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In the contemporary era of electronic connectivity, social media has come to play a central role in our existence — influencing attitudes, disseminating information, and unifying people on the planet. But great power is equal to great responsibility. As the recent past demonstrates to us, indiscriminate or haphazard application of social media, particularly during the moments of great significance like defense operations, could be disastrous to national security.

The government has, time and again, asked all the media channels, online media, and the people as a whole to tread carefully while reporting or posting news or updates on security or military operations. 

“Live reporting or live reporting of the movement of troops, operation details, or the ground environment can jeopardize operations, compromise operational capability, and even put lives of our troops and civilians at risk,” said the Spokesperson of Defence Ministry

He added, “History has hard lessons. The Kargil War, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, and the Kandahar hijack all point to how early or uncontrolled reporting can ignite crises. In a few instances, enemies have been found to use media reports to track security reactions in real time, reversing the script tactically.”

Realizing these risks, the government has enunciated clear legal protections. Media organizations are not allowed to offer live coverage of anti-terror or defence operations under sub-rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. Official periodic briefings by authorized spokespersons are allowed to ensure information released is accurate, timely, and does not harm national interests.

The onus, though, isn't entirely with the mainstream media. Social media users — influencers, content creators, and regular individuals — bear a responsibility too. Reckless sharing of photos, videos, or source-linked posts can exacerbate dangers and encourage panic or misinformation.

As information citizens, we need to value vigilance, sensitivity, and national responsibility more than speed or sensationalism. Ethical reporting is not good journalism or digital citizenship — it is public service. During crises, restraint is not censorship — it is wisdom.

X handle of Ministry of Defence, Government of India, writes,

“All media channels, digital platforms and individuals are advised to refrain from live coverage or real-time reporting of defence operations and movement of security forces. Disclosure of such sensitive or source-based information may jeopardize operational effectiveness and endanger lives. Past incidents like the #KargilWar, 26/11 attacks, and the #Kandahar hijacking underscores the risks of premature reporting. As per clause 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, only periodic briefings by designated officials are permitted during anti-terror operations. All stakeholders are urged to exercise vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation.”

A World of Stories Awaits

Have you ever dreamed of telling stories that matter, meeting amazing people, or traveling the world to uncover the truth? A career in journalism and mass communication opens the door to all that and more! It’s not just about writing for newspapers—it’s about becoming a voice for the voiceless, shining a light on important issues, and inspiring others through your words, videos, or social media stories. In a world overflowing with information, journalists are the heroes who help people understand what’s really going on.

The Power of Truth-Telling 

At its core, journalism is about truth-telling. It's about digging beneath the surface, asking the hard questions, and bringing clarity to complex issues. Journalists are often the first responders to major events—be it natural disasters, political upheavals, global pandemics, or social movements. Their role is not only to inform but to connect people across boundaries. Whether you're covering a protest in a local neighborhood or reporting on climate change from the Arctic, you’re making a difference by bringing those stories to light.

Diverse Career Opportunities 

But journalism and mass communication go far beyond traditional reporting. Today, the field has expanded to include digital journalism, multimedia storytelling, public relations, content creation, broadcast journalism, advertising, photojournalism, and even corporate communication. Each of these branches offers unique opportunities to shape narratives and influence society in meaningful ways. For example, a digital journalist may break news on Twitter before it hits TV screens, while a broadcast journalist might be live on the scene, providing real-time updates. Meanwhile, communication professionals help brands navigate crises, build trust with the public, and communicate clearly in an age of misinformation.

Versatility is Key

One of the most exciting aspects of this field is its adaptability. As the media landscape evolves, so do the roles of communicators. Today’s journalists must be versatile—able to write compelling copy, shoot and edit video, manage social media accounts, and even understand basic data visualization. Storytelling is no longer confined to the printed page. Podcasts, vlogs, interactive web features, and Instagram reels have become powerful tools for conveying narratives and reaching diverse audiences.

Master the Art of Writing

If you love to write, journalism gives you the chance to refine that craft every day. Great journalists are great storytellers—they know how to captivate a reader with a headline, pull them in with a lead, and keep them engaged with clear, concise, and powerful prose. But beyond style, journalism teaches you discipline: deadlines, fact-checking, source verification, and the ethical responsibility to be fair and accurate. These are skills that not only serve you in your profession but also in everyday life.

