Minister Dukam Advocates Ethical Journalism at AEDMA Conclave

Itanagar, India Jul 30, 2026 ALN: Information and Public Relations Minister Nyato Dukam on Wednesday called upon electronic and digital media professionals to uphold ethical journalism with sincerity, discipline, and responsibility while adapting to technological advancements.

Gracing as the chief guest at the 14th Foundation Day celebration of the Electronic and Digital Media Association (AEDMA) and its fourth AEDMA Conclave on the theme "Empowering Change through Information" at the State Banquet Hall, Dukam stressed the need for journalists to verify facts and avoid publishing unverified information, saying responsible journalism is essential to maintain public trust and strengthen democratic values.

The role of journalism in a democratic society cannot be overstated. It serves as a watchdog, holding power to account, providing a platform for public discourse, and ensuring that citizens are informed about issues that affect their lives. The Minister's emphasis on ethical journalism reflects a growing concern about the challenges faced by the media in the digital age, where misinformation can spread rapidly and have far-reaching consequences.

In recent years, the proliferation of digital media has transformed the landscape of journalism. The rise of social media platforms has democratized information dissemination but has also led to an increase in unverified and sensational content. This trend has raised alarms among media professionals and regulators alike, as it threatens the very foundations of credible journalism. Dukam's call for journalists to verify facts before publishing aligns with a broader movement within the industry to combat misinformation and uphold journalistic integrity.

He said the media has a crucial role in exposing lapses in governance and ensuring transparency, especially when government schemes fail to reach intended beneficiaries. This assertion highlights the media's responsibility in promoting accountability within government institutions. By investigating and reporting on the effectiveness of government programs, journalists can play a vital role in advocating for the rights of citizens and ensuring that public resources are utilized efficiently.

Emphasizing coordination between the government and the media, the minister said journalists should provide constructive suggestions and point out shortcomings to help improve governance and implementation of schemes. This collaborative approach is essential for fostering a healthy relationship between the media and government entities, which can ultimately lead to better outcomes for the public.

Expressing concern over the rise of unregulated mobile-based journalism, Dukam noted that professional journalism was being hijacked by individuals with no journalistic background. This observation underscores the importance of training and education in the field of journalism. As more individuals take to mobile platforms to report news, the need for ethical standards and professional training becomes increasingly critical. The Minister's remarks serve as a reminder that while technology has made it easier for anyone to share information, it does not necessarily equip them with the skills required for responsible reporting.

The three organizations, including the Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ), Press Club (APC), and AEDMA, aim to streamline and identify authentic journalists and media organizations. This initiative is crucial in an era where the distinction between credible journalism and sensationalism is often blurred. By working together, these organizations can help establish standards and practices that promote ethical journalism and protect the integrity of the profession.

Speaking on the occasion, APC president Amar Sangno urged journalists to focus on quality reporting and uphold professional standards by avoiding sensationalism and hyperbolic reporting. "Every journalist must adhere to media ethics and should not resort to distorted information," Sangno said. His call for quality over quantity reflects a growing concern among media professionals about the pressures of the 24-hour news cycle and the need to prioritize accuracy over speed.

Stressing the importance of verifying facts before placing information in the public domain, Deputy Inspector General of Police Tumme Amo advised media professionals not to be influenced or misled by individuals. His emphasis on the responsibility of journalists to maintain objectivity and integrity in their reporting is vital in ensuring that the media serves as a reliable source of information for the public.

Appreciating the role of journalists in the state, he said the profession carries massive responsibility and that every report should be authentic, accurate, and free from bias. This statement reinforces the notion that journalism is not just a career but a public service that demands a high level of ethical commitment from its practitioners.

Chairman of the Frontier Tribal Front (ATFT), Tadak Nalo, also underscored the responsibility of journalists, stating that information disseminated to readers and viewers must remain factual, impartial, and credible. His remarks highlight the important role that journalists play in shaping public opinion and the necessity for them to uphold the highest standards of accuracy and fairness in their reporting.

Earlier, AEDMA president J.T Tagam appealed for the establishment of a dedicated Mass Media Institute, particularly for video journalists, upon which Dukam assured that a meeting would be convened to discuss the proposal in detail. The establishment of such an institute could serve as a significant step towards enhancing the skills and knowledge of journalists, particularly in a rapidly evolving media landscape. Training programs focused on ethical journalism, fact-checking, and the responsible use of technology could empower journalists to navigate the challenges of the digital age more effectively.

Besides the release of the AEDMA Journal, the conclave featured three panel discussions on Empowering Through Information: Bridging Knowledge, Opportunity and Development, Digital Media and Citizen Empowerment; Who Shapes the Narrative in the Information Age?, and Media Freedom and Responsibility: Reporting Without Fear or Favour. These discussions are crucial in fostering dialogue among media professionals about the current state of journalism and the ethical challenges they face. By addressing these issues head-on, the media can work towards rebuilding public trust and ensuring that it remains a vital component of a healthy democracy.

In conclusion, Minister Dukam's advocacy for ethical journalism at the AEDMA Conclave underscores the pressing need for media professionals to adapt to the evolving landscape of information dissemination while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and accountability. As the media continues to play a pivotal role in shaping public discourse and influencing governance, the commitment to ethical journalism becomes more critical than ever.