Journalism Shaped My Political Path, Says Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri to HPU Students
Deputy Chief Minister interacting with the students.
Shimla, March 26 — Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri shared insightful experiences from his journalistic journey with a group of students from the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, and Social Work at Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) during their visit to the Himachal Pradesh Assembly today. The students had come to witness the Assembly proceedings and were given a unique opportunity to interact with Agnihotri, who spoke about his early career in journalism and how it influenced his political path.
Agnihotri, who has been a prominent figure in both the media and political arenas, reflected on his days as a journalist, where he was responsible for covering the Assembly sessions. He expressed that his experience in journalism not only provided him with essential reporting skills but also offered him a deep analytical perspective on public affairs, which later proved invaluable in his political career. He noted that the exposure to the workings of government and politics during his time as a reporter laid the foundation for his future roles in public service.
The Role of Journalism in Politics
The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted how journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and political narratives, emphasizing that it helps develop an understanding of the issues that matter most to the people. “Journalism is not just about reporting; it’s about interpreting the stories behind the headlines, analyzing the dynamics of governance, and giving people the information they need to make informed decisions,” Agnihotri explained.
He also spoke about the vital role that journalists play in holding political leaders accountable and ensuring transparency in government functioning. His words served as an encouragement for the students to pursue journalism with integrity and a strong sense of responsibility toward society.
Commitment to Education and Youth Welfare
Agnihotri took the opportunity to discuss the state government’s initiatives to bolster the education sector in Himachal Pradesh. He assured the students that the state government is committed to strengthening educational infrastructure and ensuring that students receive world-class facilities to support their academic growth.
He specifically mentioned schemes like the Sukh Shiksha Yojana, which aims to improve the quality of education at the primary and secondary levels, and the Dr. Y.S. Parmar Student Loan Scheme, which provides financial assistance to students pursuing higher education abroad. Agnihotri stressed the importance of these initiatives in empowering youth and giving them the tools to succeed in an increasingly globalized world.
Furthermore, the Deputy Chief Minister highlighted efforts to increase employment opportunities for the youth, both within the state and abroad. He encouraged the students to seize these opportunities and build careers that contribute meaningfully to society. “Your hard work today will lay the foundation for a brighter future, not only for yourselves but for the nation as well,” Agnihotri told the aspiring students.
Inspiration for Future Journalists and Social Workers
Agnihotri’s interaction with the students was not only an eye-opener for those interested in journalism but also for those pursuing social work. The session provided valuable insights into the intersections of media, politics, and social issues, inspiring students to think critically about their roles in shaping the future of the country.
Present at the event were Dr. Shashi Kant Sharma, Head of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at HPU, and Dr. Anupama Bharti, Associate Professor in the Department of Social Work and a senior journalist. Both educators expressed their gratitude to Agnihotri for sharing his journey and motivating the students to contribute to the development of the nation.
In conclusion, Agnihotri’s interaction with the students was a motivating experience, showcasing how journalism can serve as a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in public service, while also offering practical advice on how students can harness their education to shape the future of their communities and the country.
Continuing the achievement of the journey of effectiveness and credibility of more than 10 years in the career of journalism, as a woman journalist, I am Serving as the founder, promoter and editor of DiaryTimes with the trust and support of all. My credible coverage may not have given a big shape to the numbers, but my journey presents articles that make you aware of the exact and meaningful situations of Himachal’s politics, ground issues related to the public, business, tourism and the difficult geographical conditions of the state and financial awareness. DiaryTimes, full of the experience of my precise editorial expertise, is awakening the flame of credible journalism among all of you, so that the eternal flame of meaningful change can be lit in the life of the people of the state and the atrocities being committed against the people can be brought to the fore, I am motivated for that. If even a small change comes with the power of my journalism and the whole world becomes a witness to that issues, then I will consider myself fortunate.
