Media: Bridging the Gap Between Science and Society

Media works like a bridge between Science and Society

Science & Technology and Communicators Conclave inaugurated by Dr Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma, National Organising Secretary, Vijnana Bharati in the presence of Dr. Manoj Kumar Patairiya, former Director, CSIR-NISCAIR and Dr. K. Ramesha, Director, CSIR-CECRI. 

Media: Bridging the Gap Between Science and Society

Issues of the Employment News periodical and Science India magazine were released by these guests in the S&T Media Conclave, an event of India International Science Festival 2024. This largest science festival in India is being organized at IIT Guwahati during 30th Nov to 3rd Dec 2024.

Introduction of Media conclave was given by Debobrat Ghose and a Brief on the 2 day event was presented by Dr. Rajeev Singh.

Dr. K. Ramesha, Director, CSIR-Central Electro-Chemical Research Institute, in his address said “IISF is a science festival is celebrated with people of the country. 

Media Helps

Media helps to take research into the people. Research done by scientists is mostly understood by research people IISF requests the media to take the research to the public in the creative ways possible such that the public understands the research work. 

Media is the key to communicating the research to the public. I request every media person to take these things to the public.

Dr. Manoj Kumar Patairiya, former Director, CSIR-NISCAIR said, “Science Works as Method (methods of science) which includes curiosity, analysis, experimentation and verification. Same applies to Media, and in this way, the process of Media and science is same.

Dr.Shri ShivKumar Sharma,  National Organising Secretary, Vijnana Bharati said, “I have come to realize that there is a significant gap between understanding and explaining science and technology concepts. 

 The Power of Media

To bridge this gap, we need to communicate complex ideas in a way that's easy for everyone to grasp. This requires a thoughtful approach, considering what we want to convey and how to do so effectively. By developing systematic ways to share science and technology with the public, and leveraging the power of media, we can make significant strides in promoting S&T awareness and understanding."

The conclave included a panel discussion on S&T dissemination in North-East media, featuring experts such as Dr. Arup Misra, Chairman, Pollution Control Board, Assam, Dr. Minaketan Singh, Director, Manipur S&T Council, Dr. Jaideep Baruah, Director, Assam Science Technology, Environment Council and Dr. Davy, Sr Scientific Officer at Mizoram Science Council and Ms GitaliSaikia, Science Journalist.

Lecture by Dr. Yelloji Rao Mirajkar on AahaarKranti:

India's focus on food production and consumption needs to shift from just quantity to quality, ensuring a balanced and healthy diet that addresses the country's malnutrition and health issues. 

Embracing traditional dietary practices, such as the Charaka Ayurvedic diet, and understanding the importance of digestion and nutrition can help Indians make informed food choices and lead healthier lives. 

The difference between Anna and Ahara, Anna is what we take through our mouth ever whereas Ahara is what we enjoy through our senses.

The conclave concluded with a session on S&T coverage in media, featuring interactions among scientists, media professionals, and the public. 

Experts such as Dr K.G. Suresh, Former DG, IIMC, Dr Manoj Patairiya, Shri Devendra Mewari, Dr KN Pandey, DhriPallavBagla, Sh Sameer Ganguli, Shri MarufAlamand Dr Vamsi Krishna, shared their insights on promoting science and technology through media.

A session on science-based feature films was also organised today during Media Conclave.

Several science communicators and students interacted with the experts, leading to a fruitful question-and-answer session that effectively summed up the objectives of the S&T Media Conclave.

Communication

Media facilitates the dissemination of scientific information to the general public, making complex ideas accessible.

Awareness

By reporting on scientific developments, media raises awareness about critical issues like climate change, health, and technology.

Translation

Media acts as a translator, simplifying technical jargon into relatable language for the non-expert audience.

Engagement

Media platforms encourage public interest and involvement in science through interactive content, discussions, and storytelling.

Education

Through documentaries, articles, and educational programs, media serves as a tool to educate society about scientific concepts.

Advocacy

Media campaigns often advocate for policy changes or action based on scientific findings, like environmental conservation or public health measures.

Trust

Reliable media builds trust between scientists and society by presenting accurate and balanced information.

Dialogue

Media fosters a two-way dialogue, allowing scientists to share discoveries and society to voice questions, concerns, and opinions.

Accountability

By reporting on ethical implications and controversies, media ensures transparency and accountability in scientific practices.

Innovation

Media highlights groundbreaking research, inspiring curiosity and innovation within society.

These keywords emphasize the media's pivotal role in bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and societal understanding.

Also Read:

https://youtu.be/1-qRTxDAU8k?si=ahO4w0DxFYZDg7pU

https://www.bodonews.info/2024/11/new-video-india-focuses-on-ease-of.html

Tags: Communication, Awareness, Translation, Engagement, Education, Advocacy, Trust, Dialogue, Accountability, Innovation,