What is Investigative Journalism: History, Characteristics, Scope, Best Examples

Investigative journalism is a most intriguing and rewarding type of journalism. Read this article to know about investigative journalism in detail. Also, find a list of famous investigative journalists.

What is Investigative Journalism?

Journalism has different types and forms. One of these types is Investigative Journalism. This journalism started centuries ago, but became famous in late 19th and early 20th centuries. During that time, journalists like Ida Tarbell and Upton Sinclair from the United States exposed abuses of powerful companies and difficulties faced by workers. Today, investigative journalism has become an important tool in democratic societies. It has become the pillar of true journalism in corporates, TRPs, paid viewerships, etc. Read this article to know about investigative journalism in detail, its origins, characteristics, negatives and positives, and best examples.

Also Read

What is Yellow Journalism?

Multimedia Courses After 12th

What is Investigative Journalism?

Investigative Journalism uses deep research to show truth and scandals to bring stories that were never told before to readers and viewers. Investigative journalism began in late 18th century. During that time, some newspapers from the UK and the US questioned government actions. 

With time, investigative journalism grew to become a popular and reliable source of news information, and readers started believing in it. Investigative Journalists started digging deep into complex issues, they brought out hidden truths, exposed corruption, and held the powerful accountable. With a rich history of showing scandals and bringing justice to light, investigative journalism continues to shape societies worldwide. 

Investigative Journalism Famous Cases

Investigative journalism has played an important role in exposing many cases, from political scandals to corporate corruption and more. One famous example was the Watergate scandal, where famed journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein's relentless investigation led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon. 

In recent times, as well, investigative journalists have uncovered many scandals. One such is the Panama Papers leaks and the Paradise Papers leaks, which were revealed to be a global tax evasion and money laundering scandal where numerous global politicians, celebrities, and corporations were caught under the radar.

Also read:

• List of Courses offered by Jamia Millia Islamia
• Top 15 Film Schools in India

Best Examples of Investigative Journalism

Out of the many examples where Investigative Journalism has stood, one such is The Boston Globe's "Spotlight" team's investigation into child sex abuse within the Catholic Church. This incident was also portrayed in the film "Spotlight," which showcased the power of persistent reporting in exposing institutional wrongdoing. 

Another example is that of Seymour Hersh, who uncovered the My Lai massacre during the Vietnam War. This incident is also remembered as it exemplifies the courage and determination required to challenge powerful institutions.

Also read:

• FTII JET Eligibility Criteria 2025
• JMI Entrance Exam 2025: Learn About Interview Questions and GD Topics Here

Famous Investigative Journalists

International famous investigative journalists are Glenn Greenwald, Seymour Hersh, Woodward, and Bernstein. In India, Ravish Kumar, P. Sainath, and Late Gauri Lankesh have made major contributions to investigative journalism.

Also read:

• Programmes Offered Through FTII JET

Career Scope and Salary of an Investigative Journalist in India

To become an investigative journalist, a candidate needs to have a combination of skills, such as research abilities, critical thinking, and ethical journalism practices. For freshers, the job is limited to traditional newsrooms or investigative reporting teams within media organizations. With experience and hard work, they can make a place as an independent investigative journalist.

In India, the salary for an investigative journalist depends on experience, the media house they are working for, as well as job location.  Journalists in Tier 1 cities are paid more than Tier 2 to 3 candidates. Coming to the salary, the entry-level salary for an investigative journalist can range from ₹25,000 to ₹40,000 per month in major cities, followed by ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 in small towns. 

However, with experience, they can earn significantly higher, with up to ₹1 lakh or more per month. Aspiring investigative journalists can also do freelance or collaborate with other nonprofit investigative outlets; however, in this case, the pay scale can be paltry, as freelancers' earnings may depend on the success of their investigations and the media outlet they work for.

List of Popular Investigative Journalists in India

Some popular journalists in the country are here. 

• Rana Ayyub 
• Pandit Ayush Gaur 
• Kumar Sambhav 
• Nayantara Ranganathan 
• Ritu Sarin, etc.

Read More:

• Which is tougher? Jamia Millia Islamia Entrance Exam or the IIMC Entrance Exam

• Journalism courses after 12th
• Journalism courses after 10th