Role of media in democracy stressed

Imphal, Jun 25 (DIPR)
Emphasising that close coordination between the Government and the media is essential for effective governance and informed public participation, Director of Information and Public Relations (IPR), Dr Th Charanjeet Singh, said that the media serves as a vital bridge between the Government and the people by disseminating information on policies, programmes, and developmental initiatives.
Dr Charanjeet Singh was speaking at a one-day media workshop titled "Vartalap" on the theme "12 Years of Governance", organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Regional Office, Imphal, under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, at Hotel Imolesh, Old Lambulane, Imphal.
Speaking at the inaugural function, Dr Charanjeet Singh highlighted the importance of such pro- grammes in strengthening coordination and communication among various departments and agencies of the Government.
Emphasising the significance of democracy, he said that the people are the ultimate sovereign in a democratic system, and elected representatives govern on their behalf with the mandate to serve public interests and ensure inclusive development.
He noted that Government policies and pro- grammes must be effectively communicated to the public so that citizens are aware of and able to avail themselves of the benefits offered under various schemes and initiatives.
In this regard, he added that the media plays a crucial role as a bridge between the Government and the people.
He expressed confidence that the workshop would further strengthen the relationship between the Government and the media.
He observed that journalists must continuously update their knowledge and skills to effectively communicate Government policies and programmes to the public.
Dr Engam Pame, Director of the PIB Regional Office, Imphal, said that India requires a renewed mindset and collective effort from all sections of society to address future challenges and contribute to Nation-building.
He stated that every citizen shares responsibility for the development of the community, society, and the country, and stressed the need to uphold ethical and ideological values while working towards a better and more progressive future.
Khogendra Khomdram, president of the Editors’ Guild Manipur (EGM), lauded the workshop organised by PIB as a commendable initiative.
He said that the media, being "by the people and for the people," plays a crucial role in disseminating information on Government schemes, policies, education, taxation, and other public welfare initiatives.
He noted that welfare schemes, particularly those aimed at benefiting women, are intended for citizens and should not be viewed through a political lens.
Stressing the importance of responsible journalism, he urged media professionals to remain well-informed and serve as effective agents of public awareness.
He also expressed the willingness of EGM to cooperate in organising similar programmes in the future.
Delivering the welcome address and keynote speech, Pushpa Maibam, Media and Communication Officer of PIB Imphal, highlighted the crucial role of the media as a bridge between the Government and the public.
Following the inaugural session, technical sessions were conducted on the topic "Economic Reforms (GST)" by  A Dhaneshor Singh, Superintendent, CGST Imphal Commissionerate, and "Educational Reforms under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020" presented by Prof Angom Dilipkumar Singh, Professor, Department of Physics, Manipur University.
The workshop concluded with a round-off session conducted by Moirangthem Rustum Singh, Assistant Director, Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Field Office, Chandel.
Among those present at the workshop were Barun Ray, Assistant Commissioner, Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST), Imphal;  Asem Bhakta Singh, president, All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU); media representatives from various print, electronic and digital media organisations; and officials and staff of PIB Imphal.