Journalism as a Bridge to an Informed Society
Journalism plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between governance and the public, ensuring that citizens stay informed about issues that impact their lives. A free and fair press is a cornerstone of democracy, allowing people to make informed decisions and hold authorities accountable. Recognizing this, President Draupadi Murmu emphasized the need for ethical journalism while presenting the 19th Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards in New Delhi.
The Indispensable Role of Journalism in Democracy
During her address, President Murmu underscored the significance of free and fair journalism in a democratic society. She stated that without an informed public, democratic processes lose their essence. The media, often regarded as the fourth pillar of democracy, plays a vital role in keeping citizens aware of current affairs, governance, and global events.
Strengthening Newsrooms for Fact-Based Reporting
President Murmu urged media organizations to reinforce their commitment to research-backed journalism. She stressed that a thriving newsroom filled with diverse ideas is fundamental to maintaining the quality and credibility of news. To ensure accuracy, she advocated for the establishment of dedicated research wings within news organizations and emphasized the importance of ground reporting, calling it the soul of journalism.
Placing the Reader at the Center of Journalism
Discussing the evolution of journalism, the President reflected on the transition from traditional newspaper models to hybrid funding structures. Earlier, newspapers and magazines relied on reader subscriptions and advertising revenue to sustain quality journalism. However, modern funding models now involve state support, corporate backing, or direct reader contributions. While each model has its strengths and weaknesses, she highlighted that keeping the reader at the center is the most promising way forward to maintain journalistic integrity and independence.
Combating Misinformation and Deepfake Threats
In an era where misinformation and digital manipulation are rampant, President Murmu expressed optimism that malicious content would soon be effectively eliminated. She emphasized the need to use technological tools to combat disinformation and called for active campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of deepfakes and other AI-driven content distortions. Special attention must be given to sensitizing younger generations, equipping them with the skills to recognize bias and agenda-driven narratives in media.
Artificial Intelligence: A Double-Edged Sword in Journalism
The President acknowledged the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on journalism. While AI is streamlining news compilation and editing, it lacks the human empathy that is integral to storytelling. She reassured journalists that journalism based on human values, ethics, and empathy would always have a place, even in the face of technological advancements.
The Need to Protect Fair Journalism
As journalism continues to evolve, safeguarding its integrity remains a priority. Ethical journalism is not just about reporting facts; it is about presenting the truth with responsibility and accuracy. Protecting press freedom, investing in quality journalism, and fighting misinformation are essential steps to ensuring a robust democratic framework. The future of journalism lies in balancing technological advancements with human-centric storytelling, keeping the public well-informed, and upholding the values of truth and accountability.
(With inputs from agencies)
