In an Influencing Insider conversation, veteran journalist Maya Sharma reflects on 35 years in television, the challenges women still face, the emotional weight of reporting, and why credibility, independence and measured journalism matter even more in the age of virality.

As audiences increasingly get their news from websites, social media and other digital platforms, the conventional newspaper bureau might appear to be losing relevance. Yet some Indian media organisations are still investing in physical newsrooms, reporting teams and new editions. The Pioneer recently expanded into Kerala with its Keralam edition and a bureau in Thiruvananthapuram, while India Unboxed is developing a newsroom serving both its print and digital operations. The Indian Express is also looking at print, online and e-paper formats as part of its expansion. What these investments suggest is that the physical bureau is not necessarily being built for print alone. It is increasingly becoming the reporting base from which journalism can be produced for several platforms.

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A CAG audit has flagged 1,902 income-tax lapses involving 25,085 crore, including 23,769 crore in under-assessment or under-charging. Air India has meanwhile ordered one-time drug tests for all roughly 300 pilots after the Phuket-Delhi incident. The Taliban is preparing to host its first public reception in India to mark five years since its Afghanistan takeover, with Indian government representation expected.

A state-level consultation on strengthening child protection through ethical and responsible reporting was held in Dimapur on August 11, bringing together media houses and YouTubers. Organised by Prodigals’ Home with support from DKA Austria, the meeting highlighted the need for greater sensitivity, legal awareness and responsible editing while reporting cases involving children.

The Supreme Court ruled that the Maharashtra government cannot delegate its power to refer disputed wage claims of journalists and newspaper employees to Labour Courts under Section 17(2) of the Working Journalists Act, 1955.

Sikkim Express editor Amit Patro encouraged young students to develop a habit of reading, ask questions and remain curious during a mentorship session at Middle Syari Government Primary School in Sikkim. Patro interacted with the students as a distinguished guest mentor under the school’s School Development and Mentorship Initiative, which seeks to give students exposure to people and experiences beyond their immediate surroundings.

Journalist, editor, and Founder and Publisher of Interiors Addict, Jen Bishop (Francis), has passed away following a short battle with pancreatic cancer.

The media has a critical role in reducing misunderstandings and helping conflicting sides understand each other, senior journalist Yumnam Rupachandra said at a programme organised by the Indigenous People’s Organisation Manipur (IPOM). The discussion was held as part of IPOM’s third Foundation Day programme at Toubungkhok Makha Leikai under the theme The Role of Media in Conflict Resolution. Speakers focused on responsible reporting, verification and the dangers of misinformation in a conflict-affected society.

Dentsu Creative Isobar has won the integrated creative mandate for premium menswear brand Blackberrys (Mohan Clothing Co. Pvt. Ltd.) following a multi-agency pitch. The account will be serviced by the agency’s Gurgaon office.

Adith Charlie has joined YourStory Media as Managing Editor, bringing over 18 years of experience in digital newsrooms, publishing, and media leadership.

India’s radio broadcasters began FY27 with mixed results as weak advertising demand and macroeconomic uncertainty continued to affect the sector. However, tighter cost controls, diversified revenue streams and integrated marketing solutions helped several players protect profitability.

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