The Laadli Media and Advertising Awards for Gender Sensitivity 2025 were announced on November 19, recognising 63 journalists across print, digital, and television. Presented by Population First in their 15th edition, the awards highlighted stories that demonstrated nuance, sensitivity, and accountability in reporting on gender issues across India. In the English print series category, journalists from The Hindu were recognised for the report “Doctor rape and murder: Violence and vigil in Kolkata,” authored by Shiv Sahay Singh, Shrabana Chatterjee, and Moyurie Som from the newspaper’s Kolkata bureau. Reporters from The News Minute and Newslaundry were honoured for work on sexual assault, portrayals of violence on screen, and transgender welfare boards. TNM journalists Shivani Kava, Anisha Sheth, and Nandini Chandrashekar won the English Web Investigative Story category for the five-part series “Prajwal Revanna Tapes: The Aftermath,” which documented survivor accounts,

Image source: Wikimedia Commons, TOI and HT; Edited by Dinesh Raj M   Nitish Kumar walks back into the Bihar chief minister’s office today for a record 10th time — a political milestone unmatched in India, and a reminder that no one plays Bihar’s coalition chessboard quite like him. What should have been just another oath-taking has turned into a statement of survival: a 75-year-old leader, repeatedly written off, returns backed by a resurgent National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and a mandate that has redrawn the state’s political arithmetic. As Gandhi Maidan prepares for the swearing-in, the bigger story is the recalibration of power within the NDA and what Nitish 10.0 means for governance, stability, and the familiar tug-of-war over portfolios. HOT OFF THE PRESS The Times of India’s Kumar Rakesh and Jai Narain Pandey report that Nitish Kumar will be sworn in at Patna’s historic Gandhi Maidan — a symbolic return to the venue where hi

India’s DTH television sector continued to face challenges in Q2 FY26, with key operators’ financial results reflecting a drop in active subscribers and a growing shift toward connected TV and OTT platforms. According to e4m, Dish TV’s Q2 FY26 revenue fell 25.2 per cent to Rs. 299.2 crore from Rs. 400 crore in the same quarter last year, reflecting continued operational weakness. Airtel Digital TV posted nearly stable revenue of Rs 753 crore, down 0.66 per cent from Q2 FY25. In H1 FY26, Dish TV’s income declined 26.5 per cent to Rs. 633.4 crore, while Airtel Digital TV recorded Rs. 1,516 crore, a slight 1.24 per cent dip. Tata Play’s FY25 revenue fell 5.05 per cent to Rs. 4,109 crore. Sun Direct did not release Q2 figures, but its first nine months of FY25 saw a 9.88 per cent decline to Rs. 939 crore.  

Asianetnews.com has unveiled the India H.O.G. Rally 2025, an exclusive celebration of Harley-Davidson heritage and community, scheduled for December 19–20 at Morjim Beach, Goa. The event promises to bring together Harley owners and enthusiasts from across the country for two days of high-octane camaraderie and coastal revelry. Hosted by the Epicenter Chapter (Nagpur) and the Iron Ore Chapter (Raipur), the invitation-only rally will feature signature Harley rides, curated meet-and-greet sessions, live music, and the prestigious H.O.G. Awards Ceremony—honouring standout riders and chapters. The event is supported by key partners including Nayara Energy, Union Bank of India, Motul, and Farzi Beach, underscoring its stature as a flagship gathering for India’s Harley-Davidson community.  

In the dynamic news ecosystem dominated by algorithms, trends and shrinking patience in reading stories, feature writers continue to hold onto one of the most enduring crafts of journalism: deep, human-centred storytelling. Shaped by observation, live encounters or patient searches for the right voice, feature journalists remain committed to their nuance and narrative, even when the industry shifts.   For independent journalist Riddhi Doshi, becoming a feature writer was a “natural trajectory,” shaped by her early work in lifestyle, luxury, and the arts, beats that naturally lean toward narrative storytelling. With over 20 years in journalism, including 15 as a feature writer, she says the best ideas come from reading widely and staying alert to everyday moments. “I’ve found ideas in a friend’s comment, something overheard on a train, or even a taxi driver’s remark. Ideas are everywhere; you just have to see and listen,” she says.&

A recent incident involving the false announcement of veteran actor Dharmendra’s “death” on television and on the social media accounts of several journalists has reignited concerns about how the race to break news first is eroding basic journalistic checks. The unverified update, triggered by a misleading social media post, was aired within minutes and spread rapidly online before the actor’s family confirmed he was alive and recovering. Despite the clarification, the rumour continued to circulate across platforms. The episode has renewed calls for stronger editorial safeguards, particularly during live broadcasts where competitive pressure is highest. It has also highlighted the emotional and professional strain faced by journalists who are often subjected to intense trolling over real or perceived errors. Senior entertainment journalist Rohit Khilnani said the problem reflects a larger crisis in newsrooms. “Whatever the pressure, a journalist’s first responsibility i

  The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has issued a formal advisory to digital news platforms and social media intermediaries regarding online content linked to the Red Fort blasts, which may inadvertently incite unlawful activity. According to Adgully, the advisory highlighted posts featuring individuals allegedly connected to the incident, commentary appearing to justify violence, and videos demonstrating explosive-making methods. The advisory, issued by Deputy Secretary Arpitha S with approval from the competent authority, outlines two key expectations for digital platforms: first, to exercise maximum discretion and sensitivity when reporting on terror-related incidents or individuals; and second, to avoid publishing visuals or narratives that could serve as guides or motivation for unlawful acts. In a bid to ensure compliance, the advisory has also been circulated to industry self-regulatory bodies. The move reflects the government’s broader push for digital