The Role of Journalists in Shaping National Discourse During Wartime is of Utmost Importance -

Noida/Ghaziabad :
In the aftermath of the four-day war between India and Pakistan, the role of journalists in shaping national-level discourse on international platforms has become crucial. Speaking on the topic “Journalism During Wartime” at a program organized to mark Narad Jayanti and Hindi Journalism Day, Chief Guest Mr. Akhilesh Sharma praised the theme and the initiative of the event. According to him, during wartime or any other critical national moment, the responsibility of journalists increases significantly. It becomes essential to bridge the information gap for citizens. He questioned whether journalists are truly fulfilling their duties during such times and emphasized that no information should be shared that could potentially aid the enemy. He added that as journalists, we must never forget our boundaries, ethics, responsibilities, and duties.

On the occasion of Dev Rishi Narad Jayanti and Hindi Journalism Day, Prerna Shodh Sansthan Nyas organized a symposium on the theme “Journalism During Wartime” at ASPM Scottish School in Noida.

Several esteemed personalities from the media world attended the event. The Chief Guest was Mr. Akhilesh Sharma, Managing Editor of NDTV. The Special Guests included Ms. Pramila Dixit, Associate Editor of TV9, and Mr. Dinesh Gautam, Senior Anchor of Times News Network.

Ms. Pramila Dixit, who began her speech with a quote from revered Guru Golwalkar, discussed the awareness and responsibilities of citizens and journalists during wartime. She stated that journalists too become instruments of war. She emphasized that narrative-building becomes critically important during such times and advised, “For any information related to India, rely only on Indian sources, not on Pakistani propaganda.”

Special Guest and Times Now Navbharat Senior Anchor Mr. Dinesh Gautam, speaking on the topic, said that we often assume war is only the army’s responsibility. However, war is fought on multiple levels. Referring to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, he stated that the terrorists did not just challenge Prime Minister Modi, but the entire nation — a challenge that was responded to effectively by the government. He added that the incident was not merely a terrorist act but a religious war, where innocent people were killed based on their faith. According to him, when the nation is at war, every citizen becomes involved in some way, and as journalists, their actions must always prioritize the nation’s interests.

The keynote speaker was Mr. Kripashankar, Publicity Head (Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand), Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, who shared insights on the role of journalists during wartime. He pointed out that the launch of Udant Martand, the first Hindi newspaper, on the occasion of Narad Jayanti signifies the deep connection between Dev Rishi Narad and Hindi journalism. However, he noted, society is gradually forgetting this legacy. Mr. Kripashankar also highlighted the RSS’s social contributions and the concept of Panch Parivartan (Five Transformations), emphasizing the media’s critical role in driving social change.

The program began with an energetic song by Harishchandra, followed by the ceremonial lamp lighting by dignitaries. In the program’s preface, Mr. Shyam Kishore Sahay, Editor of Sansad TV, shared his thoughts on Dev Rishi Narad. He emphasized that the scriptures portray Narad Ji as wise and intellectually sharp, and that understanding the game of “narrative setting” is vital. He stressed that war is not just fought on borders, but also in the minds of the people, and journalists play a crucial role in shaping public opinion. He advised that journalism during wartime must be carried out with great sensitivity and wisdom.

The event was hosted by Ashish, with a vote of thanks delivered by Harish. The program concluded with the singing of Vande Mataram by student Vanshika Sethi, joined in chorus by the dignitaries and audience members present in the auditorium. The guests also responded to several inquisitive questions posed by the audience.

The symposium saw the presence of a large number of journalists, students, researchers, and intellectuals, including Dr. Anil, Co-Publicity Head of RSS, Meerut region. The event facilitated an in-depth discussion on the values of unbiased, fearless, and nation-oriented journalism during wartime.