Bhopal, March 25 Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel said on Wednesday that the digital age presents challenges for journalism in maintaining credibility, neutrality, and ethical values, given the spread of fake news and misinformation, but also opens avenues for employment and innovation.
Addressing a program organized by the Madhavrao Sapre Smriti Samachar Patra Sangrahalaya Evam Shodh Sansthan in Bhopal to mark the 200th anniversary of Hindi journalism, he said that the true identity of journalism lies in its ability to find the truth despite the difficulties.
"Journalism keeps people informed about the daily activities of society, the country, and the world. It highlights problems and offers solutions. It encourages discussion and reflection on new changes and future directions," he said.
He said that the editorial of the first Hindi newspaper, 'Udant Martand', set "the welfare of Indians" as the goal of journalism, which remains relevant even today.
It is essential that journalism remains focused on public welfare, social service, and national interest, Patel said.
"The true identity of journalism lies in its ability to discover the truth. Even though the path to truth may be difficult, trust lies only in truth. The digital age has posed numerous challenges to maintaining journalistic credibility, neutrality, and ethical values in the face of fake news, misinformation, and breaking news, but it has also opened doors to immense opportunities for employment, skills, and innovation," the governor added.
It is important to connect the future generation with the creative aspects of Hindi journalism through digital mediums, such as graphics, videos, podcasts, websites, and mobile apps.
Patel described the event as an opportunity to be proud of the past and aware of journalism's responsibilities for the future.
"This is not merely a journey of a language or medium, but an occasion to illuminate the future by remembering the vibrant and inspiring saga of India's consciousness, struggle, culture, and development," he said.
Hindi journalism has played a significant role in awakening India's renaissance and social reform, connecting the freedom movement with the public, and building a nation based on Swadeshi, self-reliance, and culture, he said.
On this occasion, the governor honored Vikas Mishra, senior editor of Lokmat newspaper, with the Madhav Rao Sapre Award, Arun Nathani with the Mahesh Gupta Srijan Award, and Brajesh Sharma with the Ashok Manoria Award.
