Gangtok, October 17 (IPR):
The Inter Media Publicity Coordination Committee (IMPCC) meeting for the month of October 2025 was convened today by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Gangtok, at the Composite Regional Centre for Skill Development, Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities in Assam Lingzey.
The programme was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police, Pakyong, Ms Paru Ruchal, Director, Information and Public Relations Department, Mr Sunil K Mothay, Cluster Head, DDK Gangtok/AIR Gangtok, Mr Neeraj K Pandey, Assistant Director, PIB, Mr Manas Pratim Sarma, along with representatives from various central and state government departments, media units, and agencies.
The session began with a brief overview of the previous IMPCC meeting held on July 15, 2025, at IPRD, Gangtok, followed by a review of the ongoing publicity initiatives and inter-departmental coordination mechanisms.
Various central and state agencies shared updates on their programmes and outreach activities scheduled for the upcoming months.
A major focus of the meeting was on strategising effective media coverage and dissemination plans for government schemes and developmental activities, with particular emphasis on inclusive communication and outreach in remote areas.
The representatives also discussed ways to strengthen coordination between the IPRD, PIB, and other media units to ensure timely and accurate dissemination of government information.
In line with the meeting, World White Cane Day was also observed at the venue to raise awareness on the rights, safety, and independence of persons with visual impairments.
In her brief address, SSP Pakyong, Ms Ruchal, urged all stakeholders and media representatives to extend greater media coverage and public awareness on issues concerning persons with disabilities.
She emphasised the importance of early identification and intervention in addressing special needs and highlighted the crucial role of community sensitisation in creating an inclusive society.
She also spoke on the need to collectively dispel stigma and misconceptions associated with disabilities, encouraging empathy, understanding, and equal participation for all.
Director, IPRD, Mr Mothay, in his address, highlighted the key functions and technical aspects of the department, particularly its role in information dissemination, media coordination, and public outreach.
He elaborated on the department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen communication channels between the government and the public through effective use of both traditional and digital media platforms.
He further assured that the IPR Department would extend all necessary support and cooperation to ensure timely and impactful coverage of government initiatives and inter-departmental activities across the state.
Cluster Head, DDK Gangtok/AIR Gangtok, Mr Pandey, also encouraged the effective use of electronic media and assured continued support and cooperation from DDK and AIR Gangtok in future publicity efforts.
Furthermore, participants appreciated the initiative of PIB Gangtok for organising the meeting in conjunction with the observance of World White Cane Day.
The observance highlighted the significance of the white cane as a symbol of mobility, empowerment and independence, said Director, CRC Sikkim, Ms Pushpanjali Gupta.
It was also informed that the next IMPCC meeting will be held in January 2026.