The 1st Manipur Digital Media Conclave 2026, titled “Beyond Silence,” along with the Digital Journalism Awards 2026, was held today at Sangai Hall, Hotel Imphal. The event was organised by Manipur Update.
Director of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Government of Manipur, Ahanthem Subash Singh attended the programme as Chief Guest. He said journalism today is no longer limited to the printing press and noted that digital journalism has made it possible to disseminate news globally with ease. He stated that producing fast, fact-based and responsible reporting has become a major challenge in the digital era, as digital media plays a significant role in shaping public perception.
Ahanthem Subash Singh raised concerns over whether some individuals identifying themselves as digital journalists are functioning mainly as content creators for monetisation. He said digital journalists should use the influence available to them to produce genuine reporting and disseminate fact-based news, rather than working solely for likes or views on social media platforms.
Senior journalist and Founding Editor of Manipur Update, Sobhapati Samom, in his address, spoke about the publication’s early days as a magazine. He recalled how the emergence of television had once raised fears about the future of radio, and how the advent of the internet later led to concerns about both radio and print media. He said the present era has evolved into a rapidly expanding digital age. Referring to the DIPR tableau on the theme “Digital Responsibility for Social Stability and Harmony” showcased on Republic Day, he said that with the growth of digital media, ensuring digital responsibility has emerged as one of the major challenges of the present time.
Joint Secretary, Tribal Affairs and Hills, Government of Manipur, Ngangom Uttam Singh said social media has become highly influential, with a large section of the public depending on it for information. He warned that irresponsible or unethical reporting and unverified news can harm individuals, society, departments and even the government. He added that while journalism has the potential to bring positive change, misinformation and errors can lead to serious consequences.
Senior Editor and jury member Irengbam Arun said a large number of promising entries were received for the Digital Journalism Awards. He added that with proper guidance and mentorship, digital journalists have the potential to improve further and set higher standards in the field.
The conclave also featured technical sessions on “Paradigm Shift from Traditional Media to New Media” by Editor of Imphal Review of Arts and Politics Pradip Phanjoubam, and “Role of Digital Media in Conflict and Peace Building” by independent researcher and Editor-in-Chief of The Frontier Manipur Dhiren A. Sadokpam.
Awards were presented in several categories. The Digital Journalist of the Year Award was conferred on Vangamla Salle of East Mojo, while the Promising Digital Journalist Award went to Naorem Tanoranjan of Echel News Network. The Distinguished Service in Digital Journalism Award was presented to Sobhapati Samom. The Best Credible Digital Media Page or Channel Award was awarded to Wari Singbul, and the Jury’s Choice Digital Journalism Award was conferred on Rebika Moirangthem of HY News.
President of the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union Asem Bhakta Singh, along with senior journalists, reporters and representatives of print and digital media platforms, attended the event.