Initiative to provide a platform for critical examination of the media's role in democracy

The Centre for Media and Mass Communication Studies at Jamia Hamdard today launched a groundbreaking new series, "Media Matters," which aims to create a platform for critical examination and dialogue on the media industry and its impact on society and democracy. Prof. Farhat Basir Khan, the conceptualiser of the initiative dedicated it to Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the founder-chancellor of Jamia Hamdard, whose pioneering work in the development and progress of our nation has inspired him to conceptualise the Media Matters series.

The inaugural event of the Media Matters series was held today alongside the honourable Vice-chancellor Prof Afshar Alam, Dean Prof Reshma Nasreen, and the esteemed keynote speaker, Prof. Sanjay Dwivedi, the Director General of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication.

Professor Farhat Basir Khan, the series' conceptualiser, curator, and organiser, said that this series is important not only for students and professionals in the field of mass communication and journalism but for everyone interested in understanding the role of the media in our society. The series will look at how the media industry has changed and grown over time, including its many parts, such as journalism, advertising, broadcasting, film, and radio.

The Vice-chancellor said on the occasion, “This initiative will provide a platform for critical examination of the media's role in democracy and the potential for media literacy to empower citizens to engage with media in a more informed and discerning way. Additionally, it will help to promote transparency and ethical standards within the media industry, ultimately strengthening the democratic process and promoting a more informed and engaged citizenry.

He started his inaugural lecture with a mention of Dr. BR Ambedkar and remembered him for the media freedom that he gave through the constitution of our country. He also highlights how traditional media is transitioning to digital media, with revenue increasing by 42 per cent globally. 

He also mentioned 4C's of digital media houses i.e. Context, Convergence, Commerce, Content and  3Vs: voice, video, and vernacular. People who cannot read or write can understand voice and video content such as podcasts. With Indians in every corner of the globe, India's vernacular languages have taken over. So, we should focus on our vernacular languages. As the most populous country, India should take responsibility for ensuring that the world media adheres to Indian principles and values. He concluded his lecture by saying that Indians have been great storytellers for many centuries, citing books such as the Bhagvatgita and the Panchatantra, among others, and that we should preserve this legacy. So, India should take a bigger slice of the pie in the world media. 

This series gives people a much-needed chance to talk with thought leaders and experts in journalism and mass communication. It is open to all and promises to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the media's role in shaping our world.

Prof. Reshma Nasreen, Director of the Centre, thanked the Vice Chancellor for formally inaugurating the initiative and said, “This initiative is a reflection of the values and commitment of Jamia Hamdard University to promoting social responsibility and civic engagement." 

According to the curator of the series, "The initiative will be an important step towards the university's goal of creating a more informed and involved citizenry and promoting transparency and ethical standards in the media industry.”