28 October, 2025: On the occasion of the Vigilance Awareness Week, Indian Oil and The Hindu collaborated and organised a painting competition for the students of LSR. The event was well attended. Special kudos to the faculty members of Department of Journalism for their efforts. It was satisfying to see students experimenting with colours.
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“This is a space that is a reservoir of knowledge for students and for those too who are serving imprisonment in prisons. This is an attempt to create rainbows in our lives.”
Professor (Dr.) Vartika Nanda
Started in 2006, VN ki Paathshaala (www.vartikananda.blogspot.com) is a distinguished digital space created by Professor (Dr.) Vartika Nanda primarily for students pursuing journalism and media professionals. The core objective of the blog is to serve as a comprehensive, sustained online learning platform, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to delve deeply into media studies and develop their academic and professional writing skills. This initiative proved particularly crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, when it became a vital support system for students.
Ethics act as a professional guideline and a moral compass for journalists so they can continue to provide truthful information and create awareness about crucial issues.
5 core ethics of journalism:
Accuracy
A key principle of ethical journalism, delivering accurate information – based on evidence and available data – is what makes news credible and trustworthy. Using reliable sources like government reports, statistics published by concerned authorities, and archival data is integral to maintaining accuracy. Thorough fact-checking and verification help avoid misreporting and factual errors.
Fairness & Impartiality
Journalists are required to report without biases and presumptions. Presenting all sides when necessary and reporting balanced news with reasonable context are essential in impartial reporting. Giving respondents a fair chance to present their perspectives, and avoiding situations where a conflict of interest may arise make news more just and fair too.
Cultural Sensitivity
Multi-cultural, secular, and geographically varied countries like ours often require journalists to be more considerate towards the coexisting cultures, understand cultural nuances, and respect their boundaries. As a journalist or a media professional, you will have to be prompt about any necessary research to avoid reinforcing stereotypes and cultural appropriation.
Using culturally sensitive language, checking in with an expert, and being respectable while reporting are some of the ways cultural sensitivity can be implemented.
Humanity
Be honest, but get rid of the brutal! A lot of the time, news reports deal with complex situations. Understanding the gravity of the incident being reported and showing compassion and empathy toward the respondents are key to humane reporting.
Showing humanity in your journalistic work includes writing in an inclusive language, avoiding unnecessarily gory details and sensationalizing a piece of news, and adding trigger warnings as a means for people to make an informed choice about watching/reading a news report.
Privacy
Ethical journalism highlights the need to understand and respect the privacy of the interviewees, maintain the anonymity of the respondents in sensitive news reports, and protect the identity of the people being spoken to while collecting news. Taking consent before publishing a respondent’s statement, name and details, and photograph is integral to maintaining privacy and following the ethics of journalism.
Accountability
Journalists and news agencies are responsible for the news pieces they publish. Accountability involves being transparent about the sources, informing the readers/viewers in case there’s a need to maintain anonymity, fact-checking before publishing a news report, and updating any information that is found wrong after being published.
What Are the Standard Ethical Principles for Journalists?
Ethical journalism underpins standard principles that steer journalists' conduct and choices. These principles serve as a moral compass in the pursuit of reporting:
1. Truth and Accuracy
Journalists have an obligation to report accurate and truthful information. They should not distort facts or mislead their audience.
2. Fairness and Impartiality
Fairness requires presenting a balanced view of a story. By representing all relevant perspectives. Journalists should strive to be impartial and avoid favouritism.
3. Integrity and Transparency
Integrity involves maintaining high moral standards and being honest in all interactions. Journalists should be transparent about their sources, methods, and potential conflicts of interest.
4. Accountability and Responsibility
Journalists are accountable for their work and its impact. They must hold themselves accountable for the outcomes of their reporting and rectify any error.
Modern Challenges to Journalism Ethics:
Digital Media and Speed
• The 24/7 news cycle pressures journalists to publish quickly, sometimes at the expense of accuracy.
• Social media amplifies misinformation and blurs the line between professional journalism and user-generated content.
Clickbait and Sensationalism
• Headlines designed to attract clicks can mislead readers.
• Ethical journalism resists the temptation to exaggerate or distort for traffic or attention.
AI and Automation
• AI-generated content raises questions about authorship, accountability, and bias.
• Ethical frameworks are evolving to address the use of algorithms in news curation and production.
Misinformation and Fake News
• Journalists play a critical role in fact-checking and debunking false claims.
• Ethical reporting involves resisting the spread of unverified or misleading information.
Provocative Interviewing and Bias
• While tough questions are part of journalism, ethical reporters avoid personal attacks or leading questions.
• Fairness and professionalism must guide interactions with sources and subjects.
Global Perspectives on Journalism Ethics
• India: The Press Council of India outlines norms for journalistic conduct, emphasizing impartiality and public interest.
• United States: The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Code of Ethics is widely followed, promoting transparency and minimizing harm.
• United Kingdom: The Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO) enforces the Editors’ Code of Practice, focusing on accuracy and privacy.
Thought Leaders and Ethical Icons
• Bob Woodward: Known for the Watergate investigation, he champions truth and accountability.
• Mahatma Gandhi: Advocated for journalism as a tool for social service, not sensationalism.
