New Delhi: Information and Broadcasting Minister M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday suggested media focus on developmental news and inspiring success stories as he rued “sensationalisation” is becoming the news these days and “disorder the order”.
“The news is only good news if it is connected with development. This has to be understood by all. Unfortunately, sensationalisation is becoming the news. Disorder is becoming the order. Obstruction is order of the day. This is unfortunate for the country (like India),” Naidu said.
Naidu, who took charge of the ministry last week, made the remarks at an event where he felicitated leaders and officers of municipalities of Alappuzha (Kerala), Panaji (Goa) and Mysuru (Karnataka) with Clean City Awards given by environmental NGO Centre for Science and Environment (CSE).
Naidu made the comments while referring to success stories carried by an English daily relating to initiatives taken by people in Karnataka in constructing toilets under the Centre’s Swachh Bharat Mission.
“There was a story about Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, there was a story also about drugs (in newspapers). This is the way the media should focus?the media should focus its attention on Alleppey, Panjim and Mysuru and making an all-India story out of it so that people understand?will be inspired by such success stories,” he said.
Naidu maintained people have the right to criticise the government whenever required, but hoped success stories are published in all Indian languages.
During the event, Naidu also launched CSE’s book titled ‘Not in My Backyard’ which deals with solid waste management in Indian cities.
The event was addressed also by CSE Director General Sunita Narain.
—PTI