Journalism in Nagaland: Navigating progress, challenges and integrity

DIMAPUR — From the pioneering Ao Milen newspaper in the 1930s to today’s digital age, journalism in Nagaland has traversed a path marked by both progress and careful navigation.

As India marks its 58th National Press Day on the theme ‘Changing nature of Press,’ Eastern Mirror spoke with several media professionals in Nagaland to gather their perspectives on navigating these changes, the challenges they present, and the importance of truth, trust, and integrity.

Veteran journalist H Chishi, reflecting on two decades in the field, observed that the new age media has impacted the traditional and mainstream media and “forced the traditional media to pull up their socks.” He emphasised the increasing need for journalists to multitask and “hunt for exclusive stories to meet the demands of readers.”

Chishi also addressed the industry’s economic pressures, noting that many media houses, such as CNN, have laid off hundreds of employees and slashed the salaries of some of the prime-time news anchors. In this scenario, he underscored the need for local journalists to prioritise “exclusive stories” and “stories from the ground” rather than events and programme reporting.

“If the Press has to survive in Nagaland, we all should pull up our socks,” the senior journalist asserted.

Senior reporter Henlly Phom Odyuo highlighted the “hostile environment” that often limits journalists’ access to information, hindering their ability to inform the public.

Despite this, she finds her profession deeply rewarding, as it provides the opportunity to “meet new people from various walks of life.” At the same time, she also noted that journalists have the platform to “influence public opinion,” which comes with great responsibility.

Video journalist Sunep Longkumer shared the practical realities of his work, describing the challenges of filming in Dimapur’s demanding climate. He also expressed concern about a perceived “lack of true passion for the craft” within the media industry.

A senior video journalist, speaking anonymously, echoed the challenges of working in Dimapur’s climate, describing it as “a test of resilience and determination.” But even as the climate takes its toll not only on the physical well-being of journalists but also on their equipment and productivity, “a strong mindset and a sense of duty drive journalists to adapt and continue their work despite the discomfort,” he said.

They highlighted the crucial role local journalists play as “the eyes and ears of the masses, ensuring that stories, whether local or global, are heard.”

“Unfortunately, despite our vital role, local journalists often lack adequate support. Without local journalists, who will ensure that the stories of our communities reach the masses? It is imperative that the authorities recognise the significance of their work and provide necessary support to safeguard their well-being and enable them to carry out their duties effectively,” he added.

Poet and journalist Vishü Rita Krocha addressed the rise of social media and artificial intelligence, emphasising the need for journalists to adapt while upholding core principles. “In the light of the ever-evolving digital age, we, as journalists, must harness the power of these platforms without forgetting the ethics of journalism and maintaining the integrity of the core principles of journalism,” she said.