India’s media landscape is dynamic, with journalists playing a key role in informing and engaging millions. In 2025, amid challenges like press freedom concerns and the rise of digital platforms, journalists remain vital in uncovering truths and sparking debates. This article highlights the top 10 journalists in India, chosen for their credibility, influence, and ability to connect with audiences. Leading the list is Palki Sharma Upadhyay, followed by other impactful voices in TV, print, and digital media. Whether you’re a news enthusiast or aspiring journalist, this guide breaks down their contributions in simple terms.
The Role of Journalists in India
Journalists are the backbone of India’s democracy, acting as watchdogs who hold leaders accountable. They report on politics, social issues, and more, shaping public opinion. In 2025, with India ranked 151st on the World Press Freedom Index, they face challenges like censorship and online attacks. Yet, they adapt, using TV, YouTube, and social media to reach millions. The top 10 journalists here excel in delivering news with clarity and impact, navigating a complex media world to inform and inspire, making their work essential for India’s progress.
Why Journalism Matters
Journalists ensure transparency by exposing corruption and questioning policies. They drive national conversations, from economic reforms to social justice. In 2025, as digital platforms grow, they combat misinformation while delivering facts. Their work empowers citizens, influences laws, and amplifies marginalized voices. By staying credible, these journalists build trust in a skeptical era, making their role critical for India’s democracy and informed society.
Challenges in 2025
Press freedom struggles, with India’s low ranking reflecting legal and economic pressures. Journalists face lawsuits, harassment, and bias accusations. The shift to digital media brings challenges like fake news and polarized audiences. Despite this, top journalists maintain integrity, adapting to platforms like Instagram and YouTube. In 2025, their ability to stay ethical while engaging diverse viewers keeps them influential in a tough media landscape.
1. Palki Sharma Upadhyay
Palki Sharma Upadhyay, managing editor at Firstpost, is a leading voice in Indian journalism. Known for Gravitas on WION, her sharp global affairs coverage earned her millions of fans. In 2025, her articulate, fact-driven style on TV and digital platforms resonates widely. With over 5 million YouTube subscribers, she breaks down complex issues like geopolitics and trade with clarity. Her focus on India’s global role and unbiased reporting makes her a trusted figure, inspiring a new generation of journalists.
Achievements
Palki’s Gravitas became a global hit, earning her the 2023 ENBA Award for excellence. Her work at Firstpost in 2025, covering India’s rise in Asia, draws millions. She’s won multiple awards, including the TV Anchor of the Year by AIMA. Her digital reach, with 3 million X followers, amplifies her influence. Palki’s storytelling sets a high standard for international reporting in India.
Impact
Palki’s clear analysis shapes how Indians view global events, from trade wars to climate talks. Her digital presence engages young audiences, making news accessible. In 2025, she inspires journalists to prioritize facts over sensationalism. Her focus on India’s global influence boosts national pride, while her mentorship encourages women in media, cementing her as a top voice.
2. Arnab Goswami
Arnab Goswami, Republic TV’s editor-in-chief, is a powerhouse with his bold, confrontational style. His catchphrase, “The nation wants to know,” drives heated debates on politics and security. In 2025, his prime-time shows dominate ratings, with 10 million X followers amplifying his reach. Despite criticism for bias, his ability to set the national agenda is unmatched. Founding Republic TV shows his vision, making him a polarizing yet influential figure in Indian media.
Achievements
Goswami revolutionized TV news with Republic TV, launched in 2017, a top channel in 2025. His aggressive style earned him a ₹12 crore salary, among India’s highest. He’s won multiple awards, including the News Television Award. His digital presence, with millions of views, makes him a media giant, shaping how news is consumed across platforms.
Impact
Goswami’s debates shape public views on elections and policies. His bold style resonates with viewers seeking strong voices, though some criticize polarization. In 2025, his influence pushes other anchors to adopt assertive formats. His platform nurtures young talent, and his ability to drive conversations keeps him central to India’s media narrative.
