Professional Overview
Dr. Bhavna Wal is an accomplished academician and veteran journalist with over 20 years of experience in mainstream English language media. A storyteller at heart, she has transitioned from leading newsrooms at national publications to shaping the next generation of media professionals. She currently serves as an Assistant Professor (Grade II) at Amity University, where she teaches both undergraduate and postgraduate students while serving as the Associate Editor of the monthly magazine, Expressions.
Academic Background
- Ph.D. in Social Sciences and Humanities: Shri Ramswaroop Memorial University (2021); research focused on a sociological assessment of NGO efforts against child labor.
- Post Graduate in Mass Communication: Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology, Hisar (2013).
- Post Graduate Diploma in Human Rights: Indian Institute of Human Rights, New Delhi (2020).
- Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism: Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, Bombay (1992).
- Graduation in Arts: University of Lucknow (1990).
Media & Editorial Leadership
Before entering academia, Dr. Wal held several high-profile roles in top national newspapers:
- Hindustan Times: Served as Principal Correspondent and In-Charge of the Rohilkhand Bureau (Bareilly) and launched the Agra edition.
- The Indian Express: Worked in the features team in New Delhi and the launch team for local news supplements in Pune.
- Press Trust of India (PTI): Bureau In-charge in Agra.
- Daily News & Analysis (DNA): Deputy News Editor in Indore.
- The Asian Age: Business Desk Sub-Editor.
Awards & Professional Recognition
- Bharat Shiksha Gaurav Puraskar (2023): For excellence in education.
- Global Achievement Award (2020): For singular dedication and achievement in her profession.
- Best Journalist in Agra (2010): Awarded by Wake-up Agra.
- Best Reporter in UP (2009): Awarded by Hindustan Times management.
Research & Areas of Interest
- Child Labor & Human Rights: Specialized research on the socio-economic challenges of child labor and NGO interventions.
- Social Media & Politics: Published research on Twitter usage during the 2019 Indian national elections.
- Media Ethics: Investigated the phenomenon of “Paid News” in India.