Chandigarh, May 8
The I J Doda Foundation successfully organised the Climate Media Leadership Programme at Chandigarh University. The programme aimed to promote accurate, data-driven and responsible reporting of climate-related issues in the media.
The programme was conducted under the Environment Education Programme, supported by the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India, while the Punjab State Council for Science & Technology was also associated with the initiative.
The one-day programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from journalism students, faculty members, and young media professionals. During the sessions, participants were trained in data-driven reporting, understanding climate issues, and practical approaches to effectively present environmental concerns. During the programme, all participants were also provided with Climate Media Leadership Kits by the I J Doda Foundation.
The programme featured expert insights from Dharminder Sharma IFS, PCCF, HOFF,Punjab, Jonita Doda, Environmentalist and President, I J Doda Foundation; and senior journalist Vijay Brar, Dr. Anup Kumar, HOD TIET. The organisers also extended special thanks for the support of Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Chancellor of Chandigarh University. On this occasion, the “Climate Media Leadership Handbook,” developed by Jonita Doda, was also introduced as a practical guide for media students on responsible climate communication. The handbook is basically to work as a guide for media persons to read AQI and understand the scientific terms or also understand where to source the data when reporting climate news.
Experts also expressed concern over the current environmental situation in Punjab. They highlighted that over 75 per cent of groundwater in the state has been over-exploited, while air pollution (PM2.5 levels) continues to remain alarming. Additionally, pollution in several rivers is adversely affecting public health and agriculture.
Speaking on the occasion, Jonita Doda, Environmentalist and President, I J Doda Foundation, stated that the way environmental issues are reported has a direct impact on public perception and policy decisions, making responsible and accurate reporting extremely important.
More than 150 saplings were also distributed during the programme to promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices. The programme not only provided participants with a deeper understanding of environmental challenges but also inspired them to become informed and responsible media professionals.
