Ramanathapuram District Collector M. Sivaguru Prabhakaran has said that the media plays a vital role in ensuring that government welfare schemes reach the intended beneficiaries and serves as an important bridge between the administration and the public.
He was speaking at an orientation programme for journalists organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Chennai, in Ramanathapuram on Tuesday. The programme focused on promoting responsible journalism, creating awareness about government initiatives and equipping media professionals with the skills to counter misinformation in the digital era.
Describing the media as the fourth pillar of democracy, the Collector appreciated journalists for their constructive contribution to governance and said that several initiatives of the district administration had gained momentum with proactive media support. He added that such orientation programmes help journalists enhance their professional knowledge and reporting skills.
Ramanathapuram Superintendent of Police G. Chandeesh highlighted the importance of effective communication and accurate dissemination of information related to police activities and government programmes. Stressing the vision of a Drug-Free Tamil Nadu, he said creating awareness among parents and youth is essential to eradicate drug abuse.
Delivering the keynote address, V. Palanichamy, Director General (i/c), South Zone, PIB, said journalism today faces significant challenges from AI-generated content, fake news and rapidly evolving technology. He urged media professionals to maintain accuracy, brevity and ethical standards while embracing technological advancements. He also called on journalists to provide wider coverage of government welfare and development initiatives.
PIB Chennai Director P. Arun Kumar conducted a special session on misinformation and disinformation, explaining methods to verify digital content, identify manipulated information and effectively use fact-checking tools.
In the technical session on Sustainable Fisheries and Blue Economy, Dr. Vikas P.A., Senior Scientist at ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Mandapam, highlighted the potential of seaweed cultivation and cage fish farming in improving coastal livelihoods. He also outlined initiatives under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), including a Central Government contribution of Rs.9,407 crore for fisheries development.
District Youth Officer Manuel Berly said more than 35,000 youths from Ramanathapuram have registered on the MY Bharat portal, while 114 youth clubs have been enrolled. Around 70 journalists from print, electronic and digital media participated in the programme.