Shivam Dwivedi
As seen in:
UI NEWZ,
EIN News,
Energy Central,
Krishi Jagran,
Business Post Examiner,
Techsphoton,
Agriculture Newswire
Covers:
Impact Journalism & Thought Leadership| Agriculture & Rural Development | Environment | Education |Tourism | Finance | Technology |Defence |Global Affairs & Diplomacy |Public Policy & Governance | IR
Interview
What was your first job as a journalist?
My first job as a journalist was covering policy and development issues, focusing on research-driven stories that connect economic, social, and environmental perspectives to real-world impact.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
No
How is social media changing news?
Social media is transforming news by accelerating its spread, enabling real-time updates, and giving everyone a platform to share information. It empowers citizen journalism but also increases the risk of misinformation. Traditional media now competes with viral content, making speed and engagement priorities—sometimes at the expense of accuracy and depth.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Carl Kolchak
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To be a journalist means seeking and reporting the truth with accuracy, fairness, and integrity. Ethical journalism requires accountability, respect for sources, and a commitment to the public interest. It involves verifying facts, avoiding bias, protecting the vulnerable, and holding power to account—while upholding transparency and professional responsibility at all times.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
A funny Trump-related news hashtag was #Covfefe.
It went viral after a late-night tweet from Donald Trump that mysteriously read, “Despite the constant negative press covfefe.” The tweet was never clarified, and the internet exploded with jokes, memes, and wild theories. It became a hilarious symbol of social media confusion and presidential typos.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer pitches that are concise, well-structured, and focused on impact—highlighting the story’s relevance, why it matters now, and any unique angle or solution it presents.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I use a mix of research and analysis tools, data visualization software, and communication platforms, such as:
Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for reports and presentations
GIS & mapping tools for disaster and environmental data analysis
Social media platforms for public awareness campaigns
Collaboration tools like Slack, Trello, or Google Workspace
Data visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI to present insights clearly
I can also draft a shorter, profile-ready version if you want.
What's your favorite social network?
Linkedin
Who do you wish followed you?
I wish thought leaders, policymakers, and changemakers in social, economic, and environmental fields followed me, especially those who have the desire to make India developed and prosperous not only economically, but also socially and spiritually.
Why did you become a journalist?
I became a journalist because I’ve always been driven by curiosity and a desire to understand how political, economic, social, and sectoral systems shape people’s lives. Journalism allows me to dig deeper, simplify complex issues, and tell stories that create awareness and drive impact.
Over the years, I’ve worked across diverse domains such as agriculture, governance, policy, and public affairs, and that exposure has strengthened my interest in impact journalism that contributes to meaningful change. I enjoy adapting to new subjects, learning quickly, and presenting information in ways that help audiences make informed decisions. This is why I am open to working across multiple beats and sectors, in any role where accurate, impactful, and meaningful communication is needed.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I’m most proud of working on a story that explores how India can rise to the top not just economically and socially, but also by leading the world spiritually—blending growth with values, innovation with inclusivity, and progress with purpose.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Aspiring journalists should prioritize truth, accuracy, and integrity. Develop strong research and writing skills, stay curious, and always verify facts. Embrace digital tools but think critically. Build a network, listen actively, and respect every story. Most importantly, remain committed to ethical journalism and giving voice to those who need it.
When's the best time to pitch you?
The best time to pitch me is when you have a clear, well-structured idea with defined goals and outcomes.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
I had the opportunity to work with the Relief Commissioner’s Office, Government of Uttar Pradesh, as a Disaster Mitigation Associate, where I focused on research-driven global best practices, along with dissemination of relevant information to the public through social media platforms and on-site events. For my dedication, I was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by the Relief Commissioner.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
The worst pitch I ever got was overly long, unfocused, and lacking a clear story or impact-more about the sender than the idea itself.
What's your favorite drink?
Kesar (saffron) milk
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Meditation
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Down To Earth, Yojana, Kurukshetra, and The Economist
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
The most common misperception about my beat is that economic and social development can happen without addressing values and spirituality, when in reality, lasting progress requires a balance of growth, inclusivity, and ethical grounding.
Would you like to take the Muck Rack Interview?
Create a Muck Rack profile.