World Press Freedom Index UPSC 2021 | India Ranking | – The World Press Freedom Index, 2021, produced by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), a French non-governmental organisation, has again ranked India at 142nd out of 180 countries. India has ranked 142nd yet again out of 180 nations in the recently unveiled World Press Freedom Index. The index is published each year by the international journalism not-for-profit body, Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
World Press Freedom Index UPSC 2021 | India Ranking |
| Index | World Press Freedom Index |
| Year | 2021 |
| Released By | Reporters Without Borders (RSF) |
| India Ranking | 142nd /180 |
Why in News
- India has ranked 142nd yet again out of 180 nations in the recently unveiled World Press Freedom Index.
- The index is published each year by the international journalism not-for-profit body, Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
About the World Press Freedom Index:
- It has been published every year since 2002 by Reporters Sans Frontieres (RSF) or Reporters Without Borders.
- Based in Paris
- RSF is an independent NGO with consultative status with the United Nations, UNESCO, the Council of Europe and the International Organization of the Francophonie (OIF).
- The Index ranks countries and regions according to the level of freedom available to journalists.
The parameters include
- Pluralism
- Media independence
- Media environment and self-censorship
- Legislative framework
- Transparency
- The quality of the infrastructure that supports the production of news and information.
Global Scenario Of Different Countries :
- Only 12 of the Index’s 180 countries (7%) can claim to offer a favourable environment for journalism.
- Norway has topped yet again for the fifth year in the row, followed by Finland and Denmark.
- Eritrea is at the bottom meanwhile China is ranked 177, and is only above North Korea at 179 and Turkmenistan at 178.
- The Report has raised concern about the larger Asia-Pacific region as several nations in an attempt to curb freedom of press have in place draconian laws on ‘sedition,’ ‘state secrets’ and ‘national security’.
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India’s Performance Analysis In World Press Freedom Index 2021
- India was ranked 142 in the year 2020 as well, thus showing no improvement in the environment it provides to its journalists.
- India has fared poorly amongst its neighbours with Nepal at 106, Sri Lanka at 127 and Bhutan at 65. Pakistan is a close follower at 145th spot.
- India is among the countries classified “bad” for journalism and is termed as one of the most dangerous countries for journalists trying to do their jobs properly.
Reasons Behind India’s Poor Performance:
- Journalists are exposed to every kind of attack.
- Press And Politician Nexus
Source – Indian Express | The Hindu | Google News
