gmail.com

Phone: 9811201839

This is a great opportunity to contribute to conversations that matter and showcase your research and creative expression.