Is Media Truly the Reflection of Society? Insights from Tripura's CM
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Agartala, Feb 14 (NationPress) Tripura's Chief Minister Manik Saha emphasized on Saturday that media serves as a reflection of society and highlighted the critical need for journalists to remain consistently informed in today's landscape dominated by artificial intelligence, the internet, and globalisation.
“We are in an age characterized by AI and the internet. With globalisation in full swing, it is essential for journalists to stay current. News must be conveyed with honesty and integrity to align with the evolving times,” stated the Chief Minister.
Saha, who also oversees the Information and Cultural Affairs department, delivered these remarks during the inauguration of the two-day Bi-Annual State Conference and Journalist Workshop organized by the Tripura Working Journalists Association.
The theme for this year's workshop is 'Embrace the Change'.
Congratulating the attendees, Saha mentioned that the current state administration is pro-media and stressed the importance of professional training in journalism. “Such training initiatives are vital. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently highlighted the importance of enhancing efficiency across all sectors,” he noted.
Reiterating the media's role in a democratic framework, the Chief Minister remarked that media is considered the fourth pillar of democracy. “The pen holds more power than the sword. Journalists in Tripura are equally capable as those in other regions. Despite our constraints, we have implemented various measures for the benefit of journalists,” he stated.
Saha pointed out that the state government receives daily updates regarding law and order and other matters from multiple news agencies, district magistrates, sub-divisional magistrates, block administrations, and grassroots workers throughout the state.
Reflecting on the evolution of media, the Chief Minister noted that newspapers were succeeded by radio, then television, and now social media and web platforms have emerged as influential channels.
“Many events are now first reported on social media. Thus, it is imperative for journalists to present news with precision and responsibility to prevent misinformation. Numerous individuals in the media sector have gained recognition after facing significant challenges,” he remarked.
Saha concluded by stating that truthful and responsible journalism motivates society and fortifies democratic values. At the event, he also launched ‘Madhyam’, the official publication of the Tripura Working Journalists Association.
The event was attended by Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy, Tripura Working Journalists Association President Bijay Pal, General Secretary Sunil Debnath, along with other senior journalists and delegates.