Imphal: The Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Manipur, on Thursday launched an official fact-checking Facebook page titled “DIPR Manipur Fact Check” and organised a one-day awareness programme on its welfare schemes for journalists.
The event, held at the DIPR Auditorium in Imphal, was attended by media professionals and government officials.
Secretary, IPR, Hungyo Worshang, IAS, who attended as the chief guest, formally launched the Facebook page aimed at verifying and authenticating government orders, notices, and circulars. He highlighted the growing challenge of misinformation in the digital era and stressed the importance of verifying sources of news, images, and videos. He also urged media houses to actively support initiatives to curb the spread of false information.
Director, IPR, Dr Th. Charanjeet Singh, MCS, underscored the critical role of fact-checking in an age increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence, where distinguishing between real and fake content has become more difficult. He noted that misinformation and rumours can lead to public misunderstanding and pose a serious threat to peace and development.
Dr Charanjeet further stated that the awareness programme was aimed at ensuring that the benefits of DIPR welfare schemes reach deserving journalists. He added that nodal officers from various departments will be designated to verify documents and information before dissemination, in a bid to prevent mistrust and unrest arising from fake content. He also invited suggestions from stakeholders to strengthen the initiative.
The programme featured a media sensitisation session focusing on various welfare schemes, including the Journalist Pension Scheme, Manipur Working Journalists Welfare Scheme, Press Identity Cards, accreditation processes, and the Manipur State Journalist Awards.
Sessions were conducted by T Ramesh Singh, Additional Director (IPR), Ph Sheityamala Devi, Deputy Director, DIPR, and Ningthoujam Roshan Singh, Assistant Publicity Officer (Press), DIPR.
The event concluded with an interactive session between media personnel and DIPR officials.