Question 3GS2GS2
Discuss the role of the 'Fourth Estate' in upholding democratic values and analyse the issues affecting press freedom in India. (10 marks, 150 words)
Introduction
Media is referred to as 4th pillar of democracy. Comprise digital, print and broadcast media - newspapers, newschannel, online talk shows.
21 words
Main Body
Role in upholding democratic values:
1Providena evidence backed argument to public regarding an issue. E.g. Tame benefits of Farm Laws
2Holding govt accountable for misuse of power and poor schemes delivering. E.g. Exposing Fodder Scam, Aitques on haryana fake
3Provide a platform to voice issues of public to the government and wider society. E.g. Indian Express exposing Corruption in Bihar recruitment
4Level playing field in elections providing opportunity to candidates in voicing their views and guaranteed. E.g. Coverage of Bharat Jodo Yatra (Rahul Gandhi)
Issues affecting Press Freedom:
1Organisational Issue:
Yellow Journalism: parallel-ti sensationalization of issues and phenomenon of breaking news.
Corporate takeover of media. E.g. Takeover of NDTV by Adani group
Advertisement based Model and lack of advertisement to from political parties.
2External Issue:
Use of ED/CBI against Media House to suffocate dissent. E.g. raid - Dainik Bhaskar
Paid News: the offense which does not create deterrence.
Journalists in search for political favor/award in biased action. E.g. Sting operation - Journalist-eer [illegible]
175 words2 paragraphs6 bullet points
Conclusion
Media needs to form hell and be duty objective and have in its actors to help Radia become ideal democracy.
20 words
- Good use of specific examples to substantiate claims
- Clear categorization of issues into organizational and external categories
- Directly addresses both components of the question - role and issues
- Examples are recent and relevant (Adani, Bihar recruitment, Farm Laws)
- Provides concrete instances of media accountability function
Topper
ADITYA HRIDAY UPADHYAY
Subject & Paper
GS2GS2
Topic
Democratic Institutions and Processes
Fourth Estate and Press Freedom
Role of media in democracy and challenges to press freedom
Writing Stats
216
Total words
2
Paragraphs
6
Bullets
Formal, analytical, with structured listing
Tone