3. Rajat Sharma
Rajat Sharma, India TV’s chairman, is a veteran known for Aap Ki Adalat, a 30-year-old interview show. His courtroom-style questioning of leaders and celebrities draws huge audiences. In 2025, with 10.5 million X followers, Sharma’s influence spans TV and social media. His balanced yet sharp approach earns respect, making him a trusted name. His ability to stay relevant in a digital age keeps Aap Ki Adalat a must-watch.
Achievements
Sharma’s show has interviewed over 750 prominent figures, earning a Padma Bhushan in 2015. India TV remains a top Hindi channel in 2025 under his leadership. His social media reach, among the highest for journalists, boosts his impact. Awards like the ITA Lifetime Achievement honor his long contribution to Indian journalism.
Impact
Sharma’s grilling of high-profile guests shapes public perceptions of leaders. His longevity in 2025 inspires journalists to adapt across platforms. His focus on accountability influences how viewers judge power, while his mentorship strengthens India TV’s team. His blend of TV and digital keeps him a cornerstone of Hindi journalism.
4. Shekhar Gupta
Shekhar Gupta, ThePrint’s editor-in-chief, is a veteran with 40 years in journalism. His Bofors scandal exposé set benchmarks for investigative reporting. In 2025, his “Cut the Clutter” YouTube series simplifies complex issues, drawing millions. Gupta’s sharp political analysis and ethical focus make him a trusted voice. His shift to digital with ThePrint shows his adaptability, guiding India’s media through a changing landscape.
Achievements
Gupta’s Bofors scoop made Indian Express iconic. He won a Padma Bhushan in 2009. ThePrint, launched in 2017, is a top digital outlet in 2025. His “Cut the Clutter” series, with 5 million views per episode, redefines analysis. His awards, including RedInk, highlight his influence in print and digital media.
Impact
Gupta’s work shapes how India views governance. His digital pivot inspires legacy media to adapt. In 2025, ThePrint’s investigations drive policy debates. His mentorship nurtures young reporters, and his focus on facts over drama builds trust. Gupta’s clarity keeps him a leading figure in India’s media evolution.
5. Anjana Om Kashyap
Anjana Om Kashyap, Aaj Tak’s managing editor, is a star in Hindi journalism. Her show Halla Bol tackles elections and social issues with bold reporting. In 2025, her 621K Instagram followers show her digital reach. As a woman in a male-dominated field, her balanced style and sharp interviews earn respect. Kashyap’s ability to connect with Hindi audiences makes her a key media figure.
Achievements
Kashyap’s rise from Doordarshan to Aaj Tak showcases her drive. Halla Bol is a ratings leader in 2025, known for tough topics. She’s won NT Awards for reporting. Her social media, blending news and personal insights, connects with youth. Her leadership as a female anchor inspires many in Hindi journalism.
Impact
Kashyap’s interviews shape political discourse in Hindi-speaking India. Her focus on women’s rights and education resonates widely. In 2025, she inspires female journalists, showing strength in a tough field. Her digital engagement keeps her relevant, influencing how millions consume news in India’s heartland.
6. Sudhir Chaudhary
Sudhir Chaudhary, Zee News’ editor-in-chief, is known for DNA, a nightly analysis show. His bold take on national issues draws huge audiences. In 2025, with over 7 million X followers, he’s a digital force. Despite criticism for polarizing views, his clear style simplifies complex news, keeping him popular. Chaudhary’s influence in Hindi media makes him a key player.
Achievements
Chaudhary’s DNA is a household name, earning a Ramnath Goenka Award in 2015. His leadership at Zee News since 2012 boosts ratings. In 2025, his social media reach, among India’s highest, amplifies his voice. His awards, including ENBA, reflect his impact in shaping Hindi broadcast journalism.
Impact
Chaudhary’s DNA influences how millions view politics and crime. His direct style connects with viewers seeking clear news. In 2025, his digital presence drives debates, though some question his bias. His bold approach pushes Hindi journalism toward assertive narratives, impacting audiences and aspiring anchors alike.
