Exceptional Role of Newspapers in Development
Short Questions with Answers
1. Who delivered the speech “Exceptional Role of Newspapers in Development” ?
Answer : K.R. Narayanan.
2. What occasion was the speech delivered for?
Answer : The Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of the Indian Newspaper Society.
3. Who is called the Father of the Indian Renaissance?
Answer : Raja Rammohun Roy.
4. What did Raja Rammohun Roy say about the Press?
Answer : He said, “The Press is the vehicle of intelligence.”
5. What has been called the greatest invention of the last two millennia?
Answer : The printing press.
6. How did the Indian Newspaper Society originate?
Answer : It started during wartime to fight for newsprint.
7. What does K.R. Narayanan say about the printed word?
Answer : It is a soul-stirring instrument.
8. How does Narayanan describe newspapers in India?
Answer : They are large in size, circulation, and influence.
9. What is the main competition for print media today?
Answer : Electronic media.
10. Why are newspapers called part and parcel of life?
Answer : They are essential for starting the day and spreading information.
11. What is the universal experience mentioned about the printed word?
Answer : Reading evokes a deeper reaction than other media.
12. Which Indian newspaper does Narayanan mention as successful?
Answer : Malayala Manorama.
13. What example does Narayanan give of trivialization by the press?
Answer : Highlighting a cat fashion show over the Khajuraho Festival.
14. Why does Narayanan emphasize resisting trivialization in newspapers?
Answer : To preserve cultural identity.
15. How has print media responded in India compared to the U.S.?
Answer : It has grown rapidly in circulation and influence.
16. What role did newspapers play in India’s freedom movement?
Answer : They were a crucial part of the campaign for independence.
17. What does Narayanan suggest newspapers should cultivate?
Answer : Values and the culture of the country.
18. What does Narayanan admire about language newspapers in India?
Answer : Their circulation has exceeded that of national newspapers.
19. Why is the freedom of the press important?
Answer : It ensures democracy and spreads intelligence.
20. What is Narayanan’s hope for the future of newspapers?
Answer : That they act responsibly to serve society.
Medium Questions with Answers
1. What does Narayanan mean by saying “the printed word is a soul-stirring instrument” ?
Answer : Narayanan means that reading printed words deeply affects the heart and mind. It creates a personal connection, unlike videos or oral presentations. This makes newspapers powerful tools for spreading knowledge and emotions.
2. Why does Narayanan call the printing press the greatest invention?
Answer : The printing press allowed ideas to reach many people, transforming communication and education. It helped spread knowledge widely and shaped modern society. Narayanan sees it as a foundation for human progress.
3. How have Indian newspapers grown over time?
Answer : Indian newspapers have expanded in number and readers, unlike in countries like America where circulation is declining. They connect people with news and cultural values, becoming a daily habit. This shows their importance in Indian life.
4. What is Narayanan’s complaint about some newspapers?
Answer : Narayanan criticizes newspapers for focusing on unimportant stories, like a cat fashion show, over meaningful events like the Khajuraho Festival. This trivialization harms their credibility. He urges them to prioritize cultural and significant news.
5. What role did Malayala Manorama play in journalism?
Answer : Malayala Manorama fought for press freedom and overcame challenges to become one of India’s largest newspapers. Its journey symbolizes the power of truth and responsible reporting. Narayanan praises its role in journalism.
6. Why are newspapers important in daily life?
Answer : Newspapers are a regular part of life, bringing news, opinions, and cultural stories. They help people stay informed and connected with the world. This makes them essential for starting the day.
7. What does Narayanan say about the competition between print and electronic media?
Answer : He believes newspapers are more impactful than videos or TV because they create a deeper connection. However, print media must innovate to remain relevant. Despite competition, he thinks newspapers will continue to be important.
8. Why does Narayanan want newspapers to avoid trivialization?
Answer : Focusing on silly stories takes away attention from meaningful news and harms cultural values. Narayanan urges newspapers to resist this trend. By doing so, they can preserve their respect and significance.
9. How have newspapers helped India grow?
Answer : Newspapers were crucial during the freedom movement, spreading ideas and uniting people. Today, they educate, inform, and connect citizens with important issues. Their growth reflects their role in India’s development.
10. Why are language newspapers important in India?
Answer : Language newspapers reach more people than national dailies and connect deeply with local cultures. They help preserve traditions while spreading news. This makes them vital for regional and national communication.
11. What is the connection between newspapers and culture?
Answer : Newspapers share stories about cultural events and traditions, helping preserve heritage. They link modern times with the past and remind people of their roots. This role strengthens societal values.
12. Why is press freedom important?
Answer : Press freedom ensures people get truthful information and can question authority. It allows open discussions and protects democracy. Without it, societies risk misinformation and oppression.
13. What challenges do newspapers face today?
Answer : Newspapers face competition from electronic media and must avoid focusing on unimportant stories. Yet, their growth in India shows their strength. They must balance innovation with journalistic integrity.
14. What is Narayanan’s view of the future for newspapers?
Answer : He hopes newspapers will act responsibly and focus on meaningful news. By preserving culture and adapting to changes, they can stay relevant. Narayanan believes their role in society will remain vital.
15. What does Narayanan suggest to improve the press?
Answer : He suggests newspapers focus on real, significant stories instead of trivial ones. This will help them maintain their respect and value in society. Responsible journalism ensures trust and cultural preservation.
Long Questions with Answers
1. What does Narayanan say about the role of newspapers?
Answer : He says newspapers share knowledge, connect people, and guide public opinion. They also help preserve culture and spread values. During the freedom movement, they united people and inspired them to fight for independence. Even now, newspapers are important for a strong society.
2. What does Narayanan say about the difference between print and electronic media?
Answer : He thinks newspapers give a deeper and lasting message than videos or TV. Reading involves the heart and mind more strongly. Even with competition, he believes print media will remain important. He says newspapers should improve to meet modern needs while keeping their traditional strengths.
3. What does Narayanan say about Malayala Manorama?
Answer : He praises Malayala Manorama for fighting for press freedom. It faced challenges but grew into one of the largest newspapers in India. Its success shows the power of good journalism. It is an example of how newspapers can stand for truth and values.
4. How did newspapers help India’s freedom movement?
Answer : Newspapers spread the message of freedom and united people. Leaders like Raja Rammohun Roy used them to inspire change and fight injustice. They were the voice of the movement and brought people together. Even today, their legacy is important for India’s progress.
5. What does Narayanan like and dislike about newspapers?
Answer : He admires their growth and influence in India but dislikes when they focus on silly stories. He wants them to report meaningful news and preserve culture. He believes newspapers can balance their responsibilities and still succeed.
6. Why does Narayanan think newspapers are a big part of Indian life?
Answer : Newspapers are a daily habit for many Indians, bringing news and ideas. They are important for education, culture, and public opinion. Unlike in other countries, newspapers in India continue to grow. They play an important role in connecting people to what matters.
7. How do newspapers help protect culture?
Answer : Newspapers report on cultural events and traditions, helping people remember their roots. By sharing these stories, they preserve cultural identity. Narayanan believes this responsibility makes newspapers important for society.
8. What is Narayanan’s hope for newspapers in the future?
Answer : He hopes newspapers stay responsible and helpful to society. They should preserve values, educate people, and protect culture. Even with challenges, Narayanan believes they will remain important. By balancing change with tradition, newspapers can continue their good work.
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