BHUBANESWAR: Importance of journalism was stressed upon by various experts at a conclave Pen For Nation at Guru Kelucharan research centre here Sunday.
Organised by Biswa Sambad Kendra, the programme was graced by Governor of Odisha Ganeshi Lal. In his speech he said, “Journalism is of various types. Some among them are tampered which creates a real problem for the society and the nation. However, the best kind of journalism is investigative which should be transparent and unadulterated.”
“The best example of such journalism is when Hanuman asks both Lord Ram and Laxman about their identity on the orders of Sugriv. The honest juncture in journalism always lies in its pen which focuses only on unbiased profound truthful presentation of reality. Every journalist must write for the evolvement of the nation. Pen is mightier than sword. This proverb should be practised, followed and real, ethical news should be served to help in the development of the nation,” he added.
Niranjan Padhi also stressed on learning journalism in a correct way and also said, “Respecting the pen is the ultimate goal of any journalist.”
Panellist Raja Ram Satpathy in his address said, “Biased news has no meaning. True news empowers a nation. Those who are writing biased news are nothing but the chatukaris at a King’s palace who only praise the king and his interest without understanding the value of truth.”
“Whenever true news is killed, the nation lands itself in trouble. Therefore information is paramount and the simpler, unbiased and truthful it is, the easier it is for a nation to grow socially and economically in the global platform.”
Dillip Satpathy of Business Standard said, “It’s unfortunate that web-based news these days is not pure journalism. The clarity of journalism has truly established itself as the fourth pillar of constitution. Those who feel responsible for the nation have always worked for the greater interest of the nation by empowering it through correct news loaded with facts.”
Professor Anil Kumar Mishra of RSS said, “Today’s first paced society depends a lot on social media. Blind faith in news feed of social media often leads to distribution of false news for TRP which is unfortunate. Those who spread lies and malign others’ reputation get more respect while a true journalist is not recognised.”
“Why should media be not recognised as the first pillar of the nation? Be it when India was under the British Raj or even today when we are free of it, journalism is the first line of defence for democracy. The word nation means Rastra. Every single human being has some duty towards it.”
“However, it’s the journalist who works under severe pressure with a mere salary with no holidays who does his duty in a true sense, by offering the right information in many adverse situations. That’s why today’s conclave salutes those men and women and also guides those who are yet to understand the true power of pen and its contribution to build up a successful nation,” he added.
