The Mint journalist spoke at length about how startups work, the role of investors in propelling the growth of the ecosystem, and the factors that influence their investing choices. 

He highlighted some of the prominent differences between covering startup companies and reporting for other beats, and also touched upon the importance of the internet space to the startup industry and to reporters. 

Dalal encouraged the aspiring journalists at the Asian College of Journalism to be sceptical about claims, figures and valuations while covering the startup beat. 

He emphasised the need for reporters to speak to a wide range of sources from the companies they track, in order to arrive at the most balanced idea possible. He also advised students to read about the impact of technology on the startup culture, and to be informed about trends in the industry.