Education Leaders | Top Interviews

An Exclusive Interaction with Dr. Mukesh Kumar

Dr. Mukesh Kumar is an immensely respected figure in Indian journalism and media education. A nearly four-decade-long career has placed his mark across print, television, and digital media. An anchor, columnist, author of repute, poet, academician, and expert in digital media, his contribution to Indian journalism stands both extensive and influential.

Currently, Dr. Kumar serves as the Editor of Satyahindi.com whose YouTube channel has more than 3.2 million subscribers. His day-to-day show as well as popular programmes Taana-Baana and Sach Ka Saamna arebeing run with a great national following. Previously, he has served as the Dean and Professor at Lovely Professional University, SGT University, and Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Communication.

Dr. Kumar's contribution to the opening of about six flagship news channels has been immense, namely News Express, Sahara Samay, S1, VOI, Maurya TV among others. Several programmes Subah Savere, Filhaal, Kahi Unkahi, Aapki Baithak anchoring on Doordarshan and Rajneeti: Khel Satta Ka, Shatranj Ke Khiladi, Baat Bolegi on private channels as anchor give him widespread recognition. He was also the Editorial Chief of Doordarshan's first national weekly magazine Parkh.

An acclaimed writer, Dr. Kumar has penned 14 books and was associated with several documentaries and telefilms. The collection of his poetry, Sadho Jag Baurana, received critical acclaim. A vast experience in media, literature, and education makes him an inspiring voice for the next generation of journalists.

In this interview with EdInbox, Dr. Mukesh Kumar talks candidly about the changing media landscape, the crisis in journalism, corporate control, fake news, and democratic media futures.

How did your journey in journalism begin? What were the early challenges?

After finishing my Master’s in Science, the inevitable question would be—what next? At that time, a city-based newspaper Dainik Samay was searching for trainee journalists. I had already been writing and engaging with magazines by then, and hence, journalism sounded like an extension of the things I was enjoying doing.

Within three months, one of my teachers advised me to formally study journalism. That led me to Sagar University, where I signed up for a course in journalism. Soon after, I received an offer to work as a part-time correspondent with the Deshbandhu newspaper group, and I began reporting alongside my studies. That is how my journey started.

With a career spanning almost four decades, what are the major changes you have seen in the media?

These changes have been mammoth in nature-so far-reaching that several books can be written about them. It is sufficient to say here that broadly speaking, the character of media itself has changed.

Earlier, public interest-oriented journalism was dominant. A journalist without social commitment was not considered a journalist at all. Today, the word sarokar has almost become an abusive term in media organisations. Managements want journalists who help expand their business. Media houses have become market-driven and target group-oriented.

Besides, the media have completely aligned themselves to the power axis. News, journalistic freedom, society, and democracy are a thing of no consequence to them. They would seek to legitimize every incorrect act of the powers that be—partly by choice, partly for fear. The space for honest journalism has shrunk drastically.

The second big change is technology. When we began, there were only a few newspapers and one TV channel-Doordarshan. Today, India has close to 900 television channels, of them around 350 are news channels. The internet and mobile phones have made media omnipresent. Media consumption has increased manifold.

Yet, journalistic quality has fallen sharply-to the extent that ethical codes of journalism are routinely violated.

You've worked in both TV and digital; what do you see as the biggest difference?

Whereas television cannot travel with you, digital media does in the form of your mobile phone. You are always connected and see anything at any time. Visuals and videos rule our world now. Much more is being consumed by watching rather than reading.

How has increasing commercialisation affected journalistic quality?

The economic liberalisation saw unregulated expansion of the market, which had a direct impact on the content of media. The content has become shallow and sensationalist. The institution of an editor has been dismantled and replaced by management control. Ownership by corporations has given the reins of media to big capital, and there is a nexus between corporations and political power.

As a result, the media has turned anti-democratic and anti-people, promoting hate, violence, and divisive agendas.

Public interest vs TRP—what is to be the priority of a journalist?

Regarding mainstream media, the control that a journalist has is pretty minimal. The owners and the ruling power have much to say. Limited room for manoeuvre, but not enough to challenge corporate exploitation or political corruption.

But all that has changed with alternative and independent media opening new windows-where journalists are speaking freely and trying out new formats. Ultimately, it's a call the journalists have to take. Mainstream, of course, is TRP-driven.

What do you think about government-media relationships?

The media and government are no longer separate. The media is a tool for propaganda. When I say "pro-power," I mean the ruling class: the government, corporations, elite classes, and dominant castes.

How has the editor's job changed today?