Shine on Camera Or Behind the Scenes

Maybe you’re someone who thrives in front of the camera. Broadcast journalism could be your calling. News anchors, field reporters, and TV presenters are not just personalities—they are professionals trained in journalism who can deliver breaking news with clarity, empathy, and authority. Their job requires poise under pressure, sharp interviewing skills, and the ability to speak to large audiences with authenticity. The thrill of being on the frontlines of history in the making is unlike anything else.

Behind the camera, the world is just as dynamic. Producers, videographers, editors, and directors play a crucial role in shaping how a story is told. From framing the perfect shot to mixing audio for a podcast, these professionals bring creativity and technical expertise together to deliver content that resonates. They are the silent storytellers, making decisions about what footage to use, what music to include, and how to pace a story for maximum impact.

The Rise of Social Media Journalism

In the digital era, the power of social media can’t be ignored. Social media journalists use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook to disseminate news and build communities. With just a smartphone, today’s reporters can livestream events, engage with their audience in real time, and cover stories as they unfold. In fact, many young journalists are making their mark entirely through digital platforms, going viral with investigative threads, or sharing powerful visual content that sparks global conversations.

Beyond news reporting, mass communication also includes fields like advertising and public relations. These professionals craft messages to influence perception, build brand identity, and create compelling narratives that engage consumers. Think about the most memorable advertisement you’ve seen—it wasn’t just a product pitch, it was a story, a feeling, a message designed to connect. That’s the power of communication.

Advertising & PR Shaping Public Perception 

In public relations, the role is even more nuanced. PR professionals manage the image and reputation of companies, celebrities, non-profits, and political figures. When a crisis strikes, it’s the communication team that drafts the statement, handles media inquiries, and ensures that the message being delivered aligns with the values of the organization. In today’s age of cancel culture and instant backlash, PR experts are indispensable.

Journalism Knows no boarders

Moreover, journalism is inherently a global profession. As a journalist, you may find yourself traveling across countries or continents, interviewing world leaders, covering international conferences, or exploring cultural stories in remote villages. Journalism has no borders—it thrives on curiosity and the willingness to explore. International correspondents bring the world to our living rooms, offering insights into different societies, conflicts, innovations, and traditions. These global perspectives are vital in fostering empathy and understanding across nations.

A Responsibility,not just a Role

But being a journalist is not just glamorous; it’s also a responsibility. Journalists hold power—to influence opinions, uncover wrongdoing, and give a platform to marginalized voices. With this power comes the need for integrity, courage, and empathy. You might be the one asking tough questions in a press conference, challenging the status quo, or shedding light on issues others are too afraid to touch. It’s demanding work, and sometimes even dangerous, but it is also profoundly rewarding.

Investigative Journalism : Dig Deep

Another exciting avenue in this field is investigative journalism. Investigative reporters spend weeks, months, or even years digging into complex stories—exposing corruption, environmental crimes, human rights abuses, or corporate misconduct. Their work often leads to legal action, policy change, and justice for those wronged. Think of the Watergate scandal or the Panama Papers—investigative journalism changes the course of history.

Start with Campus Journalism

Campus journalism and student-led media outlets are a great way to start. Many of today’s top journalists began by writing for their college newspaper or hosting a radio show. These platforms are excellent training grounds, offering real-world experience in writing, editing, production, and leadership. In fact, media literacy and storytelling skills are becoming essential in almost every profession. Whether you go into journalism, marketing, education, or even law, the ability to communicate effectively is a powerful advantage.

Journalism as Advocacy 

In addition, journalism often intersects with activism and advocacy. Through feature stories, opinion pieces, and documentaries, journalists can raise awareness about causes they care about—be it gender equality, climate change, mental health, or education reform. These stories don’t just inform—they mobilize people to act, vote, donate, or simply see the world in a new way.

Creative Freedom & Innovation

The field also offers immense creative freedom. Want to create a podcast about culture and identity? Start a YouTube channel that interviews local entrepreneurs? Curate a newsletter about mental health? The tools are accessible, and the audience is out there. With commitment and vision, you can build your own platform and reach people on your terms.

Embrace Tech in Media

Technological advancements have also opened new frontiers in journalism and mass communication. Artificial intelligence, data journalism, drones, and augmented reality are being integrated into storytelling. Journalists now use data sets to uncover patterns and trends, build interactive graphics, and visualize issues in compelling ways. Tools like Google Earth, 3D modeling, and real-time analytics allow for immersive and personalized content. Being tech-savvy can give you a competitive edge and help you stand out in a crowded media landscape.

