Asem Bhakta
Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: Senior journalist Nepram Krishnamohan Singh was conferred the Thiyam Premkumar Award at a function organised by Sahitya Thoupang Lup to mark World Press Freedom Day at the Manipur Press Club, Imphal today.
The programme was chaired by Asem Bhakta Singh, President of the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU), as Chief Guest. Tongbram Amarjit Singh, President of Sahitya Thoupang Lup, presided over the function.
Rahul Hidang delivered the introductory remarks on the occasion.
Receiving the award, Nepram Krishnamohan Singh shared his experiences from his journalistic career and expressed happiness at being honoured. He became very emotional today as he fondly recalled his memories with journalist Thiyam Premkumar from the 1980s, speaking of their shared assignments, dedication to the profession, and Premkumar’s commitment to truth and fearless reporting. He reflected on the challenges faced by journalists and the need to uphold truth and professional ethics.
In his presidential address, Tongbram Amarjit Singh spoke on the significance of World Press Freedom Day and its impact on working journalists and the public. He said that a free press is essential for an informed society and that journalists must serve as watchdogs of democracy while remaining sensitive to the social fabric, especially in conflict-affected states like Manipur. He added that press freedom carries the responsibility of factual, balanced, and ethical reporting, and urged media persons to guard against misinformation that can deepen divides. He also called for greater public understanding of the pressures faced by working journalists.
In his address, Chief Guest Asem Bhakta Singh highlighted the role of the press in a democracy and urged journalists to maintain credibility, responsibility, and courage in their reporting. He congratulated the awardee for his contribution to journalism in the state. He further stated that the Thiyam Premkumar Award should continue to be conferred only on senior journalists in recognition of their lifetime service, while younger journalists should apply for other state-level awards and competitions.
The Thiyam Premkumar Award is instituted by Sahitya Thoupang Lup in memory of journalist Thiyam Premkumar to recognise senior journalists for their service to the profession.
The function was attended by senior journalists, editors, writers, and members of the media fraternity.
