Along with embracing emerging technologies, we must also be prepared to face the challenges they pose, said Pathanamthitta District Collector Shri Premkrishnan IAS, while inaugurating Varthalap, a one-day media workshop organized by the Press Information Bureau Thiruvananthapuram, for journalists in Pathanamthitta district.

The Collector noted that artificial intelligence is rapidly making inroads into every sector, including journalism, adding that a time may soon come when AI-generated news reports will resemble those prepared by human journalists. He underscored that in such a context, responsible journalism becomes crucial, particularly at a time when misinformation and fake news are proliferating. He further emphasized that media must fact-check and approach news with responsibility. 

Presiding over the function, Shri V. Palanichamy IIS, Additional Director General, PIB Kerala–Lakshadweep Region, remarked that fake news has emerged as one of the most serious challenges society faces today. Distinguishing between news and fake news, he said, is often a daunting task. He further observed that reports on developmental issues often do not receive adequate attention in mainstream media.

On the occasion, senior journalist and Assistant Editor of Malayala Manorama, Shri Boby Abraham, was felicitated. The District Collector presented him with a ceremonial shawl, while the ADG handed over a memento on behalf of PIB. The event was also attended by Shri George Mathew, Deputy Director, PIB; Shri Biju Kurian, President, Press Club and Shri Visakhan G., Secretary, Press Club.

The workshop featured expert-led sessions on contemporary themes. Shri Shajan C. Kumar, Dean of Mathrubhumi Media School, spoke on AI Tools for News Reporting in the Age of Social Media; Shri Boby Abraham delivered a lecture on Responsible Journalism; Shri Gopakumar, Financial Literacy Counselor, Pathanamthitta, addressed Digital Banking and Safeguards Against Online Frauds and Central Government Schemes; while Sunil Krishnan, SHO, Cyber Wing, Kerala Police, conducted a session on Cybercrime.

Beneficiary of central government scheme PMEGP Smitha T.G. shared her personal experience.

PIB’s initiative aims to equip local journalists across districts with a deeper understanding of central government schemes and related issues, thereby enhancing the quality and reach of developmental reporting.

 

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