Nov 16, 2025 (With DIPR Inputs): With the theme “Safeguarding Press Credibility Amidst Rising Misinformation,” the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Manipur observed National Press Day 2025 at the DIPR Auditorium, Nityaipat Chuthek in Imphal.
During the observance, the State Journalist Awards 2025 were conferred upon seven journalists from various media firms of the State. The programme emphasised combating misinformation and upholding journalistic integrity. The event also featured the prestigious Manipur State Journalist Awards 2025 for distinguished journalists across various categories and a workshop on this year’s theme.
The observance was attended by Secretary, Information and Public Relations (IPR), IAS Hungyo Worshang; Director (IPR) Ngangom Uttam; and Senior Journalist and Editor of Imphal Review of Arts & Politics, Pradip Phanjoubam as Chief Guest, President and Guest of Honour, respectively.
IPR Secretary Hungyo Worshang remarked that National Press Day is a symbol of a free and responsible press in India and is observed every year to uphold this principle. He noted that this year’s theme is particularly relevant in light of the increasing spread of misinformation and the pressing need to protect press credibility. He highlighted the challenges faced by journalists, media professionals and media firms in Manipur, questioning whether there is a conducive environment that enables media persons to fully pursue their profession.
Director IPR Ngangom Uttam Singh stated that both information and misinformation have increasingly become powerful tools capable of influencing public sentiment, escalating tensions and triggering undesirable incidents in society. He noted the growing speed and competition in disseminating news swiftly yet accurately, while balancing press freedom with responsibility to the public.
He expressed concern over the publication of unverified reports in the rush to be first, stressing the need to publish news only after verifying all sides of a story and avoiding partial reporting. He added that while AI tools can be misused to generate misleading news, the same technology can be effectively used by journalists to verify facts and counter misinformation. Shri Ng. Uttam concluded by suggesting collaborative research and workshops with media professionals to enhance preparedness and preserve the integrity and credibility of the press.
Senior Journalist Pradip Phanjoubam shared insights on various technologies he has encountered throughout his journalism career. He highlighted the rapid evolution of media tools and emphasised the importance of adapting to the present era marked by advances in Artificial Intelligence. He urged media professionals to remain flexible and embrace emerging technologies to stay relevant.
The seven journalists conferred State Journalist Awards from various media firms include Sanasam Kritivas Singh, Reporter, Sanaleibak Daily from Uchekon Takhok Mapal, Imphal East, honoured for Science & Technology Reporting; Dr. Khaidem Athouba Meitei, Sub-Editor, Sanaleibak Daily from Chana Maning Leikai, Imphal East, awarded for Parliamentary Reporting; Shri Kharibam Yaiphaba Meitei, Sub-Editor, The Sangai Express from Yumnam Patlour Maning Leikai, Imphal East, recognised for Reporting with Special Reference to Women & Children; Boney Thongamcha Singh, Assistant Feature Editor, Poknapham from Keishampat Thiyam Leirak Machin, Imphal West, awarded in Arts & Culture Reporting; Kumari Alka Thokchom, Special Correspondent, Hueiyen Lanpao from Ningthoukhong Awang Ward No. 14, honoured for Sports Reporting; and Hemchandra Shagolshem, Reporter, Sanaleibak Daily from Khagempalli Pankha Nganappithong Mamang, recognised for Public Health & Hygiene Reporting. Meanwhile, the Best Editor Award for National Integration & Communal Harmony was conferred upon Shri Aribam Robindro Sharma, Editor, Poknapham from Lamboikhongnangkhong, Uripok Kangchup Road, Imphal West. The awards include a cash prize, citation and shawl each.
Following the observance, a workshop was held on this year’s theme, moderated by Pradip Phanjoubam, Editor, Imphal Review of Arts & Politics. K. Sarojkumar Sharma, Senior Journalist, spoke on “Credibility of Press and Ways to Safeguard It,” while Shri Rupachandra Yumnam, Chief Editor, Impact TV, shared insights on the “Menace of Misinformation and Ways to Tackle It.”
