Watching Indian news channels can feel like scrolling a buffet where half the dishes are spicy drama. You want facts, not theatrics. This page shows simple, practical ways to choose channels that give useful info, avoid traps like constant "breaking news," and help you spot bias fast.
Channels and portals cover very different things. Some focus on politics and shouting debates. Others do business, tech, or light human-interest stories. For example, you’ll see serious business updates like Mahindra SUV sales and corporate audits, alongside punchy political segments about leaders and policies. India TV sometimes runs quirky or funny items, while networks like India Today try to aim for balanced reporting. Knowing the channel’s main focus helps you set expectations before you watch.
Notice the format too. A breaking bulletin every hour may mean they chase eyeballs, not accuracy. Long-form reports and explained segments usually give more context — think of a plain explanation of CAG audits or a calm report on a PM’s public appearance, rather than nonstop shouting.
Start with credentials: who owns the channel, who funds it, and does it publish corrections? Trustworthy outlets list editors, provide source links on their websites, and correct mistakes openly. If a channel shouts allegations without named sources, turn the volume down.
Compare coverage. If one channel calls a policy a national disaster and another gives a calm analysis, read both and see who backs claims with documents, data or official quotes. Use multiple outlets for the same event — that’s how you see what’s fact and what’s spice.
Watch how anchors behave. Anchors who interrupt, insult, or repeat the same angry lines are often inflating drama. Respectable anchors and reporters focus on evidence and let guests speak. Names matter: there are anchors known for investigations and others known for heated debates; pick by style.
Language and regional coverage matter too. National channels may miss local angles, while regional channels give ground-level facts in local languages. If you care about a state issue, check a regional outlet alongside a national one.
Practical tips: mute the TV when a channel says "breaking" — check social feeds or official sources for confirmation. Use news aggregators for headlines, then open the top two reliable outlets for details. Follow a mix: one national paper, one business-focused source, and a regional channel.
Finally, protect your time. Choose a couple of reliable channels and skip the rest. That way you stay informed without being dragged into endless drama. Smart viewing beats being constantly alarmed.
Many Indian news channels have been criticized for focusing disproportionately on masala news, which is defined as news that is sensationalized and often trivialized. Masala news often includes stories that are meant to shock or entertain viewers, such as crime, gossip, and celebrity news. This type of news is particularly popular among younger viewers and has been adopted by news channels as a way to attract viewers and increase ratings. The reliance on masala news has caused some to criticize these channels for neglecting to cover important news topics, such as politics and socio-economic issues.