You know, sometimes when I watch the news, it feels like they’re not really asking the questions we want answers to. Maybe journalism schools have changed? Maybe deadlines are tighter than ever? Who knows. But what I do know is that good journalism is about more than just reporting.

It’s about asking the questions that make us think critically, and that give us a well-rounded picture of what’s going on. It’s about holding those in power accountable. This is what we were taught in school, remember?

I had a chat with my uncle, who’s been a journalist for over 20 years (he’s retired now), and he shared some insights that got me thinking.

He said, “Back in my day, we told the whole story – who, what, why, when, where, and how! These days, I don’t even know if they’re asking questions anymore! It’s like they’re missing the point of their job.”

My uncle has a point. Sometimes, it feels like news stories are press releases all dressed up. We get the basic facts, but there’s no follow-up, no challenging perspectives. It’s like watching a tennis match where one player just lobs the ball over the net, and the other lets it plop without a fight.

In countries like India and the USA, where big elections can change everything, the news plays a huge role. But lately, it feels like the media cares more about getting high ratings and making money than telling us what’s really going on. And I don’t think I’m the only one noticing this, you must’ve too.

I’ve noticed this trend for a while now, and it’s made me lose trust in a lot of news channels. I’ve even stopped tuning in to news channels for about three years now. I just don’t feel like I can trust them anymore, especially with all the political drama going on. Instead of just taking their word for it, I find myself checking multiple sources to make sure I’m getting the full picture.

I know not all of them are like that, some are genuine too. It’s just they’re losing the trust they had once.

But the question is –

Why’s all this happening?

Well, one reason could be that big companies own most of the media outlets these days. They care more about profits than real journalism, so they might avoid talking about controversial stuff or only show one side of the story. As a result, there’s pressure to prioritize stories that attract viewership or readership, often at the expense of substantive journalism.

And then there’s social media, which has made everything even more confusing. Fake news spreads like wildfire online, making it hard to know who or what to believe. Social media algorithms prioritize engagement over accuracy. In such an environment, distinguishing fact from fiction becomes increasingly challenging.

There might also be cultural shifts and changing patterns of news consumption, particularly among younger generations. They’re more interested towards senseless, more visual and entertainment-oriented formats.

News is constantly evolving, and there’s a demand for instantaneous updates. This pressure to churn out content quickly can lead to superficial reporting and a focus on sensationalism rather than depth and analysis. Clickbait headlines and provocative soundbites are favored over nuanced exploration of complex issues.

The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black

Is There a Political Influence on Mainstream Media?

And let’s not forget the dangers of political influence on mainstream media. As the world becomes more polarized, media outlets might also be increasingly aligning themselves with either left or right-wing ideologies.

In some cases, media organizations may be directly owned or controlled by political figures or corporations with vested interests.

But perhaps the most alarming consequence of media manipulation is the threat to democracy itself. History is filled with examples of nations descending into dictatorship when the media fails to serve as a check on government power.

However, we all must agree that there are still plenty of journalists out there who are holding powerful people accountable. We can also be more critical viewers. If an interview feels soft, we can always do our own research to get a more complete picture.

So, here’s to the journalists out there who are still out there asking the tough ones! And to the rest, let’s remember the golden rule of a good story: who, what, why, when, where, and HOW? Because honestly, how can we expect to understand the world around us if we don’t get the whole story?

Did you read these incredible stories of everyday heroes around you? GET YOUR COPY TODAY!

The post Why Don’t Journalists Ask More Questions Anymore? appeared first on Aspiring Blog.

2024 witnessed numerous events, some of which were devastating and shook the world. However, the year also brought forth beautiful memories that we hope to carry into 2025.

So, here is the list of major events that happened in 2024 that shaped the year and our lives.

Major Events Happened in 2024 Worldwide

1. Major Political Shifts

Politics is one thing which never remains stagnant. It keeps remain changing every year and election is one of the major key to influence politics. In 2024 various major elections occurs for instance:- USA Presidential Election, India Parliament Election etc.

