Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan today said that media has the power not only to shape narratives but also to shape nations. He made these remarks while addressing the closing ceremony of the month-long internship programme conducted by Sansad TV for final-year postgraduate students of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) at the Uprashtrapati Bhavan. Mr Radhakrishnan appreciated the prompt implementation of the proposal and commended the professionals of Sansad TV for mentoring the interns. The Vice President had suggested the internship during his visit to the IIMC Convocation earlier this year. On the occasion, he also emphasized that India needs journalists and communicators who are intellectually honest, socially sensitive, technologically competent and deeply committed to democratic values.
Mr Radhakrishnan cautioned students against sensationalism in an attention-driven media environment and stressed that credibility must rest on factual accuracy and public interest rather than popularity. He also urged the aspiring journalists to uphold truth, objectivity and responsible reporting.
Referring to the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence, the Vice-President said that while technology can serve as a powerful tool for research and verification, editorial judgment must remain guided by human reasoning. He also emphasized the need for vigilance against misinformation and deep fakes. He said that a comprehensive understanding of Bharat requires reporting beyond metropolitan centres and greater attention to the aspirations, challenges and achievements of people across the country.
Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh, Secretary-General of Rajya Sabha, P C Mody and other officials were present on the occasion.