Tools and Practices for Ethical Journalism
Editorial Guidelines: Outlets like the BBC, Reuters, and The New York Times have strict internal codes.
• Fact-Checking Platforms: Tools like PolitiFact, Snopes, and Alt News help verify claims.
• Corrections Policies: Ethical outlets publish corrections prominently and transparently.
• Training and Education: Journalism schools and organizations offer ethics training to prepare reporters for real-world dilemmas.
Real-World Ethical Dilemmas
• Reporting on Suicide: Balancing public interest with sensitivity to victims and families.
• Undercover Reporting: Is deception ever justified to expose wrongdoing?
• Publishing Leaks: Weighing national security against the public’s right to know.
Why Journalism Ethics Matter Today
In an era of deepfakes, AI-generated content, and polarized media, ethical journalism is more vital than ever. It’s not just about reporting the news—it’s about preserving democracy, protecting the vulnerable, and empowering the public with truth.
In the world of media and communication, there are two primary forms of information dissemination: print media and electronic media. Print media refers to traditional printed materials such as newspapers, magazines, and books, while electronic media encompasses digital platforms such as television, radio, and the internet. Understanding the differences between print and electronic media helps to navigate the evolving landscape of media consumption. This article aims to highlight these differences, including their characteristics, accessibility, interactivity, and production.
Definition
Print media refers to traditional forms of media that are physically printed on paper or other tangible materials, such as newspapers, magazines, books, brochures, or flyers.
Electronic media refers to digital forms of media that are created, distributed, and accessed through electronic devices, such as television, radio, websites, social media platforms, or mobile applications.
Format
Print media is tangible and can be physically held, read, and stored. It typically involves ink and paper-based formats, including newspapers, magazines, or books.
Electronic media is intangible and accessed through electronic devices. It includes various digital formats, such as audio, video, images, or text, which can be transmitted and displayed on screens or through speakers.
Production
Print media involves the physical production of materials through printing processes, such as offset printing or digital printing. It requires physical distribution to reach the audience.
Electronic media involves the creation of digital content using software and electronic devices. It can be instantly transmitted and accessed remotely, allowing for faster dissemination of information.
Accessibility
Print media requires physical access to printed materials, such as purchasing newspapers or magazines, subscribing to publications, or visiting libraries or bookstores.
Electronic media provides instant access to information and entertainment through electronic devices connected to the internet, allowing users to access content anytime and anywhere.
Cost
Print media production involves costs related to printing, distribution, and physical materials. Newspapers and magazines often require subscription fees or direct purchase.
Electronic media production involves costs related to content creation, digital infrastructure, and online platforms. Some electronic media content is free, but certain services, subscriptions, or premium content may require payment.
Interactivity
Print media is static and typically lacks interactive features. Readers have limited ability to engage directly with the content or participate in real-time discussions.
Electronic media offers interactivity and engagement features. Users can comment, share, like, or participate in online discussions, polls, or surveys. Multimedia elements, such as videos or animations, enhance the interactive experience.
Timeliness
Print media production requires time for printing, distribution, and reaching the audience. News may not be as up-to-date as electronic media due to printing and delivery schedules.
Electronic media provides real-time or near real-time updates. News, updates, and content can be instantly published, shared, and accessed online, allowing for immediate information dissemination.
Longevity
Print media materials have a longer physical lifespan and can be preserved for future reference. Newspapers and magazines can be collected, stored, and accessed years later.
Electronic media content can be updated, replaced, or removed quickly. It may have a shorter lifespan due to evolving digital platforms, technology changes, or content updates.
Environmental Impact
Print media production involves the use of paper, ink, and other physical materials, which can have an environmental impact in terms of resource consumption and waste generation.
Electronic media has a smaller environmental footprint as it reduces the need for physical materials. However, the energy consumption associated with digital infrastructure and electronic devices should be considered.
Multimedia Capabilities
Print media is primarily text and image-based, with limited multimedia capabilities. It may include photographs or illustrations but lacks audio or video elements.
Electronic media offers multimedia capabilities, including audio, video, images, animations, and interactive features, enhancing the overall user experience and engagement.
Audience Reach
Print media may have a more localized or specific audience reach based on distribution channels, circulation areas, or language preferences.
Electronic media has a global reach and can target a wider audience due to internet connectivity, allowing access to content from anywhere around the world.
Advertising
Print media includes advertising through printed ads, inserts, or classifieds in newspapers, magazines, or brochures. Advertisements are static and non-interactive.
Electronic media offers various forms of advertising, including digital ads, video ads, sponsored content, or pop-ups. It allows for targeted advertising, interactive ads, and real-time campaign tracking and measurement.
Archiving and Retrieval
Print media requires physical archiving and storage to preserve past publications. Retrieval involves locating and accessing physical copies from libraries, archives, or personal collections.
Electronic media allows for digital archiving and easy retrieval of past content through online databases, search engines, or digital libraries. Content can be accessed and retrieved with a few clicks or search queries.
Portability
Print media is portable, allowing readers to carry physical materials, such as books, newspapers, or magazines, with them and read them in various locations.
Electronic media offers high portability as content can be accessed through electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops, allowing users to access information on the go.
