Dr Manoj Dhar, Vice Chancellor, Jammu University, as a Chief Guest at a function here on Saturday focussed on the prime duty of the youth nowadays to share and reshare news that comes to them. He emphasized that it lies in the hands of the young to mould and reshape the future. Vice Chancellor Dr. Manoj Dhar addressed the fact that only few people are aware about the menace of fake news and those who know must take the responsibility of educating others about its dangers. He also said, “if everybody takes the responsibility of ensuring that fake news is kept out of their circles and call it out if and when they come across it.” He also spoke about the spread of false information on platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp and the threat they pose to society. He concluded his speech by appreciating the initiative by IFF by holding the event to educate people about this issue which needs immediate addressing. His presidential summary after a panel discussion on fake news detailed on the importance of responsibility at individual levels.
The conclave regarding ‘Misinformation a Menace’ focused on informing people about the importance of fact checking and verifying news before sharing it online. Prof. Manoj Dhar, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu was the chief guest for the event along with Brig. Brijesh Pandey BSG(IW), NC, Indian Army, Dr. Sehrish Asgar, IAS, director information J&K, Sh. Manoj Kumar pandit, KPS, AIG(Communication)JKP, Sh. Ashwani Kumar, Sr. Journalist, president of Jammu Press Club.
The event focused on the problems regarding the rise in dissemination of the fake news and how social media is playing a key role in doing so. Official Spokesperson, Jammu Univeristy, Dr. Vinay Thussoo introduced the panel to the details of misinformation and types of fake news post which Ashwani Kumar stressed on a stronger media policy in the country. Manoj Kumar Pandit talked about multiplicity in sources of news dissipation which result in complexity and competition in amongst news channels. Dr Sehrish Asgar gave examples of her own experiences as administrator in Budgam and how getting together and helping people in distress should be of more importance than spreading false information around. Brig. Brijesh Pandey focussed on tackling the information warfare by creating an environment of awareness. He explained that misinformation happens in absence of information and that giving out proper information through proper channels and right time can help tackle this menace. The event was hosted in collaboration with Jammu University, IIMC and TENNetworks.
Dr Manoj Dhar focusses on responsible sharing of news by the youth
