Meaning: The quote "In India we only read about death, sickness, terrorism, crime" by Abdul Kalam, the former President of India, reflects a sentiment that is not unique to India but is often expressed in various countries around the world. It points to the pervasive nature of negative news and events that dominate media coverage and public discourse. This quote underscores the tendency of media to focus on sensational and distressing stories, which can shape people's perceptions of the world around them.

Abdul Kalam, often referred to as the "People's President," was known for his humility, wisdom, and vision for a developed India. His statement about the predominance of negative news in India reflects a broader concern about the impact of media coverage on public perception and societal attitudes. The quote suggests that the media's portrayal of predominantly negative events can limit people's exposure to stories of progress, resilience, and positive change.

The media plays a powerful role in shaping public opinion and influencing societal norms. The emphasis on negative news can lead to a skewed understanding of the world, fostering fear, distrust, and a sense of hopelessness. This can have profound effects on individual well-being and collective outlook. Moreover, the constant exposure to negative news can desensitize people to the suffering of others and create a sense of apathy towards societal issues.

It is important to recognize that the media often focuses on negative stories because they tend to attract more attention and generate higher viewership or readership. This can lead to a cycle where media outlets prioritize sensational or distressing content in order to maintain or increase their audience. As a result, stories of hope, resilience, and positivity may be overshadowed by the barrage of negative news, contributing to a sense of disillusionment and despair.

In response to this phenomenon, there has been a growing emphasis on solutions-oriented journalism, which seeks to highlight positive developments, innovative solutions to societal challenges, and stories of human resilience and compassion. By providing a more balanced and nuanced portrayal of the world, this approach aims to counteract the overwhelming focus on negative news and inspire a sense of optimism and agency in the audience.

Additionally, individuals can take steps to curate their media consumption and seek out sources of information that provide a more balanced and constructive view of the world. By actively seeking out stories of progress, kindness, and positive change, people can counteract the impact of the predominant negative narrative and cultivate a more hopeful and informed perspective.

Ultimately, Abdul Kalam's quote serves as a reminder of the power of media in shaping our perceptions and the importance of actively seeking out diverse and constructive narratives. By acknowledging the prevalence of negative news and actively working to balance our media consumption, we can contribute to a more nuanced and hopeful understanding of the world around us.