Pic: Dignitaries inaugurated the district-level Press Day and talent award ceremony organised by the Haveri District Working Journalists’ Association in Haveri on Monday Haveri: “The decline in investigative journalism and writers focusing on public issues has become apparent recently. The importance of maintaining active and dedicated journalists for the survival of investigative journalism,” stated Haveri district minister Shivanand Patil.Speaking at the inauguration of the district-level Press Day and talent award ceremony, organised by the Haveri District Working Journalists’ Association on Monday, Patil shared his observations. “In today’s society, journalists serve as crucial agents of change. While print media maintains rigorous source verification practices, the rise of electronic media has affected the presence of analytical writers,” said Patil, voicing his unease regarding electronic media’s tendency to prioritise breaking news without considering its social implications. He declared a Rs 5 lakh allocation for journalists’ welfare initiatives.KV Prabhakar, chief minister’s media advisor, emphasised how academically curious children progress in society. He expressed concern about the impact of excessive mobile phone and tablet usage on personal connections. “Parents should encourage both academic excellence and human values, emphasising the importance of studiousness,” he stated.Saying that proliferation of unverified journalism and misinformation has emerged as a significant issue, Prabhakar emphasised the necessity of accurate reporting over sensationalised content. He discussed the transition from print to AI technology, noting his concern about deteriorating professional standards. “The govt plans for fact-checking legislation, free bus passes, and health cards for rural journalists, encouraging them to utilise available benefits,” he stated. The event was attended by legislators Basavaraj Shivannanavar, Prakash Koliwada, Haveri CMC Shashikala Malagi, DCC president Sanjeevkumar Neeralagi, Huda president SFN Gajigaudra, DC Vijay Mahantesh Danammanavar, ZP CEO Ruchi Bindal, and SP Yashoda Vantagodi.
