Agartala, Nov 16, 2024, By Our Correspondent
National Press Day 2024, observed on Saturday, underscored the transformative role of media in shaping informed and participatory societies. The event, organized by the Information and Cultural Affairs Department in collaboration with the Agartala Press Club, took place at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan, Agartala. Themed “Changing Nature of the Press,” it brought together esteemed journalists, government officials, and dignitaries to reflect on the evolution of media and its pressing challenges.
Justice Arindam Lodh of the Tripura High Court, the keynote speaker, emphasized the critical importance of press freedom and journalistic integrity in his address. Recalling his personal connection to the press through his father, late Senior Advocate Apanshu Mohan Lodh, who established the *Tripura Times*, Justice Lodh shared insights into how media has evolved from traditional print to the era of digital communication.
"From newspapers distributed with posters to modern-day social media, the landscape has changed drastically. While advancements in technology have made information dissemination faster, they also pose challenges in ensuring accuracy, transparency, and accountability," Justice Lodh remarked. He cautioned against the spread of misinformation, especially in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), and urged journalists to remain vigilant in distinguishing fact from fiction.
Justice Lodh also called for greater youth participation in journalism, advocating for innovative ideas and fresh perspectives to address contemporary challenges. "The younger generation's involvement is essential for adapting to the fast-changing media environment and maintaining journalistic integrity," he said.
Honoring Veteran Journalists
As part of the celebrations, four veteran journalists—Biman Dhar, Supriya Datta, Chitra Roy, and Mohit Paul—were honored for their lifelong contributions to journalism. While Dhar was unable to attend due to being out of station, the recognition underscored the profound impact of their dedication to the press.
Perspectives on Media Challenges
Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Tinku Roy, highlighted the evolving responsibilities of journalists in the contemporary media landscape. "Journalists must adapt to the rapidly changing media environment to stay relevant and uphold their critical role in society," he said.
Addressing issues such as manpower shortages and financial constraints faced by the press in Tripura, Minister Roy stressed the need for a robust and independent media to ensure transparency and accountability in governance.
Keynote speaker and veteran journalist Sekhar Dutta delved into the transformation of media, particularly with the advent of electronic and digital platforms. "Given the shift in how information is consumed, it might be more fitting to rename the occasion National Media Day instead of National Press Day," Dutta suggested, echoing a sentiment shared by Agartala Press Club president Jayanta Bhattacharjee.
Dr. Pradip Kumar Chakraborty, Secretary of the Information and Cultural Affairs Department, urged media professionals to use tools like AI responsibly. "Combating false or fabricated news requires ethical practices and the careful application of technology," he said.
Reflections and Call to Action
The event served as a platform for journalists to share experiences and ideas for navigating the challenges of modern media. Bhattacharjee, addressing the gathering, lauded the resilience and commitment of journalists, emphasizing their role in fostering transparency and public trust.
The celebration also reflected on how media consumption habits have changed. Justice Lodh noted the shift from traditional morning newspaper reading to instant news updates via social media platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
The program concluded with a collective reaffirmation of the commitment to press freedom, ethical reporting, and innovation in journalism. The participants highlighted the indispensable role of media in nurturing informed communities while urging vigilance in maintaining the core values of truth and integrity.
National Press Day 2024 provided an opportunity to honor the contributions of the press, discuss its evolving nature, and inspire the next generation of media professionals to meet the demands of a dynamic world.