Bengaluru: In a move that highlights the growing importance of regional media, Kannada News Today, a Karnataka-based digital news outlet, has been recognised by the cultural body Janapada Mattu Kreeda Sangha for its contribution to public-interest journalism.
The award, titled Atyuttama Pradeshika Suddi Mula (Best Regional News Source), was given in appreciation of the platform’s efforts to consistently bring community-focused stories to light.
Founded in 2019 by journalist Satish Raj Goravigere, the platform has developed into a trusted source of regional news. Known for its coverage of civic issues, government policies, and rural development topics, Kannada News Today stands out for its commitment to presenting facts with clarity and responsibility.
The team behind the platform has been known to prioritise local voices. Their news approach avoids sensationalism and focuses on informative content that helps citizens stay aware and involved. The award was seen as a recognition not only of their editorial values but also of their efforts to sustain regional language journalism in a fast-paced digital world.
Founder Satish Raj Goravigere, who has spent over a decade in media, said the honour adds to their motivation. He believes that in today’s noisy information space, local journalism has a bigger role than ever before. According to him, recognition from cultural institutions matters because it reflects the impact of journalism at the community level.
Alongside Kannada-language reporting, the group also launched Timesnib, an English-language platform that allowed the team to cover broader topics. This expansion helped connect state-level issues with national discussions, without losing the grassroots perspective the team is known for.
Interestingly, Kannada News Today has also experimented with technology to engage newer audiences. It was one of the earliest Kannada platforms to test AI-based video news delivery. Their realistic-looking AI anchors are being used to streamline updates while keeping the visual experience familiar and relatable for viewers.
The award from Janapada Kala Mattu Kreeda Sangha comes at a time when regional journalism is gaining more attention for its role in democratic awareness. As many large outlets shift their focus toward broader markets, local platforms like Kannada News Today are filling the gap with meaningful, issue-based storytelling.