A Horticulture career  is for those who have a passion for plants. The word horticulture is derived from the Latin word “Hortus” that means “Garden” and “Cultus” that means “Cultivation”.

Thus, horticulture is a part of agriculture science that is concerned with the cultivation of Garden crops. Garden crops include fruits, vegetables, and all the plants grown for ornamental purposes as well as spices,plantation,medicinal and aromatic purposes.

Unlike the field crops cultivation that is based on extensive cultivation, horticulture requires intensive care in planting, carrying out cultural operations, and manipulating growth. Harvesting,packing,marketing,storage and processing.

Also, horticulture does not require large-scale crop protection or animal husbandry like agriculture. Horticulture lays stress on cultivation on small size plots with a diverse mix of mixed crops, while agriculture focuses on a single large primary crop at times.

Horticulture and Horticulturist

What is horticulture?

Horticulture is a branch of agriculture science that deals with the cultivation of plants,vegetables,flowers,fruits,herbs,shrubs,bushes and ornamental trees. Horticulture includes landscaping for gardens, maintaining nurseries, green houses,orchards,and plantations and cultivation of flowers.

Horticulture now also includes direct or indirect application in food-technology industries as production, harvesting and storing of vegetables that are highly mechanized and merged into food technology.

Who is a Horticulturist?

A horticulturist is a person who has skills and uses them in the production of plants. A horticulturist improves the plant growth,quality,nutritional value, yield, and resistance to insects, diseases, and environmental stresses.

Horticulturists start from gardeners and end up as designers. They work as growers, therapists, designers and technical advisors.

Horticulturists grow and process flowers, ornamental plants, fruits, vegetables and medicinal plants.They prepare soil, nurture and grow plants, collect the produce(flowers,fruits,vegetables, etc.,), process them and distribute them for selling and other purposes.

Branches of Horticulture

Horticulture is a vast subject. This field is divided into three major branches.

Floriculture

Floriculture is the cultivation of flowers. It is the branch of ornamental horticulture concerned with growing and marketing flowers.

Olericulture

Olericulture is the science of growing vegetables. It teaches us to grow,store,process and market plants for food. The vegetables are mostly annual, non-woody plants from which one harvests a crop.

Pomiculture or Pomology

Pomology is the science of producing and marketing seed bearing food that grows on woody perennial plants like trees, bushes and vines.

What is the importance of Horticulture?

Horticulture plays a very important role in our daily life. Here are a few of its benefits.

• Horticulture cultivates fruits and vegetables that help in our balanced diet by providing vital protective nutrients.
• Horticulture is key to several industries like canning, essential oil,dehydration,refrigeration,wine,cashew nut, transport, etc. that provide employment to many people.

• The flowers, ornamental plants and gardens play a very important role in reducing air pollution and refreshing the minds of people.

• Horticulture crops also contribute to the aesthetic side of rural and home life of the community.
• Horticulture generates employment opportunities.
• Horticulture helps in the effective utilisation through hardy fruits and medicinal plants.

Types of Plants in Horticulture

We can further categorize the plants cultivated in horticulture into the following.

Annuals Plants

Annuals are plants that live for one year or less, that makes its vegetative growth flowers and produces seed within one year from the sowing date and then the plant dies. Examples of Annuals are brinjal,tomato,coleus etc.

Biennials Plants

Biennials plants are those plants that require two years or parts growing seasons with more or less of a dormant or resting season between to complete their life period. Examples are onion,beet,carrot,cabbage radish etc.

Perennials Plants

Perennials persist from year to year and go on producing crops of seed from year. Perennials may be herbaceous or woody and perennials may be trees or shrubs or vines. Examples are Mango, Chiku etc.

Deciduous Plants

Deciduous plants shed their leaves once a year when they go to rest. This is in the cold season. Their leaves change their colour when temperature falls and become yellow and fall off. The tree becomes bare and looks dry. Examples are apple,plum,peach, and sirls.

Evergreens Plants

Evergreen plants are those who do not have a definite resting season and they do not leave their leaves during a particular season. All physiological activities go on continuously and the tree never becomes completely devoid of leaves and bare. Examples are mango,chiku,citrus etc.

How to become a Horticulturist?

One can start horticulture education after completing intermediate/12th level education. You must complete your 12th in science stream (Physics, chemistry and Math/biology/agriculture) to opt for admission in bachelor’s degree in agriculture as well.

