Manipur Hosts First Digital Media Conclave, Honours Excellence in Digital Journalism
The “Beyond Silence: 1st Manipur Digital Media Conclave 2026 & Digital Journalism Awards” was held today at Sangai Hall, Hotel Imphal. The event was organised by Manipur Update, bringing together senior journalists, digital media professionals, and government officials.
Chief Guest Shri Ahanthem Subhash Singh, Director, Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Manipur, said journalism has evolved beyond print, with digital platforms enabling rapid global dissemination of news. He noted that while speed is crucial, responsible and fact-based reporting remains a major challenge in the digital age.
Raising concerns over monetisation-driven content, he stressed that digital journalists must focus on genuine reporting rather than chasing likes or views. He underlined the importance of independent journalism, particularly in countering paid news, and cautioned against unverified reporting, which can damage reputations and cause mental distress.
Shri Subhash Singh also proposed introducing a Journalism Award for coverage of useful government schemes to enhance public awareness and expressed his willingness to sponsor the initiative.
Senior journalist and Founding Editor of Manipur Update, Shri Sobhapati Samom, reflected on the evolution of media from print and broadcast to the digital era. Referring to the DIPR tableau theme “Digital Responsibility for Social Stability and Harmony”, he emphasised the growing need for ethical and responsible digital journalism.
Shri Ngangom Uttam Singh, Joint Secretary, Tribal Affairs & Hills, Government of Manipur, highlighted the influence of social media and warned that irresponsible reporting and misinformation could harm individuals, institutions, and society at large.
Senior Editor and Jury Member Shri Irengbam Arun said the conclave received a large number of quality entries for the Digital Journalism Awards, adding that mentorship could help digital journalists raise professional standards further.
Technical sessions were held on “Paradigm Shift from Traditional Media to New Media” by Shri Pradip Phanjoubam, Editor, Imphal Review of Arts and Politics, and “Role of Digital Media in Conflict and Peace Building” by Shri Dhiren A. Sadokpam, Editor-in-Chief, The Frontier Manipur.
At the award ceremony, Vangamla Salle (East Mojo) received the Digital Journalist of the Year Award, while Naorem Tanoranjan (Ichel News Network) won the Promising Digital Journalist Award. The Distinguished Service in Digital Journalism Award was conferred on Shri Sobhapati Samom. Wari Singbul received the Best Credible Digital Media Page/Channel Award, and Rebika Moirangthem (HY News) was honoured with the Jury’s Choice Digital Journalism Award.
The event was attended by Shri Asem Bhakta Singh, President, All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU), along with senior journalists and representatives from print and digital media platforms.