Kottayam : The regional language channels of Doordarshan under the Prasar Bharati Corporation are all set to be relaunched soon in tandem with new content mix and technology, said Dr. L Murugan, Minister for State, Information and Broadcasting. He was addressing the students and faculty at the Southern Regional Campus of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication at Pampadi, Kottayam.
“We all have faith in the OTT platforms and we all believe it to be credible. A self-regulating mechanism is the need of the hour. We are not to impose any kind of control over media. India is a democratic country that offers Freedom of Speech as fundamental right to all citizens. But that doesn’t mean that media should deviate from professional ethics. Responsibility is the key word in ensuring professionalism. The deadliest virus of our times is Fake news and journalists should responsibly keep safe distance.” the Minister advised the student community.
Minister L Murugan, released the book Mannathu Padmanabhan, a biography written by Dr Anilkumar Vadavathoor on the 143rd birthday of Mannam, by handing over a copy to Jose K Mani MP in the function.
The Minister also presented the certificates of participation to students who underwent a course of Professional Excellence conducted jointly by the US Embassy and IIMC Kottayam. Dr Anilkumar Vadavathoor presented a memento to the Minister on behalf of the southern campus. To commemorate the visit, a coconut tree was planted in the campus and a plaque was unveiled too by the Minister.
Dr Anilkumar Vadavathoor, Dr M Radhakrishnan, Registrar IIIT, Ashiqua Sultana and Saranya PS, faculties of IIMC also spoke in the function. Minister and MP’s returned after visiting the entire campus and witnessing the cultural programmes presented by the students of English and Malayalam Journalism of IIMC.