Role of Journalism Decisive in De-addiction Campaign, Expose Vices and Give Positive Direction to Youth: Madhukar Dwivedi
Manendragarh, Senior journalist Mr. Madhukar Dwivedi said that the basic responsibility of journalism is not just to provide information about events, but to present correct facts to society, give voice to issues of public interest, and make the system accountable for its duties. He said that the role of journalism becomes even more important on serious social issues like de-addiction. The media should expose the vices and wrongdoings associated with addiction, as well as present positive alternatives, inspirational examples, and the right direction to the youth.
Mr. Dwivedi expressed his views in detail on the social responsibility of journalism and the role of media in the de-addiction campaign at a one-day regional media workshop-cum-dialogue program 'Vartalap' organized for journalists in Manendragarh on Sunday by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Raipur, of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. The main theme of the workshop was 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat – Sankalp Abhiyan' (De-addicted Youth for Developed India – Pledge Campaign).
Mr. Dwivedi said that the real power of journalism lies in its words, facts, and public trust. A journalist's pen not only writes news but also shapes public opinion, creates awareness in society, and questions power and the system when needed. He said that when various institutions of society are unable to fulfill their responsibilities as expected, the responsibility of journalism increases even more. A journalist has a special power to present the truth to society and effectively raise questions of public interest.
Highlighting the effectiveness of journalism, Mr. Dwivedi cited an anecdote related to US President John F. Kennedy and 'The Washington Post'. He said this example shows that fearless, factual, and impactful journalism can influence even the highest levels of power. If journalism takes up an issue of public interest with full commitment and determination, its voice can reach even the most powerful person in the world and hold them accountable.
He said that journalism should not be limited to just highlighting news. It is also the responsibility of journalism to bring to the fore those issues of society that require widespread public awareness. The problem of addiction needs to be viewed from this perspective. This is not just a problem of one person or family, but a serious issue connected with the entire society and nation. He said that de-addiction should start with oneself and its message needs to be conveyed to every section of society.
Mr. Dwivedi said that the de-addiction campaign should be viewed not just as a government program or a news item, but as a broad social movement. The media can play an important role in taking this movement to the masses. Journalists should not only expose the vices and wrongdoings related to addiction but also give prominence to news and stories that connect youth with positive alternatives such as sports, education, skills, employment, volunteering, and nation-building.
He said there is a need for continuous awareness in society about the ill effects of addiction. Factual and sensitive journalism is necessary for this. It is also an important responsibility of the media to inform the general public about government schemes, assistance, and rehabilitation facilities related to de-addiction. He said that in an era of rumors and misinformation, journalists should publish news only after verifying facts, as incorrect information can affect the objectives of sensitive campaigns like de-addiction.
The senior journalist said that a journalist's pen has the potential to influence the direction of society. Therefore, the aim of journalism should not only be to disseminate news to as many people as possible but also to bring forth news that can bring about positive change in society. He appealed to media representatives to become a medium of continuous positive dialogue to keep the energy of youth away from negative activities and channel it towards nation-building.
He said that the creation of a de-addicted India is not possible solely through the efforts of the administration or the government. It requires the collective participation of all sections, including families, society, educational institutions, youth organizations, and the media. In this collective effort, the media can play a decisive role through its credibility, reach, and influence.