Information Minister Urges District Info Officers to Embrace Digitalization and Combat Misinformation

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has stated that in a rapidly changing IT-driven world, the traditional operations of District Information Officers must be integrated into modern communication systems. He emphasized that to deliver government development projects and welfare initiatives—especially disaster-related updates—rapidly, accurately, and reliably to the public, District Information Officers need to become more active in digital platforms. At the same time, keeping the flow of information clean and dependable by combating misinformation and disinformation remains one of the primary responsibilities of the Ministry of Information.

He made these remarks on Tuesday, 14 July during a virtual exchange meeting with District Information Officers on disaster management, held in the conference room of the Ministry of Information. State Minister for Information Yasir Khan Chowdhury and the Prime Minister's Advisor on Information and Broadcasting Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman were also present at the meeting.

The Information Minister remarked that in the present era, information is as essential to human life as oxygen. Ensuring that the public receives correct information easily and quickly is a responsibility of the state, just as preventing the spread of misleading information is a critical duty of the government. Therefore, every official and staff member of the ministry must work proactively to keep the flow of information dynamic, open, and accurate. He added that conducting field operations, data collection, reporting, and public communication through modern digital systems is the need of the hour.

The Minister noted that in the past, the main duty of District Information Officers was to conduct awareness campaigns using projectors and publicity vehicles. While that traditional approach still holds value, digital communication must be given the highest priority under modern realities. Officials must utilize social media and other digital channels more effectively to connect with local communities. The Minister cautioned that failing to present government initiatives to the public on time could create a gap between the government and its citizens, paving the way for confusion. He directed the Department of Mass Communication and the Press Information Department (PID) to collaborate daily to collect, coordinate, and disseminate disaster management updates.

State Minister for Information Yasir Khan Chowdhury observed that while many activities of the ministry may not be outwardly visible, their impact is vital. He stressed the importance of launching an online dashboard or a digital portal to ensure regular updates on disaster-related information so that everyone involved can access the latest updates at any time.

The Prime Minister's Advisor on Information and Broadcasting, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman, highlighted that disaster-related data needs to be more specific, analytical, and evidence-backed. He urged District Information Officers to gather detailed information regarding local damage, region-specific situations, and potential risks.

During the meeting, the latest updates on rainfall, floods, and relief distribution received from various district offices were presented. Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farjana, Principal Information Officer Syeda Abdal Ahmad, Director General of the Department of Mass Communication Md. Abdul Jalil, along with other senior ministry officials and district information officers, participated in the discussion.
//DBTech/IHIP/SME//