2025: IOJ PRACTICAL 1: PICTORIAL NEWSPAPER

(Disclaimer: This content has been compiled by the students of the Department of Journalism, LSR. 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/ opinions of students expressed in this piece.)

Group 1 (Sub-groups 1,2 and 3)

DATE: 2nd to 3rd Week of August, 2025

Sub group 1

Name: Daily DOJ

Duration: 3rd week of August

Sub group 1:

Avira Banerjee 

Aakriti Yati

Navya Kaul

Nibedita Manna 

Lavanya Shah

Chandrani Mondal

Sub group 1 curated their first newspaper titled ‘Daily DOJ’. The activity was conducted during the 3rd week of August.

From this project, we learned how to select stories that can capture and engage the audience’s attention, as well as how to make a newspaper look appealing and eye-catching. We also understood the difference between hard news and soft news, which is essential for effective reporting.

Lastly, the activity helped us learn how to organize tasks within a group and work together collectively, which made the entire process both insightful and enjoyable.

Credits:

Penmanship- Avira and Lavanya

Aesthetics- Nibedita and Navya

Research- Chandrani and Aakriti

Content- Chandrani

We hope to learn from this experience, looking forward to your feedback on our work!

-—x—-

Sub group 2

Name: Bebaak

Duration: 3rd week of August

Sub-group 2:

1. Aadhaya Mahajan

2. Agrima Kamal 

3. Chunit Tsomo 

4. Maanya Singh 

5. Mansi Singh 

6. Naisha Nagpal 

The making of 'Bebaak' was more challenging than we expected. From deciding the theme of the newspaper to giving it a name that speaks for itself, each and every part of it was quite a hassle, we learned that it's not just about writing articles but making sure that everything looks good and makes sense. 

Being students of Journalism, we had to carefully decide what actually deserves space to be on the front page. We focused on creating a newspaper that questions the people in power and holds them accountable. 

This group practical was all about planning, coordination, teamwork, decision-making and loads of lemon-iced tea! 

We understood why deadlines stress journalists out, even our mini version was hectic! 

Credits: 

Creative Writing - Agrima 

Design and Decor - Aadhaya, Chunit, Mansi

Layout - Maanya and Naisha

Research - done collectively. 

-—x—-

Sub group 3

Name: The Illustrated Times

Duration: 3rd week of August

Sub group 3:

Ayushi Soni

Geet Bandhu

Jiya Raj

Khushi

Kusum Saraswat

Navya Sirohi

Sub group 3 completed the practical work of creating a newspaper titled

" The Illustrated Times" based on pictures. The activity was conducted during

the 3rd week of August.From this practical, we learned how to manage teamwork

and cooperate in a group setting. This practical exercise taught us to choose stories

and news carefully to capture the attention of readers. We tried to keep the newspaper

simple so that readers can easily digest the information and get the summary in a quick

and concise way. This entire process was an opportunity for growth and development of

ideas and creativity.

Penmanship: Ayushi Soni, Jiya Raj

Content: Navya, Jiya Raj, Ayushi Soni, Geet, Kusum Saraswat, Khushi

Aesthetics: Ayushi Soni, Jiya Raj

Research: Navya, Jiya Raj, Ayushi Soni, Geet, Kusum Saraswat, Khushi

—-x—-

Group 2 (Team 1 and Team 2)

Team 1

Name: Visual Post

Duration of Work: 2nd week of August

Group Members: 

1. Redhima Pushkarna

2. Aastha Kiran

3. Tanisha Sharma

4. Samriddhi Srivastava

5. Sreeja Minz

6. Yashi Sharma

What we learnt :

Through this group project we learnt that pictures often communicate more effectively than words, creating a stronger impact on the reader. We also understood how a newspaper is put together and the thought process of an editor while finalizing its content. This exercise gave us insights into deciding what to feature on the first, second, and third page, how to set the hierarchy of news, and how to balance text with visuals.

Most importantly, we learnt the value of teamwork, coordinating with each other, dividing responsibilities, and combining our ideas to produce the final outcome.

—-x—-

Team 2

Name: Herald

Duration of Work: 2nd week of August

Group Members: 

1. Shagun Yadav

2. Vedika Trivedi

3. Priya Dey

4. Riya Singh

5. Samya Kanojia

6. Payal Yadav

Through the activity of creating our own newspaper, we learned how different kinds of news require different ways of writing and presenting. On the Front page, where we included stories about Ukraine, Russia policy, growing relations between Indian and China and the street dog issue, we understood how important it is to collect correct facts, explain complex issues simply, and connect international matters with local concerns.

From the Sports page on the Asia Cup, we learned that sports reporting involves not just presenting scores and results but also capturing the excitement and energy of the game.

On the entertainment page, with stories about movie saiyaara, Taylor Swift, and Handloom Day, we discovered how entertainment and cultural news requires creativity, engaging language, and an ability to connect with readers’ interests.

