DSF Rising Reporters
Empowering the next generation of journalists
DSF Rising Reporters is an initiative of the Danish Siddiqui Foundation that showcases the work of journalism students who have received the foundation’s annual scholarship. These students have been selected for their promise, dedication, and commitment to telling stories that reflect the values of truth, empathy, and integrity.
The showcased projects represent independent work by the recipients and cover a range of critical themes, including human rights, social issues, local narratives, and underreported voices. Their efforts demonstrate both journalistic skill and a deep sense of social responsibility. Through this platform, the foundation proudly recognizes their achievements and supports these emerging storytellers as they shape the future of journalism.
Disclaimer: The journalism projects presented are independent works by their creators. The Danish Siddiqui Foundation has provided a platform to showcase these projects but does not exercise editorial control over the content. All views and opinions expressed are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect those of the Foundation.
Beyond the Bylines: Documenting Journalists' Safety
by Rahat Touhid
In “Beyond the Bylines: Documenting Journalists’ Safety,” Rahat Touhid presents a powerful documentary featuring interviews with journalists from around the globe. Through compelling narratives and firsthand accounts, this documentary explores the challenges journalists face, the gaps in safety measures, and potential solutions to ensure their protection. Join us as Rahat Touhid unveils the untold stories behind the headlines, highlighting the urgent need to prioritize journalist safety in today’s volatile media landscape. Don’t miss this eye-opening journey into the realities of journalism and the quest for a safer future for those who bring us the news.
The Other Way : Inside the World of Freelance Journalism
by Sakshi Srivastava
The Other Way: Inside the World of Freelance Journalism is a documentary that offers a compelling insight into the lives and work of independent journalists in India. Through the personal journeys of Saurabh Shukla (Co-Founder, Red Mike), Tanushree Pandey (Freelance Journalist) , Mandeep Punia (Founder, Gaon Savera) , and Amir Mallik (Freelance Journalist), the film explores their transition from mainstream media to the realm of freelance journalism. It highlights the ethical dilemmas, professional risks, and newfound freedoms that accompany this shift. The documentary aims to shed light on the evolving landscape of journalism in India, where independence often comes with both opportunity and adversity. It reflects on the significance of journalistic integrity in a rapidly changing media environment and the role of freelance voices in sustaining democratic values.
Resilient Reporters: Chronicles of Women Journalists Safety in India
by Umaima Khanam
The documentary explores two main themes: how fear is perpetuated as women reporters do their work, and the provision (or lack thereof) of safety measures by Indian organizations. It features conversations with women journalists, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, and follows their current stories to understand their experiences. Despite journalism being a popular career choice, the state of journalism in India ranks poorly on the World Press Freedom Index, leaving aspiring women journalists uncertain about their future. Through these narratives, the documentary sheds light on the challenges faced by women journalists in India and their implications for press freedom and journalistic integrity.
Echoes of the Mines: Stories from the Fringes
by Ishan Banerjee
This visual story delves into the lives of those residing on the fringes of mines, whose existence is shaped by the mining industry despite not working within it. It unveils nuanced dependencies, from local businesses to family dynamics, through poignant imagery. The visual story captures the resilience and everyday challenges faced by these communities, highlighting their reliance on the mines for survival and the environmental and health repercussions they endure. This project aims to bring to light the often overlooked narratives of those living in the shadow of mines, revealing their untold stories and fostering empathy and understanding.
Awaaz Podcast Series: Journalist Safety A Start
by Aman Jaiswal
A photojournalist is like a Warrior in the field with only the weapon of a Camera, which speaks through its pictures and catches the ears and eyes of people. Under AWAAZ Podcast, 5 Episodes will be covered in Hindi language Loktantra ka Chautha sthambh, Patrakar ki nigah se, Tasvir e Hindustan, Suchna, Sewa aur Suraksha, Zra Yaad Karo unko and Shauk, samarpan aur samvidhan. Through this project, I and many students striving to become journalists and want to be telecasted on the screen will learn about behind-the-scenes reality. The life of journalists serving the nation through News, Information, Photo, and Sting operations.The facilities and respect they get at work and after leaving behind their story, photo, and family forever. The harsh reality, which many of us never read or don’t want to know, will be unfolded so that the darkness behind the camera struggle behind the story can be felt.
Navigating Challenges in India’s Media Landscape : A Study of Press Freedom and Journalist Safety
by Udisha Shrivastav
India’s rapid economic growth and technological advancements have propelled it onto the global stage. However, the country’s media industry grapples with many challenges alongside these developments.
This paper delves into the complexities of India’s media landscape, with a focus on press freedom and journalist safety. Utilizing KnightLab’s StoryMapJS, interactive map-based stories are analyzed to explore the diverse challenges faced by journalists, including financial, physical, digital, and psychological safety concerns. By examining detailed incident timelines for journalists Devendra Khare, Ismat Ara, and Navin Kumar, this paper provides valuable insights into media freedom’s evolving dynamics and the threats journalists and media organizations encounter in India.