Adaptability
Print media has limited adaptability once published. Corrections or updates require subsequent editions or reprints.
Electronic media allows for instant updates, corrections, or additions to published content, ensuring the latest information is available to users without the need for physical reprinting.
Examples
Examples of print media include newspapers like The New York Times, magazines like Vogue, books from various genres, brochures, or flyers.
Examples of electronic media include television broadcasts, online news websites like CNN, social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, streaming services like Netflix, or podcast platforms like Spotify.
Print Media
Definition of Print Media
Print media refers to the distribution of information and news through printed materials that are physically produced and distributed. It includes newspapers, magazines, books, newsletters, brochures, and other printed publications.
Characteristics
Print media has the following characteristics:
Tangible Format: Printed materials exist in physical form, offering a tangible reading experience.
Visual Appeal: Print media often incorporates visual design elements, including layout, typography, and graphics.
Longevity: Printed materials can be preserved and accessed over an extended period.
Portability: Print media can be easily carried and read anywhere without the need for electronic devices or internet connectivity.
Examples
Examples of print media include daily newspapers, monthly magazines, academic journals, novels, and physical books available in libraries and bookstores.
29 September, 2025
Tinka Tinka Foundation organised a workshop at the Women's Police Station on G.B. Road, Delhi, to address the ‘mental health issues of women sex workers through art and creativity’ This was achieved through a unique art and clay modeling workshop, involving 30 sex workers and 10 children. The objective of this workshop was to bring hope and help in creating a better life to one of the city's most vulnerable communities.
तिनका तिनका फ़ाउंडेशन ने दिल्ली के जी.बी. रोड स्थित महिला पुलिस चौकी पर यौनकर्मियों के मानसिक स्वास्थ्य से जुड़े मुद्दों को कला और रचनात्मकता के माध्यम से संबोधित करने के लिए एक कार्यशाला का आयोजन किया।
यह लक्ष्य 30 यौनकर्मियों और 10 बच्चों की भागीदारी वाली एक अद्वितीय कला और मिट्टी के मॉडल बनाने की कार्यशाला के ज़रिए हासिल किया गया। इस कार्यशाला का उद्देश्य शहर के सबसे कमज़ोर समुदायों में से एक के लिए आशा लाना और एक बेहतर जीवन बनाने में मदद करना था।
जब ये महिलाएं अपनी उंगलियों से रंगों को छूती हैं और मिट्टी को आकार देती हैं तो उनके चेहरे पर सालों बाद सहज खुशी नजर आती है. इस वर्कशॉप की एक और खास बात रही. यहां इन महिलाओं के साथ उनके बच्चे भी आए थे. बच्चों ने जो हुनर पेश किया, वो देखने लायक था, उम्मीद से परे था.
बच्चों ने कर दिया था कमाल
दरअसल, दिल्ली पुलिस इन बच्चों के लिए स्तंभ की तरह खड़ी है. हालिया, गर्मियों की छुट्टियों के वक्त इन बच्चों के लिए एक महीने का विशेष कैम्प आयोजित किया गया था. यहां उन्हें चिकनी मिट्टी से खिलौने बनाने का प्रशिक्षण दिया गया. अब ये बच्चे हर शाम इसी चौकी की पहली मंजिल पर आते हैं. या तो इन बच्चों को यहां प्रशिक्षण मिलता है या ये नियमित तौर पर पढ़ाई करते हैं.
आखिर कौन हैं ये महिलाएं जो अपनी पहचान छिपाकर जीती हैं?
इनमें से ज्यादातर महिलाएं गरीबी, बेरोजगारी और शिक्षा की कमी जैसी मजबूरियों के कारण यहां तक पहुंची हैं. कुछ ऐसी हैं जिन्हें धोखे से यहां लाकर बेच दिया गया. इसके बाद उनके परिवार के रास्ते हमेशा के लिए बंद हो गए. समाज और परिवार ने उन्हें कभी स्वीकार नहीं किया.
इन्हीं में से एक शिल्पा (बदला हुआ नाम) ने अपनी पीड़ा सुनाई. उसने बताया कि वह हर साल अपने घर जाती है, परिवार से मिलती है, लेकिन कभी नहीं बताती कि वह क्या काम करती है. उसने अपने घर पर बता रखा है कि वह दिल्ली में एक ट्रांसपोर्ट कंपनी में काम करती है. अपना दुख बताते हुए शिल्पा की आंख में आंसू आ जाते हैं. वह इसके लिए खुद को ही कोसती है. शिल्पा कहती है शायद पिछले जन्म में उसने कोई पाप किए होंगे जिसकी सजा वह अब भुगत रही है. शिल्पा की आंखों में घर लौटने की चाहत है. लेकिन वह बेबस और लाचार है.
उम्मीद की एक रोशनी
दिल्ली पुलिस की सब-इंस्पेक्टर किरण सेठी इन महिलाओं के लिए जिंदगी में एक रोशनी बनकर आई हैं. वह इस चौकी की इंचार्ज हैं. किरण सेठी कहती हैं, "जब से मैं यहां चौकी इंचार्ज बनी हूं, मेरा मकसद इन महिलाओं को समय-समय पर यहां बुलाकर उनके शारीरिक और मानसिक स्वास्थ्य के लिए कुछ प्रशिक्षण आयोजित करना है. मैं खुद भी इनके कोठों में जाकर इनकी स्थिति का जायजा लेती रहती हूं."
