Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has taken a strong step toward promoting inclusivity. He launched a study that focuses on Puroik media visibility, a long-overlooked issue. This research, conducted by Rajiv Gandhi University, highlights how the Puroik community remains largely invisible in mainstream media.
Following the launch, Khandu pledged to revise state policies. He aims to ensure that the Puroik people receive both representation and opportunities for growth.
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Study Reveals Gaps in Tribal Media Coverage
The research is titled “Media Representation and Social Integration of the Puroik Community.” The Department of Mass Communication at Rajiv Gandhi University conducted the study.
It found that the Puroik community appears rarely in regional newspapers, radio, or television. This lack of coverage contributes to their isolation. Although they are officially recognized as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), they still struggle to receive the attention they deserve.
The report also noted that other tribes in Arunachal receive regular media attention. In contrast, the Puroiks often remain in the shadows, excluded from important social conversations.
CM Khandu Responds with Action
Chief Minister Khandu praised the research team for their detailed work. He stated clearly that Puroik media visibility needs to improve for true tribal development to happen.
“If a community is not visible in media, it also becomes invisible in policymaking,” he said. With that, he instructed the Department of Social Justice and Tribal Affairs to collaborate with media bodies and academic institutions. Their goal will be to enhance tribal stories, especially those involving the Puroiks.
Khandu also encouraged journalism schools to include tribal representation studies in their curriculum. According to him, this will help future media professionals report with fairness and depth.
H2: Concrete Plans to Boost Puroik Media Visibility
To support his words with action, CM Khandu announced a clear roadmap. This plan involves new initiatives to improve Puroik media visibility at every level:
- Media Training for Puroik Youth:
The state will launch training workshops for Puroik youth. These sessions will cover photography, video editing, and digital storytelling. Young people from the community will learn how to tell their own stories. - Support for Tribal Coverage:
Media outlets that regularly cover Puroik news will receive financial and editorial support. This will include grants for tribal-focused journalism and awards for best reporting. - Space in Public Media:
State-run radio and TV will dedicate fixed slots to feature Puroik news and culture. Print media will also create space for their voices. - Expansion of Community Radio:
New community radio stations will launch in areas where the Puroik people live. These platforms will allow locals to share news in their own language and style.
All these steps aim to empower the Puroik community. More importantly, they will give them tools to become visible in public discussions.
Policy Reforms Alongside Media Action
In addition to media visibility, Khandu emphasized the need for policy-level changes. The government will review schemes related to education, healthcare, land rights, and livelihood.
Although the Puroik people fall under the Scheduled Tribe category, their access to basic services remains limited. Many still live in remote areas with poor connectivity and few schools or clinics.
Khandu said future policies must consider the cultural identity and practical needs of the Puroik people. Moreover, he promised that the government will consult community elders and leaders during planning.
H2: A New Chapter for the Puroik Community
This focus on Puroik media visibility could open a new chapter for the community. For decades, they have been excluded from conversations that shape public opinion and government action.
Now, they have a chance to present their culture, challenges, and successes on their own terms. As visibility increases, so will opportunities. Puroik youth can grow into storytellers, educators, and leaders for the next generation.
This initiative also sets an example for other states. When visibility improves, so does equality. Through consistent media presence, tribal communities can gain access to rights and recognition that have long been denied.
Inclusion Through Visibility
CM Khandu’s actions send a clear message. He believes that representation leads to inclusion. His plan to improve Puroik media visibility is not just about publicity—it’s about justice.
The steps he has proposed cover both media and policy reforms. This dual approach ensures that the Puroik community can grow with dignity and equality. If implemented fully, this effort can help build a truly inclusive Arunachal Pradesh—one where every voice counts.
With support from educators, journalists, and community members, this campaign could transform the way India sees its tribal communities.
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