Overall, this activity helped us improve our research skills, practice writing in different styles, and understand how diverse sections together make a complete newspaper.

—-x—-

Competition: Making A Newspaper From Scratch

DATE: 1st September 2025

Group 1

Name: "Truth And Times" 

Members: 

Ayushi

Rhea Vinu

Naisha

Navya Sirohi

Payal

Khushi

This activity helped us to learn most importantly quick response and team working. Quick response because we made this in 1.5 hours and team working because we had to choose new partners and make sure everyone does what they were good at. 

Our paper stands out the most because:

1. We tried to mimic the content style of an actual newspaper i.e in columns with

dotted borders.

2. ⁠For 8 topics, we hand-drew relevant images- which are deep meaning and a

creative take on the topic. For example- carefully observe the photo drawn for hard

news and soft news. 

3. ⁠The headings are written over colored paper to emphasize on them more.

4. ⁠The headlines are also a creative and catchy take on the topic rather than simple

headings.

5. ⁠We had planned to also draw a crossword with proper hints and words but due to

lack of time we couldn't. For example: what is unbiased reporting of information?

answer: fairness. 

6. ⁠Withing time frame, we also colored each image.

—-x—-

Group 2

Name: THE YOUNGISTAN ,Youth ki Awaaz

Group members:-

Prisha

Aastha

Yashi

Tanisha

Redhima 

Saranya

Mahak

From working on Youngistan, our team newspaper project of seven members, I

learned not just what news is, but also how it is built. The exercise taught me

the importance of accuracy through verification, fairness through attribution,

and clarity through 5W1H. Understanding components and ingredients of news

helped me see how facts are structured into meaningful stories. More than theory,

it showed me the value of teamwork, critical thinking, and responsibility in

journalism.

—-x—-

Group 3

Name: Veritas

Group members:-

Avira Banerjee 

Aakriti Yati

Navya Kaul

Nibedita Manna 

Lavanya Shah

Chandrani Mondal

Group 3 took part in a newspaper-making competition held on September 1st as

part of the Introduction to Journalism course. Our newspaper, “Veritas,” was a true

culmination of the concepts we explored in class—including What is News?,

The distinction between hard and soft news, Attribution, Embargo, Verification,

News values, The Inverted pyramid structure, and the 5Ws and 1H. Putting these

ideas into practice allowed us to move beyond the textbook and discover how

fundamental journalistic principles come alive in writing, design, and the overall

presentation of news.

The experience was both challenging and deeply rewarding. We focused on shaping “Veritas” in a way that demonstrated our understanding of journalistic standards. Deciding on the layout, crafting headlines, and perfecting the paper’s design all required intense collaboration. Each team member brought unique skills to the table, ensuring that the final product was a genuine reflection of our collective effort.

Throughout the process, we learned the vital importance of teamwork, effective time management, and clear role distribution—skills that are as crucial in journalism as technical proficiency. The competitive atmosphere added an extra layer of excitement, motivating us to be both innovative and detail-oriented under tight deadlines. In the end, creating “Veritas” gave us not only a more nuanced grasp of news values and structure but also an unforgettable opportunity to collaborate, think critically, and experience firsthand the thrill of producing a newspaper as a team.

—-x—-

Group 4

Name: The Lantern

Group Members: 

Content and Research - Aadhaya, Chunit and Srija

Creative Writing - Agrima and Mansi

Design and Layout - Samriddhi and Jiya. 

Creating a newspaper taught us that news is more than facts—it’s about telling real

human stories with intention. We learnt the power of teamwork, the challenge of

deadlines, and the subtle art of design. Most of all, we saw how collaboration turns

ideas into something meaningful and lasting, even if just for a moment. 

We decided to explain about the topics with the help of real-life examples and news. 

We look forward to your positive feedback! 

—-x—-

Group 5

Name: “Spill it DOJ” group members: Priya Dey Riya Singh Shagun Vedika Shreya

Geet

While working together to make our newspaper, we learned how classroom

concepts truly come alive in practice. We understood what news is, information that

is timely, relevant, and meaningful for the public. In the process, we applied the structure

of news, especially the inverted pyramid, which taught us how to place the most

important facts first and follow them with supporting details. By creating different

sections, we explored the contrast between hard news and soft news. Hard news

covered urgent and serious issues, while soft news focused on lighter, human-interest

stories that still engaged readers. We also discovered how the components of news

that are headline, byline, lead, body, and conclusion work together to make stories

clear and impactful. Overall, making the newspaper as a team gave us practical

insight into how news is built and strengthened our understanding of journalistic

writing.

—-x—-

The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986: MLE

The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986 aims to prohibit the indecent portrayal of women in media and advertisements, safeguarding their dignity and promoting gender equality.

