Inclusive development, educational reforms and effective coordination between the government and the media are essential for nation building and democratic governance, speakers observed at the Vartalap Media Workshop on the theme “12 Years of Governance” held at Hotel Imolesh, Imphal, on Thursday.
Addressing the workshop, Dr. Engam Pame, IIS, Director, Press Information Bureau (PIB), Regional Office, Imphal, said the Indian Constitution guarantees equality and a life of dignity to every citizen. He noted that despite decades of independence, many people continue to face challenges due to inadequate access to basic services and economic opportunities.
Dr. Pame said the Government of India has adopted an inclusive development model aimed at ensuring that no citizen is left behind. He stated that the model focuses on providing essential services such as drinking water, electricity, healthcare, sanitation, cooking gas, education and financial inclusion to all sections of society.
Referring to the 12 years of governance, he said various welfare schemes and empowerment initiatives have been implemented to improve the quality of life of citizens and promote inclusive growth. He also highlighted the role of the National Education Policy in making education more accessible, affordable and accountable.
Calling for collective responsibility towards society and the nation, Dr. Pame urged citizens to adopt a forward-looking approach and contribute positively towards addressing emerging challenges.
Recalling his association with Imphal, he shared that the venue of the workshop stands on the site where the PIB office was once located and noted that his first government posting in 1998 was in Imphal.
Speaking at the inaugural session, Director of Information and Public Relations, Government of Manipur, Dr. Th. Charanjeet Singh, MCS, stressed the importance of coordination between the government and the media for effective governance and public outreach.
He said media serves as a vital pillar of democracy and plays a key role in disseminating government policies, programmes and welfare initiatives to the public. He observed that citizens can fully benefit from government schemes only when information reaches them accurately and in a timely manner.
Dr. Charanjeet Singh further stated that such workshops help strengthen coordination among different government departments and media organisations. Expressing confidence that the programme would enhance mutual understanding between the government and the media, he urged journalists to continuously update their knowledge to effectively communicate public policies and development initiatives.
Noting that the workshop was designed to familiarise media professionals with the National Education Policy and economic reforms, he encouraged participants to actively engage in the technical sessions and utilise the knowledge gained to disseminate accurate information to the public.
The workshop was attended by Asem Bhakta Singh, President of the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU); Khogendra Khomdram, President of the Editors Guild Manipur (EGM); resource persons Barun Rai, IRS, Assistant Commissioner, and Dhaneshwar Singh, Superintendent, along with media professionals and government officials.
