Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (DV)

Mangaluru, Apr 26: Senior journalist and bureau chief of Udayavani, Manohar Prasad, who has been in the field of journalism for more than three decades, was felicitated at ‘Manobhinandana’, a programme organized by the Media Alumni Association of Mangalagangotri (MAAM).

The felicitation programme was held at TV Ramana Pai Hall here on Sunday April 26. The programme also marked the completion of 25 years of the department of mass communication and journalism of Mangalore University.

Dr Sandhya Pai, managing editor of Taranga and T Sathish U Pai, managing director of Manipal Media Network Ltd felicitated Manohar Prasad. Dr Sandhya Pai released a souvenir, 'Manobhinandana', on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Sandhya Pai said, "Anything can be achieved if there is enthusiasm in life. Manohar Prasad is the finest example for this. His achievements in the field of journalism are really astonishing. This felicitation reflects his efficiency and sincerity in the field of journalism. He is also very proud to work with Udayavani. May the almighty bless Manohar Prasad with prosperity and health."

Prior to the felicitation, health minister U T Khadar said, "I know Manohar Prasad from my college days. During those days, we used to approach him for suggestions. Even after coming to politics, I always accepted his suggestions. Manohar Prasad has cultivated good qualities in his life. He is a role model to others in society."

District incharge minister B Ramanth Rai said, "Manohar Prasad is a multi-talented and sincere journalist. He is very talented in hosting programmes. Nowadays when journalists change their institutions for various reasons, Manohar Prasad has been working for Udayavani for more than three decades. His faithful and dedicated work for Udayavani is commendable."

State minister for youth and urban development, Abayachandra Jain said, "Manohar Prasad and I belong to the same taluk. In the initial stage of my career as a politician, when I used to hesitate in giving public speech, he used to offer moral support and even write my speech. He has been an inspiration for me and people should be inspired by him."

MP Nalin Kumar Kateel said, "Manohar Prasad is a sincere journalist who is blessed with writing and verbal skills."

Sudhakar Pejawar also recalled his college day memories with Manohar Prasad and shared them on the occasion.

University chancellor, Prof Byrappa said, "Manohar Prasad should be a role model for journalism students. On this occasion, I appoint Manohar Prasad as an adjunct professor for Mangalore University."

Acknowledging the felicitation, Manohar Prasad said, "This occasion is a wonderful event in my life. Usually journalists throw light on others and they themselves are rarely in the limelight. I feel blessed with the honour and recognition of my service."

Speaking about the attitude and responsibility of media on farmer’s suicide case in Delhi, Prasad said, "In the coming days the standard of journalism will be horrible due to sensationalization of news in the name of breaking news. It is better to draw certain guidelines while reporting crime news."

He also informed that he will release his ‘Compilation of Prose’ as soon as the workson the Town Hall completes.

In a commendable gesture, he also returned the Rs one lac cheque which was given to him as part of the felicitation and asked MAAM to utilize the money for the benefit of journalism students.

He also said that an equal amount of money to the medal given by his friends will be used for the betterment of schools in his home town. He recited the poem of DVG which he said inspired him.

Dakshina Kannada Working Journalist Union president Jaganath Shetty Bala, Pradeep Kumar Kalkura, Sadhanada Shetty, Prameela Rao spoke about Manohar Prasad’s contribution as a journalist on the occasion.

Venu Sharma, president of MAAM welcomed and presented the introductory note. Dr Na Damodar Shetty compered.

Panel Discussion

MAAM also organized a panel discussion on the topic 'The Contributions of Mangalore University in Regional Development'.

Mangalore University professors, P S Yadapadithaya registrar, K Chinappa Gowda registrar, Shripathi Thantri, and Dr Norbert Lobo took part in the panel discussion.

Dr B M Hegde, retired vice chancellor of Manipal University presided over the programme and said, "There is nothing called autonomy in the educational field. It is completely controlled by the government. I was told that the academic senate and syndicates are appointed by the minsters; not by the university or society. Vice-chancellors have to work under the instructions of the government. This system simply takes away the credibility of the system. Even the western universities are not producing good human beings but only good careers."

He said that education should mould the character of human beings.

"Politicians should not control education and should appoint council members. University must try and see how the local knowledge can be further deepened and made available for locals," he added.

He further said, "The educational budget should be spent for good reasons and in relevant fields. Education should progress and take the society forward. Today’s universities are just the agents of the government."

Dr Anil Ronald Fernandes compered, Florine Roche presented the introductory note for the panel of experts.