Pune: Vishwakarma University has released a survey report, Behind the Byline: Challenges Faced by Women Journalists in Pune City, highlighting key issues such as gender bias, work-life balance, and career advancement struggles. The report was unveiled on March 7, ahead of International Women’s Day, at the Pune Union of Working Journalists (PUWJ) office. The report was released by President of Vishwakarma University Bharat Agarwal, President of Pune Union of Working Journalists (PUWJ) Suneet Bhave, and PUWJ Secretary Meenakshi Gurav.
While releasing the report, President of Vishwakarma University, Bharat Agarwal said, “ Vishwakarma University will take the initiative for the empowerment of women journalists. We will work jointly with Pune Union of Working Journalists for evolving technology and professional training.”
The President of PUWJ Suneet Bhave said, “ The President of PUWJ Suneet Bhave said, “Consistency in the field of journalism ensures that there are no obstacles to reaching higher positions. Today, women journalists are working in senior positions across various media organizations.
General Secretary Meenakshi Gurav shared her experiences. She said, “Women journalists should remain aware of their rights.”
Vishwakarma University’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Siddharth Jabade, said, “The university will work on the recommendations from this survey report.”
The survey covered as many as 64 women journalists working across print, digital, and radio media. It found that 50% of respondents experienced gender bias at the workplace, while 36% did not. The remaining participants were uncertain, indicating the complex nature of workplace discrimination.
Balancing professional and personal responsibilities was reported as a significant challenge by 41% of the journalists surveyed. Additionally, 80% admitted to experiencing stress and burnout.
The report also highlighted safety concerns, with 75% of respondents believing that women journalists face higher risks than their male counterparts. Career advancement barriers included gender bias in promotions, lack of mentorship, inadequate HR policies, and work-life balance struggles.
Women journalists in the survey called for gender-neutral pay policies, flexible work arrangements, stronger anti-harassment mechanisms, mentorship programs, and improved safety protocols. The report emphasized the need for more inclusive newsroom policies and the creation of a supportive community to advocate for change.
The Vice President Prof. Dr. Vasudeo Gade was also present at the event.
Behind the Byline_Survey Report by Vishwarma University Pune_March 2025
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