HT Correspondent
HAFLONG, Nov 17: Along with the rest of the country, National Press Day was observed in Haflong with great enthusiasm, highlighting the evolving role of media in society. The event was organised by the District Information and Public Relations Office (DI&PRO) under the NC Hills Autonomous Council, Dima Hasao. This year’s theme, ‘Changing Nature of Press’, was the central focus of the discussions. The program commenced with a warm welcome from Rijit Kachari, SDIPRO of Maibang, who introduced the theme and emphasised its relevance in today’s rapidly transforming media landscape.
The event saw the presence of notable dignitaries, including Ngulminlal Lienthang, deputy chairman of the NC Hills Autonomous Council and in charge of DI&PRO, who graced the occasion as chief guest. Dina Nath Loying, additional director of Information and Public Relations, and Purabi Phonglo, district information and public relations officer, were also in attendance, along with officials from DI&PRO and a diverse group of journalists from both print and electronic media.
Related Posts:
The program provided an open platform for media professionals to share their insights on the challenges and responsibilities of journalism in the modern era. Discussions revolved around ethical journalism, the sustainability of print media, and pressing issues such as health insurance, remuneration, and financial grants for local newspaper houses. The journalists collectively urged the NC Hills Autonomous Council to address these concerns to ensure the survival and growth of local media in the changing press environment.
On the other hand, Purabi Phonglo, district information and public relations officer, took on the role of moderator, facilitating the discussions initiated by the media professionals. She provided thoughtful insights and steered the conversation towards a broader evaluation of the issues raised, ensuring a comprehensive and constructive dialogue.
Addressing the gathering, chief guest Ngulminlal Lienthang spoke about the vital role of media as the fourth pillar of democracy. He emphasised the responsibility of journalists in disseminating accurate and timely information to the public. He also assured the attendees that he would work with the council authorities to address the issues raised by the local media community.
The observance of National Press Day in Haflong not only celebrated the importance of journalism but also highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to adapt to the evolving nature of the press.
Our Sivasagar correspondent adds: Sivasagar E-media Association, in association with Sivasagar District Journalists’ Association, observed National Press Day 2024 with an exceptional programme. The media fraternity invited all social organisations, students, youth organisations, and government representatives to listen to the stories of the difficulties, financial restraints, and threats journalists face while performing their duties.
Beginning their stories, senior reporter Ananta Smith said that the event belonged exclusively to media persons to narrate their doleful experiences. He mentioned that, except for a fortunate few, most media persons are poorly paid, yet they have been contributing immensely to creating an informed society in India.
Joyjyoti Gogoi, secretary of the Sivasagar District Journalists’ Association, urged society at large and the government to lend their ears, as every newsperson has their own story of deprivation and negligence. Senior photographer Munna Agarwal and senior reporter Bobita Bharali also narrated the different challenges that news persons face in their line of work. Leading citizens of the town, including leaders of social organisations, DIPRO Kankana Saikia, noted educationist Samsul Barik, ATASU president Basanta Gogoi, and a host of others, attended the meeting. The event was held under a banner listing the names of over a hundred journalists martyred while carrying out their work in the field.
The Sivasagar district administration, led by district commissioner Ayush Garg, IAS, felicitated the journalists in the evening at Sukapha Bhawan. Garg stated that reporters are a vital part of society. Dr Prafulla Kalita, registrar of Sivasagar University, Dr Utpal Dutta, professor at Sivasagar University, Dr Protim Sharma, principal of Sivasagar Girls’ College, and senior journalists Manoj Kumar Borthakur, Manoj Gogoi, Pradip Gogoi, Bobita Bharali, and Firoj Khan spoke briefly on the role and responsibilities of journalists in a changing environment.