In "godi media," there are no editors, only managers. Their task is to manage the channel for the powers that be and the owners. In the independent media, editors still have a meaningful and responsible role to play.

Allegations of bias against the media—how well grounded are they?

They are perfectly legitimate. The whole country—and the world—knows that. Credibility of the media has collapsed. People in general now consume them as entertainment or as a means of manipulation of opinion.

How much destruction has fake news actually caused since the era of social media?

And enormous damage is being caused-a lot more with deepfakes. The problem generally is that people cannot differentiate between what is true and what is a lie. In India, media literacy is close to zero. Most people in India do not know how to verify news or critically consume media content.

How can credible content be produced in the middle of all the fake news and propaganda?

It is already being done-by following basic journalistic principles: rigorous fact-checking, reliable sourcing, and patience. The real question is whether journalists have the commitment and discipline required.

What should the media's role be in strengthening democracy today?

The media is said to be the fourth pillar of democracy, but it has been reduced to the same pitiable condition as the other three. It has failed in holding power accountable and instead has surrendered itself.

How might the media balance public interest and power? 

Balance is not an obsession. Report objectively, people-centric. Cover the stories of the poor, the marginalised, Dalits, Adivasis, the excluded. You don't have to be "balanced" sounding. Your YouTube shows are extremely popular. How does audience support motivate you? My effort has always been to serve serious content in an entertaining manner. 

Some days it clicks, some days it doesn't. I never take stress over TRP or viewership. Keeping focused on work--that is my core philosophy.

Addressing the HT Future Ed Conclave, Dr VS Kanchana Bhaaskaran, Vice Chancellor of Vellore Institute of Technology, made a strong case for the urgent need to reimagine university education, as the new technology-led future requires industry needs to drive curriculum design. An interaction with her underlined rapid technological disruptions, an increasing skill gap, and changing needs of industry push universities to rethink their role in the innovation ecosystem of India.

Dr Bhaaskaran said universities can no longer afford to function in isolation from industry. “We are witnessing rapid technological disruptions and severe skill gaps. Universities must be spurring nodes in the national innovation and industrial ecosystem,” she said, adding that higher education must move away from rigid structures towards flexible, learner-centric models.

In Dr Bhaaskaran's view, the future university would have to provide multidisciplinary pathways, permit students to tailor learning journeys, and go for competency-based assessments. "Institutions must turn flexible and student-centric-learners may want to choose pathways across disciplines and be evaluated on skills, and not just examinations," she explained.

The VIT Vice Chancellor also spoke about the need for industry-designed education, and co-creation of dynamic curricula involving the industry. “Curricula should be revisited every year and reworked according to industry demand. Autonomous institutes should be able to do this; industry professionals should be part of the advisory boards.” She also said students should work on real-world technology problems for 50–60% of their academic time to bridge the gap between what they learn in class and what the industry is looking for.

Dr Bhaaskaran said VIT had already moving ahead by adopting innovative curriculum frameworks, comprising core subjects, professional core courses, electives, soft skills, and multidisciplinary options. “For countries like India, both quality and quantity consciousness is critical at scale. We need models that can deliver excellence while educating large numbers,” she said.

She presented a phased implementation roadmap supported by policy enablers. “The first phase comprises the upgrade of IT infrastructure, followed by comprehensive faculty training. The next phase introduces flexible curricula with active industry participation—from laboratories to classroom teaching,” she said, underscoring the importance of institutional readiness.

Q: How much does research and AI contribute to the reform of higher education?

Dr Bhaaskaran adds that research and innovation have broadened national impact, especially in new areas like artificial intelligence. “AI applications are now attempted in curriculum design, content creation, adaptive learning, and automated assessments. We see incentives for teaching innovations, mission-oriented research clusters, and industry-funded labs improving the student outcome,” she described. 

Sharing a real-life example, she said, “We developed a new lab at our institute and sent out a mail. Within 24 hours, over 1,000 students responded. That shows how eager students are for hands-on, industry-aligned training.” She emphasized that the ultimate aim should be to create a meeting point between industry and institutions.

Q: Are these reforms showing measurable outcomes?

The results, according to Dr Bhaaskaran, are already there to be seen. She quoted the student employability index, portfolio development, startups and incubation projects, patents, industry joint innovations, faculty industry sabbaticals, co-authored research publications, product releases, joint laboratories and centres of excellence as proof of success.

Q: How far do government initiatives facilitate this change?

She added that much of this growth has been enabled by government missions and initiatives, especially in domains such as AI, semiconductors, and CPS. “Institutions must align with student interest in these domains, which are already large industries and are growing rapidly,” she concluded, saying industry-focused curriculum reform was no longer optional but rather essential to the future of higher education in India.

