Good news is the need of the hour: Navjyot Randhawa

In a world overwhelmed by negative headlines and anxiety-inducing news cycles, Navjyot Randhawa, Editor at Good News Today (GNT), is championing a different editorial path, one paved with positivity, purpose, and people-first storytelling.

Speaking at the e4m DoGood Summit and Awards, Randhawa shared insights into GNT's unique approach to journalism and how the channel is redefining what makes news "newsworthy."

“Good News Today was born from the idea that we all need a little bit of positivity,” Randhawa said. “There’s a lot of gloom and doom out there, and while we don't ignore the realities of the world, we want to bring out the stories that give hope, inspire action, and show the goodness in humanity.”

Unlike traditional news channels that often lead with crime, conflict, or controversy, GNT curates and broadcasts stories that uplift, be it tales of social impact, grassroots innovation, or everyday acts of kindness.

At the heart of GNT's editorial philosophy lies a clear sense of purpose. “We believe good news doesn’t mean soft news,” Randhawa emphasized. “It means impactful stories that can bring change, stories that matter to real people.”

This people-first approach is evident in GNT’s content choices. From spotlighting climate champions in small towns to celebrating inclusive policies and unsung heroes, the channel's storytelling aims to reflect the good that exists across India, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

Randhawa acknowledged that steering a good-news-only platform comes with its own challenges. “It's easy to get caught up in the race for TRPs,” she admitted. “But we made a conscious decision to resist sensationalism. Our responsibility is towards our audience and the impact our stories have on society.”

She also highlighted how GNT leverages data and viewer feedback to stay relevant and meaningful. “We constantly ask ourselves: Is this story bringing value to someone’s life? Is it helping someone, even in the smallest way?”

With the growing trend of brands aligning with social causes and purpose-driven campaigns, Randhawa believes GNT offers a unique value proposition. “Brands today want to be part of something meaningful, and GNT is the perfect platform for that,” she said. “We’ve seen incredible synergy with brands that are not just selling products but also doing good, whether in sustainability, education, or healthcare.”

As journalism evolves in the digital age, Randhawa remains optimistic about the future. “There will always be a place for hard-hitting journalism. But equally, we need platforms that nurture hope,” she said. “At GNT, we’re trying to strike that balance, to inform, inspire, and involve.”

In a media landscape often criticized for fuelling fear or outrage, Randhawa and her team at Good News Today are making a powerful case for the alternative: a kind of journalism that celebrates humanity, builds trust, and dares to do good.