किरण सेठी की मेहनत के नतीजे आने भी शुरू हो गए हैं. हाल ही में उन्होंने पूनम नाम की एक सेक्स वर्कर को इस दलदल से रिहा कराया. उसे एक ई-रिक्शा भी दिलाया ताकि वह एक सम्मानजनक जिंदगी शुरू कर सके. किरण सेठी पर 'किस्सा खाकी का' एक अंक प्रसारित हो चुका है. दिल्ली पुलिस की इस स्पेशल पॉडकास्ट सीरीज का नाम 'किस्सा खाकी का' है.
जीबी रोड के बारे में जानिए
जीबी दिल्ली का एक इलाका है जिसका आधिकारिक नाम श्रद्धानंद मार्ग है. जीबी रोड को मुख्य रूप से दिल्ली में देह व्यापार के इकलौते और सबसे बड़े केंद्र के रूप में जाना जाता है. यहां करीब 1000 महिलाएं रहती हैं, जिनमें से अधिकांश अपनी पहचान छिपाकर काम करती हैं.
जीबी रोड की मिट्टी क्यों है खास?
जीबी रोड जैसी जगहों की की मिट्टी की एक अनूठी महिमा है. कहा जाता है कि दुर्गा पूजा की मूर्तियां बनाने के लिए ऐसी जगहों की मिट्टी को शुभ मानकर इस्तेमाल में लाया जाता है. इस मिट्टी की महिमा की बात तो खूब होती है, लेकिन इस जगह पर रहने वाली महिलाओं के उद्धार के लिए काम करने वाली संस्थाएं न के बराबर हैं.
यह जरूरी है कि इन महिलाओं को केवल काउंसलिंग नहीं, बल्कि किसी स्थायी समाधान के रूप में यहां से बाहर निकालने का प्रयास किया जाए. अगर सही दिशा में काम हो तो इनमें से कुई महिलाएं वापिस अपनी एक बेहतर जिंदगी में लौट सकती हैं. पुलिस और तिनका तिनका फाउंडेशन का यह प्रयास भविष्य में भी जारी रहगा. आपको यह भी बता दें कि आने वाले दिनों में तिनका तिनका यहां एक और वर्कशॉप करेगा, जिसमें महिलाओं की नई टोली इसका हिस्सा बनेगी. थी हूं और रहूंगी पॉडकास्ट का अगला अंक भी यहीं की एक महिला पर आधारित रहेगा.
References:
1. Dr. Vartika Nanda’s website: https://vartikananda.com/
2.Tinka Tinka Prison Reforms’ Website: http://tinkatinka.org/
3.Dr. Vartika Nanda’s Blog: https://vartikananda.blogspot.com/
4.Podcast | GB Road, Delhi | Year 2025:Thee. Hoon.. Rahungi...। थी.हूं..रहूंगी...Ep 10 । G B Road। Sex Workers। Vartika Nanda
5. Podcast | GB Road, Delhi | Year 2024:Thee Hoon Rahungi। थी.हूं..रहूंगी...Ep 2 । Hope and Courage। GB Road, New Delhi । Vartika Nanda
6.Delhi Police Podcast Series: Kissa Khaki Ka: Kissa Khaki Ka - किस्सा खाकी का
2. ABP NEWS: 24 October, 2025: https://www.abplive.com/podcasts/samwaad/delhi-gb-road-delhi-police-new-initiative-know-details-from-dr-vartika-nanda-3033010
3. VN Ki Paathshala: 26 January, 2026: VN Ki Paathshala। GB Road। दिल्ली। Workshop। Mental Health। Kiran Sethi। Professor Vartika Nanda - YouTube
Date: 29 September, 2025: The melancholic walls of G.B. Road, where colors of hope are now blossoming: Professor Vartika Nanda
In Delhi, the nation's capital, marked by heavy traffic and a hurried pace, some stories remain hidden amidst the noise. This is the story of a part of Delhi we call G.B. Road. G.B. Road is a center for sex work where over 1,000 women live, concealing their identities. These women have no connection to an ordinary colorful life. However, change is slowly arriving here too. A ray of hope is becoming visible. In this sequence, a unique gathering was recently held on the first floor of a Women's Police Station situated amidst the narrow lanes of G.B. Road.
Healing through Art and Color
Today, 50-year-old Shilpa (name changed) has arrived on the first floor of the police station accompanied by about thirty other women. In this room, there is no fear of the police. In front of her, there are boxes of colors and clay for making shapes. These women have been asked to choose their favorite colors and create figures according to their imagination. This is not just an art workshop, but a unique initiative focusing on mental health, organized by Tinka Tinka Foundation, Shri Rajiv Goel, and Delhi Police. The aim of this workshop is to bring these women out of the dullness and pain of their lives and connect them with the world of art and creation.
Successful Workshop with the children of GB Road
When these women touch the colors with their fingers and give shape to the clay, a spontaneous happiness appears on their faces. There was another special feature of this workshop. The children of these women also came along. The skill the children displayed was remarkable, way beyond expectations.
