Swapnil R Mishra, former senior correspondent at The Free Press Journal, covers health, BMC, and railways in Mumbai. With a surprising transition from microbiology and forensic science to journalism, he brings a distinct and insightful perspective to his ground reporting. 1) How did you get started in journalism? I had never envisioned a career in media or journalism. My educational background includes a Bachelor's degree in Microbiology and a Postgraduate degree in Forensic Science, which are far removed from the media field. The turning point came when my father suggested I visit The Free Press Journal's office for an interview. Although initially skeptical about entering the media industry, I successfully cleared the interview and was hired as an intern. During my six-month internship, I covered a diverse range of stories from crime to demonetisation, as well as hospital conditions and BMC policies for the city. I often tell my colleagues and friends that I became a reporter

After a week of parliamentary stasis, the government and the Opposition have reached a fragile consensus to hold a constitution debate next week (Dec 13, 14 &16), as reported by The Hindu's Sreeparna Chakrabarty. The agreement brings temporary relief to both Houses, which have been mired in repeated disruptions over critical national issues like the Adani controversy, the violence in Manipur and Sambhal, and ideological divides within the Congress-led Opposition alliance. The impasse, analysed by Liz Mathew for The Indian Express, underscored deep-seated tensions. The Opposition has been accused of stalling debates to corner the government on sensitive issues, particularly the alleged misuse of central agencies to shield corporate interests and silence dissent. However, a report by the Hindustan Times highlighted the government’s firm stance, accusing the Opposition of politicising sensitive topics instead of addressing them constructively. The Manipur violence and the Sa

Long-time ABC radio presenter Robbie Buck has announced he will not return to the airwaves in 2025, concluding nearly 28 years with the broadcaster, Radio Info reported.  During his final Songs & Stories show on Sunday night, Buck reflected on his decision, saying it was the right time to step back, though he remains open to occasional appearances.  He expressed heartfelt gratitude to his colleagues, family, and listeners for their unwavering support. Buck's departure follows the exits of Richard Glover, Sarah Macdonald, and Simon Marnie at ABC Radio Sydney, which has experienced significant changes.  While no official announcement has been made regarding Macdonald’s replacement, speculation includes Hamish Macdonald or Michael Rowland, who recently announced his exit from ABC News Breakfast. ABC’s audio director Ben Latimer praised Buck’s legacy, highlighting his contributions to some of the network’s most iconic programs.  Latimer also addressed the broader ro

Jake Tracey has been announced as the new Mornings announcer for Hit 99.5 Sunraysia, marking another step forward in his radio career, according to Radio Info. Tracey’s journey in radio began in 2018 at SCA, where he joined the Street Team for SAFM and 104.7 Triple M in Adelaide.  He later expanded his expertise as an assistant producer for popular shows, including SAFM’s Bec, Cosi & Lehmo, Triple M’s Roo & Ditts, The Rush Hour, and Deadset Legends. Tracey is also a graduate of the Australian Radio School.  

India’s national broadcaster, Doordarshan (DD), has partnered with the Hockey India League (HIL) to provide live coverage of the 2024-2025 season, beginning on December 28.  The season features eight men’s teams and four women’s teams, with matches taking place in Rourkela and Ranchi. The edition will see the debut of the women’s league.  Navneet Sehgal, chairman of Prasar Bharati, commented on the partnership, saying, “Prasar Bharati is privileged to collaborate with the Hockey India League, a platform that celebrates our national sport and unites people across various categories. Through our extensive coverage, we aim to bring the excitement of hockey, including the historic debut of Women’s HIL, to viewers nationwide, bridging the urban-rural divide and amplifying the league’s impact.” Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Prasar Bharati, stated, “With back-to-back Olympic medals in Tokyo and Paris, Indian sports enthusiasts are confident that Indian hockey is entering a go

The third edition of News18 India’s flagship IP Amrit Ratna 2024 took place on December 2, 2024, to honour individuals who have made immense contributions to India’s global recognition and remarkable achievements across various fields. A prestigious jury comprising Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog, Justice Ranjan Gogoi, former Chief Justice of India and member of Parliament, P.T. Usha, former athlete and member of Parliament, Lt Gen KJS Dhillion; and former director of AIIMS Dr Randeep Guleria deliberated on the individuals' accomplishments.   The list of Amrit Ratna 2024 awardees includes Grammy award-winning violinist L. Subramaniam, actor Dhanush, former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh, singers Gurdas Maan, Udit Narayan, and Kavita Krishnamurthy, classical dancer Sonal Man Singh, actor and educationist Swaroop Sampat, forest man of India Jadav Payeng, and Sufi singer-duo Puranchand Wadali and Lakhwinder Wadali.   The Amrit Ratna Awards recognizes an

SmartCompany’s Eloise Keating has taken the publication's editorial reins, returning to the role of Editor after the departure of former editor-in-chief Simon Crerar last week. The change will see Keating promoted to the masthead’s top job amid a company restructuring. Tegan Jones will also be promoted from Senior Tech Reporter to Deputy Editor at SmartCompany.  Keating’s new role sees her return to theEditor role she occupied between October 2015 and October 2022. After her first stint in charge, Keating had previously worked for the masthead as a news editor. She has been working for the publication since April 2014, joining the company as an Associate Editor.  Keating has also worked for companies such as Crikey, Bookseller+Publisher magazine, Books+Publishing and Inc. Australia.  Speaking on the news Keating told Influencing,  "I'm thrilled to be leading the SmartCompany editorial team as we continue to fight for, champion and scrutinise SMEs and startups, a group