Speaking at a conference in Delhi on the role of AI in journalism, Editors Guild of India President Sanjay Kapoor remarked that while AI undeniably boosts speed and efficiency, “only reporters can bring human voices and emotions.”

Organised by the Editors Guild of India on Friday, the conference, ‘Reimagining Journalism in the Time of AI,’ brought together senior journalists to discuss future-proofing newsrooms amid this evolving technology and leveraging its tools to improve efficiency. A central theme was the potential risk AI poses if journalists fail to distinguish its benefits from its inherent pitfalls.

Sanket Upadhyay, founder of Double Check, called AI a “brilliant tool” for independent journalists looking to shape their own path. “One must constantly evaluate the merits and demerits of AI,” he said. “We should not blindly rely on the information it gives.”

Bilal Bhat, editor at ETV Bharat, highlighted the importance of editorial independence and AI literacy. While noting that AI can perform translations with high efficiency, he cautioned that most systems are trained on Western datasets and lack the cultural nuance required for the Indian context. 

Bhat emphasised that “reporters can’t be replaced”, noting that human-led fact-checking is essential to developing original content.

Pradeep Gairola, Chief Digital Business Officer at The Hindu, added that AI is essential for verifying data and “removing invisible labour.” He explained that by automating routine tasks, AI allows newsrooms to manage data more efficiently, freeing up hyperlocal journalists to focus on ground-level reporting. 

However, he maintained a note of caution: “One must remain original. Machines should not control us.”

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