Delhi Police stands as a pillar of support for these children. Recently, a special month-long camp was organized for them during the summer holidays, where they were taught to make toys with clay. Now, these children come to the first floor of this very police station every evening. Here, they either receive training or they engage in regular studies.
Who exactly are these women who live by concealing their identities?
Most of these women have ended up here owing to compulsions like poverty, unemployment, and lack of education. Some were deceived and brought here to be sold. After that, the doors to their families were permanently closed. Society and family never accepted them.
Among them, a woman, Shilpa (name changed), shared her pain. She revealed that she goes home every year and meets her family, but she never reveals to them what work she actually does. She has told her family that she works for a transport company in Delhi. As she shared her sorrow, tears welled up in Shilpa's eyes. She blames herself for her situation. Shilpa says perhaps she committed some sins in a past life, for which she is now paying the price. There is a longing to return home in Shilpa's eyes, but she is helpless and constrained.
A Ray of Hope
Sub-Inspector Kiran Sethi of the Delhi Police has become a beacon of light in the lives of these women. She is the in-charge of this police post. Kiran Sethi says, "Ever since I became the police station in-charge here, my aim has been to call these women here from time to time and organise some training for their physical and mental health. I also visit their brothels myself to assess their situation."
The results of Kiran Sethi's efforts have also started to appear. Recently, she successfully rescued a sex worker named Poonam from this quagmire. She also helped her get an e-rickshaw so that she could start a respectable life. An episode about Kiran Sethi has been aired on 'Kissa Khaki Ka'. The name of this special podcast series by the Delhi Police is 'Kissa Khaki Ka'.
Kissa Khaki Ka: Full Episode 9: Podcast Delhi Police: किस्सा खाकी का: Ujala Bikhertee Kiran - YouTube
Where is G.B. Road?
G.B. Road is an area in Delhi whose official name is Shradhanand Marg. G.B. Road is primarily known as the sole and largest center for sex work in Delhi. Around 1,000 women reside here, most of whom work while concealing their identities.
Why is the Soil of G.B. Road Special?
The soil from places like G.B. Road holds a unique significance. It is believed that the clay from such places is considered auspicious and used for making idols of Goddess Durga for Durga Puja. While the glory of this clay is much discussed, there are very few organizations working for the upliftment of the women living in this area.
Continued Efforts Towards a Better Future
It is necessary that these women are not only offered counselling but efforts are made to bring them out of this place as part of a permanent solution. If work is done in the right direction, many of these women can return to a better life. The efforts of the Police and the Tinka Tinka Foundation will continue in the future as well. Tinka Tinka will conduct another workshop here soon, in which a new batch of women will participate. The next episode of the 'Thi, Hoon, Aur Rahoongi' podcast will also be based on a woman from this very area.
References:
1. Dr. Vartika Nanda’s website: https://vartikananda.com/
2.Tinka Tinka Prison Reforms’ Website: http://tinkatinka.org/
3.Dr. Vartika Nanda’s Blog: https://vartikananda.blogspot.com/
4.Podcast | GB Road, Delhi | Year 2025:Thee. Hoon.. Rahungi...। थी.हूं..रहूंगी...Ep 10 । G B Road। Sex Workers। Vartika Nanda
5. Podcast | GB Road, Delhi | Year 2024:Thee Hoon Rahungi। थी.हूं..रहूंगी...Ep 2 । Hope and Courage। GB Road, New Delhi । Vartika Nanda
6.Delhi Police Podcast Series: Kissa Khaki Ka: Kissa Khaki Ka - किस्सा खाकी का
In Press:
2. ABP NEWS: 24 October, 2025: https://www.abplive.com/podcasts/samwaad/delhi-gb-road-delhi-police-new-initiative-know-details-from-dr-vartika-nanda-3033010
Date of Telecast: 2 October, 2025
Channel Courtesy: Desi Studios
Story on: Priyadarshini Mattoo case
Year: 1996
Reporting clips of Vartika Nanda, Head of Crime Beat, NDTV
Desi Studios: A Murder That Shook Delhi | The Priyadarshini Mattoo Story
2 October: VN Channel: Crime Reporting। Priyadrshini Matto। Crime Beat। अपराध। रिपोर्टिंग। Vartika Nanda - YouTube
National Conference on Human Rights of Prison Inmates
16 October, 2025: New Delhi: Speaker at the first session of the National Conference on ‘Enhancing Quality of Life of Inmates: Ensuring Dignity, Well-Being and Human Rights Behind Bars’ organised by National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on its 32nd Foundation Day with the theme ‘Human Rights of Prison Inmates’. The panel was chaired by Justice V. Ramasubramanian, Chairperson, NHRC. Other panellists were Rakesh Kumar Pandey, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Valay Singh, Co-founder and Lead, India Justice Report and Maitreyi Misra, Director of Mitigation and Mental Health and Criminal Justice, Square Circle Clinic. The conference was inaugurated by former President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind.
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Needless to say- Radio In Prison- published by National Book Trust, India was specially mentioned.
