Waari Singbul Recognised for Credible Digital Journalism at Manipur's First Digital Journalism Awards 2026

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 29, 2026,  Imphal  :In a momentous recognition of its steadfast commitment to responsible journalism, the digital media platform Waari Singbul, a project of the Win Foundation, clinched the title of Best Credible Digital Media Page/Channel at the 1st Manipur Update Digital Journalism Awards 2026. The prestigious awards ceremony was held on January 29 at Sangai Hall, Imphal, as part of the 1st Manipur Digital Media Conclave, under the theme “Beyond Silence”.

The awards, which were instituted to honour outstanding achievements in digital journalism, were presented in five categories to individuals and platforms that have made significant contributions to the field of digital storytelling. Waari Singbul received the Best Credible Digital Media Page/Channel Award in recognition of its consistent delivery of responsible, regionally focused journalism, marking a key moment for digital media in Manipur.

Among other notable winners at the event, Vangamla Salle KS of EastMojo was named Digital Journalist of the Year, while Naorem Tanoranjan of Ichel News Network earned the Promising Digital Journalist Award. The Jury’s Choice Digital Journalism Award went to Rebika Moirangthem of HY News. In addition, Sobhapati Samom, a veteran journalist and the founder-editor of Manipur Update, was honoured with the Distinguished Service in Digital Journalism Award 2026 for his lifelong dedication to the media landscape in Manipur.

The ceremony was a significant moment in the broader Manipur Digital Media Conclave, which brought together key stakeholders from the digital media world to discuss emerging trends, the responsibilities of digital journalism, and the challenges of the modern media environment. During his address as the Chief Guest, Ahanthem Subash Singh, Director of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Manipur, remarked on the seismic shift in journalism, emphasising that while the speed of digital reporting has revolutionised information dissemination, it also amplifies the responsibility to report truthfully and swiftly.

Subash Singh stressed the dangers of sensationalism and monetisation-driven journalism, calling for a greater emphasis on verified, independent news rather than chasing views and likes. He warned of the long-term damage caused by unverified reports, which can damage reputations and erode public trust, urging journalists to adhere to ethical standards and resist the temptation to prioritise viral content over accuracy. He further proposed the introduction of a Journalism Award for Effective Coverage of Public Welfare Schemes, which he expressed his willingness to sponsor in order to promote awareness of governmental initiatives.

Ng. Uttam Singh, Joint Secretary of the Hills & Tribal Affairs Department and former Director of IPR, delivered a stirring address, recognising the pivotal role of digital media in modern society. He highlighted the widespread reliance on digital platforms as a primary source of information, cautioning that the influence of social media must be handled with care to prevent the spread of misinformation. Singh also advocated for future conclaves to engage with those who have been harmed by irresponsible journalism to ensure that digital media serves its purpose of educating and informing the public responsibly.

The event also featured several technical sessions aimed at deepening understanding of the evolving role of digital media. These sessions included presentations by Pradip Phanjoubam, Editor of Imphal Review of Arts and Politics, who explored the paradigm shift from traditional to new media, and Diren A. Sadokpam, independent researcher and Editor-in-Chief of The Frontier Manipur, who discussed the role of digital media in conflict resolution and peace-building.

Irengbam Arun, Senior Editor and jury member, shared insights into the high calibre of submissions for the awards, remarking on the promising entries received and the growing professionalism within the digital journalism landscape. Arun noted that with the right mentorship, emerging journalists could further elevate the standards of the industry.

Other notable figures attending the event included Asem Bhakta Singh, President of the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU), alongside senior journalists, media representatives, and digital content creators from across the state as the guests of honour. The event not only recognised outstanding achievements in the digital journalism field but also fostered valuable discussions about the future of responsible and ethical digital reporting in Manipur and beyond.

The 1st Manipur Digital Media Conclave 2026 and the Digital Journalism Awards have made a significant impact on strengthening the ethical foundations of the region’s digital media ecosystem, inspiring journalists to be accountable, transparent, and, most importantly, truthful in their reporting. As the industry continues to evolve, the emphasis on credibility and integrity remains at the forefront, ensuring that digital media can continue to serve as a powerful force for good in the modern world.