Most candidates have to take an entrance test namely ICAR AIEEA 2022 conducted by ICAR to start a career in horticulture. However, some colleges conduct their own admission for horticulture.

Bachelor’s Courses in Horticulture

Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Horticulture for 3 years

Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) in Technology for 4 years

Master’s Course in Horticulture

Master’s of Science (M.Sc.) in Horticulture in 2 years

Postgraduate Diploma in Horticulture and Landscaping Gardening for 2 years.

M.Sc. Agriculture in Horticulture (Floriculture and Landscaping) for 2 years.

For admission to postgraduate courses in horticulture, one has to pass the bachelor’s degree in the relevant discipline with minimum 60% marks.

Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Horticulture

Candidates who want to pursue Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in horticulture can do so after completing their post-graduation in the same discipline.

List of Top Colleges offering courses in Horticulture

Why should one become a Horticulturist?

The Scope of Horticulturists in India

Horticulture is the fastest growing sector in agriculture. Presently India is next only to China in area and production of vegetables and fruits crops. We produce 10% of fruits and 14% vegetables of the world production.

Here are few facts of horticulture in India:

• India is the largest producer of mango, banana,sapota,acid lime and cauliflower.
• India is the second largest producer of onion and third in cabbage production globally.

• India produces nearly 70 different varieties of vegetables.
• We are the largest producer of rice in India

Horticulture Career Prospects

Horticulture has a lot of scope. Whether you want a full time or part time horticulture job, whether you own a piece of land or not, you can take up this line and live a decent life.

In recent years there is a rapid expansion of horticulture as an industry. As there is more awareness among the people of the impact of pollution on the environment, Horticulture is becoming more popular.

The career as a horticulturist is extremely lucrative as not only is there a rise in demand for plants,flowers,fruits but also the technology behind it is also becoming more and more sophisticated. The growth in the export industry is also creating employment opportunities.

There is a demand for qualified and trained horticulturists with attractive remuneration in both public and private sectors. There are also job openings in the UK and US and qualified horticulturists.

Top ten career paths in Horticulture

Horticulturists have very high demand in various industries in India. You have a number of job opportunities and career options after completion of the course. Let us take a closer look at a few of the most wanted types of jobs in horticulture in India.

1. Pomology

Pomology is the study of the production of fruit crops in the field. These are of two types.

1. Tree fruits like mango,chiku,citrus etc.

1. Small fruits produced on shrubs like Phalsa, Asberry, Grapes, Strawberry.

Pomologists are responsible for the cultivation of new fruits and nuts as well as maximising the production of existing ones. Their job duties include the following.

• Developing new fruit and nut cultivars
• Studying pruning practices,fertilisation and other activities to ensure that the trees and crops remain healthy.
• How to deal with crop pests, infections and diseases.
• What are the best ways to harvest fruits and nuts?
• Analysing shelf lives and storage conditions to ensure the longevity of crops life.

• Survival of crops in adverse climate conditions.
• Studying the conditions for growth of various fruit and nut trees.
• How to water, prune and transplant crops.

Essential skills required to become Pomologists

Here are the skills that are required for a Pomologist.

• Excellent research and laboratory skills
• Strong analytical skills
• Interest in fruit cultivation

• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Outdoor skills
• Attention to detail
• Good report writing skills for creating research reports.
• Excellent Speaking skills

• Inquisitiveness and persistence
• An up-to-date knowledge of Industry trends.

2. Olericulture

Olericulture is the study of vegetable crops like brinjal, tomato,potato,radish,chilli., etc. An Olericulturists deals with the production,storage,processing and marketing of vegetables.

Vegetable crops can be classified into 9 major types.

• Potherbs and greens like  spinach and collards
• Salad crops like lettuce, celery
• Cole crops like cabbage and cauliflower
• Root crops (tubers) like potatoes, beets, carrots, radishes

• Bulb crops like onions, leeks
• Legumes like beans, peas
• Cucurbits like melons, squash, cucumber
• Solanaceous crops like tomatoes, peppers potatoes
• Sweet corn

Essential skills required to become Olericulturists

• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Good outdoor skills

• Attention to detail
• Good report writing skills
• Excellent speaking skills
• Inquisitiveness and persistence
• An up-to-date knowledge of industry trends

3. Floriculture

Floriculture is the study of cultivation of flowers and ornamental plants both for commercial purposes or as a hobby. There has been a steep rise in the demand for floriculturists as a result of the rise in domestic need of flowers like roses,gerbera,carnation,gladiolus,orchids and lilies.