In the state of Nagaland, the village of Pongo in the Longleng district has started a two-day long “Taro Festival” to make people aware of the climate-resilient vegetable taro, which had protected the place

In the small village of Nagaland’s Longleng district, there has been a massive effort to revive a traditional produce that has protected the inhabitants from famine. The Pongo Village has initiated the celebrations of the Two-Day Taro Festival, which the event organizers believe could become the model for the revival of agriculture by the community.

The event was organized on December 5 & 6 in connection with the 26th Hornbill Festival. Farmers, self-help groups, youth groups, and villagers assembled to display more than 10 varieties of taro, including Khedoong, which is known to be one of the popular locally grown varieties, appreciated for its taste, texture, and storage life.

In the opening ceremony of the event, the village head P Khangyong explained the significance of this vegetable to the history of all of them through this statement: “Our ancestors had overcome famine with the help of taro, and this incident has become an important folk lore of our village.” He recalled during his childhood days as quoted by India Today NE that “taro only used to be available to us.”

The event was mostly organized by the youths of the village in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture. It mostly targeted farmers as opposed to the other vendors. Along H. Phom, the convenor of the event stated that most of the funds were channeled to the farmers. "We emphasized the farmers' knowledge right from the beginning. The goal is to help the farmers understand that taro is an economic crop,"

The agriculture stalls featured produce of entrepreneurs and self-help groups. Farmers demonstrated the utilization of every aspect of the plant, right from leafy greens to the corms. Artisans in the villages further revealed the utilizations of different parts of the taro plant in the local black clay pottery.

The local MLA, A Pongshi Phom, who was present as a Chief Guest, motivated the youths to consider opportunities in Agriculture as well as Agri Tourism.

On the second day, technical sessions were held by ICAR regional centers on ways to improve taro production, value addition, and development of new varieties. A talk on the nutritional importance of the plant in countering climate change was also given by Maongsangla, a district agriculture officer. The ultimate plan is to improve market links and ensure scientific support and documentation of indigenous knowledge to revive taro farming in the region.

A special conversation with Dr Manish Mohan Gore, senior scientist, writer, and science communicator at CSIR–National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (NIScPR).

For nearly three decades, Dr Manish Mohan Gore has been at the forefront of India’s science communication movement, working to bridge the gap between laboratories and society. A scientist by training and a communicator by choice, Dr Gore currently leads research and studies in the Science Communication Division at the New Delhi–based CSIR–National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR). Despite holding a PhD in Botany, he has dedicated his career to science writing, editing, and popularisation.

Dr Gore has authored several acclaimed books on environmental science, biographies of scientists, animal behaviour, Indian science, biodiversity, and science fiction. His contributions have earned him multiple prestigious honours, including the Sir C.V. Raman Award for Technical Writing, the Rajbhasha Gaurav Award, and the Jagpati Chaturvedi Award for Children’s Science Writing.

EdInbox correspondent Rais Ahmed ‘Lali’ spoke to Dr Gore—also the editor of the Hindi science magazine Vigyan Pragati—about his journey, the challenges of science communication, and why communicating science can be more demanding than doing science itself.

How did your journey in science communication begin? What inspired you to take this path?

I have always been a student of science, but growing up in a house filled with books—and influenced deeply by my father’s love for literature—I naturally gravitated towards reading and writing. Over time, this literary inclination evolved into an interest in science literature and communication.

In 1997, while pursuing my BSc, I came into contact with several experienced science writers. Around the same time, my association with the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) played a crucial role in giving direction to the science communicator and writer within me. My father, Shrichand Gore, who was an English literature teacher and a freelance journalist, encouraged the writer in me indirectly.

That said, he was hesitant about me choosing writing as a career, believing it to be financially uncertain. In many ways, science communication began as a passion rather than a profession. But eventually, I had the opportunity to serve in a dedicated science communication institution. This alignment between personal interest and professional responsibility has been deeply fulfilling and productive.

What was the most important turning point that led you from botany to science writing and communication?

Botany was my core academic discipline, and I was always fascinated by plant diversity, biological processes, and the science behind them. My journey into science writing began around 1994, when I started explaining plant science in simple, accessible language for the general public.

Gradually, my writing expanded to include zoology, animal behaviour, environmental issues, Indian science, and the contributions of Indian scientists. A key turning point came when I realised that science writing could be an effective way to draw children and adolescents towards scientific thinking. I began writing regularly for magazines and journals, and that phase became a defining milestone—one that firmly set me on the path of science communication.

