Vartalap, a one-day media workshop, was organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, under the theme SVEEP & Ethics of Election Reporting at Eastgate Hotel, Kohima on 21st January 2023.

Chief Electoral Officer, Nagaland, V Shashank Shekhar, IAS speaking at the media workshop commended the villages who had recently passed resolution not to accept money, liquor or other inducements during the election, and he expressed hope that more villages will take up such resolution.

While pointing out the various measures the government machineries have taken to provide free and fair voting, Shashank reminded that measures taken can be complemented only if voters, citizens, media and all stakeholders come together and provide required information to the enforcement agencies.

The CEO also welcomed the media to share with the Election Commission about any concerns or information that can help in conducting a more free and fair election. 

Deputy Commissioner Kohima, Shanavas C, IAS in his speech said that Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) is very important as Nagaland will be facing elections during the month of February. He encouraged the media to educate the people on free and fair elections and let the people know about their voting franchise. Shanavas stated that the media should be there to give constructive criticism and he hoped that the media can write positive stories or columns which will have an impact on the community.

Assistant Director, PIB Kohima, K. Sonikumar Singh delivered the welcome and keynote address. 

During the technical session, Joint Director, IPR, Asangla Imsong shared on the topic "Checking misinformation specially in social media during elections". She highlighted on click bait, imposter content, biased news, propaganda etc. which are very prevalent on social media platforms. She said that these platforms have become a breeding place for misinformation. Imsong also shared on various past incidents of misinformation on social media. She also spoke on the need to combat fake news and misinformation. 

Joint CEO, Nagaland, Sharon Longchari, spoke on "Dos & Don'ts of election reporting- An ECI perspective". She shared various provisions made for the media by the Election Commission of India. She also highlighted the media guidelines during elections. 

(Wepre, APRO, Tiakumla, IA & Nouneseno, IA)