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Journalism of Courage
We don8217;t claim to convert, but aim to create an awareness for favourable attitude,8221; announces Col V N Tambekar retd, Joint Director, Field Publicity Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa. The branch of publicity with its 271 field units and 22 registered offices is engaged in the task of publicising various programmes and policies of the government. Particularly noteworthy is their work for AIDS awareness and the recognition of the role of women in the national progress that has led to sustained and effective campaigning in these areas.
8220;It has been difficult to reach people in rural areas because most of them are not interested. And then there is the danger of antagonising them with unfamiliar ideas,8221; says Tambekar. This calls for a diplomatic and cautious approach. It is no wonder then that most of the field workers are intensively trained to ensure that the campaigning meets its target. Another difficulty, maintains Tambekar, is that people are liable to misconstrue and perceive government communication stereotypically 8211; mostly with an air of disinterest.
The campaign is targeted at an audience that is categorised into students, women, anganwadi sevikas and opinion leaders like gramsevaks and sarpanchs. Also involved are NGOs, panchayat samitis, truck drivers associations, Lions and Rotary clubs, NSS and the Mahila Sanstha. A gathering is organised and a discussion ensues. There are talks by the field workers and sometimes an expert contributes. This is followed by a discussion and the village people are encouraged to participate. 8220;We welcome resistance because we know that the person has started thinking about these issues. Many a time we find that women are shy to speak in public. They linger around after the talk and approach us with questions. This is an encouragement for the efforts we take,8221; adds Tambekar.
He is also quick to point out that there is an increasing awareness and curiosity among the younger generation on information related to sex. As a result college students have formed groups to interact through discussions and street plays with their peers. The field workers also conduct quizzes, poster competitions, photo exhibitions and film shows. The creative response from the children shows a deep awareness and concern for the problems.
8220;Our aim is to disseminate information in many ways to as many people as possible,8221; says Tambekar, 8220;and we are satisfied if we have helped change and save a few lives8221;.
