National seminar on Journalism at the Grassroots inaugurated at Central University of Odisha

Koraput: The three-day National Seminar-cum-Workshop on “Journalism at the Grassroots: Trends and Challenges in Media Reporting in the Age of AI and Social Media” was inaugurated today at the Central University of Odisha, Sunabeda Campus.

The event has been organised by the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication with the objective of fostering meaningful discussions on the evolving landscape of journalism in the digital era and strengthening the interface between academia and the media industry.

The inaugural session was graced by Prof. N. C. Panda, Vice Chancellor, Central University of Odisha, as the Chief Guest. Prof. T. Srinivasan, Vice Chancellor, Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh, Vizianagaram, attended as the Guest of Honour.

The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Baldeo Bhai Sharma, Former Vice Chancellor, Kushabhau Thakre Journalism and Mass Communication University, Raipur. Distinguished speakers also included Dr. Abhishek Mishra, Deputy Director and Head, Regional News Unit, Doordarshan, Bhubaneswar, and Prof. Dev Vrat Singh, Dean and Head, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Central University of Jharkhand.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. N. C. Panda emphasised that in the age of Artificial Intelligence and social media, journalists shoulder greater responsibility in ensuring accuracy, credibility and ethical reporting. He stated that truth and facts should remain the strongest weapons of journalism. Stressing the importance of bridging the gap between academia and the media industry, he highlighted the need for greater exposure and practical learning opportunities for students pursuing journalism and mass communication.

Prof. T. Srinivasan underlined the indispensable role of journalism in sustaining democracy. While acknowledging the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence in newsrooms, he observed that AI cannot replace the human sensitivity, editorial judgement and news sense that professional journalists bring to storytelling.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Baldeo Bhai Sharma reflected on the contemporary realities of Indian journalism. He noted that algorithms and digital platforms have significantly transformed news reporting and dissemination. However, he urged journalists to remain committed to truth, ethical values and humanity, asserting that public awareness and social welfare should always take precedence over sensationalism. He also stressed the importance of accountability and responsibility in journalistic practice.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Abhishek Mishra highlighted the enduring significance of ground reporting in the digital age. He observed that while social media has democratised the flow of information and amplified diverse voices, field reporting continues to be the foundation of credible journalism.

Prof. Dev Vrat Singh shared his perspectives on the changing media ecosystem and emphasised the need to equip future journalists with professional competence, ethical values and the ability to adapt to emerging technologies while remaining rooted in the core principles of journalism.

On the occasion, the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication released the latest issue of its departmental newsletter CUO Varta, launched its podcast series Utkal Vani, and unveiled the seminar abstract book titled “Concepts from Grassroots.”

The inaugural programme was attended by the Dr Sanjay Pradhan, Registrar (I/c), Dr. Sourav Gupta, HOD JMC, Deans, Heads of Departments, faculty members, research scholars, students, media professionals and participants from the University participated.

The three-day seminar-cum-workshop will feature keynote lectures, technical sessions, panel discussions and hands-on workshops focusing on grassroots journalism, digital media, Artificial Intelligence, social media reporting, ethical journalism and contemporary challenges confronting the media profession.