Transparency stressed on 77th IPR Day

Imphal, Nov 1 (DIPR)
The 77th Information and Public Relations (IPR) Day, 2025 was celebrated today at the auditorium of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations at Nityaipat Chuthek , Imphal.
Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel graced the occasion as chief guest. IPR Secretary Hungyo Worshang presided over the function, while former IPR Commissioner M Joy Singh attended as guest of honour.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Secretary said the event not only celebrates the founding of the DIPR but also its pivotal role in strengthening democratic governance through effective communication.
Highlighting the essence of good governance, the Chief Secretary underscored that transparency lies at its core.
He remarked that the DIPR serves as the “voice of the Government,” bridging the gap between the people and the administration by ensuring that Government policies, programmes, and decisions are accurately and effectively communicated to the public.
"In a world where information travels faster than ever, our collective mission is to ensure that every message reaching citizens is accurate, timely, and trustworthy," he stated.
Puneet Kumer also said that a well-functioning DIPR is essential to reduce confusion, counter misinformation, and strengthen public confidence in governance.
The Chief Secretary also stressed the importance of the feedback system facilitated by the department.
Public relations, he noted, is not only about informing but also about listening.
Through public forums, social media platforms, and other communication channels, the department gathers citizens’ concerns and opinions, thereby informing better policy-making and ensuring that the Government remains responsive to its people, he said.
He also highlighted the launch of the e-Gazette Portal on August 1, which has fully digitised the publication of Government notifications.
The Chief Secretary also encouraged active and responsible use of official social media platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube, stressing that these are the most visible windows of Government communication and must remain verified, credible, and engaging.
Looking ahead, the Chief Secretary noted that the Directorate will continue to focus on digital-first communication, proactive disclosure, and citizen-centric storytelling.
As Manipur celebrates IPR Day 2025, the Chief Secretary reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to truth, clarity, and consistency.
“In these times when misinformation can divide and confuse, the role of the DIPR is more critical than ever. The people of Manipur look to us not just for news, but for assurance, understanding, and trust," he said.
M Joy, former Commissioner of IPR, highlighted a brief history of DIPR.
He lauded the Directorate for upholding the culture and tradition of felicitating and honouring its retired officials.
IPR Secretary Hungyo Worshang emphasized the importance of fostering cordial relationships among the staff of all departments.
He commended the Directorate for upholding the tradition of felicitating and honouring its retired officials, and expressed confidence that the celebration will become more elaborate with greater participation in the coming years.
The Secretary also underscored the need to further strengthen the bond between the IPR Department and various media organizations, noting that such collaboration plays a vital role in shaping and enhancing the image of the State.
IPR Director Ngangom Uttam, in his keynote address, stated that many people, both in the public and in the Government sector, often tend to take the role of DIPR lightly.
People do not always realize the full potential and importance of the DIPR, he said and added that organizing such an event once a year therefore is important to remind everyone of the vital role DIPR plays in society.
He said that the Directorate has been working hard to disseminate accurate and meaningful information to the public.
DIPR has always played a crucial role in spreading good information and promoting transparency in governance, he said.
Referring to the growing misuse of social media and the spread of misinformation, he said that DIPR could take up initiatives and campaigns such as “Think Before You Share” to create awareness among the youth about the dangers of sharing false or incomplete information.
Through such campaigns, DIPR can play a significant role in promoting peace, unity, and cultural harmony in the State, he said.
Concluding his address, Uttam said that the Directorate aims to fully uphold the spirit of the Government of India’s motto, “Reform, Perform, Transform and Inform.”
He added that whatever good initiatives or achievements are made by the State or Central Government should be properly communicated to the public so that the people are well informed and connected with the developmental efforts of the Government.
During the programme, prizes for the short film competitions organised by the IPR Department were distributed across five categories.
Theme: Say No to Single Use Plastic
1st: Sijinadre by Dingku Thingnam (Kakching Khunou)
2nd: Kheiyom by Seleibam Joykumar (Kairenbikhok)
3rd: Rooting in Time by Gyaneshwor Takhellambam
Theme: Support Don't Punish (Ethical Care for Drug Recovery)
1st: No Chains Just Care by Bonney Takhelmayum (Kongpal Chinganbam Leikai)
2nd: Achumba Mayon by Akoijam Napoleon (Bamon Kampu Mayai Leikai)
3rd: Fragment of Hope by SNG Pearson (Lambung Village)
Theme: My City My Responsibility
1st: Tamjaningai by Devadarshan Gurumayum (Khaman, Imphal)
2nd: My Little Garden by Waikhom Gulshan Meitei (Wangkhei Ningthem Pukhri Mapal)
3rd: Thoudang by Hijam Ibocmha (Thoubal Athokpam Mayai Leikai)
Theme: E-Challan Awareness, Follow Traffic Rules, Go Digital
1st: Green Light by Kshetrimayum Priyobarta (Chingkhu, Imphal East)
2nd: Chumlibra? Lallibra? by M Lem Laishram (Heirok Part-II)
3rd: The Last Ride by Yumnam Bindurani (Wangkhei Ningthem Pukhri Mapal)
Theme: Unity in Diversity, Together We Stand Strong
1st: Unity is a Beautiful Sound by Sorenzan Vashum (Ukhrul)
2nd: Ima by Dingku Thingnam (Kakching Khunou)
3rd: Laman Natte by Hidangmayum Universe Sharma (Heirok Part-II)
All winners and consolation prize recipients received cash awards and citations.