Kohima: Nagaland's media is growing, but its next generation of journalists sees plenty of room for improvement. Fifth-semester Mass Communication students at Tetso College in Chümoukedima recently weighed in on the industry during an independent survey. They view media as a powerful tool for public voice, yet they remain critical of current standards.
Ethics emerged as the primary friction point. One student noted, "The current state of journalism in Nagaland is yet to grow, but it is slowly growing," while criticizing the field for often ignoring professional codes of conduct. Students pointed to a trend where locals often report news faster than professional reporters, which can lead to ethical breaches and dangerous outcomes in sensitive cases.
The classroom vs. the newsroom remains a significant divide. Many students feel their academic training lacks the hands-on experience and equipment access required for modern work. They want courses updated to match current industry realities. Some students still credit internships and class assignments with providing a vital foundation for their future careers.
Investigative reporting needs a serious boost. Students highlighted governance, road infrastructure, rural education inequality, human trafficking, and disaster preparedness as neglected beats. They argued that stronger reporting could expose facts and showcase the real power of the press. One respondent stated, "The roles should be more strong-headed, rejecting the interference and authority of the governance in the media industry."
Working conditions are also failing to keep pace. Respondents called for better pay, increased job security, and specialized training in AI, cybersecurity, and fact-checking. To move forward, students argue that Nagaland must fight against social judgment that suppresses creative expression. They remain hopeful, maintaining that journalism must act as an independent, open voice for the people.
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