Why Journalism in India?

With scenes that range from monsoon forests to the Himalayas to flat plains and awe-inspiring temples, it is difficult to make a generalization about this diverse sub-continent. India fosters a way of life unlike anything we are used to in the West. Even the most mundane tasks, such as eating dinner or taking a rickshaw across town, become an adventure amid bustling streets full of oxen driven carts and goat herders. Come to India and sample spicy dishes presented on a banana leaf instead of a plate; silverware is optional. Escape for the weekend to catch a glimpse of wild elephants in Thekkady; cruise the backwaters of Kerala on a houseboat with other volunteers; barter for fabric in Madurai; and relax on the beaches in Pondicherry. The sights, sounds and smells that assault the senses in any Indian town must be experienced to be believed.

Our office is located in Sivakasi, a town famous for firework factories-at least 300 factories are located in this small town. Sivakasi is also known for its printing presses –the largest outside of Germany—and production of safety matches. The town has a history that reaches back more than 600 years and contributes to 80 percent of India’s total safety match production, 90 percent of India’s total firework production and 60 percent of India’s total offset printing.

Volunteering in India

Our journalism volunteers in India work for the “Sivakasi Times,” the only English language monthly magazine in the area. The publication was set up by Projects Abroad in 2002 in collaboration with the local business community. Volunteers practice all aspects of producing a publication: research, writing articles, design, editing, printing and distribution. Each edition has its own theme as well as local news coverage. Recent topics have included the environment, politics, health care, education, women’s issues and sports. No matter your interests or level of experience, the “Sivakasi Times” has something for you.

Why Volunteer in a Journalism Placement?

Experience and cross-cultural exchange! Whether you are interested in pursuing an academic career in journalism, improving your job prospects in the field of journalism, or it is simply something that incites your curiosity, our placements are worth considering. We offer the invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on journalism experience while simultaneously learning about a different part of the world.

Take on the role of an intern and be actively involved in the research and delivery of news stories. This means that while making your CV more impressive, you will also learn to adapt to foreign culture—an invaluable quality in an ever-shrinking world.

Working as a reporter allows one the unique opportunity to understand a place on an intimate level. As you research a story and interview sources, you will learn about the social, political and economic aspects of the country, whilst also being able to explore it geographically. You will also learn about the technical side of journalism, the day-to-day grind and the exciting reality of deadlines.