New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu presented the 19th Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards in the capital today, emphasizing the critical role of free and fair journalism in sustaining democracy. Addressing the gathering, she underscored the importance of a well-informed citizenry, stating that without access to credible news, democratic processes lose their very meaning.
The President stressed that thriving newsrooms, driven by strong editorial values and investigative rigor, are essential for quality journalism. She called upon media organizations to invest in research and ensure accuracy, urging them to prioritize on-ground reporting rather than relying solely on digital feeds and press releases.
Reflecting on the evolution of the media industry, President Murmu noted the shift from traditional revenue models—where reader subscriptions and advertisements sustained quality journalism—to hybrid structures that often compromise editorial independence. She pointed out that while state or corporate-backed media models have their own advantages and drawbacks, the most sustainable option is one where readers remain central to journalism. However, she acknowledged the challenges in sustaining such a model in today’s rapidly changing media landscape.
Addressing the growing concerns over misinformation, the President expressed confidence that malicious content and ‘post-truth’ narratives will eventually be eliminated. She highlighted the need for proactive efforts to educate citizens about the dangers of deepfakes and AI-driven disinformation, stressing that young people, in particular, must be equipped to identify biases and hidden agendas in news content.
Speaking on the impact of artificial intelligence in journalism, President Murmu acknowledged that while AI is revolutionizing news production, it lacks the fundamental human trait of empathy. She asserted that journalism rooted in human values and ethical storytelling will always hold relevance, regardless of technological advancements.
The Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards, established to honor fearless and impactful reporting, continue to recognize outstanding contributions across various categories of media. This year’s winners were applauded for their dedication to upholding the highest standards of journalism, reinforcing the profession’s vital role in shaping an informed society.
