Ampareen warns of ‘extinction threat’ but assures govt support for media welfare

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaSeptember 6, 2025

Traditional media faces an “extinction threat” unless it safeguards credibility in the face of unregulated social media, artificial intelligence, and influencer-driven content, Information and Public Relations Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh cautioned on Saturday.

Speaking as chief guest at the open session of the Annual General Meeting of the Meghalaya Editors’ and Publishers’ Association (MEPA), Lyngdoh coupled her warning with assurances that the state government remains committed to resolving long-pending issues, including housing, social security, and advertisement payments.

“I am happy to once again share a platform with Commissioner & Secretary of DIPR Vijay Kumar Mantri, Director of IPR Batlang Sohliya, and MEPA’s leadership,” she said, recalling that since the formation of the government in 2023, MEPA and the state had engaged actively—even in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. “Many issues have been solved, but some, like delayed payments, remain pending. The Chief Minister, though not here today, has asked me to convey that he is constantly reviewing obligations and commitments to the press.”

Pending Bills and Welfare Schemes

On advertisement dues, Lyngdoh said the government would prioritise clearing current bills before tackling older, more substantial ones. “Funding for such proposals has to be vetted properly, but we are committed to finding a solution,” she said.

She further clarified that the Meghalaya Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS) should include journalists and publishing staff, and highlighted the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PMSYM) pension scheme as a viable option for non-editorial employees. The Minister also noted that the Journalists’ Welfare Scheme had already been upgraded to provide timely relief.

Housing for Journalists

Lyngdoh revealed that discussions were underway with the Chief Minister and the IPR Directorate on a dedicated press conclave with housing and facilities for journalists, editors, and publishers. She urged MEPA to submit structured, actionable proposals: “Every time we meet, we recall pending matters. But I feel actionable resolutions should be turned into proper proposals so that the government can act.”

Self-Regulation and Responsibility

Shifting focus, Lyngdoh warned that misinformation was eroding journalism’s credibility. Referring to the recent Raja Raghuvanshi murder case, she said, “Only 30 percent of the information circulated was true; 70 percent was untruth. Are we to accept that any Tom, Dick, or Harry can just pick up a story and declare it fact?”

She argued that unregulated YouTubers and influencers were “challenging the very survival of the press” and called on MEPA to enforce self-discipline. “We talk about freedom of the press, but we fail to talk about responsibilities. Self-policing is essential to ensure that the circulation of information is not biased or dangerous.”

Minister Flags Social Issues

In a broader message, Lyngdoh said unchecked activism on social media had distorted debates on HIV/AIDS and drug abuse. “My heart pains when I see either a user or a trader of drugs being bashed up and abused. Order must be restored, and the media—as the fourth estate—must ensure such issues are handled responsibly,” she said, warning against sensationalism that distracts from core public health concerns.

DIPR Voices

Commissioner & Secretary DIPR Vijay Kumar Mantri said journalism today faces the dilemma of “credibility versus speed.” “Social media thrives on instant updates, but credibility is what differentiates professional journalism. Once misinformation spreads, the damage is permanent,” he observed.

Director of IPR Batlang Sohliya reaffirmed support for MEPA, revealing that land identification for a proposed housing scheme was already under discussion. He added that advertisement support would continue for both print and digital platforms.

MEPA Priorities

General Secretary John W. Thabah highlighted MEPA’s immediate agenda: securing social security for non-editorial staff, revising empanelment rules, streamlining media passes through the IPR Department, and ensuring steady advertisement support for digital portals. He also pressed for dedicated financial aid schemes for media entrepreneurs and journalist housing colonies on the lines of Assam.

AI and the Future of Journalism

Lyngdoh also sounded the alarm on artificial intelligence, saying it could “redefine the information ecosystem” in both positive and dangerous ways. While AI could aid in fact-checking and translation, it could also “amplify misinformation at a scale never seen before.”

“The arrival of AI-generated content challenges the very credibility of traditional journalism. Readers may no longer know whether they are consuming verified news or manipulated narratives,” she said, urging MEPA to begin engaging with the issue. “If the press does not adapt, it risks being replaced by algorithms and unregulated platforms.”