Srinagar: Secretary Youth Services & Sports (YSS) and Information, Sarmad Hafeez, on Saturday appreciated INS for professional degrees in dissemination of news and gaining the trust as reliable source of news.
Sarmad Hafeez (IAS) was the chief guest at a function organized by the INS on completing one year of fearless journalism. He said the there is rapid and widespread influence of the internet and social media and the online news portals have made great strides in last few years. “Ten or fifteen years back, the online medium was unimaginable and in contemporary times, its popularity is immense,” he said, adding, “Today you open your phone and you find every news.”
He also stressed need for accountability and maintaining values of journalism in all situations.
“With the sense of power and medium, we have a sense of responsibility and hopefully you will keep up the professional degrees in future also,” he said.
He also recognized the difficulties faced by a journalist in gathering the information in difficult situations. “We know how difficult it is sometimes to report but for a journalist it’s imperative to be neutral and the one who maintains the professionalism and ethics stands out and I wish you best of luck,” he added.
Sajjad Bazaz, renowned columnist and in-charge Corporate Communication of J&K Bank, who also graced the occasion with his presence, identified himself as a member of the INS and congratulated the entire team for putting hard work in making the INS a trustworthy source of news. He also advised the INS editorial team to put in place a comprehensive style sheet for future.
As all but a few reporters of INS were present on the occasion, Bazaz advised them to “dig deeper” and look for more “human interest” and developmental stories besides the routine happenings.
He also shared his experience as a journalist since 1988 and advised the reporters to try to improve with every passing day. “We have made mistakes and learned from them. Learning defines our character. Our endeavor should always be to improve and discharge the duties as profession demands, and utmost respect should be paid to uphold professional degrees and ethics,” he added.
On the occasion, the guests presented mementos and certificates of recognition to the editors, reporters and the management of the INS for their efforts.
