World Television Day: CUK’s DCJ holds special lecture

Ganderbal : Department of Communication and Journalism (DCJ), School of Media Studies, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) organised a special lecture on “Television from the Perspective of News Genre” to mark the World Television Day, at Tulmulla here Friday.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath expressed his best wishes for the successful execution of the event. The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Rakesh Khar, Editor of the English Cluster at TV9 Network, who outlined the evolution of television news in India, highlighting its transition from traditional broadcasting to a modern, multi-platform environment. He noted that despite the shift from appointment viewing to on-demand streaming, television’s role as a storyteller and a significant influencer of news remains unchanged. Mr. Khar introduced the concept of the ‘Five C Syndrome’—Comedy, Cricket, Cinema, Crime, and Chatter—arguing that these elements dominated the media landscape in the 2000s, potentially leading to a decline in the depth and relevance of public discourse. He emphasized the importance of reliable verification systems and accountability among registered news organizations, warning that unregulated platforms threaten the integrity of professional journalism. Additionally, he raised concerns about ‘news avoidance,’ where a considerable portion of the audience opts out of news consumption due to feelings of fatigue, distrust, or information overload, urging the media industry to reflect and foster meaningful engagement. Registrar Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir highlighted the significance of the day and the transformative impact of television on education and national development. He reminisced about the influential Doordarshan program ‘Butraat,’ which provided agricultural knowledge to millions, thereby contributing to rural empowerment and economic progress. Dr. Mir asserted that television remains a crucial element in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, with digital transformation as a key driver for inclusive growth and informed citizenry. Prof. Shahid Rasool, Dean of the School of Media Studies, shared insights on the future of television, stating that while the device itself may become obsolete, the content will endure. He noted the shift in viewing habits from traditional television sets to mobile devices, yet affirmed that storytelling and public communication continue to thrive.