Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has emphasised that modern societies cannot progress without responsible media acting as a mirror to public life.
Speaking at a meeting in Barishal, the minister said journalism serves a critical role in holding up a clear reflection of state affairs and preventing social harm.
The Bangladesh Journalists Welfare Trust, in partnership with the Barishal District Journalists Union, organised the event at the Barishal Circuit House.
Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan pointed out that separating genuine news from information pollution is one of the greatest challenges facing the profession today.
He noted that while dedicated reporters treat journalism as a vital public service, unethical individuals use press credentials to exploit others.
He urged media organisations and official bodies to distinguish between legitimate reporting and unethical practices, so that the state can properly support responsible journalists.
The minister acknowledged that journalism rarely offers financial wealth, expressing his respect for those who enter the field out of public duty.
He also highlighted how rapid technological changes are transforming traditional reporting into data, video, and audio formats.
He urged reporters to adapt to modern technology while maintaining core ethical standards and factual accuracy.
The meeting was chaired by Bangladesh Journalists Welfare Trust Managing Director Mohammad Abdul Bashir.
Other key figures in attendance included Journalist Welfare Trust Board member Kawsar Hossain Khandaker, Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists Publicity Secretary Shahjahan Saju, and Barishal District Journalists Union President Azad Alauddin.
Following the discussions, Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan distributed financial support cheques to local reporters and later took part in a tree planting activity in the Charkaua area.
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