Celebrating a Quarter-Century of Journalism: Kohima Press Club Turns 25
The Kohima Press Club (KPC) recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of journalism in Nagaland and Northeast India. The event, held under the theme "Traversing 25 years of storytelling: Inspiring the future," brought together journalists, media personalities, and dignitaries to reflect on the club's journey, challenges, and future prospects.
Roots of Journalism in Nagaland
In her presidential address, KPC president Alice Yhosh traced the roots of journalism in Nagaland back to the 1930s, noting that while journalist collectives existed much earlier, serious discussions on forming a press club began only in the early 2000s. Yhosh highlighted the club's founding on January 20, 2001, and its commitment to promoting ethical journalism, professional fellowship, media education, and dialogue on issues of public interest.
The Role of Journalism in a Democracy
Former KPC vice president Vibou Seyie emphasized the need for journalists to remain vigilant in safeguarding journalism, the foundation of democracy, despite changing times and technological shifts. She acknowledged the challenges faced by journalists and praised their role in upholding journalistic values and moving forward.
Growing Challenges and the Future of Journalism
In her address, President of the Press Club of India (PCI), Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty, highlighted the growing challenges confronting journalism in India. She urged both journalists and the public to actively support independent media, emphasizing its critical role in a democratic society. Pisharoty also commended the Kohima Press Club for its efforts to mark its 25 years in a forward-looking manner by widening the circle of deliberation and engagement beyond Nagaland.
Reimagining Truth: Northeast Journalism for a Changing World
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the KPC hosted the NorthEast Media Conclave, focusing on "Reimagining Truth: Northeast Journalism for a Changing World." The event featured sessions on the evolving nature of media, ethics under pressure, and strengthening credibility in the age of misinformation, as well as journalism as peace work, navigating divides, and building bridges.
Reflections and Looking Ahead
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, in his address, praised the resilience of journalists in Nagaland despite challenges such as limited resources, lack of industries, and inadequate advertising support. He acknowledged the initiatives undertaken by the Kohima Press Club, including the Impact Journalism Award and the Nagaland Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (NBOCWWB) media fellowships. Rio urged journalists to remain committed to truth, ethics, and sensitivity in the face of a rapidly changing media landscape marked by misinformation and complex social realities.
The anniversary celebration of the Kohima Press Club serves as a testament to the enduring commitment of journalists in Nagaland to the ideals of the Fourth Estate. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it is essential that journalists in the North East region, and across India, remain steadfast in their pursuit of truth, integrity, and the public interest.