Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Dec 5: The 5th District Conference of Dakshina Kannada Working Journalists’ Association held at Kudmul Ranga Rao Town Hall on Thursday December 5.

Addressing the gathering, Dr M Mohan Alva, president of Alva’s Education Foundation, Moodbidri, expressed concern over how paid news distorts truth and glorifies falsehoods and said, “The growing culture of paid news poses a significant threat to the sanctity of journalism. Journalists play a pivotal role in building society. The media sector has historically contributed significantly to social reform, standing as a guardian of democracy, empowering the weak, and raising awareness through information dissemination. However, the rise of social media has eroded ethical values, creating challenges for journalism’s integrity. The responsibility to uphold these values and foster societal growth rests with the younger generation.”

He also highlighted the lack of research in journalism, emphasizing that the trend of superficial reporting needs to change. "Journalism requires in-depth research and comprehensive coverage. The efforts of journalists and their associations in enhancing societal awareness and elevating the district's reputation on international platforms are commendable," he added.

Shivananda Tagadur, president of the Karnataka Working Journalists’ Association and chief guest at the event, reflected on the current state of journalism. “It is essential to assess whether journalism today maintains the same standards as before. Media must strive to deliver social justice and initiate change from within,” he remarked.

Senior journalist Shiva Subramanya K presided over the conference. MLA D Vedavyas Kamath inaugurated a book and photo exhibition organized as part of the event. Kishore Kumar Alva, President of Adani Group, released a commemorative magazine.

Prominent guests included Dakshina Kannada deputy commissioner Dr Mullai Muhilan M P, District Cooperative Milk Producers’ Union president K P Sucharitha Shetty, and Mangaluru City Corporation deputy commissioner Chandrashekar.

Other dignitaries included Ramakrishna R, president of the Patrika Bhavana Trust; Jitendra Kundeshwar, general secretary of the Karnataka Working Journalists’ Association; and committee members Jagannath Shetty Bala and Ibrahim Adkasthala. Bhaskar Rai Katte, vice president of the Dakshina Kannada District Association, and treasurer B N Pushparaj were also present.

The event began with a welcome address by Press Club president P B Harish Rai and concluded with a vote of thanks by general secretary Jitendra Kundeshwar. Dinesh Ira anchored the programme.