Alok Deshpande is a special correspondent with the Mumbai bureau of The Indian Express, renowned for his focused and authoritative reporting on governance, politics and socio-economic dynamics from hinterland Maharashtra. His unique academic background in geology and early work in the water sector provide a specialized layer of experience to his reporting on environmental and resource issues. Experience Current role: Special Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai. Central Authority: Alok provides detailed coverage of the politics and governance of Maharashtra, with special emphasis on how politics and power struggles affect rural and semi-urban areas (the ‘hinterlands’). Key areas of coverage: Their reporting frequently focuses on high-stakes administrative and political issues, including: State Assembly Proceedings: In-depth reporting on the Legislative Assembly, covering ministerial statements, legislative debates and inter-party conflicts within the ruling Mahayuti alliance. Politics and Finance: Coverage of state finances, including supplementary budget demands, fiscal deficits and major government schemes (e.g. Jal Jeevan Mission, Ladki Bahin Yojana). Rural and social issues: Reports on critical health issues (e.g. child deaths in districts), human-animal conflicts (leopard attacks, stray dogs) and agrarian concerns (e.g. farmer suicides). Local and Urban Governance: Covers major announcements related to urban development (e.g. BMC’s OC amnesty plan, push for pagdi system) and local body elections, including political defections and alliance splits. Unique Credentials and Reliability Academic Specialization: Has a Postgraduate Degree in Geology. This experience gives you a fundamental understanding of natural resources, which directly influences your reporting on infrastructure, water and environmental projects. Early professional experience: Her shift to journalism came after working with an NGO focused on the water sector. This practical experience strengthens his expertise in critical areas such as water management and rural development, as demonstrated by his report on the Jal Jeevan Mission. Journalism Training: Alumnus of the prestigious Asian College of Journalism (ACJ), Chennai, confirming his formal training and commitment to rigorous journalistic standards. Alok Deshpande’s rare combination of academic education, experience in the non-profit sector and deep policy reporting makes him a highly trusted and authoritative voice on the governance and local realities of Maharashtra. He tweets @alokdesh …Read more