You can choose any of these careers after completing your course.

1. Floral Designers

1. Interior Decorator

1. Production Managers

1. Management Analysts

1. Floral Wholesaler

1. Sales Representatives

1. Landscape technicians

Floriculturists can work in nurseries,Botanical gardens, farm companies, Genetic companies. Agriculture product companies. They can teach in colleges and universities as professors. They can work in cosmetics and perfume manufacturing companies. You can also set your own business in growing flowers in the export market.

4.  Landscape Gardening

Landscape gardening is the study of designing and laying out home gardens, public gardens, parks, road side plantation, avenues etc. Landscape gardening has many sub divisions.

• Landscape design
• Landscape ecology
•  Landscape engineering

• Landscape planning
• Landscape archaeology
• Nature scaping
• Sustainable landscaping
• Terraforming

• Xeriscaping

5 .   Post-Harvest Technology

Post-Harvest technologist is the study of canning of fruits and vegetables like fruit juice,jam,marmalade,candy,dehydration etc., product groups like confectionery, chocolates and cocoa products, soya- based products, mineral water, high protein foods etc.

Food scientists are responsible for understanding processes contributing to food deterioration and spoilage and devising appropriate measures and methods of preservation in order to ensure availability, acceptability and safety of food.

They are also responsible for post-harvest reduction encompassing the usage of optimum harvest factors, reduction of losses in handling, packaging transpiration and storage with modern infrastructure machinery, processing into a wide variety of products, home scale preservation with low-cost technology.

6.  Silviculture

Silviculture is the study of cultivation and management of forest trees like teak wood, Ficus, eucalyptus, etc.

The roles of Silviculturist include control of crop composition and production of species of more economic value, Afforestation of blank under stock areas, Production of quality timber, control of rotation timber, creation of man-made forests and introduction of exotics, Protection of site and intangible returns.

7. Plantation Crops Cultivation.

Plantation crops are tea,coffee,coconut,arecanut,rubber,oil palm, etc. Plantation crops like coir-based products and coffee have export potential which helps us earn foreign exchange, Also plantation crops cultivation provide employment throughout the year.

8. Spices and Condiments

Spices and condiments are high value crops like Cardamom,clove,nutmeg,coriander,cumin,etc.. These are used as adjuncts in food for flavour, aroma, and taste.

9. Aromatic and medicinal plants

Gugal,aonia,baheda,harde,licorice are examples of aromatic and medicinal plants. These crops have medicinal properties in them that are capable of curing various diseases in humans.

10, Sericulture

Sericulture is Silk farming. Sericulture deals with the rearing of silkworms and production of silk. Sericulture plays an important role in the rural economy in India. It offers numerous employment opportunities in government, research centres, sericulture units, agriculture sector banks, etc.

Certified Horticulturist salary

The average salary of a horticulturist in India is Rs 400,000 per annum.The entry level horticulturist with 1 to 4 years experience earns up to Rs 2,75,00 per annum.A mid level career horticulturist with 5 to 9 years of experience can earn up to Rs 409,746 per annum. An experienced horticulturist with 10 to 19 years of experience can earn up to Rs 6,75000 per annum.

Conclusion

Horticulture science includes both plant science and plant aesthetics. It is an applied science which means that all the knowledge gained by horticulturists can be used to improve plant production, marketing, and quality of human and animal life on earth,

Also, In India the scope and business of the horticulture industry is increasing day by day. The market has a high demand for horticulturists making it one of the fastest growing segments. This has resulted in creating more employment opportunities and career growth for the youth.

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In today’s world, the role of machines has become an indispensable part of our life. Men and Machines have learned to coexist with each other with the latter acting as a dutiful servant for the Machinists.

It is hard to think of one existing without the use of machines even in the most primitive form.

As a profession, Machinists are fast-growing with few barriers to entry. Machinists are always learning because machine technology evolves rapidly.

What are Machinists?

Machinists are manufacturing professionals. They set up and operate machine tools that are both mechanically and computer-controlled. Also, they have knowledge of tooling and materials required to create setups on machine tools. Some of these machine tools are milling machines, grinders or lathes that produce precision metal parts. A Machinist repairs machinery or manufactures replacement parts for broken machines.

Job description of Machinists.

Machinists use machinery tools to make metal works, they create pieces such as automobile pistons, hydraulic components, steel bolts, anti-lock brakes, and so on. They use blueprints or computer-aided design (CAD) to complete their work. Machinists also monitor cutting paths as well as the speed and feed of machines.

