Raphael Warjri

Shillong, 22 August 2025 – The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Shillong, in collaboration with NEHU and the Meghalaya Planning Department, organised Vartalap at Raj Bhavan today, focusing on Centrally Sponsored Schemes, media ethics, and Artificial Intelligence.

Meghalaya Governor Shri C.H. Vijayashankar, chief guest at the event, stressed the need for effective implementation of government schemes and the media’s role in ensuring benefits reach citizens. “The Union Government has placed particular emphasis on the Northeast, with Meghalaya receiving due attention in agriculture, horticulture, and infrastructure,” he said.

Guest of Honour, Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Minister of Information and Public Relations, underlined the importance of fact-checking and warned against misinformation. “AI is a powerful tool, but if misused, it can be dangerous. It must be handled responsibly,” she noted.

Shri Vijay Kumar Mantri, Commissioner and Secretary, IPR, highlighted Meghalaya’s progress under PM-Kisan, PMAY, Jal Jeevan Mission, Ayushman Bharat, and PM Poshan, saying the state is transitioning from an “aspirer” to a “fast mover.”

Speakers from NEHU, the North Eastern Council, and women’s groups emphasised media’s responsibility in strengthening democracy, women’s empowerment, and development communication. Technical sessions on AI, media law, and ethics were followed by a panel discussion featuring journalists, academicians, and editors.

The workshop brought together journalists, students, academics, and government officials to deliberate on responsible reporting, technology use, and the role of media in nation-building.