Utkarsh Kumar is a senior multimedia journalist and digital newsroom leader with more than 15 years of experience across print, television, and digital media. He currently serves as the Chief Sub Editor at News18 Hindi (Bihar/Jharkhand), a part of Network18 Media & Investment Limited, where he plays a key role in editorial planning, newsroom operations, digital content strategy, and audience engagement. Utkarsh was among the early pioneers of Mobile Journalism (MOJO) in Bihar and Jharkhand. As early as 2014, he adopted Google tablets for on-ground reporting, embracing mobile-first storytelling at a time when the technology was still new to Indian newsrooms. His innovative approach helped demonstrate how portable digital tools could transform field reporting and real-time news delivery. Core Expertise and Professional Strengths Utkarsh’s core expertise lies in Digital Journalism, Editorial Leadership, Content Strategy, Newsroom Operations, SEO-driven Publishing, Breaking News Management, and Multimedia Storytelling. He also brings more than a decade of experience in digital video production, newsroom anchoring, social media strategy, and audience development. His professional strengths include editorial planning, live news management, content optimization, election coverage, political reporting, digital publishing, AI-assisted journalism, field reporting and newsroom innovation. By combining editorial excellence with emerging technologies, he consistently delivers impactful journalism that reaches millions of readers across digital platforms. Known for his editorial accuracy, digital-first approach, and strong news judgment, Utkarsh has built a distinguished career covering politics, elections (Since 2010), governance, crime, education, public policy, and social issues. His experience across multiple media platforms has enabled him to seamlessly adapt to the evolving landscape of modern journalism while maintaining the highest standards of credibility and public trust. Experience Across Leading Media Organizations Utkarsh began his journalism career with Hindustan Newspaper (Hindustan Media Ventures Limited), where he developed a strong foundation in print journalism. He later worked with Sanmarg Newspaper and PTN News Channel, gaining valuable experience in both print and television reporting. In January 2014, he joined Zee Media Corporation Limited, where he entered the digital journalism space through the DNA platform. During his tenure, he specialized in digital publishing, multimedia storytelling, and newsroom operations. In July 2016, he became a key member of the launch team for Live Cities, one of Bihar’s largest digital news platforms. His contribution to building its editorial workflow and digital presence marked another significant milestone in his career. In July 2017, Utkarsh joined ETV Network, which later became part of Network18 following its integration into the Reliance Group. He played a pivotal leadership role in launching the News18 Bihar/Jharkhand digital and social media platforms, helping establish them among the leading regional news destinations in eastern India. Today, as Chief Sub Editor, he oversees editorial operations, digital content strategy, breaking news coverage, election reporting, and newsroom coordination, while mentoring editorial teams and driving audience-focused journalism. Over the course of his career, he has worked with several leading media organizations, including Hindustan Media Ventures Ltd., Sanmarg Newspaper, PTN News Channel, Zee Media Corporation Limited, ZEEL, Zee Digital, Live Cities, ETV Network, and Network18 Media & Investment Limited. Education and Professional Development Utkarsh has a strong academic background that complements his professional expertise. Master’s Degree in Mass Communication from Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Communication. Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.) from Vanijya Mahavidyalaya, Patna University. School education under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Committed to lifelong learning, he has also pursued professional training in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Media, SEO, AI-assisted Journalism, Digital Publishing, Multimedia Storytelling, and Emerging News Technologies, enabling him to integrate modern newsroom practices with traditional editorial values. Awards & Recognition Utkarsh’s dedication to quality journalism has earned him several prestigious recognitions throughout his career. Best Coverage Award by the Government of Bihar in 2016 and 2017. Highest Incentive Award from Zee Media Corporation Limited in 2016 for outstanding professional performance. Key member of the leadership team that successfully launched the News18 Bihar/Jharkhand Digital platform and Live Cities Media Private Limited. Over a career spanning 15 years, he has worked under eight Editors, consistently earning appreciation for his editorial excellence, leadership, professionalism, and commitment to ethical journalism. Personal Interests & Values Beyond journalism, Utkarsh is known for his grounded personality, compassion, and strong sense of social responsibility. He believes that meaningful journalism should not only inform people but also contribute positively to society by amplifying voices that matter and highlighting issues of public concern. In his leisure time, he enjoys watching movies, listening to music, exploring new tourist places and covering stories that reflect the realities of society and inspire positive change. Social Media Handles Currently based in Patna, Bihar, Utkarsh can be reached on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram at @utkarshjourno. For professional inquiries, he can be contacted via email at utkarsh.kumar@nw18.com.
