Turning Data into Impactful Journalism: Hari Kishan Sharma Engages Budding Media Professionals

Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication (AIMC) hosted an engaging session with journalist Hari Kishan Sharma, Senior Assistant Editor at The Indian Express. The session explored the evolving nature of journalism and the growing importance of data in identifying, investigating and presenting stories that have a meaningful impact on society. Drawing from his journalistic experience, Mr. Sharma shared insights into the opportunities and challenges presented by technology and illustrated the potential of data-driven journalism through two investigative reports written by him and published in The Indian Express.

Describing the present as perhaps one of the most exciting times for journalism, Mr. Sharma observed that society is surrounded by an ocean of information. However, as he aptly pointed out, “Nobody can consume sea water.” The challenge for journalists today, therefore, is not the availability of information but the ability to identify what is relevant, verify facts and make information meaningful for the public. Technology has equipped journalists with powerful tools to access, analyse and collect enormous volumes of data. At the same time, the rapid spread of misinformation has made factual, credible and responsible journalism more important than ever.

Illustrating the power of data-driven reporting, Mr. Sharma discussed an investigation by The Indian Express into a ₹99.6 lakh horticulture subsidy received by Bhagirath Choudhary, Union Minister of State for Agriculture, for his cucumber farm. What initially appeared to be a routine figure in official records became a significant story when journalists examined the scheme and its implications. The investigation raised questions about the propriety of a minister benefiting from a subsidy administered by his own ministry. Following the publication of the report, the subsidy was returned. The case demonstrated how data can become powerful journalism when reporters move beyond the numbers, identify patterns and ask the right questions.

The second investigation examined the Jal Jeevan Mission, focusing on significant cost escalations in thousands of projects. By analysing changes in the scheme’s guidelines, the investigation revealed how certain amendments had resulted in additional costs amounting to thousands of crores. The reporting brought the issue into the public domain, leading to inspections and measures to address the reported irregularities. The case illustrated how data, when investigated rigorously, can move beyond government records and dashboards to become a tool for public accountability.

Through these examples, Mr. Sharma highlighted three important outcomes of meaningful data journalism: accountability, policy impact and public awareness. He emphasised that a journalist’s role extends beyond collecting numbers. It involves cultivating credible sources, understanding data, identifying patterns and connecting findings with issues that matter to the public.

Interacting with students, Mr. Sharma encouraged aspiring journalists to develop reliable sources, remain curious and continuously strengthen their journalistic skills. Above all, he stressed the importance of factual accuracy and credibility. In an age of rapid information dissemination, he noted, these remain among the strongest tools available to a journalist.

The session offered students a valuable perspective on the evolving role of technology in journalism. With access to vast pools of information becoming easier, the responsibility of journalists is to transform that information into meaningful stories. A good journalist does not merely report what happened, but also asks why it happened, who is responsible and why it matters.