In short, Machinists work for:

• Machinery and equipment machinery
• Motor vehicles, auto parts, and aircraft plants.
• Factories for shaped metal parts.
• Workshops

Their tasks include;

• Securing and adjusting workpieces
• Securing and aligning cutting tools

• Milling, shaping, grinding, and drilling machine parts to specifications.
• Smoothening product surfaces.
• Measuring and testing finished products
• Submitting finished products to customers and making modifications when necessary.

Here are a few examples of Machinists:

• Automotive Machinists
• Aviation Machinists
• General Machinists
• Tooling Inspectors

• Electrical Machinists
• Machining inspectors
• Machinists’ diesel design
• CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machinists
• CNC MachineOperator

• Head Machinist
• Motor Machinists
• Metal Machinist
• Engine Machinists

How do we become a Machinist?

To become a Machinist, we require Skills and basic educational qualifications. This is because skilled machinists have a better chance of hiring than unskilled machinists.

Skills required to become a Machinist

A few of the skills that employers require from the Machinists are:

• Analytical Skills such as the ability to understand the technical blueprints, models, and terminology needed to craft components and products.
• Manual dexterity and accuracy are required by Machinists to create parts and follow designs to a millimeter.

• Many machinists require Physical Stamina to stand and perform repetitive movements for a long period.
• Mathematical abilities are necessary for machinists to understand and use computer applications and measuring machines.
• Machinists are required to examine blueprints and visualize the project they need to complete. For that, they require Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Machinists require mechanical skills to know how to operate machine tools such as grinding, milling machines, water and laser cutting machines, latches, and wire electrical discharge machines.

Other than the above skills there are few specific skills that employers search for in you as a skilled machinist. They look for candidates who have a basic understanding of metal networking processes, computerized measuring machines, and technical skills. These are

• Computer numerical control (CNC) programming and machining skills
• Technical writing and comprehension
• Geometric dimensioning and tolerance.
• Additive manufacturing

• CAD and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology
• Modeling and simulation

Here are a few steps that you should undertake to become a Machinist.

Step 1 Research Job duties 

You must start by researching different job duties depending on your job title. Different job titles have different roles and responsibilities. You have to determine which job profile suits you. These profiles include setting up tools and machinery, monitoring metal parts heating and cooling temperatures, and cutting and adjusting workpieces. 

Step 2. Get a high school degree 

You must complete your secondary education and earn a high school diploma in subjects like maths, geometry or trigonometry. You may also attend extra classes in drafting, metal works, and blueprint reading. If you are applying for advanced machinist positions you might have to use physics and advanced calculus. You must be proficient in computers as you will most probably work in computer-aided machinery.

Step 3. Complete a machinist post-graduate program 

You must be able to complete a two-year program at a community college or technical school to further your education. These programs will help you to an associate degree and teach advanced skills such as:

• Cutting and welding tools manipulation
• Design and blueprint reading

• Computer-aided design
• Computer numerical control
• Computer-aided manufacturing.
• Function and programming of computer numerically controlled machines.

Step 4. Pursue Training 

As a machinist trainee, you are required to get an on-the-job-training for at least one year after entering the industry. If you have just finished high school you will have to go for on-the-job training for 12 to 18 months.

The most common training program for an aspiring machinist is an apprentice program for 4 years. It requires you to get a high school diploma or GED and classes in trigonometry and algebra. Many of these apprentice programs are sponsored by manufacturers. The program requires you to work for 40 hours per week. These programs help you to study various aspects of the machinery industry that including metallurgy, and CNC machines, and advance to more complex tasks.

Step 5.  Certification 

You must get a Certification to improve your skills and demonstrate your qualifications. You can get your certification through colleges and training institutes. Here are a few of the certifications you can pursue.

• The National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS) credentials: By passing performance-based examinations that include written and practical components. You can earn credentials such as Certified Journeywork, CNC Setup Programmer, or NIMS Certified Machinist.

• Journey-level Certification: The state apprentice board offers this certification to Machinists.

• The Manufacturing Institute’s Skills Certification System: This industry-driven program aims to align education.

You become a Certified Machinist after completing your certification which has more value in the industry.

Step 6. Advance your career

You might become a CNC programmer or advance into managerial positions. If you want to start your own business you can work as an independent contractor after gaining experience.