What kind of research and projects are you leading at CSIR-NIScPR?

CSIR-NIScPR is one of India’s leading institutions for science communication and science policy research, with a legacy of nearly 75 years. It publishes three popular science magazines—Vigyan Pragati (Hindi), Science Reporter (English), and Science Ki Duniya (Urdu).

Alongside my role as editor of Vigyan Pragati, I am involved in research on science communication in Indian languages and projects documenting the scientific achievements of Indian laboratories.

What role has your institution played in strengthening science communication in India?

CSIR established the Publications and Information Directorate (PID) in 1951, just four years after Independence, with the objective of taking scientific research to society. That same institution has evolved into today’s NIScPR.

Its contributions include publishing science magazines, research journals, and popular science books. One notable initiative is the India’s Wealth book series, which documents the country’s natural resources—minerals, flora, and fauna. The National Science Library, another key initiative of NIScPR, provides ISSN registration to journals across the country. These efforts underline NIScPR’s central role in strengthening science communication nationwide.

What major changes have you observed in science writing and editing over the years?

Sustained efforts in science communication have helped generate public interest in science and technology—subjects that were once perceived as inaccessible or intimidating. Science communication has connected children and young people with scientific research, leading many to pursue innovation in emerging scientific and technological fields.

People from modest backgrounds are now using scientific knowledge to create startups, innovate in agriculture, and pursue entrepreneurship. These are some of the most encouraging societal transformations driven by science communication.

What is the biggest challenge in making science simple and engaging for the general public?

The biggest challenge is explaining scientific concepts and theories in a way that people can understand. This is where science communication becomes critical—and difficult. In my view, science communication and writing are more complex than scientific research itself.

Scientific research follows a defined methodology and framework, but science communication does not. You may have to explain a concept to a tribal community member, a farmer, or a child with no formal science education. This requires simple language, cultural sensitivity, and real-life examples. That is both the challenge—and the solution—of science communication.

What steps are needed to take Indian science communication to the global stage?

India already runs world-class science communication programmes. In fact, several initiatives undertaken here are unique globally—such as multi-level science model development for children at district, state, and national levels, and science outreach among tribal communities. These are pioneering efforts that the world can learn from.

How can science communicators raise awareness about environmental challenges?

They play a vital role. Environmental issues can be communicated through stories, poetry, humour, and theatre to reach wider audiences. Science fiction is a particularly powerful tool for building environmental awareness and imagination.

Your science fiction works are well received. What role does science fiction play in Indian society?

Science fiction narrates the story of tomorrow—it presents a vision of society shaped by science and technology. It acts as a warning narrative, taking readers through a dramatic, engaging journey into futures filled with possibility, excitement, and risk. Science fiction encourages societies—not just in India, but globally—to maintain a rational balance alongside technological progress.

Can science fiction help develop scientific thinking among children and youth?

Absolutely. Science fiction presents a fictional yet inevitable future that encourages readers to reflect on present behaviour and make responsible changes. In this way, it becomes a powerful medium for cultivating scientific temper among children and young people.

What new skills are required for science communication in the digital era?

Digital and social media are merely platforms for delivering content—be it science, literature, or art. What matters is that science communication adapts to these platforms while maintaining credibility and authenticity. Important work is already being done in this direction.

Do you believe a gap still exists between science and society?

Yes, the gap exists, but it has narrowed significantly compared to the past. As public scientific understanding grows, this distance will continue to shrink—and science communication will play a decisive role in that process.

What advice would you give to young science writers and researchers?

Rather than advice, I would offer a simple suggestion: write about scientific issues that directly affect people’s lives. For instance, farmers often suffer back and joint pain due to prolonged bending during fieldwork—writing about tools or techniques that can alleviate this is meaningful science communication.

To researchers, I would say: communicate the social relevance of your work. Share it through short articles, videos, reels, poems, or stories. These small efforts will not only benefit society but will also give you a deep sense of fulfilment—one you may never have experienced before.

To understand why allied healthcare is emerging as one of India’s most future-ready career pathways, Edinbox team spoke with Dr. Prithvi Amonkar, who explains how rising disease burdens, an ageing population, and global healthcare demand have placed Allied Healthcare Programs (AHPs) at the centre of India’s healthcare transformation.

