Khandre says skill development for journalists, especially those in rural areas, is important

The Hindu

3 days ago

Forest, Environment and Ecology Minister and Bidar district in-charge Eshwar B. Khandre on Wednesday emphasised the powerful role that media plays in amplifying the voice of the people and holding institutions accountable.
He was speaking at a function to inaugurate a one-day workshop for journalists from Kalyana Karnataka region organised by the Karnataka Media Academy in collaboration with the Department of Information and Public Relations at Guru Nanak Bhavan on GND College campus in Bidar.
'Media has the power to carry the voice of the people and spotlight both the accomplishments and shortcomings of the Legislature, Executive and Judiciary. It is the media's duty to praise progressive steps and critique lapses with equal integrity,' Mr. Khandre said.
Commenting on the media's role in democracy, the Minister said that the media is the fourth pillar of governance and it must function with integrity and responsibility.
'A pen is sharper than a sword. It should be wielded wisely,' he said, encouraging journalists to pursue facts, stay informed through regular study and uphold accuracy and credibility in reporting.
Mr. Khandre also expressed support for the establishment of a media training centre in Bidar, offering land for it and highlighting the importance of skill development for journalists, especially those in rural areas.
Media Academy president Ayesha Khanam in her introductory remarks lauded Bidar's rich cultural heritage and noted the significance of the region's leadership in the State's development.
'This workshop is intended to inspire journalists to rise to modern-day challenges. In this era of technological evolution, rural journalists often uncover the most authentic stories. It is essential to train and equip them,' she said.
'Fake news is a growing threat. Fact-checking must become a culture within journalism,' she emphasised.
She added that journalism is not just about writing columns but is a form of leadership that demands constant reflection, self-improvement and commitment to truth.
Deputy Commissioner Shilpa Sharma spoke about the values that must underpin journalism.
'The media holds a great responsibility in a democracy. Reporting must be fact-based, unbiased and rooted in social concern. While negativity may be easier to highlight, we must make an effort to report truthfully and holistically,' she said, thanking the press for its constructive contribution.
The workshop was attended by over 200 journalists from the districts of Bidar, Kalaburagi, Yadgir, Raichur, Koppal, Ballari and Vijayanagara.
Afforestation efforts
Meanwhile, calling upon the public to safeguard the environment, Mr. Khandre underlined the State's afforestation efforts to tackle air pollution.
'Oxygen is our lifeline. During the COVID-19 crisis, thousands perished due to its shortage. To ensure that the future generations do not face such a crisis, Karnataka has planted 15 crore saplings so far. In Bidar, 35 lakh saplings have been planted in the past two years,' he said.
He urged citizens to join hands in making the State plastic-free and called for the celebration of an eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi using clay idols instead of Plaster of Paris statues.
'Many spiritually inclined people have already switched to clay Ganeshas. Let us all adopt this change for the sake of our environment,' he said.
Also present at the event were Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Girish Badole, Gurdwara Management Committee president Sardar Balbir Singh, Media Academy secretary Sahana, members Rashmi and Abbas Mulla, Kalaburagi Deputy Director of Information Jadayyappa and Bidar Assistant Director Manjunath Sullolli.