Press Information Bureau (PIB) Bengaluru, Government of India, Press Registrar General of India in collaboration with the Department of Information and Public Relations, Government of Karnataka, organized a 'Varta' workshop today in Bengaluru for newspaper and magazine publishers on the subject of the "Press and Registration of Periodicals Act, 2023 (PRP Act, 2023) and Press Sewa Portal."

More than 150 newspaper and magazine publishers and printers from across the state attended the workshop.

During the event, Shri Yogesh Kumar Baweja, Principal Director General of the Press Registrar General of India (PRGI), provided comprehensive information on the PRP Act, 2023 and the operation of the Press Sewa Portal. Shri Yogesh Kumar Baweja detailed the procedures for registering new newspapers and periodicals, documenting the personal profiles of owners and publishers, processing ownership transfers, submitting annual reports, cancelling registrations, verifying circulation, updating registration details and rules and responsibilities of owners and publishers.

Interacting with newspaper and magazine publishers and printers from various districts across the Karnataka, Shri Yogesh Kumar Baweja heard their concerns regarding PRGI regulations, Press Sewa Portal navigation, monthly publication submissions, software glitches and offered suitable solutions to address their grievances.

Addressing the gathering, Shri J. Manjunath, Secretary, Department of Information and Public Relations, Government of Karnataka, highlighted that the government has consistently encouraged the press, noting that Government schemes and programs effectively reach the public through the media, which serves as the fourth pillar of democracy. Shri Manjunath explained that the 'Varta' workshop was organized to give the publishers a platform to raise their issues and grievances regarding PRGI norms and the Press Sewa Portal through open interaction. Shri Manjunath also noted that the Karnataka Media Academy is offering training in artificial intelligence and new software tools to help journalists adapt to modern technology, drive excellence in journalism and effectively disseminate positive news.

Shri M. N. Anucheth, Deputy Inspector General of Police and Commissioner of the Department of Information and Public Relations, Government of Karnataka, stated that inputs and cooperation from media professionals are vital for framing a new media policy for the state. Shri Anucheth observed that the surge in digital media platforms, including YouTube, has led to a decline in responsible journalism, making it necessary to establish specific guidelines and regulations for digital media journalists, and urged the PRGI to take appropriate measures in this regard.

Shri B. A. Keshavamurthy, Director (News), Doordarshan welcomed the gathering. Shri Gaurav Sharma, Deputy Director, NIC explained about Press Sewa Portal. Officers and officials from PIB Bengaluru and Central Bureau of Communication were also present.

 

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