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Vice President Warns of Fake News Threat at IIMC Convocation
Vice President C P Radhakrishnan issued a stern warning about the growing menace of fake news and misinformation during his address at the 57th convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) on Thursday.
Speaking to the graduating class, Radhakrishnan emphasized the critical responsibility journalists bear in maintaining truthfulness and integrity in media as India continues its trajectory toward becoming a developed nation under the government’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision.
“In today’s digital age, where information spreads at unprecedented speed, the challenge of combating fake news has never been more urgent,” Radhakrishnan told the assembled students and faculty. “As trained media professionals, you stand as the first line of defense against misinformation that threatens the fabric of our democracy.”
The Vice President’s comments come amid growing national concern about the proliferation of false information across social media platforms and even traditional news outlets. Recent studies indicate that India has witnessed a 40% increase in misinformation circulation over the past three years, particularly during election cycles and times of social unrest.
Union Minister for Communications, Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw attended the ceremony, underscoring the government’s focus on media policy and digital information regulation. Vaishnaw has previously advocated for stronger regulatory frameworks to combat digital misinformation.
During his address, Radhakrishnan called upon the graduating students to become “agents of positive societal change” through ethical journalism practices. “Your role extends beyond simply reporting events. You have the power to shape public discourse, influence policy decisions, and ultimately guide the nation’s development trajectory,” he stated.
The IIMC, established in 1965 under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, has trained thousands of media professionals who now occupy key positions across India’s expanding media landscape. The institute has evolved its curriculum in recent years to include specialized training in fact-checking, digital verification, and ethics in the age of artificial intelligence.
Media experts present at the convocation highlighted that the Vice President’s focus on fake news reflects a growing global challenge. Dr. Sanjay Dwivedi, Director General of IIMC, noted that the institute has incorporated comprehensive fact-checking modules across all its journalism programs.
“Today’s graduates enter a media environment vastly different from what existed even five years ago,” Dwivedi said. “They must navigate complex digital ecosystems where truth and fiction often appear indistinguishable to the average consumer.”
The convocation ceremony takes place against the backdrop of India’s evolving media landscape, which has seen traditional print outlets struggle while digital platforms experience explosive growth. With over 700 million internet users and some of the world’s lowest data costs, India presents unique challenges for information integrity.
Industry analysts suggest that addressing fake news requires a multi-pronged approach involving media literacy programs, technological solutions, regulatory frameworks, and journalistic commitment to verification.
Several graduating students expressed alignment with the Vice President’s message. “The responsibility feels enormous, but also inspiring,” said Priya Sharma, who received a gold medal for excellence in broadcast journalism. “We’ve been trained not just in techniques but in the ethics that must guide our profession.”
As India approaches its ‘Amrit Kaal’ – the 25-year period leading up to the centenary of independence – government officials have increasingly emphasized the media’s role in facilitating national development goals through responsible reporting and public awareness campaigns.
The Vice President concluded his address by urging graduates to remember that journalism at its core remains a public service. “Your bylines may bring you recognition, but your commitment to truth will be your lasting legacy,” Radhakrishnan said, as he congratulated the new cohort of media professionals preparing to enter an increasingly complex information ecosystem.
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15 Comments
Journalists play a vital role in combating the spread of misinformation, especially as India aims to become a developed nation. Their responsibility to uphold truth and integrity is more important than ever in the digital age.
The rise in misinformation is a worrying trend that threatens to undermine India’s democratic foundations. Journalists must rise to the challenge and uphold their duty to the public.
I agree, it’s a crucial time for journalists to stand firm in their principles and fact-based reporting. The future of India’s development depends on it.
Fake news and misinformation can have far-reaching consequences, especially for a country like India with ambitious development goals. Journalists must be proactive in verifying information and debunking false narratives.
The Vice President’s call to action for journalists is timely and necessary. Upholding truthfulness and integrity in media is fundamental to India’s development as a thriving democracy.
Addressing fake news effectively is crucial for India’s continued progress. Journalists must rise to the challenge and serve as the first line of defense against misinformation that could undermine democratic values.
I agree, the fight against fake news is critical for India’s development. Journalists need to be vigilant and use their platform responsibly.
It’s concerning to see a 40% increase in misinformation circulation in India over the past few years. Journalists have a duty to the public to verify information and combat the spread of false narratives.
Absolutely. With the rapid spread of information online, journalists must be even more diligent in their fact-checking to maintain public trust.
The Vice President’s call to action for journalists is a timely reminder of the critical importance of their work in supporting India’s development aspirations. Their dedication to truth and integrity will be key.
The Vice President’s message highlights the crucial role of journalists in shaping India’s narrative as it aspires to become a developed nation. Their integrity and commitment to truth-telling will be paramount.
As India’s media landscape evolves, journalists have a greater responsibility to ensure the public is well-informed. Their role as guardians of truth will be essential for India’s continued progress.
Absolutely. Journalists must remain vigilant and steadfast in their commitment to ethical, fact-based reporting, even in the face of growing misinformation challenges.
Maintaining a well-informed populace is crucial as India progresses toward its ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision. Journalists must be vigilant gatekeepers, ensuring only verified information reaches the public.
Combating fake news is a shared responsibility, but journalists are uniquely positioned to lead the charge. Their commitment to ethical reporting will be vital for India’s continued growth and prosperity.