Professor Shahid Rasool of the Central University delivered the Sahani Memorial Lecture on the theme “Media for Viksit Bharat,” highlighting the pivotal role of media in India’s development journey. The lecture was organized by the Indian Institute of Public Administration on the broader theme “Developed India and the Media.”

Prof Rasool emphasized that achieving India’s 2047 vision—including poverty eradication, universal education, and equitable access to resources—requires a media ecosystem that is fair, impartial, and committed to truth. He noted that without transparent reporting and accountability, governance reforms and social initiatives cannot achieve their full impact.
Former advisor Khursheed Ahmad Ganai (IAS Retd) supported Rasool’s views, stressing that India’s development vision also depends on social cohesion, robust education, and efficient governance. Ganai underscored that Jammu and Kashmir must actively participate in this journey, ensuring citizens enjoy access to comparable facilities and opportunities.
Professor Rasool further stressed that the media acts as a watchdog, holding governments accountable and enabling corrective measures. “A transparent, informed, and impartial media is indispensable to guide India toward sustainable growth and social harmony,” he said.
The lecture drew participation from academicians, administrators, and media professionals, fostering a meaningful dialogue on the essential link between responsible journalism and national development.