Transformation of Journalism in India and the rise of the Fifth Estate, a critical appraisal

The paper traces the evolution of Journalism, its journey in independent India, and the systemic change it underwent during an emergency period and with the coming of globalization. It brings forth some vital phases in the functioning and outlook of Journalism from a mission to a profession to a business. The pre-independence phase of Journalism is categorized under a mission. In contrast, from the 1970s to the 1990s, Journalism exhibited high professionalism and post-liberalization, transforming itself into a business. The conceptual framework is derived from the theory of the political economy of media, and the paper uses a case study method to achieve the set objectives focusing on the Indian media scenario. The study is descriptive in nature. Documenting the changes news media in India has undergone, the study attempts to gauge and mainly highlight the alterations undergone by the profession of Journalism. The paper also attempts to critically analyze and foretell the future course of Journalism in light of its loss of credibility and the rise of the Fifth Estate. The paper discusses the surge in the Fifth Estate as an alternative to the mainstream media in India, which is easily accessible, and readily acceptable. The fading halo of Journalism in the wake of the Fifth Estate is critically examined and evaluated throughout the paper. The possible implications and opportunities the Fifth Estate has and offers Journalism and Journalistic practices in India are detailed.