President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday emphasized that while Artificial Intelligence (AI) is disrupting various sectors by presenting both opportunities and challenges, it can never replace journalism rooted in human values.
“Machines have already begun compiling and editing reports. The day might not be far when they could handle most tasks traditionally done by journalists. However, what they lack is empathy — and that will be the key ingredient that helps journalists stay ahead of AI. Journalism based on human values will never become extinct,” the President said at the 19th Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards ceremony.
Highlighting the importance of free and fair journalism for a healthy democracy, President Murmu noted that without well-informed citizens, democratic processes lose their true essence.
She stressed that a thriving newsroom, brimming with fresh ideas, is essential for the growth of the news business. Underscoring the need for rigorous research to ensure quality and accuracy, she commended The Indian Express, the flagship publication of the late Ramnath Goenka’s media group, as a fine example.
Reinforcing the need to strengthen the soul of journalism, the President urged media organisations to invest more in promoting a culture of ground-level reporting.
Reflecting on the evolving business models of media, she pointed out that earlier, newspapers and magazines focused on delivering quality reporting and analysis, which led to increased readership and provided a strong platform for advertisers. However, in recent times, many hybrid models have taken their place.
The President also raised concerns about the threat posed by deep fakes and other malicious uses of AI, emphasizing the need to sensitise all citizens, especially the younger generation, about these dangers.
President Murmu noted that the Ramnath Goenka Awards not only celebrate excellence in journalism but also honour the legacy of Ramnath Goenka, the founder of The Indian Express group and a towering figure in Indian media.
“He stood firm for press freedom, both before and after Independence. His newspaper refused to yield during the Emergency. The blank editorial it published became a powerful symbol of free press and a beacon of hope for the restoration of democratic rights. Goenka-ji’s courage was shaped by the values he imbibed from the freedom movement,” she said.
“For Goenka-ji, the idea of service extended beyond journalism. His association with the Father of the Nation reflected his commitment to various social causes as well,” she added.
Instituted by the Ramnath Goenka Foundation, the awards — presented annually since 2006 — honour outstanding contributions from print, digital, and broadcast journalists across 13 categories, including investigative journalism, sports, politics and government, books, features, and regional languages.
-IANS
