Govt seeks media support to counter rumours, promote accurate information
The government has urged journalists to play a proactive role in countering rumours and ensuring the dissemination of accurate information, amid growing concerns over misinformation said Chief Information Officer (Acting) Yakub Ali.
The call came at a discussion meeting held at the Khulna Circuit House on Saturday, organised by the Department of Information with support from its Khulna regional office. The event focused on media engagement in promoting the government’s electoral commitments.
Chief Information Officer (Acting) Yakub Ali, attending as chief guest, said the governmentbarely two months into its tenureis already rolling out welfare-oriented initiatives.
Emphasising global economic pressure and its domestic impact, Yakub Ali warned that such situation could fuel misinformation. “Journalists are key stakeholders. The government wants to know what they think and seeks their support in preventing rumours and spreading factual information,” he said.
He further highlighted the launch of a pilot “family card” programme, agricultural loan waivers benefiting 1.2 million farmers, and the distribution of farmer cards, with full coverage planned in 15 upazilas.
He also noted measures such as allowances for imams and religious leaders, a plan to excavate 20,000 kilometres of canals, and a nationwide tree plantation drive targeting 250 million trees. Additionally, Hajj costs have been reduced by Tk 12,000 per pilgrim this year, while vaccination efforts are underway to tackle measles outbreaks.
Senior Deputy Chief Information Officer (Press) Mosammat Mobaswera Kaderi stressed the role of journalists in ensuring transparency and public engagement so that government services reach intended beneficiaries.
She said the Department of Information has launched fact-checking initiatives and called on media professionals to help identify sources of misinformation online.
The session also included discussions on combating disinformation, the use of artificial intelligence, and new media trends, presented by Deputy Chief Information Officer (New Media) Nasrin Jahan Lipi.
Presided over by Additional Deputy Commissioner (Education and ICT) Kaniz Fatema Liza, the event brought together officials from the information department and journalists from print, electronic, and online media.