Healthcare in India is continuously on the rise, with constant innovations and upgradation, with an attempt to provide effective ,affordable and quality treatment and for this to be a success the role of AHP : allied health professionals is crucial. "The AHP varies from radiographers, blood lab technicians,nurses, physiotherapists, dieticians, speech therapists and many more vast branches that contribute directly or indirectly to the success of medical science. Not everyone can be doctors , and society does require as much of AHP for smooth and effective functioning who ultimately serve as the backbone," said Dr. Amonkar

There is a growing demand for AHP now with major strides in the medical field, and growing number of doctors. The population of india is also on the rise and also the ratio of the elderly that would require more intense healthcare. Also new illnesses, chronic disease , epidemics have brought an increased demand for AHP. Not everywhere are doctors required to deal with the patients, most of them can be taken care of by the health professionals. AHP play an important role in diagnosis by conducting medical lab and diagnostic tests and radiodiagnosis. They are instrumental in patient care assistance, medication management and later palliative care. Also faculties like physiotherapists, speech therapists help in providing support to patients with injuries or disabilities either congenital or due to accident . 

Dr. Amonkar who was  recognised as one of the 30 brands of Goa 2022 said, "In cases where AHP are involved the recovery of the patient is swift with a better quality of life. AHP helps in the progress and in the prevention of future complications that may arise . And in the interiors of our country they help in providing support.Allied healthcare offers various careers which are at par with Mbbs in which there are never ending opportunities."

"A healthcare professional can opt for a job in a multispeciality hospital, make his own startup , collaborate with doctors and other health professionals, online consultations, develop franchisees, the list is endless. Most of the jobs are more paying and less responsibilities ,compared to the stress undergone by doctors.  Opportunities are not limited to your state , or country but there is a global demand for health care professionals with proper certifications , experience," he added.

As India’s preschool industry balloons into a high-return franchise market, legal experts are raising alarm over the blurring lines between education, commerce, and trust law. Practicing advocate at District Judges' Court, Adv. Abhisek Chowdhury speaks to Edinbox about how early education has quietly turned into one of India’s most profitable business models,and why the legal grey zone is widening.

Also Read: Pre-Schooling in India at the Crossroads: Business, Regulation and the Homeschooling Question

Q: Preschools today are being marketed like franchise businesses. What has changed?

Chowdhury: The shift began when large chains realised that preschooling sits outside the Right to Education Act. Unlike K–12 schools, preschools are not legally required to operate as non-profit institutions. This opened the door for aggressive franchising. Today, the pitch is simple—invest ₹8–10 lakh and earn up to ₹40 lakh a year. It attracts investors, not necessarily educators.

Behind the colourful classrooms is a full-fledged commercial ecosystem—branding fees, royalty, training charges, curriculum kits, even mandatory purchase of uniforms. The pedagogy is often a tiny part of what franchisees actually pay for.

Q: Many of these chains operate under trusts or societies. Isn’t that contradictory?

Chowdhury: This is where the legal tension lies. A trust cannot “declare profits,” but it can create a surplus—and that surplus can be routed through consultancy, management fees, curriculum development, rent, or outsourced services.

Often, the trust and the private company offering these services share the same promoters. So money moves legally, but the spirit of charitable activity is compromised. As I often say, “It’s not technically illegal. But when a trust functions like a corporate chain, the spirit of the law is being defeated.”

Also Read: Directorate Of Education to enforce age 6 eligibility to enter Class 1

Q: Franchise owners claim they are misled by promises of high ROI. Is that common?

Chowdhury: Very common. People join thinking it’s an assured-return business. Then reality hits—royalties, mandatory upgrades, marketing contributions. Many franchisees tell me the chain earns more than they do.

The success of a preschool today depends heavily on location. In lower or middle-income neighbourhoods, the model collapses. Preschool has become a luxury product, not an educational necessity.

Q: What does this mean for parents?

Chowdhury: Parents now experience preschool admissions the way one shops for premium consumer brands. Fees rival primary schools, often without transparency on teacher salaries or curriculum quality. Many parents tell me, “It feels like corporate pricing for a trust-run school.”

This is deeply problematic because early childhood education is foundational. When it becomes exclusive, we risk widening inequality at the earliest stage of learning.

Q: What regulatory changes do you think are needed?

Chowdhury: India urgently needs:

• Clear licensing standards for preschools
• Transparency rules for trusts running franchises
• Monitoring of fee structures and mandatory purchases
• Minimum qualification and wage norms for teachers
• A national curriculum framework for early years

Right now, preschools exist in a regulatory vacuum, and business interests flourish in that space.

Q: Are we reaching a tipping point?

Chowdhury: Absolutely. Without oversight, the system will keep drifting into a profit-first model—leaving children, our most vulnerable citizens, as mere customers in a franchise economy. Early education must be treated as a public good, not an investment product.