Manipur observes World press freedom day

Our Correspondent Imphal, May 3 (EMN): With the theme “Promoting the media’s potential as a catalyser of peace and mutual understanding”, the World Press Freedom Day -2017 was observed under the aegis of the Editors Guild Manipur at the State Information Centre office at Palace Gate here on Wednesday. Commissioner Kangjam Radhakumar of Information and Public Relations (IPR), Director Meghachandra Kongbam of IPR, Editors Guild Manipur (EGM) President Ahongshangbam Mobi Singh and its Secretary General Yumnam Rupachandra attended the function as Chief Guest, Guests of Honour and President respectively.Stating that the observation of the day reminds the people about the importance of freedom of press in his address, Commissioner Radhakumar said this year’s theme is also an appropriate theme for the present times. He also expressed important roles played by media in bringing out the grievances of the public before the government. Stressing on the role of the media in bringing good governance, Director Meghachandra said the media has a big role to play in achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 which was adopted by the UN in 2015. Elaborating that media helps in reaching out various development programmes, he also spoke on the various grievances faced by the media in carrying out their duties. Dr Aribam Ibomcha Sharma of AIR Imphal said whether media brings peace or create war has become a major topic of debate in today’s world while EGM Secretary General Rupachandra highlighted certain issues affecting the working of journalist fraternity.