DEMOCRATIZING INDIA: THE ROLE OF MEDIA IN POLITICAL ACTIVISM AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT

Nishika Bansal; Pynthamil Selvi S; Shreelakshmi P

doi:10.36690/2674-5216-2024-2-42-50

Authors

Nishika Bansal CMR University
Pynthamil Selvi S CMR University
Shreelakshmi P CMR University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36690/2674-5216-2024-2-42-50

Keywords:

media democratization, India, political activism, youth empowerment, traditional media, digital media, citizen journalism, misinformation, regulatory constraints, digital inequalities, social media, media literacy, democratic governance

Abstract

The democratization of media in India has ushered in a dynamic era marked by both challenges and opportunities, particularly in the realms of political activism and youth empowerment. The primary aim of this article is to investigate the impact of media on political activism and the empowerment of youth within the Indian democratic context. It seeks to explore how various media platforms, including digital and social media, contribute to shaping political opinions and facilitating civic engagement among India’s younger population. This article delves into the multifaceted role of media in shaping India's democratic landscape, with a specific focus on its impact on political discourse, citizen engagement, and youth empowerment. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and empirical evidence, the article explores the challenges posed by the spread of misinformation, regulatory constraints, and digital inequalities, while also highlighting the opportunities presented by citizen journalism initiatives, alternative media outlets, and social media platforms. By equipping citizens, especially the youth, with critical media literacy skills and promoting digital citizenship, India can navigate the complexities of media democratization to foster a more inclusive, participatory, and resilient democracy. Through this analysis, the article contributes to a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between media, politics, and youth empowerment in the context of India's evolving democratic landscape. The future of Indian democracy will significantly depend on how well the nation manages to harness the potential of media platforms to foster informed political participation while mitigating the risks associated with digital media proliferation. As this article illustrates, nurturing a resilient and inclusive democratic process is contingent upon empowering the youth with the tools to critically engage with media and actively participate in the democratic governance of their country.

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Author Biographies

Nishika Bansal, CMR University

BA Student School of Liberal Studies, CMR University, Bengaluru

Pynthamil Selvi S, CMR University

Assistant Professor, School of Liberal Studies, CMR University

Shreelakshmi P, CMR University

Dr., Assistant Professor, School of Liberal Studies, CMR University, Bengaluru

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