The first Manipur Digital Media Conclave 2026 along with the Digital Journalism Awards 2026, titled “Beyond Silence”, was held on Wednesday at Sangai Hall, Hotel Imphal. The event was organised by Manipur Update and brought together journalists, media professionals, and government officials to deliberate on the evolving role of digital journalism.

Chief Guest Ahanthem Subhash Singh, Director of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Manipur, said journalism today has moved beyond print, with digital platforms enabling global dissemination of news.

He stressed that fast, fact-based, and responsible reporting has become a major challenge in the digital era, cautioning against the trend of prioritising monetisation, likes, and views over credible journalism. He underscored the importance of independent journalism in countering paid and unverified news, which he said can damage reputations and cause mental distress. He also proposed instituting an award for effective coverage of public-benefit government schemes and expressed willingness to sponsor it.

Senior journalist and Founding Editor of Manipur Update, Sobhapati Samom, reflected on the evolution of media from print to the digital age and highlighted the growing challenge of ensuring digital responsibility. He linked this to the DIPR Republic Day tableau theme, “Digital Responsibility for Social Stability and Harmony.”
Ngangom Uttam Singh, Joint Secretary, Tribal Affairs & Hills, Government of Manipur, noted the growing influence of social media and warned that unethical and unverified reporting can harm individuals, society, and institutions. Senior Editor and jury member Irengbam Arun said the conclave received many promising entries for the awards, adding that with guidance and mentorship, digital journalists in the state can set higher professional standards.

The conclave also featured technical sessions on “Paradigm Shift from Traditional Media to New Media” by Pradip Phanjoubam, Editor of Imphal Review of Arts and Politics, and “Role of Digital Media in Conflict and Peace Building” by Dhiren A. Sadokpam, Editor-in-Chief of The Frontier Manipur.

At the awards ceremony, Vangamla Salle of East Mojo was named Digital Journalist of the Year, while the Promising Digital Journalist Award went to Naorem Tanoranjan of Echel News Network. Sobhapati Samom received the Distinguished Service in Digital Journalism Award. The Best Credible Digital Media Page/Channel Award was presented to Wari Singbul, and the Jury’s Choice Digital Journalism Award was conferred on Rebika Moirangthem of HY News.

The event was attended by Asem Bhakta Singh, President of the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU), along with senior journalists and representatives from print and digital media platforms.