Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today underscored that journalism should be based on objective, truth and data-based information rather than opinions, assumptions or activism. Speaking at a panel discussion during the 'Bengal Delta Conference-2026,' he emphasized that journalists must rise above emotions or personal views to reveal the truth.
Panel Discussion on South Asian Media
The panel discussion, titled ‘Does South Asian Media Face The Same Threats In Different Forms?’, was arranged by the Dacca Institute of Research and Analytics (DAIRA) at a city hotel. It was moderated by Nazmul Ahsan, executive editor of Netra News, and included Kanak Mani Dixit, founding editor of Himal South Asian, Shafiqul Alam, former press secretary and editor of Waadaa, and Suhasini Haider, diplomatic editor of The Hindu.
Challenges in South Asian Media
Swapon highlighted the existing challenges faced by South Asian media, noting that the main crises in countries like Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan are similar. He stressed that in the current era of technology and mobile journalism, the media's primary responsibility is to protect the public from fake information and misinformation.
Minister’s Vision on AI and Technology
Later in the day, Swapon attended the 'Global Conference on AI Leadership and Flagship Prestige Awards 2026' as the chief guest. He emphasized the need for Bangladesh to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance performance and efficiency, aligning with global technological advancements.
