Many organizations and individuals have initiated several service programs to help the society during the Corona crisis. At this critical stage, the journalists have come forward travelled at their risk collected all such information then informed the society, inspiring others to extend their helping hand, a truly courageous and a significant contribution from journalists, said Dr. Annadanam Subramaniam, Sah-Karyavaha of RSS Telangana and editor of of Sphoorti monthly magazine.
Dr. Annadanam Subramaniam was addressing at program “Pen Warriors in the time of Corona” orgnised by Samachara Bharati Cultural Association at Keshava Memorial Law College Hyderabad on 20 February 2021.
He recalled the several heroic contributions of many journalists during the Corona crisis and observed that people developed awareness for personal hygiene and human side of generously supported the needy.
He lauded journalists for writing the inspiring stories of dedication medical professionals, sanitation workers and police. Literally journalists have become the eyes, ears and hands of the society. They played a leading role in creating social resolve and fighting dissonance in the society.
Despite the adage of ‘The pen is greater than the sword’, the nationalist spirit that appeared in the pre- independence press now seems to have waned somewhat, Dr. Subramaniam opined.
He urged journalists to widen their coverage by reporting the inspiring works of farmers, workers, and others who silently contribute to nation. He also requested them to continue their constructive role in society.
Sri Vallishwar, a senior journalist, who presided over the event, said that Corona had rendered some good despite the hardships of the period. Being completely confined to homes during the lockdown have indirectly strengthened the bond in the family members.
The entire society had the opportunity to learn about global developments taking place and learned to exchange news and views from home using social media.
Sri Vallishwar also said that journalists themselves had participated in many service programs and actively reported about them including the activities of RSS inspired Sewa Bharati’s which widely appreciated many in society.
He said instead of protecting financial, health issues of journalists the big media houses distanced themselves by downsizing their list of journalists rather than supporting them when they needed them the most. He regretted this as dark side of the big media houses which were waiting an opportunity to control their finances.
After formal launch of the event by a senior journalist Sri Vidyaranya, corona effected journalists Sri Narsinga Rao, Sri Mallesham, Sri Veerappa, Sri Siddhu and Smt Devika shared their horrific personal and social experiences in defeating the Corona.
The journalists and attendees of the event pay their homage to fellow journalists who succumbed to the pandemic.
