IPR Day observed

Imphal, Nov 1 (DIPR)
The 76th Information & Public Relations (IPR) Day was observed today with a solemn function held at the auditorium of the Directorate of Information & Public Relations at Nityaipat Chuthek.
Speaking as chief guest of the function, IPR Minister Dr Sapam Ranjan Singh said that the role and responsibility of the directorate are very important. Even though it is not a major department, it is one of the most important departments as it disseminates  information related with programmes taken up by the Government for the welfare of the people of the State, he added.
Stating that human error is universal, Dr Ranjan emphasised on the importance of marginalising errors before dissemination of news. He said that wrong interpretation of news will give wrong message to the public and one should try to avoid such a situation while reporting.
Dr Ranjan further said that coordination between IPR and other media fraternities is necessary to deliver news and information to the public effectively.
He said that IPR alone cannot publicise various policies and programmes taken up by the Government without cooperation of other stakeholders and encouraged the media fraternity to uphold the highest standards of authenticity in reporting and also advocated for greater coverage of global issues, particularly global warming to foster environmental awareness.
Highlighting the directorate’s recent initiatives, Dr. Ranjan shared updates on several welfare measures introduced for journalists within the State and invited suggestions from media members to improve the directorate’s efforts and encouraged directorate employees to work with dedication and integrity.
M Joy Singh, Commissioner, IPR, said that the directorate has made significant improvement with the passage of time, and this was possible only because of the cooperation of the media fraternities.
He also highlighted various schemes taken up by the directorate for the welfare of journalists of the State.
He further added that organising such a function provides a platform for interacting with the former employees of the directorate as well as media fraternities.
Dr Th Charanjeet Singh, Director, IPR, in his keynote address, said that since its existence, formerly as Publicity Office, the IPR has been disseminating information which are helpful in bringing peace and harmony in the State.
He said that the directorate is playing a key role in connecting the public with the Government by giving information from time to time.
He stated that in the current scenario of the State, the role of IPR as well as media in general is of utmost importance so as to enable all to maintain a cohesive relationship.
He further asked the media fraternity for cooperation in circulating news to the public from time to time.
A booklet was also released in connection with the observation.
Three  officials of the directorate were also feted for their distinguished service.
Tribute was paid to the first Publicity Officer of the Directorate, RK Maipaksana by felicitating one of his family members with a citation and a shawl.
Many retired officials of the directorate were present at the function and they were also felicitated.
Invitees from media fraternity, officers and officials of the directorate as well as from the district offices attended the function.