About

At 21, he began his journalism career at Dainik Sambad, a well-known vernacular daily in Northeast India. He enjoyed reporting on science and weather, along with stories about human interest and politics. Within three years, he transitioned to English journalism as a freelance correspondent for Deccan Herald based in Bengaluru. Simultaneously, he established himself in various news magazines and dailies from Northeast India and West Bengal. After three more years, he took on the role of correspondent at UNI in Mizoram, where he continues to work. In 2012, he joined the Times of India and remains with the organization in a senior role. Also, freelancing with multiple national and international media brands.

Biography

Born in a remote village in North Tripura during the late 70s, I grew up in a middle-class family in a rustic ambience where vehicle horns rarely sounded. We often moved barefoot. With my father as a teacher, he instilled in me and my brothers the importance of time, self-respect, kindness to all creatures, and passion- values we learned to prioritize over prestigious certificates. After completing secondary education in a village school, I went to the small town of Kailashahar for higher secondary. I enrolled in the historic R K Institution, choosing a combination of Eco-science, and later graduated in Economics from Assam University. Then, I returned to Agartala, the capital city of Tripura, searching for a job while taking a ten-year academic break. I attended over a hundred workshops, trainings, seminars, and symposiums, which helped me evolve into a seasoned journalist. I joined the Post-Graduate course in Journalism & Mass Communication at Tripura (Central) University as part of the first cohort and earned a Gold Medal. Afterward, I pursued a PhD and completed it successfully in five years. Throughout this decade-long educational journey, I traveled to various countries and cities across India, reporting from lesser-known locations.

Education

Graduated in Economics, PG Journalism & Mass Communication, PhD on Vernacular Press.

Career History

Began journalism career in 1995 with Dainik Sambad. Over the years, held positions and worked with Sentinel, Deccan Herald, UNI and Times of India. Principal areas of reporting and editorial specialization include Environment, Politics and Development.

Turning Points

Important career turning points include a week-long workshop on Balance Reporting sponsored by the British embassy in 2001, followed by 2003 Tripura Assembly election coverage, and selection as country representative for the US Govt sponsored IVLP program on Environment Protection which involved extensive travel across the United States.

Current Research

Active research interests currently focus on Emission & GHG assessment in Tripura.

Philosophy

My approach to journalism is rooted in the unwavering commitment limited to my understanding, integrity, and the duty to keep the public informed. I believe in the necessity of thorough fact-checking, even-handed reporting, and finding stories that contribute positively to society, making sure that all voices are acknowledged and included. I see journalism as a crucial element of democracy, promoting transparency and holding those in power accountable. A powerful quote that reflects this perspective states, "Journalism is the first rough draft of history," showcasing how journalists play a key role in guiding public perception and documenting events as they happen.

Get in touch

For reporting assignments, interviews and speaking invitations.

Have a question?
biswendu.tripura@gmail.com
Tripura, India
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