• Trump’s Come Back To The White House: Donald Trump made a big political comeback in 2024, winning another term as U.S. President after losing in 2020. He stayed in the spotlight through public events, social media, and his own media platform, energising his supporters with the slogan “Making America Great Again—Again.” His victory shows his lasting popularity among his base and highlights the divisions in American politics, with frustration over Biden’s policies playing a key role in his return.
• Modi 3.0: The year 2024 was historic for the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) as they came to power for the third straight time. Narendra Modi, a prominent figure in Indian politics, has emerged as a global leader with his smart strategies in recent years. From the Ram Mandir to development projects, he faced significant criticism from opposition parties but still managed to secure the public’s support for a third consecutive term.
• Bangladesh Political Turmoil: In 2024, Bangladesh faced political unrest and social challenges, marked by protests and clashes. Opposition parties demanded Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and a neutral government for elections, leading to violent confrontations with law enforcement. As a result, PM Hasina fled away and gave her resignation and the superpower formed an interim government in Bangladesh. The alleged genocide of Bangladeshi Hindus in Bangladesh was shocking and the whole world and Western media were silent about innocent Hindus killing in Bangladesh.

2. Major Conflict Between Countries

Conflict or war is a destructive force between nations, impacting innocent lives and the entire world. This year, we witnessed significant loss of innocent lives due to wars that shook the global community. War not only affects the world economy but also deeply threatens humanity. For example, the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Israel-Palestine war.

• Russia-Ukraine War: The Russia-Ukraine war, now in its second year, has deeply impacted global politics, economics, and humanitarian efforts. Ukraine, backed by Western aid, has reclaimed some territories, while Russia intensified attacks on cities and critical infrastructure, causing widespread blackouts and suffering. Millions have been displaced, and tensions between NATO and Russia have escalated, with sanctions straining Russia’s economy but also driving up global energy and food prices. Peace talks have made little progress, and shifting alliances are shaping new global power dynamics as the conflict continues.
• Israel- Palestine War: By early 2024, Israeli forces had severely damaged Gaza, destroying homes, farmland, schools, and cultural landmarks, and displacing nearly all of its 2.3 million residents. Over 100,000 Israelis were also displaced. The conflict escalated regionally, with Israel targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon, including the killing of its leader Hassan Nasrallah, and engaging directly with Iranian forces, heightening Middle East tensions.
• Afghanistan-Pakistan Tension: By the end of 2024, Afghan civilians suffered heavily, with many killed in intense airstrikes by the Pakistani army. The Taliban reported that the strikes claimed the lives of 46 civilians. In retaliation, the Afghan Taliban advanced toward the Pakistan border.

3. Major Accidents Happened in 2024

The year 2024 was marked by natural and man-made disasters that claimed numerous innocent lives. Some were so severe that they left no chance of survival. From landslides to road accidents, many lives were lost, and billions of dollars in economic losses were incurred. It was also a devastating year for the aviation sector, with major aeroplane crashes, such as the South Korean Airplane Crash and the Azerbaijan Plane Crash.

• Wayanad India Landslide Incident: On July 30, 2024, intense monsoon rains caused devastating landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad district. The first landslide hit near the Punnappuzha River’s origin, affecting Punjirimattom and Mundakkai, while a second landslide in Chooralmala triggered flash floods, destroying the village. At least 123 people lost their lives, with many missing or injured. Rescue efforts faced challenges due to heavy rain, tough terrain, and damaged infrastructure, including a collapsed bridge isolating 400 families.
• Azerbaijan Plane Crash: On December 25, 2024, an Azerbaijan Airlines Flight crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, killing 38 of the 67 people on board. The plane, diverted due to bad weather, was reportedly shot down by Russian air defences during a Ukrainian drone attack. Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev confirmed the incident, demanded compensation, and accused Russia of electronic interference. President Putin offered condolences but denied responsibility.
• South Korean Plane Accident: On December 29, 2024, Jeju Air Flight 2216, a Boeing 737-800, crashed while approaching Muan International Airport in South Korea. The crash, caused by a bird strike that led to landing gear failure, claimed 179 lives out of 181 people on board. The plane hit a concrete barrier during an emergency landing, causing a deadly fireball. This is South Korea’s worst aviation disaster in decades and the deadliest worldwide in 2024.