7. Faye D’Souza
Faye D’Souza, a digital journalist, shines on Instagram and YouTube with fact-based videos. Her calm, clear style covers social issues and politics. In 2025, her 1 million followers show her reach beyond TV. Formerly with Mirror Now, her independent platform focuses on truth and ethics, making her a favorite among urban youth.
Achievements
D’Souza’s digital shift built a loyal fanbase. Her Instagram reels and YouTube videos, explaining taxes or elections, go viral in 2025. She’s won RedInk Awards for ethical reporting. Her focus on clarity has redefined digital journalism, making her a role model for independent media in India.
Impact
D’Souza’s accessible news engages young audiences, especially on social issues. Her ethical focus builds trust in a skeptical era. In 2025, she inspires independent journalists to prioritize facts. Her digital success shows how new platforms amplify credible voices, shaping India’s media for a new generation.
8. Rajdeep Sardesai
Rajdeep Sardesai, India Today’s consulting editor, is known for balanced reporting. His election and political coverage is sharp yet fair. In 2025, with 9 million X followers, he’s a social media giant. His 2008 Padma Shri reflects his impact. Sardesai’s columns and TV shows blend analysis with accessibility, making him a trusted name in English journalism.
Achievements
Sardesai’s 26-year career earned a Padma Shri and multiple awards. His work at India Today and CNN-IBN shaped TV news. In 2025, his Indian Express columns and shows draw millions. His net worth, around ₹40 crore, reflects his success. His election coverage sets benchmarks for clarity and fairness.
Impact
Sardesai’s balanced reporting shapes informed public opinion. His election analyses guide voters, and his columns spark policy debates. In 2025, his social media keeps him relevant, bridging TV and digital. His mentorship strengthens the industry, making him a cornerstone of India’s English media landscape.
9. Rubika Liyaquat
Rubika Liyaquat, News18 India’s anchor, is known for Master Stroke, blending sharp analysis with balanced reporting. Her interviews and social issue coverage draw big audiences. In 2025, her articulate style makes her a rising star in Hindi journalism. Liyaquat’s ability to simplify complex topics keeps her popular, especially among younger viewers.
Achievements
Liyaquat’s Master Stroke is a top-rated show in 2025, known for political deep dives. Her work at ABP News and News18 earned ENBA Awards. Her growing social media following boosts her reach. Her rise as a female anchor in Hindi news inspires many, showing grit in a competitive field.
Impact
Liyaquat’s balanced reporting shapes Hindi audiences’ views. Her focus on education and social issues resonates widely. In 2025, she inspires women in journalism, showing leadership. Her clear style bridges traditional and modern viewers, making her a key voice in India’s Hindi media scene.
10. Amish Devgan
Amish Devgan, News18 India’s managing editor, is known for Aar Paar, a debate show tackling politics and social issues. His energetic style and sharp questions draw millions. In 2025, his 5 million X followers show his digital clout. Devgan’s focus on national pride and accountability makes him a popular figure in Hindi journalism, influencing public discourse.
Achievements
Devgan’s Aar Paar is a ratings hit, earning ENBA Awards. His rise from regional news to News18 showcases his drive. In 2025, his social media presence amplifies his voice. His bold debates on issues like security have made him a household name in Hindi news, inspiring young anchors.
Impact
Devgan’s debates shape how Hindi audiences view current events. His focus on national issues resonates with viewers seeking strong voices. In 2025, his digital reach drives conversations, though some criticize his intensity. His influence pushes Hindi journalism toward bold formats, impacting viewers and the industry.
Conclusion
India’s top 10 journalists, led by Palki Sharma Upadhyay, are shaping the nation’s narrative in 2025. From TV debates to digital platforms, they tackle politics, social issues, and global affairs with impact. Despite challenges like press freedom and misinformation, their credibility drives trust. For aspiring journalists, their work shows the power of facts and grit. As India’s media evolves, these voices guide millions, ensuring journalism remains a vital force for democracy and change.
