Shillong, Nov 15: Information & Public Relations Minister Lahkmen Rymbui has expressed concern over the decline in reading habits among children and suggested educational institutions to encourage young students to read newspapers and books.
Speaking at a function to celebrate the National Press Day, the Minister said the young generation spent more time online and less time with traditional media, such as books, magazines and newspapers.
He urged journalists to be truthful and build trust especially when misinformation and fake news continue to flood social media. “Trust is built when journalism is ethical, when facts are checked rigorously, when stories avoid stereotypes and when the most vulnerable are treated with dignity and care,” Rymbui said.
He said public trust and responsible use of technology and accountability should be a guiding principle.
“When information travels faster than verification, and sometimes faster than truth, such a climate, ethical journalism becomes a form of public service. It resists the temptation of sensationalism, it avoids amplifying hate division or stigma, and protects dignity, privacy of children and vulnerable groups,” he added.
He also urged media persons to go to the ground and avoid broadcasting only what ministers say at the Secretariat. “We need the media to ask tough questions and investigate delays and examine whether promises translate to outcome. We also need coverage that recognises the progress, captures the innovation and documents facts from the ground,” he said.
Others who spoke were Commissioner and Secretary Vijay Kumar Mantri, Dr. Madhulika Jonathan, UNICEF Chief of Field Office, Northeastern states.
Cherry Kordor Kharshiing, head of the Mass Media Department of St. Anthony’s spoke on the theme, ‘Role of Print Media in the Digital Age.
The celebration also witnessed the exchange of letters between the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) and UNICEF. The partnership aims to strengthen media capacity for human-centred development reporting in Meghalaya.
