Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the crucial role of the media as the fourth pillar of democracy during the 17th Central Mid-Term Conference of the Assam Press Correspondents’ Union (APCU) in Tinsukia. He described journalists as vigilant guardians of society and the genuine voice of the people, underscoring their vital responsibility in protecting freedom of expression and strengthening democratic values amid a rapidly changing information landscape.
Sonowal remarked, “The role of the media as society’s conscious watchdog is immeasurable. As the voice of the people, journalists have consistently worked to protect freedom of speech and ensure accountability.” He highlighted the urgent need for responsible journalism, calling on media professionals to prioritize truth, credibility, and ethical reporting while resisting misinformation and sensationalism.
He articulated that journalism serves as a crucial connection between the government and the public, amplifying community concerns and promoting social harmony. Sonowal stressed that coordination, dialogue, and consensus-building are essential, noting that the media can help solidify society through constructive engagement rather than conflict.
Acknowledging the evolving challenges faced by journalists, he urged for continuous capacity building, professional integrity, and adaptation to new technologies, all while remaining dedicated to public interest journalism. The event was attended by MLAs Sanjay Kishan and Bolin Chetia, along with senior journalists and other notable figures.
Earlier that day, in the Makum LAC, Sonowal participated in a program marking the foundation stone laying and inauguration of various welfare schemes, interacting with beneficiaries of the Prime Minister’s flagship welfare initiatives. He acknowledged local entrepreneurs, recognizing their significant role in the growth of the local economy. “Under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, development has reached the last mile, ensuring that welfare schemes directly empower beneficiaries and bolster grassroots entrepreneurship,” he stated. He added that this inclusive approach has transformed governance into a model that emphasizes social upliftment and economic growth.
At Panitola, Sonowal inaugurated the newly constructed Senior Citizens’ Office Bhawan, developed under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) at a cost of Rs 15 lakh for the 2024–25 fiscal year. This facility is intended to enhance institutional support for senior citizens, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive development by ensuring dignity, accessibility, and community engagement for the elderly at the grassroots level.
Present at the program were Makum Municipal Board Chairperson Archana Saikia, Vice Principal of Makum College Papori Baruah, Ashim Hazarika, Chairman of the Dibrugarh Development Authority, Pulak Gohain, Chairman of the Assam State Housing Board, and Kushakanta Bora, district president of the BJP in Tinsukia, among others.
Original Source: https://nenow.in/north-east-news/assam/assam-media-is-the-sentinel-of-democracy-and-voice-of-the-people-says-sarbananda-sonowal.html
Category: Assam,Northeast News,Top News
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Publish Date: 2026-01-04 07:16:00
