IMPHAL, November 1: Education Minister, Moirangthem Okendro has said that the medias has a crucial role to play in maintaining peace and harmony in the state citing the fragile situation prevailing which he claimed was incited by some vested interests.
The Minister stated this during the 66th Information and Public Relation Day observed by the Directorate of Information and Public Relation today at its office premises.
The Education Minister further appealed the media fraternity to refrain from sensationalising news that are likely to have a negative influence on the fragile situation, especially if the matter involved are trivial and can be resolved amicably.
Acknowledging the selflessness character of the journalists, he said that the Government in close co-operation with AMWJU has been working for the welfare of the journalists.
As one of the measures to avail benefits to journalists, plans are afoot to develop the IPR Department, a Government department dealing with the journalist affairs after AMWJU, continued Okendro.
Okendro also lauded the IPR for organising the foundation day and bringing together all the pensioners of the department and also organising a photo competition which showcased varieties of photos.
Parliamentary Secretary, I PR Department, K Meghachandra said that IPR plays a vital role in informing the public about the benefits of various schemes, projects taken up by successive governments for the welfare of the people.
Without categorizing the urban, rural and hills, the IPR meets its mandate set by the government and informs the public from time to time through different media channels, he stated adding that `IPR is a bridge between government and people.`
He said his frequent persuasion with the Chief Minister for the expansion and development of IPR as borne result and the cabinet recently has given its nod to such an expansion, he asserted.
The dignitaries of the function gave away certificate, mementos and cash awards to winners of the photo competition cum exhibition organised by the IPR department.
The competition was held under four theme `Unity in Diversity,` `Manipur Marches Ahead,` `Environment, Ecology and Ecotourism of Manipur,` `Candid from the Streets of Manipur.`
The pensioners of IPR were also presented with gift as token of honour by the dignitaries.