Press freedom and AI: Indian media at a crossroads ahead of National Press Day

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published last month |  JP Asia Desk

Ahead of National Press Day, Indian media is urged to reinforce its role as democracy’s fourth pillar, balancing AI, social media pressures, and editorial independence while adapting to digital-era challenges.

Summary

NEW DELHI — As India prepares to mark National Press Day on November 16, media analysts and commentators are calling on the country’s press to reaffirm its role as the “fourth pillar” of democracy in an era dominated by digital disruption.

The commentary published in Indian media outlets highlights the dual pressures facing Indian journalism: the rapid evolution of technology, including artificial intelligence and social media platforms, and persistent constraints on freedom of expression.

Experts argue that media organizations must now balance innovation with integrity. Newsrooms are being urged to reassess traditional business models, invest in digital transformation, and develop strategies to mitigate platform-driven risks such as misinformation and algorithmic biases. At the same time, maintaining editorial independence and robust journalistic standards remains essential to upholding public trust.

“National Press Day is a moment to reflect not only on the achievements of Indian journalism but also on the challenges ahead,” the commentary notes. “In a digital-first world, the press must adapt to new technologies while safeguarding its core democratic role.”

The message resonates beyond India, reflecting a global debate on how media can thrive under economic pressures, technological change, and political scrutiny without compromising the fundamental principles of journalism.

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