Human Connection at the Core

And let’s not forget the human side. Journalism gives you the rare privilege of connecting with people from all walks of life. You’ll meet survivors of tragedy, pioneers of innovation, everyday heroes, and people whose stories have never been told. Every conversation, every interview, is a chance to learn and grow. It teaches you empathy, listening, patience, and the ability to see the world from someone else’s point of view.

A Growing Demand for Credibility

Furthermore, the demand for good journalism has never been higher. In an era plagued by fake news, clickbait, and misinformation, credible journalists are more essential than ever. The public depends on trustworthy sources to navigate the chaos of the internet and make informed decisions. By committing to ethical reporting, fact-checking, and transparency, you contribute to a healthier, more informed society.

Limitless Career Paths

In terms of career growth, the possibilities are diverse. You could become a political correspondent, a foreign affairs analyst, a documentary filmmaker, a war reporter, a magazine editor, a public relations consultant, a content strategist, or even a communications director for an international NGO. The skills you gain—research, writing, analysis, digital literacy, communication—are transferable and highly valued in multiple sectors.

Hands-On Education

To prepare for such a dynamic career, academic programs in journalism and mass communication offer a mix of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice. You’ll learn media ethics, communication theories, production techniques, reporting standards, and digital tools. Internships, workshops, and mentorships provide real-world exposure. You’ll also build a portfolio—an essential step in showcasing your skills to future employers or collaborators.

Journalism is a Calling

Ultimately, if you are passionate, fearless, and eager to explore the world with open eyes and a strong voice, journalism is the perfect adventure waiting for you. It’s a journey that will challenge and transform you. You won’t just witness history—you’ll help shape it. You’ll inspire change, give people hope, and leave a lasting impact through the power of your words and visuals.

So whether you're drawn to the fast-paced world of breaking news, the creative realm of digital media, or the strategic space of communication management, journalism and mass communication invite you to be part of something bigger. It’s more than a career—it’s a calling. And the world is waiting for your story!

In this digital-first world, Indian students can no longer consider media education as an extra subject to be added to their curriculum but must consider it as a full-fledged course. Students need a thorough grounding on how to use, analyze, and create media, with this knowledge inextricably linked to academic performance and career prospects. Recent research findings and examples show media education, when implemented effectively, can work wonders for students all over India.

What Is Media Education?

Media education is not just about learning how to use smartphones or computers. It is the honing of critical skills that allow media content to be understood, evaluated, and created responsibly. It ranges from analyzing the media, like the news, advertisements, to creating video content, to actively participating on social media platforms.

Several recent studies underline the positive relationship between media education and student-level academic outcomes in India. For instance, a study from 2024 carried out among students in Maharashtra noted that students who used social media for rather academic purposes, such as for downloading study material, joining study groups, and online collaboration, correlated positively with superior academic dispersion in performance. The intimation from the study was also that students having better digital literacy were inclined to using media for productivity and rather stayed away from distractions, henceforth, bettering their grades and learning outcomes.

In another study carried out on undergraduates, it was found that digital media-enhanced learning experiences utilizing educational videos, interactive content, and online resources. About 85% of the student population attested that sampled/integrated digital media systems enhanced their academic achievement, while over 77% claimed that they learnt better via digital media when compared with an old-fashioned approach. Similar results to these have been found in Punjab and other Indian states, where students who used media platforms to access promotional educational resources performed better academically.

Building Future-Ready Skills of Successful Career

Media education, in a way, is not just about scoring higher marks; it is about preparing students for the selected workforce of the 21st century. Skilled employers today put a lot of work into digital literacy, critical thinking, and interpersonal communications using the various forms of media. By learning to analyze information, create digital content, and responsibly handle media, students increase their value and adaptability in the ever-changing landscape of future employers.

The study carried out in 2023 revealed that almost 78% of the Indian students who had undergone media education felt confident about using social media responsibly, which has become an increasingly significant arena in the professional world. Apart from this, students with strong media skills can better market themselves for a career in journalism, digital marketing, public relations, content creation, or even STEM-the fields where communication and digital collaboration are duly ranked.

One of the Most Important Factors for Success

Some variables determine the true impact of media education on student outcomes:

• Digital Literacy- The more students are digitally literate, the more they can make media education work for them, and vice versa for disadvantages such as distraction or misinformation.
• Quality of Content- Well-made instructional materials used with appropriate guidance from the teacher make media education more successful.
• Socio-Economic Background- Students from high socio-economic backgrounds usually have better access to technology, but well-thought-out interventions can go a long way in eliminating this digital divide.
• Parental and Teacher Guidance- Support from adults helps students use media tools effectively for learning rather than just entertainment.

