Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio addresses the valedictory programme of the 25th anniversary of KPC at Capital Convention Centre, Kohima on January 20. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | January 20
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio today complimented the Kohima Press Club (KPC) for attaining 25 years and hoped that it will continue to be a beacon of fearless, fair and responsible journalism.
Gracing the valedictory programme of the 25th anniversary of KPC at Capital Convention Centre, Kohima under the theme, “Traversing 25 years of storytelling: Inspiring the future,” he wished the Club and its members unity, wisdom and more success in all future endeavours.
The KPC has stood firm for 25 years in the service of journalism, democratic principles and for the larger interest of our state and its people, CM Rio said.
He said that since its establishment in 2001, the KPC has grown from a small, collective, committed journalist into a strong and respectable body that upholds the values of ethical reporting, professional solidarity and responsible storytelling.
The Club’s journey with the evolution of journalism in Nagaland underscores its vital role as the fourth estate, he added.
The Chief Minister commended the KPC for their initiatives that extend beyond routine reporting also, for promoting media and education, fostering dialogues, engaging with institutions and undertaking social charitable activities.
“These efforts specify a deep sense of responsibility towards our society,” he said.
He described the KPC Impact Journalism Award and KPC & Nagaland Building & Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (NBOCWWB) Media Fellowship as noteworthy.
“These initiatives have not only recognised excellence in journalism, but also encouraged in-depth, people-centric reporting,” he added.
As media landscape continues to evolve amid rapid technological changes, misinformation and complex social realities, CM Rio urged upon the journalism and journalists to remain a call to the truth, ethics and sensitivity.
“Your role in studying, promoting informed public discourse and contributing to constructive development has become more important than ever,” he added.
‘More discussions with media fraternity’
Meanwhile, CM Rio noted that there are many controversial and overly negative news reports, with very few positive stories, adding that this creates a “very scary” situation.
Stating that all is not well in today’s world, he said the North East Media Conclave, organised as part of the KPC’s milestone celebration, was a timely and commendable initiative.
It reflects a forwarding vision to a group of journalists for emerging challenges, with reinforcing the core values of credibility, responsibility and integrity in taking information to the common masses, he conveyed.
In this context, he expressed hope for more engagements with the media fraternity and for working together to do better for the people, towards building brighter and more prosperous states, particularly in the Northeast.
Earlier, the Chief Minister unveiled the commemorative plaque of the 25th anniversary of KPC and also released KPC 25th Anniversary Souvenir (Cover).
In her remarks, the KPC President Alice Yhoshü expressed gratitude the State Government led by CM Rio for initiating various welfare schemes for the media fraternity in Nagaland and also towards the construction of KPC building in Kohima.
Nagaland’s School Education & SCERT Advisor Dr Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, MLA Achumbemo Kikon, Advisors to CM Abu Metha & Dr Chumben Murry and several other dignitaries, organisations and well wishers also graced the occasion.
The valedictory programme was chaired by Sarah Naam Konyak while Athe Rhi presented special number.
Vote of thanks was proposed by Narain B Sagar while Rev Fr Mathew Mhabemo, Parish Priest, SFS Kohima pronounced closing prayer.
As we celebrate 25 years of storytelling, may we continue to stand together, support one another, and uphold the values of ethical, fearless and public-interest journalism, Sagar said.
Meanwhile, Nagaland’s Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton shared greetings to KPC on the occasion of its silver jubilee.
“For 25 years, the Club has stood as a pillar for ethical journalism and a space for dialogue, courage and accountability. It has not only chronicled the story of Nagaland through its evolving chapters but has also nurtured generations of media professionals committed to truth and integrity,” he posted in ‘X’.
May this milestone renew your purpose and deepen your impact in the years to come, he added.
