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Shillong, Nov16, 2025:
The National Press Day, 2025 was observed in Shillong on Saturday the 15th November at Shillong Club Hall with a series of sessions and deliberations centred on this year’s theme, “Role of Print Media in the Digital Age.” The programme highlighted the evolving responsibilities of the press, the challenges posed by technology, and the need to uphold ethical Journalism in an era marked by rapid information flow.

The programme was attended by the Chief Guest, Shri Lahkmen Rymbui, Minister In-Charge, Information & Public Relations (IPR) Department, Government of Meghalaya, Guest of Honour Commissioner & Secretary, IPR, Shri Vijay Kumar Mantri, IAS; Dr. Madhulika Jonathan from UNICEF; and Dr. Kashi, Head of the Department of Mass Media, Members of the Shillong Press Club, Journalist, Reporters and Media Faculty.

The Chief Guest, Shri Lahkmen Rymbui, Minister of IPR Department, Government of Meghalaya, speaking at the event elaborated on the importance of ethical Journalism, rigorous fact-checking, and the avoidance of stereotypes to build and maintain public trust. He outlined four key pillars essential to ethical journalism public trust, responsible use of technology, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to truth. He also noted the fragile information climate, where misinformation spreads faster than its verification, emphasising the urgency of strengthening ethical practices across the media sector.

The Chief Guest also spoke extensively on the media’s role in public service and governance. He stressed that responsible reporting requires resisting sensationalism and avoiding narratives that incite hate, division, or stigma. He highlighted the need for journalists to report with people, not merely about them, reflecting a deeper democratic commitment. He underlined the importance of data-driven reporting to bridge the gap between policy and people, particularly in areas such as healthcare, education, and vaccination. He also acknowledged concerns regarding declining public trust in media, especially in Meghalaya, where audiences increasingly question the reliability of information.

He further reflected on the dual role of technology in journalism. While recognising opportunities in digital storytelling, AI tools, fact-checking technologies, and data visualisation, he cautioned against the threats posed by misinformation, disinformation, and manipulative digital content that affects vulnerable communities. He called for sustained investment in training journalists in digital tools, data analysis, and verification techniques so that technology serves as an instrument of truth and not a source of distortion.

Dr. Madhulika Jonathan speaking the occasion underscored the vital role of the media in safeguarding the rights of children and emphasised the continued significance of the press within today’s dynamic media landscape. The Chief Guest also acknowledged the growing challenges faced by journalists, particularly the difficulty of verifying truth in digital and electronic media, and highlighted the urgent need for the press to address these concerns to maintain public trust and credibility.

The Guest of Honour, Shri Vijay Kumar Mantri, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, Information & Public Relations Department, spoke on the evolving media environment and the need for continuous capacity enhancement. A prize distribution ceremony recognised excellence in journalism, followed by the exchange of a Work Plan between the Directorate of Information & Public Relations (DIPR) and UNICEF, aimed at strengthening capacity-building initiatives for journalists.

The event also witnessed the induction of Veteran Journalist Cosmos K. Sangma, President of the Garo Hills Press Club (GHPC), into the Central Body Executive Committee of the Shillong Press Club. With this induction, he will serve as the representative of the Garo Hills in the press fraternity at the State Level.