Chair: Shri Justice V. Ramasubramanian, Chairperson, NHRC
Panellists:
Shri Rakesh Kumar Pandey, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs
Shri Valay Singh, Co-founder and Lead, India Justice Report
Prof (Dr.) Vartika Nanda, Indian Prison Reformer, Media Educator and Media Commentator
Ms. Maitreyi Misra, Director of Mitigation and Mental Health and Criminal Justice, Square Circle Clinic
Vigyan Bhawan had witnessed the release of Tinka Tinka Tihar in 2013 with the union home minister releasing it. Today, after 12 years, talking about the journey is going to be truly memorable.
It was a proud moment to attend this conference on ‘Human Rights of Prison Inmates’ with former President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind addressing the 32nd Foundation Day.
The day was fruitful. Gratitude.
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अजब संयोग है या दुर्योग
छूटी हुई प्रार्थनाएं याद आती हैं
तीर्थों में छोड़ आई थी उन्हें
लगा था – वे सुरक्षित रहेंगी और अपनी उम्र पा लेंगी
पानी पर लकीरें ही थीं
किसी की याद में आ गई हिचकियां
कोई थपकी ही थी किसी और छोर की
प्रार्थनाएं सच हों, यह अनिवार्य कहां
फिर भी फरेब की चोट से
टूट चुकी लकीरें भी
खुद में समाए रखती हैं – प्रार्थनाएं।
Divine Awakening Behind Bars: Karma, Crime and the Journey Within: On 13th October 2025, the program Divine Awakening Behind Bars: Karma, Crime and the Journey Within, was presented as part of the Speaking Tree Podcast- add this to wiki and to VN Profile- Full interview: Speaking Tree: Divine Awakening Behind Bars: Karma, Crime, Journey Within । Speaking Tree Podcast । Vartika Nanda - YouTube/ TINKA YOUTUBE: Vartika Nanda। Divine Awakening Behind Bars ।जेल।Tinka Tinka Foundation
What has jail to do with our karma? Can silent contributions for inmates bring inner peace?
Can silent contributions for inmates bring inner peace?
The year was 1993 when I first visited Tihar, the largest prison complex in India. Not many would know the kind of experiences I had in the last 32 years. I have kept aside my spiritual experiences from the world of academia. However, today I am sharing this heartfelt conversation that I had with Speaking Tree.
This conversation has emerged out of the long journey of Tinka Tinka resulting in publishing four books on prisons, establishing Tinka Jail Radio, Tinka Prison Research Cell and exclusive storytelling on the lives of inmates. All this work is being done on an honorary basis.
Listen to this soulful conversation with The Times of India and Speaking Tree on jail bhakti and Tinka Jail Radio:
YOUTBE LINKS:
Speaking Tree: https://youtu.be/_O0Z9lqTOHI?si=Juc_xzxgdysHx5sX
Tinka Channel: https://youtu.be/_O0Z9lqTOHI?si=XZ7KgkBypKpLAfzs
Tinka Tinka India Awards: 2025 (11th Year)
● Inviting entries from all the prisons in India
● Special awards for inmates who exhibit profound creative talent in painting and have made significant contribution to jail life and
● Prison officials doing extraordinary work towards prison reforms
These exclusive awards for inmates and prison officials are annually given away by Tinka Tinka Foundation.
Theme for PAINTING: MUSIC IN JAIL
Award Categories
● Tinka Tinka India Awards for Painting: Paintings should be related to the theme which is MUSIC IN JAIL
● Tinka Tinka India Awards for Special Mention (Male): Male/ transgender inmates who have made significant contribution to jail life
● Tinka Tinka Bandini Awards for Special Mention (Female): Women inmates who have made significant contribution to jail life
● Tinka Tinka India Awards for Excellent Jail Service: For prison officials who have gone beyond their call of duty to bring positive change in the lives of inmates
Award Criteria
● Each painting should be on A4 size sheet, bearing name of the participant (maximum five paintings per inmate)
● Those inmates who have made any special contribution for the welfare of other inmates or for the prison system, can apply for the Special Mention category. These awards will be given separately to men/transgender and women inmates
● Applicants should send brief details of the related work in not more than 200 words
● Jail officials may send their profile along with the details of their outstanding contribution, especially related to the theme of this year
● Only those jail officials, who have completed at least 10 years of service in the prison department, are eligible to apply. Entries for the jail officers/ staff must be routed through the Prison Headquarter.
Who can apply
● All inmates and children of inmates living in prison
● Prison officers and the staff
Points to Note
● Inmates can apply for more than one category (paintings/ special mention). However, separate Google forms should be filled up for each one of them.
● Decision of the jury will be final. Jury will include senior members from prisons/ police/ judiciary/the civil society.
● Awards will be given on 9 December, 2025, on the eve of Human Rights Day.
