Assertion (A): In times of global recession, paid news is a supplementary source of revenue for media houses  

Reason (R): Media houses in India have been experiencing increased production cost and staff wages in the last few years.

(A) Both (A) and (R) are true.

(B) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).

(C) (A) is true, but (R) is false.

(D) (A) is false, but (R) is true.  

Correct Ans: (D)

Explanation:

Paid news refers to news content published in exchange for money, often without disclosure. Many believe that media houses use it as a financial cushion during economic crises. However, this assumption is not entirely accurate.

The reason provided is true. Over the past few years, media houses have faced increasing production costs and rising staff wages. The cost of paper, printing, and distribution has surged. Additionally, journalists demand better salaries due to inflation. These factors have put financial pressure on media organizations.

However, the assertion is false. Paid news is not a necessary revenue source, even during a global recession. Many reputed media houses refuse to engage in it to protect their credibility. Instead, they focus on subscriptions, digital advertising, and sponsored content with clear disclosures.

Since the reason is correct but does not justify the assertion, the correct answer is (D). Rising costs challenge media sustainability, but paid news is not an inevitable solution. Ethical journalism requires transparency, fairness, and trust, even in difficult economic times.