Beyond Silence: 1st Manipur Digital Media Conclave 2026, was organized today at Sangai Hall, Hotel Imphal, by Manipur Update. On the occasion, Digital Journalism Awards 2026 were presented. Speaking as the Chief Guest of the function, Ahanthem Subash Singh, Director, Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Manipur, stated that journalism in the present day is no longer confined to the printing press. He asserted that digital journalism has enabled news to be disseminated globally with ease. He said that producing fast, fact-based, and responsible reporting has become a major challenge in the digital age, as digital media holds significant influence in shaping public perception.
A. Subash Singh pointed out concerns over whether some individuals identifying as digital journalists function primarily as content creators for monetisation. “Digital journalists should use the power available to them to produce genuine reporting and disseminate fact-based news, rather than working solely for likes or views on social media platforms”, he said.
He emphasized that independent journalism is essential, particularly at a time when paid news is increasingly being disseminated and stated that journalists have a crucial role to play in countering such content and safeguarding the credibility of news. He also spoke about the adverse effects of unverified news, noting that such reporting can tarnish an individual’s image and even cause mental distress.
A. Subash Singh further shared his personal experiences, mentioning instances where positive news and government achievements were sometimes unpublished. Suggesting the introduction of a Journalism Award for coverage of useful government scheme that benefit the public, he noted that such reporting will facilitate in raising public awareness about existing schemes and further expressed his willingness to sponsor the proposed award.
Giving his address, Sobhapati Samom, Senior Journalist and Founding Editor, Manipur Update, spoke about the publication’s initial stage as a magazine several years ago. He recalled how the introduction of television led to concerns that radio would become obsolete, and later, with the rise of the internet, both radio and print media were believed to be at risk. He added that the present era has now evolved into a rapidly expanding digital age. Reflecting the DIPR’s Tableau on the theme “Digital Responsibility for Social Stability and Harmony” showcased on Republic Day, he spoke in line with the theme and emphasized that with the growth of digital media, ensuring digital responsibility has emerged as one of the major challenges of the present time.
Ngangom Uttam Singh, Joint Secretary, Tribal Affairs & Hills, Government of Manipur, noted that social media has become highly influential in the present time, with a large section of the public relying on it for information. He spoke about the dangers of irresponsible or unethical reporting, stating that unverified news can cause harm to individuals, society, departments, and even the government as a whole. He added that while journalism has the potential to create significant positive impact, mistakes and misinformation can result in serious consequences. Irengbam Arun, Senior Editor and Jury Member of the function, stated that a large number of promising entries were received for the Digital Journalism Awards at the conclave, and added that with proper guidance and mentorship, such digital journalists have the potential to further improve and set higher standards in the field.
The conclave featured technical sessions on “Paradigm Shift from Traditional Media to New Media” by Pradip Phanjoubam, Editor, Imphal Review of Arts and Politics; and “Role of Digital Media in Conflict and Peace Building” by Dhiren A. Sadokpam, Independent Researcher and Editor-in-Chief, The Frontier Manipur. Awards were presented in various categories: the Digital Journalist of the Year Award was conferred on Vangamla Salle.
