Itanagar: The Arunachal Press Club (APC), Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) and Arunachal Electronic & Digital Media Association (AEDMA) came together on Thursday to commemorate the fourth death anniversary of senior journalist Taro Chatung.
The event took place at the Press Club here.
Chatung, a state gold medal awardee, is considered as the founding father of electronic media in Arunachal Pradesh. He passed away on October 26, 2019 after a prolonged battle with cancer.
Addressing the occasion, senior journalist Pradeep Kumar Behra emphasized Chatung’s invaluable contributions to the state’s media landscape, stating that his legacy serves as a guiding light for current and aspiring journalists.
Behra encouraged the younger generation of journalists to adopt Chatung’s journalistic approach and values, ensuring that his teachings and contributions are perpetually honored.
“Despite Chatung’s physical absence, his enduring influence on the media, particularly in the realm of electronic media, remains a cornerstone of Arunachal Pradesh’s journalistic heritage,” Behra said.
APC vice-president, Bengia Ajum, urged the state’s journalists to emulate Chatung’s practice of fearlessly asking direct questions to authorities, always maintaining humility, wit, and a touch of sarcasm.
He highlighted the importance of marking this day annually to reflect on how to embody the qualities of a rational and responsible journalist, just as Late Chatung did.
APUWJ general secretary, Sonam Jelly, emphasized Chatung’s role as the founding father of electronic media and his dedication, discipline, and vision for advancing social harmony through journalism.
He also highlighted the APUWJ’s initiative of introducing the Taro Chatung Excellence Award for journalists, which is presented every year at the National Press Day celebration after a competition among electronic journalists.
Jelly further encouraged journalists to exhibit dedication and passion for their profession, akin to Chatung’s lifelong commitment.
AEDMA president, J T Tagam, assured that the day dedicated to Chatung’s memory would be celebrated more extensively in the coming years, in collaboration with APC and APUWJ.
He also stressed the need for responsible and cautious reporting by media organizations, especially in the digital realm, considering the concerns related to misinformation and disinformation in the digital age.
Taro Bina, the wife of the late Chatung, also shared her thoughts, acknowledging her husband’s ambition and dedication to journalism.
She emphasized the challenges and ups and downs that journalists face and commended the present generation of journalists for their hard work and commitment.
Bina also expressed gratitude for the continued support of the press fraternity during challenging times.
The event was attended by several prominent figures, including APC president Dodum Yangfo, general secretary Damien Lepcha, senior journalist Tongam Rina and a large number of journalists from the state.
The event served as a poignant tribute to Late Chatung’s enduring legacy and his profound impact on journalism in Arunachal Pradesh.
