Freelance Journalist

About the Organization

Jan News Bharat is a growing news platform that focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and meaningful coverage to a wide audience. Operating from Lucknow, it covers local, regional, and national developments with an emphasis on clarity, integrity, independent reporting, fact-checking, and easy-to-understand storytelling across different formats. The organization is also expanding its network of freelance contributors to strengthen coverage and bring in fresh viewpoints.

Role Overview

This position is for a freelance journalist working on a full-time hybrid basis in Lucknow, with some flexibility to work from home. The journalist will generate and pitch story ideas, report both in the field and remotely, and produce accurate news stories under deadline pressure. The role includes researching topics, interviewing sources, verifying information, and drafting or refining copy for digital and broadcast use. In addition, the journalist may prepare press releases, work closely with editors, align with newsroom priorities, and respond quickly to urgent news and assignment needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and pitch compelling story ideas aligned with newsroom priorities.
• Carry out reporting work both on location and remotely as needed.
• Research issues thoroughly, including background checks, data collection, and source verification.
• Conduct interviews and gather information from sources in a professional and respectful manner.
• Write, edit, and revise news copy for digital and broadcast formats.
• Prepare press releases when required and tailor them for different media channels.
• Coordinate with editors and newsroom teams to meet publishing timelines and coverage plans.
• Stay ready to cover breaking news and respond promptly to assignments.
• Maintain ethical journalism practices and nurture reliable source relationships.
• Work independently while managing multiple tasks and deadlines.

Qualifications

• Excellent news writing and general writing ability with a focus on clarity and engagement.
• Experience in news research, including fact-finding and verification work.
• Ability to adapt press releases for different communication channels.
• Understanding of broadcasting basics, including simple on-camera or voice work and coordination with production teams.
• Strong interviewing and communication skills for working with people from varied backgrounds.
• Comfort with a fast-moving, deadline-heavy newsroom environment, including breaking news coverage.
• Basic digital journalism knowledge, including CMS tools and social media distribution.
• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Mass Communication, or a related discipline, or equivalent hands-on reporting experience.
• Good knowledge of local matters in and around Lucknow, plus strong interest in current affairs and public-interest reporting.
• Ability to work on your own, juggle several assignments, and uphold high professional and ethical standards.

Additional Information

This role is designed for contributors who can balance flexibility with accountability. The organization places strong value on accurate reporting, independence, and responsible journalism. Applicants should be comfortable handling varied assignments and contributing to coverage across multiple formats.