Promoting Positive News is Key to a Healthy and Happy Society: Union Minister Dr. Murugan

Abu Road: The National Media Conference, focusing on the role of media in spiritual empowerment for a healthy and happy society, was inaugurated at the Anand Sarovar complex of the Brahma Kumaris headquarters in Abu Road by Union Minister Dr. L. Murugan and Chief Administrator Rajyogini Dadi Ratan Mohini. Journalists from print, electronic, radio, and web journalism across the country participated in the conference.

In his inaugural speech, Minister Dr. Murugan emphasized the crucial role of media in building a developed India. He noted that good news does not spread as quickly as false news. Journalists should verify the truth of the news before publishing. He highlighted that promoting positive stories is essential for creating a healthy and happy society and encouraged reflection on the negative atmosphere that sometimes prevails in society.

**Encouraging Journalists to Embrace Spirituality:**
Dr. Murugan stressed that journalists have a fundamental right to connect with spirituality and urged media professionals to integrate it into their personal lives. He pointed out that a journalist's responsibility is significant, as false news can adversely affect the country's atmosphere. He reiterated that media is the most powerful tool for providing information, serving as the fourth pillar of democracy.

**Brahma Kumaris Working for World Peace:**
The Minister shared his first experience at the Brahma Kumaris headquarters, expressing joy at the serene and sacred environment, and noted the organization's efforts for world peace.

**Media Has Strayed from Its Purpose:**
Dr. Man Singh Parmar, former Vice-Chancellor of Kushabhau Thakre University of Journalism and Mass Communication, commented that the media's original goal has shifted post-independence. He criticized the current trend of sensationalizing news in electronic media, which is detrimental to society. He also raised concerns about social media potentially becoming harmful.

**Journalism and Spirituality:**
Vishnu Prakash Tripathi, Executive Editor of Dainik Jagran, asserted that journalists must uphold their values and not compromise their principles for convenience. He emphasized the spiritual aspect of Indian journalism.

**Creating a Media Free from Obscene Content:**
Prof. Sanjay Dwivedi, former Director of IIMC, called for a campaign among journalists to eliminate obscene content and emphasized that every individual acts as an ambassador of information. He highlighted the need for Indianization of media practices and a return to the tradition of public welfare.

**Additional Insights:**
- Rajyogi Brijmohan Bhai stated that the ultimate truth is our shared identity as souls, which helps overcome negative influences.
- Rajyogi BK Karuna Bhai mentioned that the media wing is dedicated to improving journalists' lives through spirituality.
- Rajyogini BK Sushma Didi spoke about the healing power of Rajyoga meditation.
- Rajyogini BK Sheelu Didi emphasized that internal empowerment is vital for a healthy and prosperous society.
- BK Sarla Anand, National Coordinator of the media wing, stressed that a healthy society cannot be envisioned without spirituality.

The conference began with a welcoming address by BK Shantanu Bhai and a welcome dance performed by children from the Supreme Shiv Shakti Cultural Academy in Bengaluru, coordinated by Chandrakala Didi from Jaipur.