Governor calls for truthful, responsible and people-centric journalism

·        Urges media to curb misinformation and highlight public issues

Governor Kavinder Gupta today here called upon the media to uphold truth, credibility and public interest, stressing that free, independent and responsible journalism was essential for a healthy democracy.

Presiding over the Gems of Himachal Awards-2026, organised by News 09 channel in Shimla, the Governor said that the media played a vital role in informing citizens, highlighting public issues and strengthening the relationship between the government and society.

Highlighting the challenges posed by digital platforms and artificial intelligence, he cautioned against misinformation, fake content and unverified reports, which could undermine public trust and social harmony. He stressed that accuracy and credibility must take precedence over sensationalism and the race to break news.

The Governor said that responsible journalism should highlight public grievances, promote accountability and give voice to people whose concerns often remained unheard. He also stressed the role of media in raising awareness about substance abuse, women and child safety, environmental protection and cybercrime.

Emphasising the importance of balanced reporting, he said that responsible journalism did not mean avoiding criticism but addressing issues with factual accuracy and a commitment to public interest.

The Governor further said that the media could contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat by spreading awareness about government welfare schemes and highlighting implementation-related concerns, thereby strengthening public participation and accountability.

On the occasion, the Governor honoured individuals for their outstanding contributions in various fields and their service to society.

Earlier, Managing Director of News 09 channel Ajay Thakur welcomed the Governor and highlighted the significance of the awards programme.