Shillong, November 16: Journalists in Meghalaya marked National Press Day 2025 with a special programme in Shillong that witnessed insightful discussions and deliberations on November 15, centered around the theme “Role of Print Media in the Digital Age.”
The program at the Shillong Club drew a distinguished gathering, including Chief Guest Lahkmen Rymbui, Minister of Information & Public Relations, Government of Meghalaya; Guest of Honour Vijay Kumar Mantri, Commissioner & Secretary, IPR; Dr. Madhulika Jonathan from UNICEF; Dr. Kashi, Head of the Department of Mass Media; members of the Shillong Press Club; journalists; reporters; and media faculty.
Addressing press-persons at the event, Lahkmen Rymbui stressed on the importance of ethical journalism: building and sustaining public trust through rigorous fact-checking and steering clear of stereotypes. He emphasized on the importance of keeping public trust, responsible technology use, accountability, and unwavering commitment to truth as essential for the media’s integrity.
Highlighting the “fragile information climate” where misinformation outpaces verification, the Minister called for stronger ethical standards in the fourth pillar of democracy.
He placed media as a vital public service tool in governance, and called for reporting that resists sensationalism, hate-inciting narratives, or stigmatization. “Journalists must report with people, not just about them,” Rymbui said.
The information minister also advised the media to take up data-driven journalism to connect policies with grassroots realities in sectors like healthcare, education, and vaccination.
He advocated for ongoing investments in journalist training on digital tools, data analysis, and verification to ensure technology amplifies truth rather than distorts it.
Guest of honour and Commissioner and Secretary for Information and Public Relations, Vijay Kumar Mantri, discussed the shifting media ecosystem and the necessity for ongoing skill enhancement among journalists.
Dr. Madhulika Jonathan from UNICEF reinforced the media’s role in protecting children’s rights and affirmed print media’s enduring relevance in the digital landscape. She echoed concerns over verifying truth in digital and electronic formats, urging the press to tackle these issues to preserve credibility and public confidence.
The highlight of the celebrations was the signing of a Work Plan UNICEF between the Directorate of Information & Public Relations (DIPR) and UNICEF to bolster capacity-building programs for media professionals.
In a ceremonial induction, veteran journalist from the Garo Hills, Cosmos K. Sangma, President of the Garo Hills Press Club, was inducted into the Central Body Executive Committee of the Shillong Press Club to represent the Garo Hills region in the state’s press fraternity. Two other senior journalists were also inducted to represent Jaintia Hills and Ri Bhoi district.
