Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)
Udupi, Nov 8: Media should work keeping in mind the aspirations of the general public, said chief minister Bommai here on Monday.
He was speaking at the memorial programme of achievers of newspaper field of state that was held at Ravindra Mantapa of MGM college under the joint aegis of Manipal Media Network and MGM college administration. Bommai further said, “The role played by Indian newspapers during the freedom struggle is a very vital one. When the media was not free many newspapers were distributed as pamphlets. Mahatma Gandhiji also chose newspapers as the medium for conveying his messages. During that time the role played by coastal media was very important. The first newspaper of Karnataka began from Mangaluru itself. This means that the thinkers and literary people were more in the coastal region.
“TMA Pai founded the Manipal press and began an economical, social, educational and cultural revolution not only in Manipal but all over India," noted Bommai.
“Journalism plays a very important role in democracy. If democracy is alive, the reason is the newspapers and electronic media of the country. Only when people get information, they will have concern towards their country. The relationship between newspapers and politicians is very close. We cannot live without you and you cannot live without us. Newspapers will lose their charm if they do not have political news. It is foolish to expect newspapers to praise the government all the time in a democratic set up like India. Newspapers create awareness. Then only those in administration will be cautious. Criticism should be welcomed,” said the chief minister.
Dr Sandhya S Pai, managing editor of Taranga weekly, presided over the function. Ministers Sunil Kumar, Angara, MLA Raghupati Bhat, CEO of Manipal Media network T Sathish Pai, CEO of MTL Gautam S Pai, vice chancellor of MAHE university Dr H S Ballal were present.
Editor of Udayavani Aravinda Navada gave the introduction. Usharani Kamath of HR department compered the programme. Prof Laxminarayana Karanth, principal of MGM college proposed a vote of thanks.
Deputy commissioner Koorma Rao inaugurated the memorial programme of six senior achievers of newspaper field, who blossomed in Manipal.