Ziro, May 4: World Press Freedom Day was observed in Ziro with a plantation drive at the Taro Chatung Memorial Site, paying tribute to late media pioneer Taro Chatung.
The programme was organised by the Ziro Press Club in collaboration with the District Information and Public Relations Office and local media fraternity of Lower Subansiri district.
The plantation drive was led by Ziro Press Club president Tailyang Pugang, with active participation from journalists and officials. The initiative received support from the Forest Department, with Divisional Forest Officer Tilling Takar donating saplings of Japanese cherry blossom.
Addressing the gathering, the DFO highlighted the importance of the “Green Ziro” initiative and urged the media to play an active role in promoting environmental awareness. He emphasised that the press has a crucial responsibility in sensitising people about the fragile ecology of the Ziro valley and supporting sustainable development efforts.
Aligned with the global theme “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis,” the event underscored the enduring legacy of Taro Chatung. Participants planted cherry blossom saplings around the memorial, symbolising both ecological responsibility and the growth of independent journalism in the state.
Pugang emphasised the role of journalists in upholding truth and community service, stating that honouring a media pioneer through a green initiative reinforces the need for responsible journalism.
District Information and Public Relations Officer Tenzing T Totpa, in his address, spoke on the evolving responsibilities of the media in the digital age, stressing that press freedom must be exercised with accountability and strong ethical standards.
The event concluded with a collective pledge to uphold fearless journalism while promoting environmental conservation.