Asem Bhakta
Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: The Directorate of Information & Public Relations (DIPR), Manipur, celebrated National Press Day with the theme “Safeguarding Press Credibility Amidst Rising Misinformation”. The event was held at the DIPR Auditorium, Nityaipat Chuthek, Imphal, and brought together journalists, media professionals, and government officials.
Speakers & Highlights:
– *Chief Guest* Shri Hungyo Worshang (IAS), Secretary, Information & Public Relations, highlighted the importance of a free yet responsible press. He noted the rapid changes in news consumption due to AI, the spread of misinformation, and the pressures from various groups that challenge factual reporting. He called for cooperation between the media, the department, and the government to uphold press credibility.
– President Shri Ngangom Uttam Singh, Director, IPR, warned that both information and misinformation have become powerful tools influencing public sentiment and social stability. He emphasized the need for verification, responsible reporting, and the use of AI tools to combat fake news.
– Guest of Honour senior journalist Pradip Phanjoubam discussed the evolution of journalism in the AI era and urged media professionals to adapt to emerging technologies.
Manipur State Journalist Awards 2025:
The awards ceremony honored 7 distinguished journalists across various categories:
– Science & Technology Reporting – Sanasam Kritivas Singh (Sanaleibak Daily)
– Parliamentary Reporting – Dr. Khaidem Athouba Meitei (Sanaleibak Daily)
– Reporting with Special Reference to Women & Children– Kharibam Yaiphaba Meitei (The Sangai Express)
– Arts & Culture Reporting – Boney Thongamcha Singh (Poknapham)
– Sports Reporting – Kumari Alka Thokchom (Hueiyen Lanpao)
– Public Health & Hygiene Reporting – *Hemchandra Shagolshem (Sanaleibak Daily)
– Best Editor Award for National Integration & Communal Harmony – Aribam Robindro Sharma (Poknaph)
Each award included a cash prize, a citation, and a shawl.
Workshop:
A workshop followed the award ceremony, moderated by Pradip Phanjoubam. Speakers included K. Sarojkumar Sharma who spoke on “Credibility of Press and Ways to Safeguard It”, and *Rupachandra Yumnam, Chief Editor, Impact TV, who discussed “The Menace of Misinformation and Ways to Tackle It”*.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri N. Roshan Singh, Assistant Publicity Officer, DIPR Manipur, acknowledging the contributions of all participants and emphasizing the collective responsibility.
