Karnal:- Virender Singh Pal, Registrar of Kurukshetra University, stated that journalists must wield their pens to steer society in a positive direction. He emphasized that "Panch Parivartan" (Five Transformations) is essential for the upliftment of society. He remarked that the trajectory society is currently taking is a matter of concern. We must foster a sense of environmental consciousness, family enlightenment, self-awareness, and civic duty, alongside promoting social harmony and the protection of the environment. He was speaking today as the keynote speaker at the Narad Jayanti celebrations organized by the Vishwa Samaj Kendra at the Sevashree Ashram in Karnal. The event was presided over by Dhanesh Dimri, the District *Karyavah* (Executive) of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Sudhir Kumar, the *Vibhag Sangh Chalak* (Divisional Chief) of the RSS, attended the program as the Chief Guest. The proceedings commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. The guests paid their respects to Maharishi Narad by offering flowers to his portrait. At the outset of the program, the visiting dignitaries were formally welcomed by being draped with traditional ceremonial scarves (*Anga-vastra*).
Speaking as the keynote speaker, Virender Pal urged journalists to make positive issues—those serving the best interests of society and the nation—the central themes of their writing. He noted that given the transformative phase the country and society are currently undergoing, the institution of the family and the social fabric itself are facing threats. Furthermore, the nation is currently grappling with various global challenges. To effectively address these challenges, we must champion themes such as civic duty, the spirit of *Swadeshi* (self-reliance), and self-realization, and bring these concepts to the forefront of public discourse.
He asserted that journalism should serve to provide direction to society, rather than leaving it rudderless. He described Maharishi Narad as a grounded, impartial, and fearless journalist who presented events before society exactly as they occurred, without any alteration or embellishment. He stated that journalism must prioritize the interests of both society and the nation, and that it requires a thorough understanding of facts before bringing them to light. He also apprised students currently pursuing studies in journalism of the challenges they are likely to face in the future and extended his best wishes to them.
The Registrar remarked that Devrishi Narad never concerned himself with matters of fame or infamy. He asserted that, today, journalists too should be fearless and engage in fact-based journalism for the betterment of society. He called upon the youth to strive to become studious and discerning journalists. In his address, Virendra Pal stated that while a journalist should ideally be fearless and impartial, whenever the question of national interest arises, one must practice journalism by placing the nation above all else. On this occasion, journalists who had demonstrated excellence in their work were felicitated by the guests.
Journalists, photojournalists, and journalism students from across the district participated in the seminar.