Media fraternity observes National Press Day

DIMAPUR — Media fraternity across Nagaland comprising Dimapur Press Club (DPC), Kohima Press Club (KPC) and Mokokchung Press Club (MPC) celebrated National Press Day on Saturday in their respective districts on the theme “Changing nature of press.”

In Kohima, the KPC celebrated National Press Day at Hotel Japfü with Prof. GT Thong, pro vice chancellor of Nagaland University, Kohima campus, as the quest speaker.

Speaking on theme, Thong said he sees rapid change in this modern era due to technological advancements, rise of social media and globalisation. Even as journalists might have access to information from social media, official agencies or eyewitnesses, he stated that it sometimes run the risk of wrong assumptions.

“All that is required for one to become a journalist today is a smartphone. However, a major worry is the lack of professionalism by untrained players; these are people who can cause social unrest, besides so many other problems,” Thong said.

He pointed out that another cause for concern is that the internet has locked users in ideological echo chambers, which has led to fragmentation and radicalisation of political journalism.

With a continuous and rapid shift of news media from the traditional print or broadcast environment to the digital format, he said the news agencies have to adjust to audience behavior and sustainable business models.

“The continuously evolving news landscape has considerably affected news coverage with respect to accuracy, context, depth and objectivity, due to which audiences are becoming less informed or view events through narrow prisms. Therefore, a disturbing trend is that media- savvy individuals get news or events from sources other than the trusted news providers. This means, journalism has to constantly evolve with the times. To stagnate is to perish!,” Thong observed.

He called upon all to be reminded to encourage a free and responsible press that strengthens the roots of Indian democracy.

The Kohima Press Club Impact Journalism Award 2024 was conferred to Imti Longchar of The Morung Express in recognition of his journalistic works on issues of public concern and awareness.

KPC president, Alice Yhoshü, said that Longchar had done several remarkable pieces on biodiversity conservation. Besides, she stated that he has worked on the life and struggles faced by those living close to the Indo-Myanmar international border, especially in the eastern district of Noklak.

The deputy CEO of Nagaland Building and Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board, Vikeheto Naki, gave brief remarks on the KPC-NBOCWWB Media Fellowship.

KPC-NBOCWWB Media Fellow for 2024 was awarded to Kanili Kiho from The Morung Express, Seyiekietuo Keretsü and Vibeituonuo, both from the Nagaland Post.

In a related programme, the Mokokchung Press Club (MPC) observed National Press Day at the conference hall of Hotel Metsüben in Mokokchung town.

The main highlight of the event was a thematic round table talk, which was moderated by Aso Imsong, senior journalist associated with Tir Yimyim.

Various issues in line with the theme was discussed which provided an introspective look into the evolution of journalism and the challenges faced by the press today. The round table talk also delved into the changing nature of press in the local context.

One topic of discussion was on balancing rights, ethics and responsibilities where the dual responsibilities of the media: informing the public and respecting constitutional rights was discussed. It was acknowledged that the press and media have its own constitutional rights, while it also has its limitations and ethics to abide by.

The discussion also explored how society often prefers positive portrayals over critical analysis, which challenges the press in delivering objective reporting. It was observed that society often only wants to read favourable narratives about themselves, but the media’s role is to present the truth while maintaining ethical standards.

Addressing the changing landscape of journalism, the session also examined the evolving nature of journalism in the digital age. Participants deliberated on incidents where press persons had to face societal pressures and ethical dilemmas and how society must also understand the press at this critical juncture.

The discussion concluded with a collective decision that the Mokokchung Press Club must strengthen its preparedness to address new challenges while remaining committed to ethical journalism. The team further resolved to continue fostering public awareness of the press’s role and responsibilities in society for collective good.

The program was chaired by Imrongkumba Aier, correspondent of Eastern Mirror, while the welcome address was delivered by Limalenden Longkumer, president of MPC, and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Sashimeren Jamir, MPC secretary MPC.