Some Practical Tips for Indian Students

• First and foremost, use social media and digital platforms to learn – one can join study groups, follow educational channels, and participate in online discussions.
• Look for media education programs or workshops offered by your school or pertinent organisations in your area.
• Practice making your own digital content, such as blogs, videos, or infographics, so that you can develop the skills.
• Be wary of misinformation, and always verify sources before sharing or believing the content.

In conclusion, media education has turned out to be a proven ally of Indian students in improving both their academic achievement and career readiness. Lessening potential threats of media exposure and encouraging digital literacy and critical thinking not only help  better academic performance but also provide a competitive advantage in the country's job market. As the globe continues to be shaped by digital media, investing in media education is one of the wisest investments a student can make for success in a 21st-century framework.

Social media, a platform that was born as an entertainment stage and connection-making space, has now become something big and dangerous. Since its beginnings, social media has transformed into a business empire that helps influencers and brands by creating professional opportunities. 

Today the platform stands as a fundamental source of elevated gravity after it evolved from its initial purpose. Social media now functions as a medium through which single tweets, social media posts and comments, steer public sentiments as they mould international discourse and influence national security measures.

The aftermath of Operation Sindoor reveals how social media delivers its full transformative abilities. Online communication, which people previously wrote off as meaningless noise, possesses new capabilities to activate concrete security threats between countries both equipped with nuclear power. Silly memes that ran on social media platforms about war and mock drills now serve to spread misinformation as they drive fear and possibly cause mass panic.

From Pahalgam Terror Attack to Indian Army Air Strike  

Following the Pahalgam terror attack that took 26 lives 15 days ago, the Indian government decided to cut off Indus water supply to Pakistan and enforce harsh economic sanctions, which Pakistanis turned into laughing memes. Social media users in Pakistan posted tweets and comments making jokes on the Pakistan government, Pakistan's security, and their current situation while viewing the crisis as nothing more than social media amusement.

The actual situation soon proved to be much more grave than first expected after the India attack on Pakistan today became a real-life situation as the Indian government exercised its right to act on terror. India stayed focused on unprecedented developments while the rest of the world fixated on trending memes. On May 7, 2025 at 1:44 am India initiated Operation Sindoor as a joint military operation which struck nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir targeting Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed bases. The precisely executed missile attack at 1:44 am destroyed the infrastructure behind Pahalgam attacks by killing more than 80 terrorists and damaging nine major terror camps deeply.

Operation Sindoor is not a game, not a meme, and not at all a mock drill. However, sequential planning of the operation ensured the protection of civilians alongside military forces while targeting solely enemy facilities. Prime Minister Modi stayed in continuous contact with the military throughout the night to show India's stern commitment to ensure justice and protect its citizens. 

Why It Matters? 

• Border residents and frontline soldiers face real threats together with ordinary citizens as the rising conflict spreads dangerous uncertainty across the region.
• Operations Sindoor stands as both justice for Pahalgam attack victims and India's notice to all terrorists that reprisals against violence will come swiftly. 
• The pursuit of justice maintains global security at risk because escalating tensions between two nations possessing nuclear weapons have reached critical levels. 

Social Media After Indian Air Strike 

Right after Operation Sindoor both Indian ministers and top Pakistani pages posted extensively on X (formerly Twitter) throughout the immediate period. Official Indian military statements alongside Army communications posted on social media declared that "justice is served" with precise targeted strikes which demonstrated restraint while asking people to trust only validated government information releases. Various notable Pakistani government-linked social media profiles and media entities controlled by ISPR published baseless reports about Pakistani military actions.

The specious claims included fabricated reports about missile launches targeting 15 Indian points and assaults on Srinagar Airbase together with destructive attacks on Indian Army Brigade Headquarters but lacked evidence from reliable sources such as satellite data. India’s PIB Fact Check quickly dispelled false visuals by demonstrating that shared videos and images were outdated or unrelated and digitally altered. Mainstream Pakistani media spread misinformation about Indian targets which fact-checkers had disproved through their work. These fact-checks did not stop mainstream Pakistani media from widely sharing this disproven information to support their retaliatory narrative. 

