Namsai, April 25: The Responsible Media Initiative 2026, a major capacity-building programme for media professionals organized by the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ), was held at the Multipurpose Cultural Hall in Namsai on Friday. The workshop brought together journalists, policymakers, legal experts, public representatives, and media professionals from across the state to deliberate on the ethical, legal, and professional responsibilities of journalism in the digital age.
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| Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein receives a memento during the Responsible Media Initiative 2026 workshop. (Image: x.com/ChownaMeinBJP) |
The initiative was designed to enhance journalists’ understanding of media laws, ethical standards, and responsible reporting practices, with a special focus on reporting cases involving children and survivors of abuse in a lawful, sensitive, and responsible manner.
Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who attended the programme as the Chief Guest, addressed the gathering on the theme “Responsible & Legal Aspects of Reporting.” Interacting with journalists and media practitioners, Mein emphasized that journalism is far more than a profession and carries a profound responsibility towards society.
He noted that in an era where information spreads instantly through digital platforms and social media, journalists must place the highest priority on accuracy, credibility, and verification of facts. While acknowledging the increasing pressure to publish news quickly, he stressed that speed should never come at the cost of truth and responsibility.
“Journalism plays a critical role in strengthening democracy, shaping public opinion, and promoting transparency and accountability. The media must continue to uphold ethical values while adapting to the changing demands of the digital era,” Mein said.
The Deputy Chief Minister also highlighted Arunachal Pradesh's rich social and cultural diversity, urging journalists to remain sensitive while reporting on issues involving communities, vulnerable groups, and social conflicts. He stated that responsible journalism helps foster public trust, social harmony, and informed decision-making.
Emphasizing the importance of legal awareness, Mein said journalists must be familiar with the laws governing media reporting so they can perform their duties confidently and responsibly. Reaffirming the government's commitment to press freedom, he stated that the state administration firmly supports a free, fair, and responsible media, recognizing its vital role in governance, development, and public welfare.
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A major highlight of the workshop was a session by Advocate Kagam Bagra, Special Public Prosecutor for the Government of Arunachal Pradesh. Drawing from his extensive experience in handling sensitive cases, particularly under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, Bagra discussed the legal framework governing media reporting and the responsibilities of journalists when covering cases involving children and sexual offences.
He cautioned media professionals against practices that could compromise the identity or dignity of victims and emphasized the need to adhere strictly to legal provisions while reporting sensitive matters. His session provided valuable insights into balancing the public’s right to information with the rights and protection of vulnerable individuals.
Another important session was conducted by Bengia Ajum, Associate Editor of The Arunachal Times, who spoke on “Sensible Reporting in the Digital Era.” Ajum highlighted the opportunities and challenges posed by social media, online news platforms, and instant information-sharing. He urged journalists to maintain professional ethics, verify information thoroughly, and resist the growing trend of sensationalism and misinformation.
The event witnessed the participation of several prominent dignitaries, including Tapir Gao, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha); Kardo Nyigyor, MLA and Deputy Speaker of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly; Likha Soni, MLA; Rolen Dagam, Chairman of the Arunachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (APB&OCWWB); Sujana Namchoom, Zilla Parishad Chairperson; and Dr. Mohesh Chai, MLA and Advisor to the Health Minister.
Speaking on the occasion, APUWJ President Dodum Yangfo said the Responsible Media Initiative is being implemented in two phases covering both eastern and western Arunachal Pradesh. The Namsai workshop primarily catered to journalists and media professionals from eastern districts, while a similar programme will be organized for participants from western Arunachal Pradesh in the coming months.
Yangfo encouraged journalists, freelancers, content creators, and media workers across various platforms to actively participate in the initiative and benefit from the knowledge-sharing sessions.
He explained that the Responsible Media Initiative is envisioned as a long-term platform for promoting dialogue, professional development, and community engagement. Beyond workshops, the initiative aims to bring together journalists, students, social leaders, policymakers, and subject experts through interactive programmes, media tours, village outreach activities, and thematic competitions focusing on governance, development, social issues, and public-interest journalism.
The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to uphold the principles of ethical, responsible, and legally informed journalism, ensuring that the media continues to serve as a credible pillar of democracy and social progress in Arunachal Pradesh.
