Prannoy Roy

Prannoy Roy

Prannoy Roy was born on October 15th, 1949

Nationality: Indian
Profession: Journalist
Occupation: Economist
Notable work: NDTV
Known for: Indian journalist
Career: Journalism
Medium: Television
Network: NDTV

Founded India's first 24-hour English news channel, revolutionizing Indian journalism with in-depth reporting and unbiased coverage. Known for fearless reporting and holding those in power accountable.

Written by: Jack Thompson Jack Thompson

Prannoy Roy: The Pioneering Economist and Journalist

Prannoy Roy is a renowned Indian economist, chartered accountant, psephologist, journalist, and author, best known for co-founding NDTV, a leading Indian news channel, and pioneering opinion polls in the country. With a career spanning over four decades, Roy has made significant contributions to the fields of economics, journalism, and politics.

Early Life and Education

Born on October 15, 1949, in Calcutta, West Bengal, Roy came from a family of achievers. His paternal grandfather, Paresh Lal Roy, was a traffic superintendent and an amateur boxer, known as the father of Indian boxing. Roy's great-grandmother, Lolita Roy, was a suffragist and social reformer, while his cousin is the acclaimed writer Arundhati Roy.

Roy attended La Martiniere Calcutta and The Doon School, a private boys' boarding school in Dehradun, Uttar Pradesh. It was during his teenage years at the boarding school that he met his future wife, Radhika Das. The couple later moved to London, United Kingdom, for their higher education, where Roy received a Haileybury and Imperial Service College scholarship to acquire the A-level higher secondary certificate.

Career Highlights

Roy graduated in 1973 with first-class honors in economics from the Queen Mary University of London. He then became a certified chartered accountant and a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales in 1975. After returning to India, Roy taught economics at the University of Delhi and later worked as an economic consultant to the Indian government.

In 1988, Roy, along with his wife Radhika, co-founded NDTV, which revolutionized the Indian television news industry. He is credited with pioneering opinion polls in India, which helped predict election outcomes and shape public opinion.

Awards and Honors

Roy has received several awards and honors for his contributions to journalism and economics. Some notable awards include:

Influence on Modern Society

Roy's work has had a significant impact on modern Indian society. His opinion polls have influenced election outcomes, and his journalism has promoted transparency and accountability in governance. Through NDTV, Roy has provided a platform for diverse voices and opinions, contributing to a more informed and engaged citizenry.

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Roy is known for his commitment to democratic values, free speech, and independent journalism. He believes in the power of information to shape public opinion and bring about positive change. Through his work, Roy has promoted critical thinking, rational inquiry, and open debate.

Personal Life and Milestones

Roy is married to Radhika Roy, and the couple has two sons. He is known for his humble and unassuming nature, despite his remarkable achievements. Roy's nickname, "Tempest," was given to him by his paternal grandfather, Paresh Lal Roy, when he was a child.

In conclusion, Prannoy Roy is a true pioneer in the fields of economics, journalism, and politics. His contributions to Indian society are immense, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of journalists, economists, and social reformers.

Timeline
1949
Born in India
Prannoy Roy was born on October 15, 1949, in Kolkata, India. He would go on to become a renowned journalist and economist.
1976
Started Career in Journalism
Roy started his career in journalism in 1976, working with various news organizations.
1984
Founded NDTV
Roy founded New Delhi Television (NDTV) in 1984, which would become one of Indias leading news networks.
1998
Launched 24x7 News Channel
NDTV launched its 24x7 news channel in 1998, becoming one of the first private news networks in India.
2017
Received Padma Bhushan
Roy was awarded the Padma Bhushan, Indias third-highest civilian honor, in 2017.
Prannoy Roy

Prannoy Roy Quiz

What is Prannoy Roy known for in the context of Indian journalism?

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FAQ
What is Prannoy Roys background in journalism?
Prannoy Roy is an Indian journalist and economist who co-founded NDTV, one of Indias leading news channels. He has a distinguished career in journalism, with expertise in economic reporting and analysis.
What is Prannoy Roys role in NDTV?
Prannoy Roy is the co-founder and executive co-chairperson of NDTV, overseeing the networks editorial direction and strategy. He is known for his in-depth analysis and reporting on Indian politics and economics.
How did Prannoy Roy get started in journalism?
Prannoy Roy began his journalism career in the 1980s, working as a reporter for Doordarshan, Indias state-owned television network. He later transitioned to NDTV, which he co-founded with his wife Radhika Roy.
What awards has Prannoy Roy won for his journalism?
Prannoy Roy has won numerous awards for his journalism, including the Padma Shri, Indias fourth-highest civilian honor, and the Ramnath Goenka Award for Excellence in Journalism.
What is Prannoy Roys impact on Indian journalism?
Prannoy Roy has had a profound impact on Indian journalism, helping to establish NDTV as a leading news channel and setting high standards for investigative reporting and analysis. His work has inspired a new generation of Indian journalists and continues to shape the countrys media landscape.

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