Reactions of World Leaders on Social Media

World leaders through both press events and social media platforms pressured India's strikes against terror bases in Pakistan while urging both countries to stay peaceful. Through his Twitter account President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the “very quick” ending of hostilities which he described as a tragic development reflecting worldwide apprehension. 

X platform became the stage for Anand Mahindra and other Indian business figures who showed support for military forces through unifying content messages. Social media received an overwhelming number of unverified content from Pakistani accounts linked to the government who shared fabricated images while misrepresenting staged footage as evidence of new attacks. Said posts were rapidly challenged by fact-checkers along with India's Press Information Bureau. 

The New Reality: One Post Can Change Everything

The current crisis has shown social media's potential to completely transform everyday life together with its inherent risks. The original light-hearted contents often turn into harmful misinformation that triggers public uncertainty and serious international incidents. After comparing military exercises to PUBG and Call of Duty last night before the Indian air strike today, netizens now understand how internet stories are far worse and dangerous in real-life. 

The world is holding up a hope that Pakistan will choose peaceful actions instead of hostile stances while finally halting its backing of terrorist groups. Peaceful intentions should prevail to stop innocent deaths that result from violence or fake news spread to either population. Social media needs to transition from spreading fear while creating conflicts into becoming a platform for spreading peace and promoting truths. 

Have you ever wondered what genuine journalism work is like in India? The day starts before dawn as journalists greet each morning with hot chai and a stack of newspapers in their hands. The experience of journalistic aspiration requires students to maintain active work while creating innovative content alongside continuous education. Here is a quick glimpse of a day in the life of an Indian journalist:  

Morning of a Journalist in India

Journalists start their day early by assessing news from The Times of India alongside both Indian regional publications and international media such as BBC and Al Jazeera. The goal? Journalists need to detect emerging themes while matching regional news reports to worldwide information along with uncovering new potential story ideas. As a student, if you follow this practice, it’ll offer tremendous value because it develops your news perception while enabling you to discover connections which evade most people. The digital age has not eliminated the importance of print media in India because journalists now combine traditional research methods with social media tracking to find news leads. This skill when adapted will help journalism students become industry-ready journalists. 

Mid-Morning: Pitching, Research, and Chasing Stories

Editors expect ideas from journalists during the second half of morning hours. Journalists present their investigative questions to editors; for example, if they need to explain why a community demonstration is significant, they will go with the pitch question, “Could a revision in policy regulations affect the farming sector of Punjab state?” Journalists devote many hours to confirming documentary evidence while they contact their sources and investigate various reports. If you are an intern, you must try to enter the deep end of professional work while performing your duties. Learning to create brief pitches in high-pressure situations will ensure that steadfast attempts at rejected ideas might result in future acceptance.

Afternoon of a Journalist: Fieldwork and Face-to-Face Journalism

Afternoons are for boots-on-the-ground reporting. The practice of journalism depends heavily on making human connections because journalists conduct interviews with slum dwellers just as much as they do with tech CEOs. Most students fail to recognize the time it requires to establish trust with their interview sources. Waiting outside a corporate office for a quotation and facing crowded markets to get vital source interviews consume many hours of your time. The process of bagging great soundbites emerges from unpredictable conditions while delivering constant rewarding moments.

Evening Churn: Writing Against the Clock

The real mysteries unfold during deadline periods since that is when all writing begins. Reporters convert disorderly field recordings together with their jumbled notes into professional finished stories. The editorial process forces writers to reduce wordiness while clearing up technical terms and seize reader attention from the beginning. The student writer experience during this stage becomes quite humbling. Running paragraphs through ten revisions will not satisfy your editor, who will instruct you to begin from scratch. The process of revision consistently strengthens your communication style. Students must learn to multitask since modern digital practices demand video modifications and social media design along with voice recording work.

The Digital world Continues Operating Always

Anyone in the field of journalism would agree that  they can work and do work round the clock because of news is something that won’t wait for anyone… And if it can, then it’s not worth  the attention of the public. The demand for 24/7 news coverage often puts journalists in the position to post commentary during political emergencies or report about whatever is happening in real time. The pace of this field is hard to match for those who believe in steady working. Any individual starting a position in this field needs to adapt to changing circumstances. The function of social media goes far beyond tools because it serves as both the breaking news source and audience interaction platform while building your personal image.

What Students Need to Know?

