HIRD Director Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan Emphasizes making the media's role in building a 'Developed India' even more effective

Bhubaneswar, April 6, 2024: Odisha's Minister for Panchayati Raj and Rural Development, Rabinarayan Nanda, attended as the Chief Guest at the inaugural session of the National Media Conclave and 'Nari Shakti Samman' program, organized under the aegis of the Kalinga Gaurav Foundation in Bhubaneswar (Odisha).

During the event, Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan—Director of the Haryana Institute of Rural Development (HIRD) and a renowned expert in journalism and mass communication—shared his inspiring insights regarding the changing global landscape of media and the various dimensions of its role in the construction of a 'Developed India.'

Dr. Chauhan said that the media's role in building a Developed India must be even more expansive and impactful than the glorious role it played during the freedom struggle. He clarified that the creation of a self-reliant and developed India is impossible without the development of its villages. Therefore, the media must align itself with the development of rural India, rallying behind the clarion call: “Chalo Gaon Ki Ore”.

Dr. Chauhan further remarked that the media's responsibility should not be limited solely to questioning the government. While it must certainly raise precise and incisive questions, the media must simultaneously move forward in the direction of offering solutions and becoming an active partner in driving positive change.

He noted that this national conclave was attended by media professionals and distinguished individuals working in social sectors, hailing from various states across the country—including Odisha. During the proceedings, individuals who have performed exemplary work in their respective fields were also felicitated.

Across various sessions, Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from different political parties, prominent figures from the media fraternity, and subject-matter experts actively participated and shared their views on contemporary issues. The General Secretary of the organizing body—Dr. Chidatmika—along with Pavitra Mohan Samantray and Dr. Rajnikant Mishra, expressed their gratitude to all the guests and participants.