Correct information is the oxygen of a healthy democracy: President of India

New Delhi : Officer of Indian Information Service (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 batches) called on the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today along with Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Apurva Chandra, Joint Secretary, Shri Sanjeev Shankar, Director General, Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Dwivedi, Additional Director General, Shri Ashish Goyal and Course Director, Indian Information Service, Mrs. Navneet Kaur.

Addressing the officers of Indian Information Service, the President said that communication is a crucial factor in making citizens aware about government policies, programmes and its functioning. Through effective communication and with correct information, IIS officers can be instrumental in making citizens informed partners in the progress of the country.

The President said that today, with the wide and instant spread of information, a challenge of fake information travelling equally fast has also emerged. IIS officers have to take the responsibility of combating fake news. She urged them to harness technology and work with dedication to check the trend of misusing media, especially social media, to build false narratives.

Smt. Murmu said that IIS officers have a key role in enhancing the image of India on the global stage. India has always given the message of peace and brotherhood to the world. Spreading India’s soft power through cultural messages for the entire humanity is an important area where they can make a big difference.

The President advised officers to always remember that their positions are of great responsibility and accountability. She said that each and every decision and action that they take will impact the lives of citizens either directly or indirectly. So, their goals should be aligned with the development goals of the country and well-being of fellow citizens.