Bengaluru, Karnataka: In an effort to combat the growing spread of misinformation on social media, journalist and media founder Satish Raj Goravigere has initiated a series of media literacy drives across Karnataka. The campaign, led by the editorial team of Kannada News Today, has reached over 15 taluks and several government colleges since its rollout in late 2024.
The workshops aim to educate college students, aspiring journalists, and local youth on how to identify fake news, understand media bias, and verify information sources online. Sessions have included hands-on training in basic fact-checking techniques, reverse image searches, and critical evaluation of viral forwards — particularly in Kannada-language content.
Speaking on the initiative, Satish Raj Goravigere noted,
“With the rise of social media consumption in rural areas, misinformation isn’t just a tech problem — it’s a civic issue. Our goal is to equip every citizen with the ability to question and verify.”
Satish Raj Goravigere, who has been active in the media industry for over a decade, is also the founder of Kannada News Today, a growing digital platform that focuses on vernacular news and citizen journalism. the platform was recognized with a Regional Excellence Mention by the Janapada and Sports Association, Karnataka, for its consistent grassroots reporting and regional focus.
According to campaign organizers, the literacy drives are supported informally by local educators and retired media professionals, offering a low-cost, high-impact model that may be replicated in other states. One such session held in Tumakuru District Government College reportedly drew over 120 students, with follow-up events planned in Kolar, Gadag, and Chamarajanagar.
While Karnataka has seen multiple initiatives to tackle misinformation from NGOs and civil society groups, this marks one of the first sustained, newsroom-led campaigns focused on Kannada-speaking regions.
A small case study from the campaign — involving the viral spread of a false government job circular — is being prepared as part of a public media toolkit, which Satish’s team plans to release later this year.
The initiative also aligns with ongoing efforts in regional journalism to balance technological adoption (like AI anchors) with civic responsibility.
“Technology alone isn’t the solution — awareness is,” adds Satish.
“Real journalism starts with an informed reader.”