How to apply: Google Form through website
● All the entries must be sent in the attached Google form only (also available on the website www.tinkatinka.org) after duly filling up the details. Entries in any other format will not be accepted
● Paintings/ documents etc. should also be attached with the Google form given here:
1. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ZhBAQHnbyIrD1dNNy_o35U0oktkBw0XyfeP56yo0D-w/edit?usp=forms_home&ouid=105900949942122582913&ths=true : For Jail Officials
2. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1MBfoNQLhWhMFSS3NrdQlgxiCkbR9T54SfIr1FvM0bYM/edit?usp=forms_home&ouid=105900949942122582913&ths=true: For Jail Inmates
Last Date of Submission
● 30th October, 2025
Background
● Tinka Tinka India Awards, 2024: Released by Shri Manoj Kumar Singh, Chief Secretary, Uttar Pradesh, Shri Anil Garg, Principal Secretary, Jails and Shri K. Ramasastry, DG Prisons, Uttar Pradesh in District Jail, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
● Tinka Tinka India Awards, 2023: Released by Shri Mohammad Akil, DG Prisons, Haryana in District Jail, Gurugram, Haryana.
● Tinka Tinka India Awards, 2022: Released by Dr. K.L.N Rao. ADG Prisons, Gujarat at Central Jail, Sabarmati, Gujarat.
● Tinka Tinka India Awards, 2021: Released by Shri Arvind Kumar, DG, Madhya Pradesh Prisons & Correctional Services and Dr. K.L.N Rao. ADG Prisons, Gujarat at Central Jail, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
● Tinka Tinka India Awards, 2020: Released by Shri K. Selvaraj, DG, Prisons, Haryana
● Tinka Tinka India Awards, 2019: Released by Shri Sulkhan Singh, former DG, Uttar Pradesh and Shri Anand Kumar DGP/ IG Prisons, Uttar Pradesh, in District Jail, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
● Tinka Tinka India Awards, 2018: Released by Dr. A. P. Maheshwari, Director General, BPR&D and Shri Bhupendra Singh, Director General, Rajasthan Prisons at Central Jail, Jaipur, Rajasthan
● Tinka Tinka India Awards, 2017: Released by Shri Ajay Kashyap, Director General, Delhi Prisons in Jail No. 1, Tihar Prison Complex, New Delhi
Important Links on Tinka Tinka India Awards:
1. Tinka Awards: 2024: https://youtu.be/87nkSfnfQno?si=Scy0B995R-pv0hO
2. Tinka Awards: 2023: https://youtu.be/wW2Oh57wD70?si=WuuyGO1zXuBIVRqi
3.Tinka Awards: 2022: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNObsYrK78k&t=23s
4.Tinka Awards: 2021: https://youtu.be/_gxPtgPjn7M
5. Tinka Awards: 2020: https://youtu.be/iW4VD5Z7XO0
6.Tinka Awards: 2019: https://youtu.be/F_rEF4Lt1SE
7. Tinka Awards: 2018: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Apq3v5eqUlo
8.Tinka Awards: 2017: https://youtu.be/gCdZHFr0xyk
Professor Vartika Nanda
Founder & Managing Trustee
Tinka Tinka Foundation
Contact: 9811201839
Website: www.tinkatinka.org
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vartika_Nanda
……………
तिनका तिनका इंडिया अवॉर्ड: 2025 (11वां वर्ष)
● तिनका तिनका भारत में सभी जेलों से प्रविष्टियों को आमंत्रित करता है
● इनमें विशिष्ट रचनात्मक प्रतिभा प्रदर्शन और जेल के लिए विशेष योगदान देने वाले बंदी और
● जेल सुधार के लिए असाधारण काम कर रहे जेल अधिकारी अपने आवेदन भेज सकते हैं.
तिनका तिनका फाउंडेशन बंदियों और जेल प्रशासकों के लिए इन राष्ट्रीय पुरस्कारों की घोषणा हर साल करता है।
विषय: जेल में संगीत (MUSIC IN JAIL).
पुरस्कार श्रेणियां
● तिनका तिनका इंडिया अवॉर्ड: पेंटिंग: संबंधित- जेल में संगीत- विषय पर पेंटिंग/ स्केच के लिए
● तिनका तिनका इंडिया अवॉर्ड: विशेष उल्लेख (पुरुष): उन पुरुषों/ ट्रांसजेंडर के लिए जिन्होंने जेल जीवन में महत्वपूर्ण योगदान दिया है
● तिनका तिनका बंदिनी अवॉर्ड: विशेष उल्लेख (बंदिनी): उन महिलाओं के लिए, जिन्होंने जेल-जीवन में महत्वपूर्ण योगदान दिया है
● तिनका तिनका इंडिया अवॉर्ड: उत्कृष्ट जेल सेवा: उन जेल अधिकारियों के लिए, जिन्होने बंदियों के जीवन में जेल सुधार के माध्यम से सकारात्मक परिवर्तन लाने में अपने निर्धारित दायित्वों से अधिक योगदान दिया है
पुरस्कार मानदंड
● तस्वीर/ चित्र/स्केच A4 आकार की शीट पर हों। उन पर प्रतिभागी का नाम जरूर लिखा हो (प्रति बंदी पर अधिकतम पांच प्रविष्टियां)
● विशेष उल्लेख वर्ग में बंदियों का नामांकन संबंधित बंदी के द्वारा अन्य बंदियों के कल्याण के लिए या जेल व्यवस्था के लिए किए गए विशेष योगदान हेतु किया जा सकता है. इसके लिए पुरुष, महिला औऱ ट्रांसजेंडर-सभी बंदी अपना आवेदन दे सकते हैं
● आवेदकों के काम का विवरण अधिकतम 200 शब्दों में होना चाहिए
● जेल अधिकारी अपने प्रोफाइल के साथ उनके द्वारा किए गए जेल सुधारों, खासतौर से थीम से संबंधित उल्लेखनीय योगदान को, यहां दिए लिंक पर गूगल फॉर्म में भरकर भेजें
● जेल अधिकारियों के लिए कम से कम 10 साल का जेल सेवा का अनुभव होना अनिवार्य है अधिकारियों के आवेदन जेल मुख्यालय के जरिए आने चाहिए.
