Gangadhar Patil: How we're helping local reporters turn important stories into national news

The speaker shares their journey from a local reporter to creating a platform for local journalists in India. They highlight the media gap where local stories are often overlooked by national media. To address this, they built a network of local reporters, providing training and connecting them with mainstream media. This initiative has led to impactful stories being published, gaining recognition and awards. The platform aims to expand further, ensuring important stories from all over India are covered and shared.

What was the main challenge faced by local reporters according to the speaker?

• High competition with national reporters

• Stories going unnoticed by national media

• Inability to travel for stories

• Lack of professional training

What motivated the speaker to create a platform for local reporters?

• Need to reduce costs for news organizations

• Desire to work with international media

• Interest in environmental reporting

• Lack of coverage for real issues in mainstream media

How does the platform benefit local reporters?

• By providing them with free equipment

• By offering them international travel opportunities

• By connecting them with mainstream media and improving their skills

• By giving them access to exclusive stories

What impact did the platform have on a story from Northeast India?

• It increased tourism in the area

• It resulted in a new school being built

• It led to the construction of a bridge

• It caused a change in local government

What are the future plans for the platform?

• To expand internationally

• To have a reporter in each sub-district of India

• To focus solely on environmental issues

• To partner with more international media houses