TFP Bureau, Raipur; June 29; 2024: The world is grappling with an “infodemic,” a widespread issue where digital media spreads confusion through erroneous and distorted information, causing significant harm to society. Despite this, digital media holds great potential for creativity. Effective measures, such as national media literacy campaigns to combat fake news, are essential for digital media to play a positive role in society. This was the key message from Shri K.G. Suresh, Vice Chancellor of Makhanlal Chaturvedi National Journalism University, Bhopal, during his address at the Devrishi Narad Journalism Award event on Narad Jayanti. The event, held at the Sanskriti Bhavan Auditorium, featured Shri Suresh speaking on the subject of journalism in the digital revolution. Commissioner of Public Relations Department, Mr. Mayank Srivastava, was the chief guest.
During the event, BS TV Bureau Chief Dr. Awadhesh Mishra received the Devrishi Narad Samman, senior cinematographer Mr. Bhupesh Kesharwani was awarded the late Mr. Ramesh Nair Samman, and senior journalist Bholaram Sinha received the late Mr. Baban Prasad Mishra Samman.
Shri Suresh emphasized the importance of celebrating Narad Jayanti with events dedicated to journalists. He highlighted that Devrishi Narad’s fearless communication for public welfare, as mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita, serves as a model for modern journalism. He advocated for journalism that is fact-based, noting that while digital media has democratized information and empowered social movements, it faces significant challenges, particularly regarding credibility and the proliferation of fake news.
Shri Suresh stressed that freedom in journalism must not lead to licentiousness, and the integrity of journalism must be upheld through rigorous fact-checking. He highlighted the dangers of misinformation, such as during the Covid-19 pandemic when false news misled many educated people against vaccination. He called for a comprehensive media literacy campaign to educate citizens about the dangers of fake news and to use digital media to promote positive and constructive topics.
Chief guest Shri Mayank Srivastava praised Narada as the universe’s first journalist, noting his role in inspiring epic creations like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. He underscored the importance of presenting a balanced view of society through communication channels, fostering optimism, and encouraging efforts toward building a better society.
The event concluded with mementos presented to guests by the organizing committee’s convener, Mr. R. Krishna Das. The program was conducted by Mrs. Priyanka Kaushal, and the vote of thanks was given by Mr. Ashutosh Mandavi. The program saw attendance from senior officials, journalists, and dignitaries, including Mr. Kailash Ji, Publicity Chief of the Central Region of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, and Mr. Sanjay Tiwari, Provincial Publicity Chief.