Purpose of the Act

The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986 was enacted to address the derogatory and indecent portrayal of women in various forms of media, including advertisements, publications, and artworks. The Act seeks to protect women's dignity and prevent sexual objectification by prohibiting representations that are offensive or harmful to public morals. 

India Code

Key Provisions

Prohibition of Indecent Representation: The Act prohibits the publication or exhibition of any advertisement that contains indecent representation of women. This includes any form of commercial communication that portrays women in a degrading manner. 

2

Scope of the Act: It extends to all forms of media, including print, broadcast, and digital platforms. The Act applies to various materials such as books, pamphlets, films, and photographs that depict women indecently. 

2

Definitions: The Act provides specific definitions for terms like "indecent representation," which refers to any portrayal of a woman's figure or body in a manner that is derogatory or likely to corrupt public morality. 

2

Penalties: Violations of the Act can lead to penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The Act empowers law enforcement to investigate and seize materials that violate its provisions.

Links:  Indecent Representation of Women Prohibition Act 1986

RADIO IN PRISON: NEWSLETTER: 2025

This newsletter is dedicated to the book- Radio in Prison- published by National Book Trust, India in February, 2025.

 Links from the website: 

1. Radio in Prison – Tinka Tinka Prison Reforms

2. Newsletters – Tinka Tinka Prison Reforms

WRITING A LETTER: Self Expression: VN Ki Paathshala

 September 29, 2025: Paper: IOJ

Instructions:

Write a reflective Letter to yourself, either to the person you were 10 years ago or to the person you wish to become 10 years from now.

The letter must be personal yet thoughtful.

It can follow any tone, emotional, humorous, philosophical, poetic, or conversational.

There is no word limit, but sincerity is expected over formality.

The assignment is to be done individually.

Purpose of this activity:

In today’s session, instead of looking outward at news, headlines, or current affairs, we turned our gaze inwards. Each student was asked to step into a different timeline, either revisiting their younger self or imagining their future self, and write a letter that speaks with honesty, vulnerability, and introspection.

This exercise is not merely about writing. It is about archiving emotions, acknowledging growth, and understanding identity through words. In journalism, we often tell the stories of others today; the students have become both the storytellers and the subjects.

Through this activity, we aim to:

Encourage self-awareness and emotional clarity,

Build a stronger individual voice, essential for journalistic expression,

And most importantly, help students realise that every life holds a story worth documenting, starting with their own.

International Literature Festival at Patna: Sahitya Akademi: Unmesha: 26th September, 2025

26th September, 2025 : International Literature Festival at Patna

Asia's largest literature festival

Date: 25- 28 September, 2025

Venue: Sahitya Akademi: Festival of Expression (अभिव्यक्ति का उत्सव): Unmesha, at Samrat Ashoka Convention Centre, Patna

Vartika Nanda's session: 26 September, 2025

Hall Name: Sankaradeva

Topic: Social Media and Literature

Speakers:

Gourahari Das

R. Venkatesh

Utpal Kumar

Vartika Nanda

( Anant Vijay and Ajay Singh could not come )

Anchor: Jasleen Vohra

हॉल का नाम: शंकरदेव

विषय: सोशल मीडिया एवं साहित्य

वक्ता:

गौरहरि दास

आर. वेंकटेश

उत्पल कुमार

वर्तिका नंदा

(अजय सिंह

अनंत विजय)

Sahitya Akademi: Festival of Expression (अभिव्यक्ति का उत्सव): Unmesha in Patna: पटना के ज्ञान भवन, सम्राट अशोक कन्कलेव केंद्र में - सोशल मीडिया और साहित्य- के सत्र में भागीदारी का सुंदर अवसर मिवा. 25 से 28 सितंबर को होने वाला यह आयोजन दरअसल International Literature Festival है जिसमें दुनिया के कई देशों से लेखक और साहित्यकार आए. 

हमारे सत्र की अध्यक्षता गौरहरि दास ने की. वक्ता के रूप में उत्पल कुमार और आर वेंकटेश शामिल हुए. उद्घोषणा का जिम्मा दूरदर्शन की जानीमानी पूर्व ऐंकर जसलीन बोहरा ने निभाया.

मैेने अपनी बात का संदर्ध दूरदर्शन के दौर से शुरु करते हुए निजी मीडिया, बाजारवाद, नए प्रकाशकों की आमद और छोटे शहरों से आते प्रभावशाली लेखकों तक- कई मुद्दों को समेटा. तिनका तिनका की जेल की किताबों पर भी चर्चा कर सकी- ऐसी किताबें जिनके पास बेस्ट सैलर कहलाने के लिए प्रोयजक नहीं है लेकिन दमदार साफनियति है. 

अनंत विजय और अजय सिंह किसा कारणवश न आ सके. उनकी कमी खली. 

