Bhubaneswar (Pratap Prusty): The Odia daily Utkal Mail on Saturday organized the ‘South Odisha Media Conclave–2026’ at the Revenue Bungalow premises at Berhampur, bringing together journalists, editors, and digital media professionals from across the southern districts of Odisha. The conclave, chaired by Ganjam district correspondent Rakesh Sadangi, was inaugurated by Dr. Pitabas Mishra, president of the Indian Organisation of Working Journalists (IOWJ), who lit the ceremonial lamp and offered floral tributes to Lord Jagannath. Among other dignitaries present were IOWJ state president Bhagabat Tripathy, Bhubaneswar president Hrushikesh Mohanty, editor Kali Singh, and Nabina Patrika editor Ravi Rath, along with representatives of MPs and MLAs. Speakers highlighted key issues concerning the media landscape, including press freedom, ethical journalism, and the evolving challenges in the digital era. The conclave witnessed participation of over 100 journalists and media representatives from districts such as Ganjam, Gajapati, Kandhamal, Koraput, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, and Malkangiri. Deliberations stressed the need for prioritizing grassroots reporting, particularly in sectors like agriculture, fisheries, education, and rural livelihoods. A special session titled “LPG Black Marketing in Ganjam: Issues and Solutions” was also held, focusing on the growing concern over illegal gas distribution and its socio-economic impact. Participants underscored that black marketing of essential commodities like LPG is not merely an administrative lapse but a serious social issue requiring collective intervention. Addressing the gathering, Utkal Mail editor Mishra said, “It is our responsibility to bring the issues of South Odisha to the state and national platforms. The media must act as a bridge between the people and the system to ensure accountability and solutions.” Senior journalists and organizers were felicitated on the occasion. The event was coordinated with the support of local media members, including Tutu Mahapatra, Abhaya Padhi, Asit Panda, Surya Mishra, Jayakrishna Das, Debi Prasad Mishra, Satyajit Mohapatra, Prasana Swain, Manas Sahu, Santosh Choudhury, Ashok Nayak, Ravi Dora, and Nir Sethy, among others.
