Devarshi Narad Jayanti Highlights Role of Ethical Journalism

Imphal, June 14: The 13th Devarshi Narad Jayanti celebration held in Imphal on Sunday highlighted the role of ethical journalism in guiding society, strengthening informed public opinion and promoting public welfare through accurate reporting.

The programme was organized by Vishwa Samvad Kendra Manipur at Bhaskara Prabha, Konjeng Leikai, Imphal West. Around 250 working journalists and members of the public from different parts of Manipur attended the event.

Speaking as the Chief Guest, Rinku Khumukcham, Editor of Imphal Times, said journalism is the fourth pillar of democracy and carries the responsibility of guiding the public on the right path. He said journalists must report news objectively and place public interest above personal considerations.

“Journalists should set aside their personal interests while reporting and work for the welfare of the people. News dissemination driven by personal motives can negatively affect society and the public,” he said.

Rinku Khumukcham also referred to the relevance of Devarshi Narad’s communication values in the practice of modern journalism. He said journalists should learn from the principles associated with Narad, especially in promoting peace, social harmony and responsible dissemination of information through ethical journalism.

He added that working journalists must continue to develop diverse skills in order to serve society more effectively. In a rapidly changing media environment, he said professional discipline, accuracy and ethical judgment remain essential for maintaining public trust.

Senior writer Kakchingtabam Brajamani Sharma, who attended the programme as a special guest, described Narad Muni as the world’s first journalist. He said Narad’s role in carrying information across the three realms, Heaven, Earth and the Underworld, reflects the basic spirit of journalism and communication.

Addressing the gathering, A. Brajakumar Sharma, President of Vishwa Samvad Kendra Manipur, said journalists have an important role in educating the public. He said accurate and reliable information is necessary for shaping informed public opinion and helping citizens understand issues of social importance.

The celebration placed emphasis on journalism as a public duty rather than a mere profession. Speakers observed that the credibility of the media depends on truthfulness, fairness and responsibility in reporting.

In Manipur’s sensitive social environment, the call for ethical journalism carries particular significance. Responsible news reporting can help reduce misinformation, encourage social understanding and contribute to peace and democratic dialogue.

Signpost NewsDesk

Signpost News is an independent digital platform renowned for its bold geopolitics opinions, incisive editorials, and balanced ethical journalism, while delivering sharp, timely insights on AI, finance, education, tech, and automobiles.