Institutes offering training in Machinists in India 

1. Alt Training College

Bangalore, Karnataka

   2. St. Joseph Industrial Training Institute’s courses

Mangalore, Karnataka

    3. Bharathidasan University Constituent Arts and Science College

Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu

    4. Bright Future ITI

Ambala, Haryana

    5. Joseph Industrial Training Institute

Mumbai Maharashtra

Here are a few of the entrance exams to several institutes and colleges to provide admission to students.

 Entrance exams for Machinists 

• IIT Jee Main: Joint entrance exam.
• BIT SAT: Birla Institute of Science and Technology
• VITEEE: Vellore Institute of Technology Engineering Entrance Examination
• KIITEE: Kerala Institute of Industrial Technology Entrance Exam

• SRM JEE: SRM Joint Entrance Exam

The Scope for Machinists 

Machinists have a wide scope of Employability. It ranges from self-employment and contractual employment to Industrial jobs. Machinists, Grinder, Operator of various types of power-driven metal cutting or grinding machines in production manufacturing industrial infrastructure, and defense organizations

A career as a machinist is a great opportunity for anyone willing to put in the time and effort. There is a limited barrier to entry, a high starting salary, and a positive job outlook.

The Demand for Machinists is projected to grow by 7% from 2020 to 2030. There will be 47,500 job openings for machinists and tool die makers each year for a decade.

For example, CNC Machinists are in high demand, especially those who have programming skills and advanced knowledge of advanced machinery.

How much does a Machinist Earn?

CNC machinists earn an average salary of Rs 20,690. A CNC operator earns Rs13,981 per month. A machine operator earns Rs14,615 per month, a manual machinist earns Rs 30,755 and a CNC programmer earns about Rs 19,544.

The average salary of machinists in India is Rs 15,546 per month.

Here are a few of the Top Machinist Companies in India

1. ABC Enterprises

1. Amar

1. Veljan Hydrair Ltd.

1. DIRAA HR Services

Other than that, there are large machinery shops near and around you that you can search and apply for.

We all love to watch television and movies in the cinema hall. We enjoy them. We talk about them and their star cast. We talk about how good or bad the actor and their acting was especially in the lead roles. We talk about the Director. But we hardly remember persons who toiled behind the scenes and make us watch them as they are. Some of these persons are the Cameraman, Sound Recordist, screenwriter, cinematographer, film editor, producer, and other crew members who make it happen.

What is the Definition of a Cameraman?

A cameraman is a person who is responsible for recording shots for a variety of films and broadcast purposes. They capture video images that enhance television shows or broadcast news programs. These people work in the studio or on the scenes of a news story that involves both live and recorded broadcasts. A cameraman uses all the technical aspects of lenses, filters, zooms, and other camera settings to capture scenes as per the clients’ requirements and film directors.

What does the cameraman do?

The job responsibility of a cameraman operator arranges from operating the camera equipment to recording video. They are also responsible for setting up cameras and lighting. They have to use different lenses and angles and panning shots before recording sessions. They must know how to choose lenses, films, and filters. They have to work closely with the other crew members and the director during the shooting.

A cameraman must be able to create special effects, add the right mix of tone, mood, etc to the picture, and must be adept with the use of light and exposure techniques.

In short, a cameraman plays an indispensable role when making a video or broadcasts for television or for cinema hall.

How do you become a Cameraman?

In case you want to work in the entertainment industry, a career as a cameraman is one way to do so. But being a cameraman requires experience with the camera and video equipment.

You must possess these skills in order to start a career as a cameraman.

• Aesthetic Interest
• Technical Skill

• Good Observation
• Visual creativity
• Teamwork
• Ability to handle heavy equipment

In a survey, it was found that around 67% of cameramen are graduates and 3.7% are postgraduate. However, you can become a cameraman even after you have passed high school.

In order to become a cameraman, you may require some experience such as production assistance or camera operator. Other than a passion for the film industry you will need three key elements to be a success in your career as a cameraman. Let us explore the list of steps for you to become a cameraman.

These three steps are

1. Diploma in Cinematography.
2. An internship as a cameraman.
3. Effective career development skills.

Step 1: Diploma in Cinematography

A diploma in Cinematography is a profession for those who are eager, committed, and passionate about a career in filmmaking. A diploma in cinematography course primarily teaches you about the camera and light works working on film production, television production, or any other live event. You also learn to make technical and artistic decisions related to the image.

You learn important concepts in cinematography like visual storytelling, camera techniques, lighting methods, scene composition, and working with the entire film crew. The diploma in cinematography introduces students to concepts like editing through short film project genres, film lighting, basics of cinematography, and digital cinematography.

