NDTV India has announced the significant addition of senior journalist Meenakshi Kandwal to its team, a move that underscores the network’s unwavering commitment to meaningful, people-first journalism. Known for her dedication to impactful stories, Kandwal’s arrival is set to inject new energy into NDTV India’s promise of delivering narratives that delve deep into real issues resonating with the heart of India, extending beyond superficial headlines.
According to an official press release issued by NDTV, Meenakshi Kandwal brings with her over fifteen years of extensive experience spanning anchoring, ground reporting, editorial strategy, and independent digital storytelling. Her distinct journalistic approach is characterized by compassion, rigorous inquiry, and an innate ability to spotlight voices that are often marginalized or unheard. This includes perspectives from rural communities, insights from the youth, and critical concerns related to infrastructure that profoundly impact daily lives.
Kandwal’s career trajectory has been both rich and diverse. She has previously helmed some of Indian television’s most prominent news programs, notably ‘Opinion India Ka’ on Times Now Navbharat, and ‘Aaj Subah’ and ‘Ek Aur Ek Gyarah’ during her tenure at Aaj Tak. Her profound connection with younger audiences across digital platforms like X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and Instagram has established her not merely as a familiar face, but as a trusted voice for a new generation seeking not just information, but clarity and conscience from their news sources.
Her journey into journalism began early, sparked by reading news during a school assembly in class seven. This early inspiration propelled her forward, leading years later to her triumph in the Star News Anchor Hunt, making her the first-ever anchor to be chosen through a national talent search. Since then, her ground reporting has consistently stood out for its empathy and courage. Whether she was reporting live from Chamoli’s Raini village, shedding light on the plight of trapped laborers, or trekking through challenging conditions to highlight Kargil’s urgent need for an airport, Kandwal has consistently demonstrated a heartfelt approach to journalism.
Her compelling storytelling from Leh to Kargil, in particular, garnered national attention. Beyond exposing the logistical gaps in the region, her reports vividly illustrated how these deficiencies translated into life-or-death medical emergencies for residents. One powerful line from her report, spoken by a 75-year-old resident – “I want to see an airport before I die” – resonated deeply across the nation and reportedly even prompted a direct response from the Civil Aviation Minister.
Meenakshi Kandwal firmly believes that journalism must reclaim its foundational trust, particularly among families who once gathered to watch the news together. Her steadfast drive to deliver relevant, empathetic, and impactful reporting aligns seamlessly with NDTV India’s core editorial philosophy.
Expressing her thoughts on joining the network, Meenakshi Kandwal stated, “NDTV India has always stood for trust, empathy, and journalism that values the viewer’s intelligence. That’s exactly what drives me as a journalist. I look forward to going beyond the headlines and telling stories that matter.”
Welcoming her to the newsroom, Rahul Kanwal, Group CEO and Editor-in-Chief, NDTV, remarked, “Meenakshi brings a rare mix of depth, empathy, and editorial sharpness. Her field stories have already had a national impact. We are indeed delighted to welcome her to NDTV India.”
With this significant addition, NDTV India continues to strengthen its dynamic team of journalists, who collectively bring both unwavering credibility and fresh insight to their reporting. This strategic move is part of the network’s broader editorial push to foster journalism that is more inclusive, thoughtful, and deeply connected to India’s diverse lived realities. Through such dedicated efforts, NDTV India aims to inform, inspire, and empower its viewers, one compelling story at a time.
Key Highlights:
- Senior journalist Meenakshi Kandwal has joined NDTV India, bringing over 15 years of experience in anchoring, ground reporting, and editorial strategy.
- Her journalism is characterized by compassion and a focus on unheard voices, with notable past roles at Times Now Navbharat and Aaj Tak.
- Kandwal’s impactful field reports, such as those from Chamoli and Kargil, have garnered national attention and influenced policy.
- Her move aligns with NDTV India’s philosophy of trust, empathy, and people-first journalism, aiming to deliver relevant and deeply connected narratives.