
GUWAHATI: The 19th national meeting of the Network of Women in Media, India (NWMI) ended on February 2, with three days of exhaustive discussions that centered on media-related issues concerning women, especially those in Northeast India. Six panel discussions and presentations were conducted that explored the regional media's development in the digital era, representation of Northeast India in journalism, and how Assamese cinema intersects with the Indian film industry at large.
The emphasis on mental health and well-being within newsrooms and the field is one of the most significant points that was raised. Both online and offline issues concerning journalists were addressed. The issue of child marriage was also put under a dedicated panel to emphasize the role of the media in raising awareness and proposing strategies to combat this social issue in Assam. The session had insights from legal experts, social activists, and journalists.
On February 1, a public meeting featured a panel discussion titled "Media: Conflict and Climate Change – Impact on Women," with contributions from notable figures such as journalist-author Sanjoy Hazarika and North East Network chairperson Dr. Monisha Behal. The discussion highlighted the effects of conflict and climate change on women, particularly in riverine communities, and the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge systems.
The event also showcased a presentation by Dr. Purnima Devi Barman, a Whitley Gold Award winner, on her conservation efforts for the greater adjutant stork, known locally as ‘hargila,’ and her initiatives to empower women in this context. The meeting attracted around 200 women journalists from across the country, fostering connections and dialogue on gender equality in media.
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