A two-year Diploma in cinematography is sufficient to start a career in movies, television, and documentaries. The course also helps students in gaining experience in fieldwork.

Step 2: An Internship in Cinematography

A good film school will give its students access to campus job boards, social media pages, and career development advisors to assist in finding cameraman internships. The internship is important as all good cameraman positions require you to complete a cameraman internship.

Step 3: Effective career Development skills

Once you have completed your internship, you will have all the skills required for the job as a cameraman for news, TV, or movie production. These skills will help you in finding the right job in the industry.

Prestigious Institutes for Cinematography in India 

• Film and Television in India
• National Institute of Film and Fine arts
• Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute.
• Biju Patnaik Film & TV Institute, Cuttack

• Deviprasad Goenka Management College of Media Studies, Mumbai
• Indian Institute of Mass Communication (I.I.M.C.) New Delhi
• Institute of New Media Development and Research, Pune
• National Institute of Design
• SARK Institute of Film Studies, Kolkata
• Government Film & Television Institute, Hessarghatta Road, Bangalore
• CRAFT Film School, New Delhi

The average fee for Diploma in Cinematography course would range between INR 35,000 and INR 1,25,000.

Topics Covered in these Institutes 

A full-time Diploma in Cinematography course of two years has the following modules which are much more than a short-term course that covers broader concepts. Here are a few of the modules that are covered in the syllabus:

The course fees for Diploma in Cinematography range from INR 35,000 and INR 1,25,000.

Why should you become a Cameraman?

A cameraman records shots for a variety of films and broadcasting purposes. His job responsibility includes cleaning, testing, and maintaining his equipment. They use technical aspects of lenses, filters, zooms, and other scenes.

A cameraman can work in a variety of settings, including in television studios, production studios, sports venues, or at private events such as weddings. They may also work on location at remote destinations for films, music videos, documentaries, commercials, short films, or advertisements.

The career as a cameraman has become a lucrative option as their requirement is forever high due to the ever-expanding film and television industry. The cameraman job vacancy is going to increase further in the near future due to the rapid globalization of the entertainment industry.

Diploma in cinematography graduates may take up entry-level job roles in the capacity of cameraman production, motion control operator, camera operator, and camera assistant.

Here are the following job profiles of cameraman:

• Director of Photography
• Cinematographer

• Video Editor
• Cameraman
• Videographer.

The top recruiters for cinematographers are Doordarshan in the government, Private TV channels, film studios, television studios, news studios, and corporate. They can start their own as a freelance cameraman, especially in wedding photography.

The scope and future prospects for a cameraman depend on factors like the nature of work and largely on their personal contacts and references.

What is the salary of a Cinematographer? 

At the entry level, a cinematographer can earn between Rs 7,000 to Rs 8,000 per month. However, with experience, the cinematographer can earn between Rs 40,000 and 50,000 per month.

Future Prospects for Cameraman

As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is an increase of 18 percent from 2019 to 2029 in the number of people employed as cameramen. This is an exceptionally fast rate growth rate. This increase can be attributed to the fact that there is a growth in the number of internet platforms like streaming services and developments in special effects that require an experienced cameraman to produce the desired result.

We all after a certain age watch News on television or hear it on the radio. We read daily newspapers and magazines for news. We do this because we are interested in what is happening in and around us. We want to hear and watch events be it sports, war, disasters, entertainment, or elections pertaining to our interests and that can affect us from our neighborhood to places from all over the world both live and recorded. Not only do they love to watch them but also analyze them. The persons who bring all this to us in the media are called News Anchors.       

News anchoring is a glamorous and flourishing profession due to the very fact that the media and mass communication industry is growing at a tremendous pace both in India and worldwide. You can gauge this fact by seeing the number of news channels on television.  

What is News? 

News is an update on current events. The news is disseminated to us by a number of media publishing houses, postal systems, broadcasting, digital communication, or evidence from spectators and incident witnesses.  

What is News Anchoring? 

News Anchoring is a profession where the news anchor reports on local, national, or international news and events to its audience on radio, television, and even on social media on the internet. The topics covered may include weather, sports, politics, entertainment, economy/business, and technology. News anchors either broadcast live from the studio or make a visit to the vents to gather and share information on events on camera. 

Who are the News Anchors? 

