Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Thursday called upon aspiring journalists to uphold truth, objectivity and public interest in their work, saying India needs media professionals who are intellectually honest, socially sensitive and deeply committed to democratic values.
Addressing the closing ceremony of the month-long internship programme conducted by Sansad TV for final-year postgraduate students of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) at the Vice President’s House, Radhakrishnan underscored the vital role of media in shaping public discourse and nation-building.
Expressing satisfaction over the internship initiative, the Vice President recalled that during his visit to the IIMC convocation earlier this year, he had suggested providing practical training opportunities to students through Sansad TV. He appreciated the swift implementation of the proposal and commended the media professionals who mentored the interns during the programme.
Highlighting the responsibilities that come with a career in journalism, Radhakrishnan said the country requires journalists and communicators who combine professional competence with a strong commitment to democratic values. He noted that the media has the power not only to shape narratives but also to influence the direction of nations.
The Vice President urged students to contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 through fair, accurate and objective reporting. He said India’s growing global stature, driven by its demographic strength, technological innovation and democratic resilience, presents an opportunity for journalists to showcase the country’s development journey with integrity.
Warning against the dangers of sensationalism in an increasingly attention-driven media environment, Radhakrishnan stressed that credibility must be built on factual accuracy and public interest rather than popularity. He urged young journalists to remain committed to responsible reporting and ethical standards.
Referring to the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence in media and communication, the Vice President said technology can serve as a powerful tool for research, content generation and fact verification. However, he cautioned that editorial decisions and professional judgment must continue to be guided by human reasoning and ethical considerations.
He also highlighted the challenges posed by misinformation and deepfakes, calling for greater vigilance and responsibility in the use of emerging technologies.
Emphasising the importance of inclusive journalism, Radhakrishnan said a true understanding of Bharat requires reporting that goes beyond metropolitan centres and captures the aspirations, struggles and achievements of people across the country.
Among those present at the event were Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Rajya Sabha Secretary-General P. C. Mody, Secretary to the Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Sansad TV Amit Khare, Information and Broadcasting Secretary Chanchal Kumar, IIMC Vice-Chancellor Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur and other dignitaries.
