AEDMA Conclave 2026 Concludes with Engaging Deliberations on Ethical Journalism, Media Trends and Digital Governance
Itanagar, July 29: The 4th edition of AEDMA Conclave 2026, organized by the Arunachal Electronic and Digital Media Association (AEDMA) on the occasion of its 14th Foundation Day, concluded on Wednesday with three engaging panel discussions on contemporary media issues under the theme “Empowering Change through Information.” at the State Banquet Hall, Itanagar.
Attending the inaugural session as the Chief Guest, Information and Public Relations Minister Nyato Dukam called upon electronic and digital media professionals to uphold ethical journalism with sincerity, discipline and responsibility while adapting to rapid technological advancements.
He said the media plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability, particularly when government schemes fail to reach intended beneficiaries. Emphasizing constructive coordination between the government and the media, Dukam urged journalists to point out shortcomings and provide meaningful suggestions to improve governance and the implementation of welfare programmes.
Expressing concern over the rise of unregulated mobile-based journalism, the minister observed that individuals with no journalistic background are increasingly affecting professional journalism, and reiterated the need to preserve professional standards in the media sector.
The first session, moderated by Theim Lhouvum, News Head of Capital News was held on the topic “Digital Media & Citizen Empowerment: Who Shapes the Narrative in the Information Age?” The panelists included Tumme Amo, IPS, DIGP, Itanagar Capital Range, Amar Sangno, President, Arunachal Press Club and Tadak Nalo, Chairman, Arunachal Frontier Tribal Front (ATFT).
Speaking during the session, Amar Sangno urged journalists to focus on quality reporting and avoid sensationalism and hyperbolic presentation of news.
“Every journalist must adhere to media ethics and should not resort to distorted information,” he said.
DIGP Tumme Amo advised media professionals to verify facts before placing information in the public domain and cautioned against being influenced or misled by vested interests. He appreciated the role of journalists in the state and said every report should be authentic, accurate and free from bias.
Tadak Nalo also underscored the responsibility of journalists, stating that information disseminated to readers and viewers must remain factual, impartial and credible.
The second session, moderated by Allison Welly, Managing Director of The Space, discussed “Empowering Arunachal Through Information: Bridging Knowledge, Opportunity and Development.” The panelists were Nangram Pingkap, APCS, SDO Koloriang, Prof. Biri Arun, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science & Engineering, NIT Jote and Mina Toko, Vice President, APCC.
The session focused on how information technology and digital media can be effectively utilized for governance, dissemination of knowledge, skill development and creation of opportunities across Arunachal Pradesh.
The third session, moderated by Takam Sonia, Managing Editor, Arunbhoomi, with the topic “Media Freedom and Responsibility: Reporting without Fear or Favour” had Bengia Ajum, Associate Editor Arunachal Times as panelist. The session witnessed detailed discussions on fearless, impartial and professional journalism, as well as the ethical standards expected from emerging digital media practitioners in the state.
Earlier, during the inaugural session, AEDMA President Jotam Toko Tagam placed a proposal before the IPR Minister for the establishment of a dedicated institute for mass media excellence, particularly for video journalists with masscom degree. In response, Minister Dukam assured that a meeting would be convened to discuss the proposal in detail.
A commemorative journal documenting 14 years of AEDMA’s journey, along with articles on evolving media trends in Arunachal Pradesh, was also released during the inaugural session.
The conclave concluded with a renewed call for responsible digital reporting, constructive engagement with governance and the strengthening of professional standards in Arunachal Pradesh’s media landscape.