कौन भाग ले सकते हैं
● जेल में रहने वाले सभी बंदी और उनके बच्चे
● जेल अधिकारी और स्टाफ
जरूरी बिंदु
● बंदी एक से अधिक वर्ग के लिए ( पेंटिंग/ विशेष उल्लेख) अपना नामांकन भेज सकते हैं लेकिन दोनों के लिए अलग-अलग गूगल फॉर्म भरने होंगे
● जूरी का निर्णय अंतिम होगा। जूरी में जेल/पुलिस/न्यायपालिका/नागरिक समाज के वरिष्ठ सदस्य शामिल होंगे
● यह पुरस्कार मानवाधिकार दिवस की पूर्वसंध्या पर 9 दिसंबर, 2025 को दिए जाएंगे
आवेदन कैसे करें: वेबसाइट पर दिए गए Google Form के जरिए
● विधिवत भरा हुआ फॉर्म प्रविष्टि के साथ इस लिंक पर भेजें
● जरूरी अटैचमेंट भी इसी लिंक पर गूगल फॉर्म के साथ लगाएं
1. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ZhBAQHnbyIrD1dNNy_o35U0oktkBw0XyfeP56yo0D-w/edit?usp=forms_home&ouid=105900949942122582913&ths=trueजेल अधिकारियों के लिए
2. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1MBfoNQLhWhMFSS3NrdQlgxiCkbR9T54SfIr1FvM0bYM/edit?usp=forms_home&ouid=105900949942122582913&ths=true: बंदियों के लिए
आवेदन भेजने की अंतिम तिथि
● 30 अक्तूबर, 2025
पृष्ठभूमि
● तिनका तिनका इंडिया पुरस्कार, 2024: मनोज कुमार सिंह, मुख्य सचिव, उतत्र प्रदेश और पी.वी.रामासास्त्री ने जिला जेल, लखनऊ में जारी किए.
● तिनका तिनका इंडिया पुरस्कार, 2023: मोहम्मद अकील, जेल महानिदेशक, हरियाणा ने जिला जेल, गुरुग्राम में जारी किए.
● तिनका तिनका इंडिया पुरस्कार, 2022: डॉ. के.एल.एन.राव, एडीजी जेल, गुजरात ने केंद्रीय जेल, साबरमती, गुजरात में जारी किए
● तिनका तिनका इंडिया पुरस्कार, 2021: श्री अरविन्द कुमार, महानिदेशक, जेल एवं सुधारात्मक सेवाएं, मध्य प्रदेश और डॉ. के.एल.एन.राव, एडीजी जेल, गुजरात ने केंद्रीय जेल, भोपाल, मध्य प्रदेश में जारी किए
● तिनका तिनका इंडिया पुरस्कार, 2020: श्री के.सेल्वाराज, महानिदेशक, हरियाणा कारागार ने जारी किए
● तिनका तिनका इंडिया पुरस्कार, 2019: श्री सुलखान सिंह, पूर्व डीजीपी उत्तर प्रदेश और श्री आनन्द कुमार, पुलिस महानिदेशक/ महानिरीक्षक कारागार, उत्तर प्रदेश ने जिला जेल, लखनऊ, उत्तर प्रदेश में जारी किए
● तिनका तिनका इंडिया पुरस्कार, 2018: डॉ. ए. पी. माहेश्वरी, महानिदेशक, बी.पी.आर. एंड डी. और श्री भूपेंद्र सिंह, महानिदेशक कारागार, राजस्थान ने केंद्रीय जेल, जयपुर, राजस्थान में जारी किए
● तिनका तिनका इंडिया पुरस्कार, 2017: श्री अजय कश्यप, जेल महानिदेशक, दिल्ली जेल ने तिहाड़ की जेल नंबर 1, दिल्ली में जारी किए
तिनका तिनका इंडिया अवॉर्ड के महत्वपूर्ण लिंक
1. Tinka Awards: 2024: https://youtu.be/87nkSfnfQno?si=Scy0B995R-pv0hO
2. Tinka Awards: 2023: https://youtu.be/wW2Oh57wD70?si=WuuyGO1zXuBIVRqi
3.Tinka Awards: 2022: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNObsYrK78k&t=23s
4.Tinka Awards: 2021: https://youtu.be/_gxPtgPjn7M
5. Tinka Awards: 2020: https://youtu.be/iW4VD5Z7XO0
6.Tinka Awards: 2019: https://youtu.be/F_rEF4Lt1SE
7. Tinka Awards: 2018: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Apq3v5eqUlo
8.Tinka Awards: 2017: https://youtu.be/gCdZHFr0xyk