4. Space Exploration

• Sunita Williams Stuck in Space: If there’s one story that kept us glued to updates, it was astronaut Sunita Williams being stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) due to a technical glitch. But here’s the thing: Sunita has shown us what it means to adapt and persevere. From conducting vital experiments to sharing heartfelt (and sometimes humorous) messages from space, she’s become a global symbol of resilience. The world is eagerly awaiting her safe return, rooting for her every single day.
• The Sun’s Close-Up: The Parker Solar Probe gave us the closest-ever look at the Sun, revealing mind-blowing details about solar winds and helping scientists predict space weather better. Yes, we’re officially one step closer to understanding our fiery neighbour.

However, it wasn’t all bad, here are some good things that happened in 2024:

4. Animals Making a Comeback

One of the most inspiring stories of 2024 was about animals that came back from the brink of extinction, thanks to decades of conservation efforts.

• Humpback Whales: From just 1,400 in 1960 to a whopping 135,000 in 2024.
• Mountain Gorillas: Once down to 250, their population now stands at 1,100.
• Giant Pandas: From 1,114 in 1980 to 1,864 today.
• Bengal Tigers: Their numbers rose from 1,000 to 3,500, roaring back stronger than ever.
• Bald Eagles: Soaring from 410 in the 1960s to 316,700 today.
• White Rhinos: From just 100 left in the wild to an impressive 18,000.
• Sea Otters: Their population skyrocketed from a mere 50 to an estimated 125,000.
• Sumatran Orangutans: From 11,000 to 14,000—a small but vital increase for this critically endangered species.

5. History Made in Women’s Sports

For the first time ever, the Women’s T20 World Cup was co-hosted alongside the Men’s T20 World Cup. This move wasn’t just about cricket; it was about giving women’s sports the global stage they deserve. Oh, and speaking of women’s sports, the U.S. women’s soccer team crushed it by winning their fifth FIFA Women’s World Cup title.

6. First Black Astronaut Candidate Makes It to Space After More Than 60 Years

In one of the most inspiring stories of the year, Ed Dwight, the first Black astronaut candidate from the 1960s, finally got to live his dream. At 90 years old, he boarded a Blue Origin flight and went to space. Proof that it’s never too late to make history.

7. Overdose Deaths and Youth Vaping Declined

Here’s some great news: overdose deaths in the U.S. dropped by 17%, and youth vaping hit its lowest level in a decade. Big wins for public health! It feels good to see positive change happening in areas that impact so many lives.

8. Bashar al-Assad’s Regime Fell in Syria

One of the year’s most shocking moments came when Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapsed in Syria. While the fall of his government ended years of oppression for many, the country’s future remains uncertain. Let’s hope 2025 brings stability and healing to the region.

A Little Something to Take Into 2025

2024 wasn’t perfect, no year ever is. But it reminded us to keep going, even when things get tough. Whether it’s celebrating small wins or picking ourselves up after setbacks, every moment is a step forward.

As we step into 2025, let’s remember: Life is a mix of highs and lows, but the magic happens when we choose to see the beauty in both.

Here’s to a year full of laughter, love, and new adventures. Bring it on, 2025!

Happy New Year!

[This post was supposed to go out on January 1st, 2025, but due to some technical issues, it got late]

The post Major Events Happened in 2024 That Shaped the Year appeared first on Aspiring Blog.