Role of media cannot be underestimated: NPA

A collection of some daily newspaper in Nagaland. (Morung File Photo)

Kohima, March 24 (MExN): The Nagaland Press Association (NPA) on Tuesday urged the State Government and Health Department to look into the challenges that journalists face while covering the pandemic including combating misinformation and health risks in the field.

It highlighted that there have been messages and forwards on social media stating that newspapers can be avenues of virus-- a claim refuted by health experts and doctors. The controversy and misgivings has affected the livelihood of newspaper hawkers and distributors, it said.

In the state capital, newspaper hawkers are barred from entering wards and colonies, which is hampering delivery of information to the doorsteps of public, the NPA release stated, adding that the role of media cannot be underestimated at a time when the Central and State Government has deemed media as part of the essential services that need to function during the lockdown.

It also clarified that media houses in the state follow strict hygiene protocols that have been reinforced following the outbreak of COVID-19. The NPA urged the State Government and Health Department to look into the matter, so that dissemination of information is not held back.

The NPA also requested the government to provide safety and protective kits, and hygiene aids to journalists, newspaper hawkers and distributors, to be used at distribution centres and last mile delivery of newspapers. It urged media houses and journalists to strictly follow the recommended measures issued by the Government and the WHO, and also abstain from attending the press conferences, public gatherings and maintain social distancing. The Association also suggested the State Government to appoint a Nodal Officer who will update information to media houses and journalists, so as to facilitate their work from offices and home.