Fake news and misinformation have eroded the people’s faith in the media, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar said on Thursday as he called upon journalists to uphold the highest standards of integrity.
Credibility is the biggest challenge that the media is facing today, he said.
“The writing on the wall should be clear to all concerned that fake news, deliberately fed wrong and mischievous information, political ambitions and preferences, tendency to play power brokers and monetary considerations have eroded the people’s faith in the media,” Dhankhar said, addressing a National Press Day event in Delhi.
The Vice President noted that recent technological advancements and innovations like artificial intelligence and Chat-GPT have presented unique challenges before us, combined also with opportunities.
The advent of artificial intelligence has transformed the way we receive and consume news, information, and entertainment, Dhankhar said, adding that AI-driven algorithms now curate personalized content for each individual, making it easier for people to access the information they want.
“However, it also brings its own set of challenges and ethical questions, such as the spread of misinformation at nuclear speed, deep fakes, creation of echo chambers and micro targeting of information to influence the democratic process and create chaos and instability in the societies,” he said.
Dhankhar further noted that with these challenges the responsibilities of journalists and media professionals have expanded, requiring an even greater commitment to the principles of truth, accuracy, and accountability.
“Media organizations and media professionals must be doubly careful and alert before disseminating any information. The ground reality today is indeed alarming and worrisome. The checks take place much after the damaged has been done,” he said.
The Vice President urged journalists and media outlets to uphold the highest standards of integrity.
“In the era of AI, media organizations must stand united in their commitment to journalistic ethics, unbiased reporting, and unwavering dedication to the public's right to know the facts,” he said.
