Silver Jubilee Report

Posted on: September 28, 2025

The Dimapur Press Club (DPC) celebrated its Silver Jubilee on the theme “Harnessing Media Vibrancy, Embracing New Frontiers” on 16th December 2024 at 11 am. The event was held at the Dimapur Government College Auditorium.

The theme speaker for the occasion was Yirmiyan Arthur Yhome, Deputy News Director, Asia-Pacific, The Associated Press, while Sharingain Longkumer, Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, graced the event as the special guest.

The event was chaired by Kekhriesenuo Kiewhuo, while Prasanjit Dutta and Henlly Phom served as recorders. Representatives from various media houses across Nagaland, along with representatives from the Nagaland Press Association, Kohima Press Club, Mokokchung Press Club, DIPR, Doordarshan Kendra Kohima, among others, were also present.

In his welcome address, DPC President Imkong Walling highlighted that 25 years is a significant milestone, marking both reflection on the past and anticipation for the future. He noted that the chosen theme aligns with the profession's evolving challenges and opportunities, stressing the need for journalists to adapt and uphold objectivity in their reporting.

Dilip Sharma, Convenor of the DPC Silver Jubilee Planning Committee and founding member of the Club, provided a brief history of the Club, noting its founding in 1999 by four journalists to address media professionals' concerns in Dimapur. He highlighted the Club's initiatives over 25 years and led a minute of silence in remembrance of departed members.

In his address, NLA Speaker reflected on truth, noting that beyond two sides, there is a third—one's opinion. He stressed the importance of where and how opinions are expressed, as they shape public perception. He recognised the dedication of journalists in shaping public opinion and stressed the need to evolve beyond outdated conventions. Reminding the media of its influence, he urged journalists to uphold ethics and continue being the torchbearers of responsible journalism.

Yirmiyan Arthur Yhome, speaking on the theme, highlighted concerns over media freedom in India, noting its declining global ranking and the shrinking number of independent media houses.

She stressed the need for impactful investigative journalism over trivial reporting and called on editors to provide journalists with resources to cover meaningful stories.

Addressing the rise of AI and digital news consumption, she noted that social media platforms now dominate news distribution. While this shift offers opportunities, she warned against misinformation from influencers acting as journalists. She underscored the importance of professional, fact-based reporting and called for discussions on securing funding to sustain quality journalism in Nagaland.

DC Dimapur, Tinojongshi Chang, acknowledged the vital role of media in spreading important messages to the grassroots, enlightening both the state and the nation. He credited the pioneers for their contributions, stating that their efforts made the occasion possible. Emphasising the need for developmental coverage, he urged the media to highlight individuals making positive contributions to society.

Monalisa Changkija, editor of Nagaland Page, reflected on the history of media in Nagaland, tracing its origins to 1932 and crediting early pioneers for its growth. She noted that while journalists and media platforms evolve, the Fourth Estate will endure only if actively preserved.

Emphasising the four pillars of democracy—the legislature, executive, judiciary, and media—she stressed that democracy must be protected, nurtured, and strengthened. She urged media professionals to focus on safeguarding these institutions rather than being distracted by the rise of various platforms.

On the occasion, a memorandum was presented to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio through the NLA Speaker, outlining key demands, including the establishment of a permanent office for the club, enhancement of operational subsidies for accredited journalists, implementation of a pension scheme, an increase in accreditation slots, and the need to distinguish journalists from social media influencers.

Before its submission, DPC President read out the contents of the memorandum.

During the presentation ceremony, mementos were awarded to individuals, organisations, and representatives present at the event for their contributions to the Dimapur Press Club. Recipients included special guest Sharingain Longkumer, theme speaker Yirmiyan Arthur Yhome, and media figures such as Monalisa Changkija (Editor, Nagaland Page), K. Temjen Jamir (Editor, Tir Yimyim), Along Longkumer (former Editor, The Morung Express), Honikali Lohe (Editor, Sümi Küküpütsa), and Dilip Sharma (founding member, DPC).

Representatives/editors from Hornbill TV, NLTV, CAPI, Global Window, Nagaland News Network, Ao Milen, and Mokokchung Times were also honoured, along with representatives from the Dimapur DPRO, Kohima Press Club, Mokokchung Press Club, and Nagaland Press Association. Former DPC presidents, Francis Kikon, Mathew Rongmei and Imti Longchar, and the wives of late Kedi Haralu and late Eric Machieo were also recognised. Several others who were to be honoured could not attend the event.

On the occasion, the NLA Speaker unveiled the cover of the DPC Silver Jubilee Souvenir. A special song was presented by Likivi Kappo, Joint Secretary, DPC, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Honikali Lohe, Vice President, DPC.

The celebration concluded with a feast.

16th December 2024
Dimapur