IIM Nagpur Hosts Media Conclave 2025 on ‘Role of Media in Viksit Bharat 2047’
Nagpur, August 31, 2025, | The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Nagpur organised its first-ever Media Conclave 2025 on the theme “Role of Media in Viksit Bharat 2047.” The event brought together leading voices from the media industry, academia, and thought leadership to deliberate on the media’s role in shaping India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation by 2047.
The conclave was inaugurated by Chief Guest Shri Shashi Shekhar Vempati, Co-Founder of DeepTech for Bharat Foundation (AI4India.org) and former CEO of Prasar Bharati (Doordarshan & All India Radio), along with Dr. Bhimaraya Metri, Director of IIM Nagpur.
The inaugural session was also graced by prominent media leaders including Shri Anuj Singhal (Managing Editor, CNBC Awaaz), Shri Rakesh Khar (Editor – English Cluster, TV9 Network), Shri Pratap Somvanshi (Managing Editor, Hindustan Hindi Daily), and Shri Neeraj Thakur (Editor, Outlook Business). Faculty members of IIM Nagpur, including Prof. Yatish Joshi, (Chairperson – Brand & Media), Prof. Prashant Gupta (Dean – Faculty & Academics), Prof. Sujit Kumar Sharma (Dean – Research & PhD), Prof. Shailendra Nigam, Prof. Rakesh Gupta, Prof. Devashis Rath, Prof. Debarun Chakraborty, Prof. Apoorv Khare, Prof. Deepmala Baghel and Prof. Ranjitha GP were also present.
Chief Guest Shri Shashi Shekhar Vempati described this as India’s moment, emphasizing that the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 hinges on the choices we make today. He pointed out that the demographic dividend is short-lived, urging strategic action for long-term growth and global leadership. Speaking on the role of media, he said freedom of expression must go hand in hand with national sovereignty and warned against external influences. “Media must put the nation first,” he asserted. He also highlighted the need for positive storytelling, trust-based journalism, and leveraging technology for the public good, citing innovations like DD Free Dish and AI collaborations during his tenure at Prasar Bharati. Addressing students, he advised them to keep learning, practice empathy, and strive for excellence.
Welcoming the dignitaries, Dr. Bhimaraya Metri, Director of IIM Nagpur, called the conclave a first of its kind and significant moment for the institute and the media fraternity. He said the theme of Viksit Bharat 2047 reflects India’s aspiration to become a developed nation, with media playing a vital role in shaping public opinion and driving innovation. Highlighting India’s rise from a $1 trillion economy in 2007 to over $4.3 trillion today, he noted that the 21st century belongs to India, and the media will be central to this journey. He also outlined IIM Nagpur’s achievements in cybersecurity, sustainability, leadership programs, and its expansion plans to new campuses in Pune, Goa, Hyderabad, and Singapore.
The First Panel on the theme “Media as a Catalyst for Vikshit Bharat @ 2047” was moderated by Prof. Prashant Gupta (Dean, Faculty & academics, IIM Nagpur). The panellist from the first panel said:
Anuj Singhal (CNBC Awaaz) said the media today faces a challenge of polarization. He stressed the need for balance and constructive criticism, while ensuring a positive outlook. According to him, this approach will strengthen public trust in journalism.
Rakesh Khar (TV9 Network) urged the industry to move beyond the traditional “3Cs” Cinema, Comedy, and Crime. He introduced the concept of “7Cs”: Context, Credibility, Constitutionality, Confidence, Creativity, Constructive Criticism, and Collaboration. These are essential for a progressive media ecosystem, he said.
Pratap Somvanshi (Hindustan Hindi) highlighted that without rural inclusion, Viksit Bharat cannot be achieved. He emphasized the responsibility of the media to amplify rural voices and drive meaningful dialogue. This is critical for balanced national growth, he said.
Neeraj Thakur (Outlook Business) pointed out the importance of editorial independence. He underlined the importance of strong research and global credibility for Indian media. These factors will help counter biased Western narratives, he noted.
The session was concluded by Prof. Prashant Gupta, who summarized the key insights shared during the discussion and highlighted the importance of balanced, credible, and inclusive media in shaping an informed society.
The Second Panel on the theme “Media empowering countries and enterprises” was moderated by Prof. Yatish Joshi. The panellist from the second panel said:
Shailesh Pande (Chief Editor – Tarun Bharat) stressed that vernacular media is the soul of India. He predicted that as Gen-Z matures, print media will regain its prominence. According to him, print offers depth and reflection unmatched by digital formats.
Partha Maitra (Resident Editor – Times of India) said it is time to live the Indian dream instead of chasing the American dream. He called for a confident and assertive Indian media voice. This will shape India’s global narrative effectively, he stated.
Manikant Soni (Editor – Dainik Bhaskar) emphasized that the media should return to being an unbiased mirror of society. He cautioned against filters and distortions in news reporting. Objectivity is key to public trust, he said.
In his inaugural overview and vote of thanks, Prof. Yatish Joshi highlighted the conclave’s goal of exploring the media’s role in India’s growth, nation-building, and global presence, and thanked all the distinguished guests for making the event a success.