Aspiring journalists in India must know that the industry speeds up at unprecedented rate. Digital capabilities such as video editing combined with SEO writing and data visualization possess equivalent importance compared to maintaining a keen pen. Hindi, Tamil, and Malayalam media platforms thrive in the current climate because journalists with local understanding are needed to produce content for these outlets. But challenges? Oh, they’re real. Members of the press industry must embrace long working hours with uncertain deadlines as well as confront ethical challenges when reporting on victims while sustaining impartiality despite increasing political polarisation. 

Why It’s Worth It

Despite the disorder in which journalism operates it affords you the chance to observe history firsthand. The profession enables you to encounter diverse individuals alongside discovering hidden accounts and summoning government responsibility. The main requirement for students who want to succeed in this field is flexibility. Students can build successful careers in digital journalism through data journalism courses and digital internships with constant networking. Veteran journalists all started at the same point by holding pads filled with notes and showing both anxiousness and determination to interview their first subject.

In summary, the day-to-day work of a journalist in India lacks famous elements but lacks nothing in excitement. This profession welcomes those who thrive through curiosity and resilience while holding true that stories have the power to influence minds. Initiate your journalism journey by embracing the present moment since you’re willing to make this trade-off right now. Additionally, to walk on the path to journalism success, it requires you to follow reporters on Twitter and other social media platforms for inspiration and motivation. Remember, the news won’t wait, and neither should you! Don’t think much; pursue journalism and live a thrilling life as a journalist in India. 

The world of the internet we are living in is full of glamour, likes, fame, beauty, profit, and everything else we could think of. But every coin has a flip side… Social media is as soothing as rain but is also as fatal as a storm. This storm has claimed the life of Misha Agarwal, a great content creator and an aspiring law student. 

The storm, which comes silently under all the bliss of the digital age with promises of connection and opportunities, is beyond the understanding of human perception. Her demise does not remain as a private tragedy but rather as a wake-up call for all those who have traversed the pressures surrounding the online world and have felt worthless. 

Validation Becomes a Burden in Social Media

Many young Indians today will relate to the story of Misha. Just like so many others, her life was all about her online identity. It was a constant chase for likes, followers, and some digital applause that turned into a disease-like anxiety and despair. As per her family, her drop of Instagram followers shattered her fragile confidence and self-worth to such levels that she fell into a deep, dark pit of depression from which she kept struggling to come out until she couldn’t.

This is not an isolated case at all. Social media platforms are built to addict us and shower us with dopamine for every like and comment. What happens when that applause goes away? Those very same platforms that pretended to see us quickly become avenues of loneliness, self-doubt, anxiety, and depression, especially for teenagers and young adults.

Think More of the Mind Than the Profile

The person behind every profile has dreams, skills, and a life other than in the digital sphere, and this shouldn’t be forgotten at any cost. It is our responsibility towards ourselves for our own good to acknowledge our skills, value our things, and remember that there is a world beyond social media. 

Misha is so much more than her follower count – she holds a law degree and was heading for a bright future in the judiciary. However, online validation sucked the life out of her real-world achievements. An emotional message from her family reminds us all to find balance and perspective in a world where our worth seems to be staked on numbers represented on a screen.

To All Influencers: Your Mental Health Matters

If you're a student or an aspiring professional or an influencer, learn from Misha’s story. Social media is a powerful platform for learning, earning, and connecting, but it should never be used to measure anyone's worth. Work on building personal relationships, developing your talents, and honing your professional skills. Your value comes from who you are and what you do, not how many followers you claim online. 

Ask yourself, would you let a stranger's opinion mold your future? Should a temporary loss of online popularity dictate your happiness? No is the only answer.   

Take Good Care of Yourself: You Are More Than Your Online Presence

“Take care” is the simple message that Misha's family hopes we may all heed: In a world crazed with digital validation, the mental well-being of self is very important. Take a break from social media, ask for help when needed, and always remember to take some steps back and breathe. A good mental state is integral to living a good life, something that likes and followers could never replace.

Let us learn and change.

May Misha Agarwal be remembered by us as a person who would like us to be more kind, supportive, and present while living online. Rest in peace, Misha. Let's take a pledge that we will uphold one another, speak openly about mental health, and never allow digital numbers to assess our worth in the real world.

Social media should be a portal of kindness and support along with opportunity and growth, rather than one of trouble or pain. Always remember that your life, aspirations, and happiness are ten times more valuable than any metric put forth by social media. And if you or anyone you care for doesn't know where to find help, ask for it. You are not alone.