CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: When Journalism Was a Mission, It Was the Fourth Pillar of Democracy: Senior Editor Navneet Gurjar
Senior editor Navneet Gurjar shared insightful perspectives on the state of journalism during an interactive session with students at Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Communication (MCU). He emphasized that while journalism was once a mission-driven profession and a pillar of democracy, integrity still prevails today, ensuring that major and critical news is not suppressed.
The Department of Journalism at MCU has launched a new series, ‘Dialogue with the Editor,’ with its first session focusing on “National vs. Regional Journalism: Perspectives and Possibilities.” Dr. Sanjeev Gupta, Head of the Department, also shared his views on various dimensions of journalism.
Key Takeaways from the Session:
✅ Regional vs. National Journalism: Gurjar highlighted that national journalism relies on regional journalism and that the reporting style remains similar across both. He noted that even part-time journalists in rural areas have started using technology effectively, sending photos and videos for news coverage.
✅ Ethical Journalism: He stressed the importance of adhering to journalistic principles set by the pioneers of the profession. Media trials are inappropriate, and no one should be labeled guilty until proven so. Additionally, he emphasized that the identity of minors should not be disclosed in news reports.
✅ YouTube and Journalism: Responding to a query about YouTube journalism, he clarified that broadcasting opinions on YouTube is not journalism but merely a use of technology. If such content is considered journalism, then every household would have a journalist today.
✅ Print, Digital, and Electronic Media: Addressing the credibility of media formats, he pointed out that print media still holds the most trust among readers, as printed news cannot be altered once published, unlike digital platforms. He also remarked that digital media has a longer lifespan than electronic media, though it still lacks a structured revenue model.
✅ Bilingualism in Journalism: On the necessity of being bilingual, he stated that language is not a barrier in journalism. Even if one does not know English or Hindi, it does not impact their journalistic ability, as learning a language is not difficult.
Dr. Sanjeev Gupta underscored that despite technological advancements, machines cannot replace human emotions and expressions in journalism. He urged students to adapt to modern journalism while ensuring technology remains an aid, not a master.
Event Highlights:
The session was moderated by senior journalist and media mentor Shivkumar Vivek, with faculty members Dr. Ranjan Singh, Dr. Satendra Daheriah, and Lokendra Singh, along with other attendees, gracing the occasion.
Student Recognition:
During the event, student Udyansh Pandey was felicitated for securing second place in the debate competition at the Madhya Pradesh State-Level Inter-University Youth Festival ‘Yuvan.’
#MCU #Journalism #EditorDialogue #MediaTalks
