In a reflection of the nationwide observance, the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) orchestrated the National Press Day 2023 at the Nityaipat Chuthek Auditorium in Imphal. The event, held on Thursday, sought to commemorate the significance of a free and responsible press in a democratic society, coinciding with the formation of the Press Council of India in 1966.
As part of the National Press Day observance, a thought-provoking workshop delved into the theme of “Media in the era of Artificial Intelligence.” The workshop, graced by the presence of IPR commissioner M Joy Singh, director Dr Th Charanjeet Singh, and esteemed editors and senior journalists, aimed to explore the evolving landscape of media in the age of technological advancement.
National Press Day Significance: A Democratic Tradition
National Press Day, marked annually on November 16, serves as a testament to the vital role played by a free and responsible press in a democratic society. The day also pays homage to the establishment of the Press Council of India in 1966. The objective is to underscore the contributions of the Press Council of India and emphasize the ongoing importance of independent press in the vibrant democracy of India.
DIPR Director’s Insight: Commemorating Press Council of India’s Formation
During the event, DIPR director Dr Th Charanjeet highlighted the historical context of National Press Day, rooted in the formation of the Press Council of India in 1966. He acknowledged that the national-level celebrations occurred in Delhi, with the Vice President of India participating in the function.
Government Initiatives: Upholding Journalists’ Welfare
Dr Th Charanjeet further disclosed the state government’s commitment to journalist welfare. Under the Manipur State Welfare Scheme, 22 journalists have received assistance, amounting to a total of Rs 29 lakh sanctioned. Additionally, 26 journalists benefit from pensions under the Manipur Journalists’ Pension scheme, offering a one-time payment of Rs 10,000 to veteran journalists, as outlined in the Manipur Working Journalist’s Pension Rules, 1996.
Expert Insights: Navigating the Digital Realm
The workshop, moderated by Impact TV editor-in-chief Yumnam Rupachandra, featured insights from experts. Khumukcham Robindro Singh, assistant professor at the MU Computer Science Department, and Thongam Bobo, senior technical officer at NIELIT, served as resource persons. The workshop facilitated an interaction session, providing a platform for students from the Department of Mass Communication and Computer Science at Manipur University and NIELIT, Akampat, to engage with the experts.
In conclusion, the National Press Day 2023 in Imphal not only celebrated the historical foundation of the Press Council of India but also delved into the contemporary challenges and opportunities posed by Artificial Intelligence in the field of media. The commitment of the state government to the welfare of journalists adds a commendable dimension to this observance.
FAQs
- Why is National Press Day celebrated on November 16 every year? National Press Day is celebrated on November 16 to commemorate the formation of the Press Council of India in 1966.
- What is the objective of National Press Day? The objective is to highlight the importance of a free and independent press in a vibrant democracy and recognize the contributions of the Press Council of India.
- How is the Manipur government supporting journalist welfare? The Manipur government provides financial assistance and pensions to journalists under the Manipur State Welfare Scheme and Manipur Journalists’ Pension Scheme.
- What topics were discussed during the workshop on “Media in the era of Artificial Intelligence”? The workshop explored the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the media landscape, featuring insights from experts in the field.
- Who were the resource persons at the workshop, and what insights did they provide? The workshop featured experts such as Khumukcham Robindro Singh and Thongam Bobo, who shared their perspectives on the intersection of media and Artificial Intelligence.