Three-day PCS workshop for journalists concludes

PRITAM LAMA

GANGTOK,: About 30 young journalists successfully completed a three-day workshop intensive workshop organised by Press Club of Sikkim at SICUN complex at Assam Lingzey.

The workshop focused on a wide range of essential skills, including news sourcing, reporting, story pitching, fact-checking, data journalism and editing.

The resource persons shared valuable techniques and insights, equipping participants with practical skills required in the digital age.

The participants were also trained on the core principles of journalism – accuracy, fairness, impartiality and accountability. The resource persons stressed the importance of presenting facts objectively, without bias and ensuring that information are cross-checked.

The final day had three informative sessions including one led by renowned writer and columnist Dr. Harka Bahadur Chettri. In his session, Dr. Chettri encouraged the young journalists to arm themselves with knowledge, strong language skills and a deep understanding of society. Drawing from his experience as a former editor of the Gangtok-based publication ‘Khabar Patrika’, he provided valuable anecdotes and guidance on navigating the challenges of the profession.

In another session, veteran journalist Pema Wangchuk Dorjee focused on the importance of editorial independence and the role of journalism in shaping public opinion. He advised the participants to stick to stating facts without adding personal bias, urging them to avoid activism while reporting. He Media literacy is crucial and journalists must uphold the integrity of their work, he emphasized.

The valedictory session was attended by Lok Sabha MP Dr. Indra Hang Subba as the chief guest. Also present were SICUN chairman Dr. Mangal Jit Rai and IPR secretary Annapurna Allay.

In his address, the MP highlighted the significant role journalists play in a democracy and referred to them as the “auditors of politicians.” He also expressed concern over the rise of misinformation in the digital era and underlined the need to combat it effectively.  “The fourth pillar of democracy must remain strong,” he stated, adding that despite the immediacy of digital platforms, newspapers still serve a vital role in providing comprehensive news coverage.

Subba affirmed the State government’s commitment to supporting and empowering journalists, while maintaining that the government has no intention of controlling or patronizing the media. He urged journalists to ensure their reporting is unbiased and accurate. This, he said, would lead to a more informed and improved society.

In her speech, secretary Allay commended the Press Club of Sikkim for organizing the workshop and highlighted several initiatives taken by the State government for the welfare of journalists in Sikkim.

Earlier, PCS President Bhim Rawat provided a brief overview of the workshop.

During the event, Prof. Mrinal Chatterjee’s book, “Understanding Media in New Normal Times”, was also released.