साहित्य अकादमी ने इस आयोजन को बहुत सुंदर तरीके से किया. सुरुचिपूर्ण और व्यवस्थित आयोजन के लिए आपके बधाई. साधुवाद

पटना में उन्मेष के बहाने साहित्य अकादमी ने देश-विदेश से साढ़े पांच सौ से ज्यादा कवियों और लेखकों का एक ऊर्जावान मंच तैयार किया है। एक खास बात ये भी है कि अभिव्यक्ति के इस उत्सव को जिस सम्राट अशोक कन्वेंशन सेंटर में आयोजित किया गया है, वहां पर बिहार की कला और संस्कृति की भी जीवंत तस्वीर देखी जा सकती है। 'उन्मेष' में 'सोशल मीडिया और साहित्य' विषय पर शुक्रवार को आयोजित सत्र में वर्तिका नंदा ने कहा कि साहित्य के लिए इंटरनेट मीडिया च्यवनप्राश की तरह है। इस मंच पर अनजाने लेखकों के लिए पन्ने बन गए हैं। इससे छोटे प्रकाशकों को बड़ी आबादी तक बात पहुंचाने का जरिया मिला है। अंगुलियां दौड़ने से छोटे शहरों से बड़े शहरों की दूरी कम हुई है। लेखकों को नया आकाश मिला है। 

वर्तिका ने कहा कि सोशल मीडिया ने यह आभास कराया है कि आप ही सबकुछ हैं। अब हर कोई लेखक, कवि, कलाकार और प्रकाशक बन गया है। जिनके पास प्रतिभा है, उनकी पूछ हर स्थान पर हो गई है। सोशल मीडिया ने सिटिजन जर्नलिस्ट पैदा किए हैं। अच्छा यह है कि प्रतिक्रिया तुरंत मिलने लगी। समस्या ये है कि एक ही दिन कई लेखकों की किताब बेस्ट सेलर हो जाती है, यह कैसे संभव है? ऐसे लोग भी बड़े लेखक बन गए हैं, जो लिखने के अलावा कुछ भी कर सकते हैं। सत्र की अध्यक्षता गौरहरि दास ने की। वक्ता के रूप में उत्पल कुमार और आर वेंकटेश शामिल हुए। उद्घोषणा का जिम्मा दूरदर्शन की जानीमानी पूर्व ऐंकर जसलीन बोहरा ने निभाया।

Panelists: 

Invitation and the schedule

In Press:

LIVE LINK: YOUTUBE SAHITYA AKAEDMY: Social Media and Literature | UNMESHA | 26 September 2025 | Patna - YouTube

YOUTUBE VN CHANNEL: Social Media & Literature।Sahitya Akademi। साहित्य ।Asia's largest literature festival। 26 Sept 2025 - YouTube

Photo Courtesy: Amit Anand, Akshay Pandey, Prabhat Ranjan and R. Venkatesh

Principles of writing news

 

The language of news writing in journalism emphasizes clarity, conciseness, and objectivity, using short, simple sentences and formal, factual vocabulary to inform the widest possible audience. Different aspects are taken into consideration while writing a news piece but the key role is played by the language of news. News is written keeping in mind different variables such as Topic, Participants, relationship and Purpose. This is what makes the news more sensible and prominent. 

24 September, 2025: Tinka Tinka Tihar completes 12 years

 12 साल का हुआ तिनका तिनका तिहाड़ आज। 2013 में आज ही के दिन देश के गृह मंत्री ने इस किताब को AAPCAA कॉन्फ्रेंस में दिल्ली के विज्ञान भवन मैं विमोचित किया था। आप सबके प्रति आभार के साथ यह वीडियो प्रस्तुत है।

Special gratitude: Vimla Mehra (IPS), DG, Delhi Prisons

Link: Tinka Tinka Tihar। जेल। 2013। Vartika Nanda & Vimla Mehra। Tinka Tinka Foundation - YouTube

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

(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

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 

6 September, 2025: IIM, INDORE: 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।

x

Press clipings IIM Indore,

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

RADIO IN PRISON: NBT India: 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

19 September, 2025: It was an honor to present my book, "Radio in Prison" (published by NBT India), to Satish Golcha (IPS), the Commissioner of Delhi Police. This is a singular achievement: the ONLY book in India to date that comprehensively traces the journey, impact, and growth of radio in prisons - capturing how Tinka Jail Radios are becoming lifeline for inmates. This moment is a source of immense pride for the Tinka Tinka Foundation, which is also credited with introducing Journalism in Indian prisons. This work is truly a step forward in giving a voice to the voiceless. My role as the storyteller for the Delhi Police's exclusive podcast series, Kissa Khaki Ka, has deeply enriched this mission, adding layers of experience from crime reporting to prison reforms as we approach the monumental milestone of 200 episodes.