ITANAGAR : Information and Public Relations Minister Nyato Dukam on Friday emphasised the importance of ethical, factual and unbiased journalism, urging media organisations to uphold professional standards amid the rapid expansion of digital media.
Speaking at the inauguration of the India Unboxed newspaper and digital office at Daria Hill here, the minister said the digital revolution has transformed the way news is consumed while posing significant challenges to the survival of print media. Despite these changes, he stressed that journalism must remain rooted in ethics and credibility.
“The very basis of journalism is being ethical towards your responsibility,” Dukam said, describing the media as the fourth pillar of democracy with a vital role in promoting social progress and reflecting the realities of society.
He cautioned against the media assuming the role of judge, stating that its primary responsibility is to present verified facts and allow readers to form their own opinions.
“Giving judgement to a report should not be the role of the media. Rather, it should place factual information before the public and leave it to the people to form their own opinions and comments,” he said.
The minister also reiterated the state government’s commitment to the welfare of the media fraternity in Arunachal Pradesh and assured continued support for its growth and development.
Information and Public Relations Commissioner Nyali Ete also stressed the need for ethical reporting, urging journalists to avoid sensationalism and maintain professional standards.
“News should help shape informed public opinion and bring about positive change. Journalists should report both the achievements of the government and its shortcomings. The responsibility of forming opinions should rest with the readers,” he said.
Ete further encouraged media organisations to highlight success stories from remote and underserved areas of the state, saying such stories deserve equal prominence alongside mainstream developments.
Explaining the vision behind the initiative, India Unboxed founder Ram Tajo said the newspaper aims to revive the reading habit among young people at a time when digital and audio-visual platforms dominate news consumption.
He said India Unboxed would function as both a print newspaper and a digital news platform under a single brand.
“We will ensure ethical, factual and unbiased news. This is not merely a promise but a commitment from the management of India Unboxed,” Tajo said.
Editor Sonam Jelly outlined the editorial vision of the publication during the inaugural function, which was attended by Information and Public Relations Director Gijum Tali, Printing and Stationery Deputy Director Heri Maring, East Kameng Zilla Parishad Chairperson Pai Pizi Yangfo, community leader Khya Safar Pao and other dignitaries.
