Agartala (Tripura) [India], November 17 (HBTV): Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, while inaugurating the National Press Day celebration, said that maintaining political, social and cultural harmony is among the foremost responsibilities of journalists, who serve as the mirror of society. He noted that journalists play a vital role in shaping public perception and strengthening democratic values.
Addressing the programme organised by the Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA) Department at the Sukanta Academy Auditorium on Sunday, the Chief Minister said that journalism, though a profession, is best practised with a sense of duty towards society. He added that accurate news dissemination is an art that demands commitment, skill and integrity.
Highlighting the significance of newspapers and media organisations, Saha said that freedom of speech and expression form the foundation of journalism, but these freedoms must be exercised responsibly. He urged journalists to remain vigilant, ensure factual reporting and uphold credibility at a time when misinformation continues to spread quickly.
He said: ‘With the growing prevalence of misinformation on social media, all stakeholders must work together to overcome this challenge. Journalists of Tripura are in no way inferior in quality when compared to journalists from other states.’
Saha called on senior journalists to conduct monthly workshops to help young media professionals refine their skills and strengthen ethical journalism practices. He said such initiatives would contribute to building a more robust media ecosystem.
Referring to the murders of two journalists in previous years, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring justice for them. He also said the administration remains dedicated to safeguarding journalists’ dignity and safety. The ICA Department has formed several committees for journalists’ welfare, and their recommendations will be implemented in phases, he added.
The event was attended by Executive Editor Manas Pal, Editor Shanit Debroy, Agartala Press Club President Pranab Sarkar, ICA Secretary Dr P. K. Chakraborty and ICA Director Bimbisar Bhattacharjee. Two senior journalists, Pranamay Saha of Amarpur and Anupam Bhattacharjee of Kailashahar, were felicitated with shawls, mementos and financial honorariums for their contributions. (ANI)