A news anchor is a journalist who reports to the public at large on local, regional, and foreign news reports and events occurring. Their main task is to work closely with reporters to collect information, broadcast newscasts, and also present news stories in an insightful, impartial and meaningful manner as a lead journalist on television to the viewers. The news anchor, these people anchor a news channel together or keep it up to date. 

They also have to maintain continuity in their news stories between the segments. News anchors who are successful have their fans, captured viewers who trust and prioritize them in a particular market over other news channels.  

A few of the famous news anchors in India are Barkha Dutt, Rahul Kanwal, Rajat Sharma, Rajdeep Sardesai, Pranab, Arnab Goswamy, Gaurav Kalra, Ravish Kumar, Nidhi Rajdan,  Shewate Singh, Abhigyan Prakash, and Vikram Chandra.

What does the News Anchor do? 

The News Anchor’s job is to analyze, interpret and broadcast news received from various sources. Here is the news anchor job description.  

• Debriefing 

  It is just after the newscast we have Debriefing. Debriefing is done to discuss all the technical issues, failures and successes, and discussing strengths and weaknesses with all journalists and technicians involved in the newscast. Here an analysis of the newscast may be done to help focus on improving the following newscast. 

• Attend Meetings 

  The Newsroom meeting is held six to eight hours before the newscast to create a news broadcast of the day. The meeting lasts for about twenty to forty minutes. Every meeting has its own agenda and starts with a rundown of the news. Although it is conducted for News Anchors, the managers and technical staff are also included in the meeting. 

• Newscasting 

   A Newscast is defined as a compilation of news segments that have been edited. It lasts for about 22 minutes. A newscast is made by news anchors and directors. News anchors write and deliver the newscast in such a way that the viewers can experience a concise selection of news. 

• Preparatory meeting 

  The Preparatory meeting occurs four to two hours prior to the newscast. The news anchor settles the rundown of the newscast with the help of the director. This rundown is used by all production departments, such as on-set cameramen, news anchors, engineering personnel, assistant director, visual effects staff, and sound engineers.  

What are the Types of News Anchors? 

Besides being a news anchor there are several other career paths related to new anchors. Here are a few of them. 

• Columnist 

Columnists write in a series for the journals, They generate an article offering critique and opinions. Columns appear in the form of small paragraphs in Newspapers, magazines as well other editorials. Columnists can write on any topic that strikes them like sports, health, and entertainment. 

• News Editor 

News editors evaluate various prints and media attributes to improve the job of the editor. They manage and produce news with accuracy, flow, and timeliness. They develop creative and specific approaches to improve reporting of daily news. News readers also Monitor and update content in order to meet the needs of their readers. 

• Assignment reporter 

These reporters report prominent events. Their work involves writing articles about community news incidents like road accidents, fire accidents, or celebrity appearances. They work at the assignment desk which is the newsroom nerve room. 

• Sports Reporter 

Sports reporters collect relevant information on sports and publish it as sports news. They also attend sports events, and interview sportsmen, coaches, and other people involved in sports.  

• Business Reporter 

Business reporters investigate business stories and establish new concepts for business news reporting. They have to remain updated on the latest news and events in the industry. 

• Entertainment reporter 

Entertainment reporters are reporters who report news and events from arts and entertainment. They also write blogs; broadcast news reports or online articles. They report the story and activities in the film industry, television, and music.  

What are the Skills required to become a News Anchor? 

Here are a few of the skills that one must possess to become a News Anchor.

1. Communication Skills

A good news anchor must have excellent communication skills both in verbal and written. They must be excellent orators. They must be able to perform comfortably, especially in front of the camera. 

 2. Ability to report accurately 

A good news reporter must be an ethical reporter. He must write and report the events accurately regardless of any prejudice or bias. They need to look at each and every aspect of the issue in detail. 

3. Critical & Creative Thinking 

A news anchor must have the ability to think creatively and critically since they have to report news immediately while keeping the audience engaged with the news.  

4. Interviewing Skills 

The ability to interview in front of the camera in such a way so as to keep the viewers engaged is one of the skills that every news reporter or anchor must possess. 

5. Stress Tolerance 

The news anchor must be able to work and meet the deadlines. They must be able to cope with the stress well. 

6. Presence of mind 

News anchors may have to do multiple shows on different topics like debates, interviewing a celebrity or flash news. Sometimes they have to handle situations where they need a strong presence of mind. 

7. Leadership 

News anchors must be able to coordinate and host a show in front of the camera. He must also be able to groom young news anchors and producers. 

