Advisor (Media) to the Chief Minister, Oinam Sunil Singh, has stressed the need for timely dissemination of authentic information and greater use of Manipuri language in government communication to strengthen the role and effectiveness of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR).
He was speaking as Chief Guest at the observance of the 78th Information and Public Relations Day, 2026, held at the DIPR Auditorium, Nityaipat Chuthek, Imphal, today.
Sunil called for faster dissemination of government news to enable media organisations to promptly access information and provide wider coverage. He particularly stressed the need to revive regular news dissemination in Manipuri, alongside English, describing Meiteilon as a common language connecting the 36 communities of Manipur. He urged DIPR officials to deliberate on measures to promote the language through official communication.
He also proposed framing a digital media policy and introducing a registration mechanism for digital media organisations under the Directorate to ensure appropriate recognition and regulation of the growing sector.
Secretary (IPR), Neeta Arambam, said the Directorate must ensure that authentic government information reaches the public accurately and promptly while maintaining effective public relations. She stressed that DIPR’s role should extend beyond issuing press releases and function as a bridge between the government and the people, allowing information and public concerns to flow in both directions.
Referring to the challenges posed by rapid digital communication and misinformation, she underscored the importance of truthful and responsible communication, including through the department’s newly launched website.
Additional Director (IPR), W. Phajatombi Devi, said the Directorate continued to discharge its responsibilities despite manpower shortages, including coverage of major state-level functions. She traced its establishment to 1949, its upgradation to a Directorate in 1974 and expansion to district headquarters in 1975.
The programme also featured felicitation of retired officials and best-performing employees in recognition of their contributions. DIPR officials, staff members, pensioners and representatives of media organisations attended the observance.
Additional Director (P&D), T. Ramesh Singh, proposed the vote of thanks.