8. Social media skills 

Today social media like Facebook and Twitter face an important role in our daily lives. A successful news anchor must have good social media skills and must be able to explore social media platforms more and more.  

9. Appealing Personality 

An attractive, Pleasing personality and a well-groomed voice always go a long way for news anchors as they face the camera most of the time.  

How do you become a News Anchor/News Reporter? 

To start a news anchor career, you require a bachelor’s degree or a diploma in journalism, mass communication, or a related field. There are three career paths for you to become a news anchor: 

1. You can complete your graduation in any subject and then go for a diploma or short-term certificate course in journalism and related fields.  
2. You can complete graduation in any subject and then complete post-graduation in mass communication or journalism. 
3. You can complete graduation in Journalism or Mass Communication.  

Eligibility to become a News Anchor 

• Mass communication and Journalism institutes and courses are open to students of all streams 
• You must have at least one language in your 12th. 
• You must have a minimum of 50% in your 12th class. Some colleges also ask for a cut-off in the English language also. 
• Most colleges have an entrance test for getting admission in Mass communication and journalism in G.K. English, reading comprehension, and reading. 

What do you study in Mass Communication/Journalism? 

Courses in Mass communication/journalism equip you with the necessary skills for efficient and effective visual communication of news and information relating to current events and public affairs. Their training prepares students for broadcast careers in reporting, producing, and newsroom management.  

Here is the list of subjects that you study in Mass Communication/Journalism; 

• Print Media 
• Reporting & Editing 

• Behavioural Science 
• News & Contemporary issues 
• National & International issues 
• Public Relations 
• Media Management 
• Advertising 
• Visual Communication 
• Film Theory and Practice. 

List of colleges for Graduation in Mass Communication/Journalism

• Delhi School of Journalism 
• Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University 
• IP College for Women, Delhi University 
• St Xavier’s College, Mumbai 
• Jai Hind College, Mumbai University 
• Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi 
• A.J.K. Mass Communication Research Centre, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 
• Xavier’s Institute of Communication 
• Asian College of Journalism, Chennai 
• Sri Aurbindo Institute of mass communication, Pondicherry 
• Indian Institute of Journalism and New Media, Bangalore  
• Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, Pune 
• Sri Centre for Media Studies, Bengaluru 
• Indian Academy of Mass Communication, Chennai 
• Times School of Media, Bennett University, Noida  

List of colleges for Post-graduation in Mass communication/Journalism 

• A.J.K. Mass Communication Research Centre, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 
• Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi 
• Asian College of Journalism, Chennai 
• Xavier’s Institute of Communication 

Why Should you Become a News Anchor?   

Let us first look at the Industrial scenario of the Indian Media & Entertainment Industry 

• India has the fifth largest media and entertainment market in the world. 
• India’s media and entertainment industry is expected to grow by 10-12% per annum as per the CAGR report to 1000 billion dollars by 2030. 
• By 2025 television households will cover 71% of total households in India at a growth rate of 5% per annum. 
• In 2021 India’s television industry was worth 778 billion dollars.   

• There are a total of 892 Television channels in India with 403 news channels. A few of the Indian news channels that dominate the market are Republic T.V., Times Now, and India Today news channel.  
• The low cost of basic cable T.V. which is as low as $ 2 per month makes India the 2nd largest number of pay-TV subscribers in the world, next only to China. 

As the News channels in India grow at a rapid pace, both at the local and national levels, so are the news anchor job openings. Prominent news anchors are in demand as viewers tune in to get their news and reviews. News anchors deliver their news and also act as influencers to the audience.   

News anchor Salary Package 

The News anchor’s salary  in India at the start of your career ranges from Rs 12,000 to 25,000 per month. It can increase to Rs 50,000 to 100,000 per month with an experience of 5 years. Established and highest-paid news anchors in India can earn up to 12 lakhs to 50 lacs per annum. Abroad the salary of an experienced new anchor is between $87,000 to $110,000 per annum. 

In addition to the salary, News anchors are entitled to perks and allowances like Personal Grooming allowance, Personal Brand Building allowance, Allowance for contacting celebrities, politicians, and social workers, visiting different cities, etc.  

Conclusion 

TV anchoring is regarded as Journalism at its best.TV anchors have become stars and role models in the world of journalism with a large number of fans. News anchors as a career are now well sought after. With the growth of digital media, the number of employment opportunities has increased at a rapid pace. However, competition for this job is high as the number of applicants is greater than vacancies. Even then job scenario for news anchor is quite promising, especially at the entry-level,