The inaugural Hill Myna Media Conclave 2026 was held on 7 October at the Moreau Institute of Integral Training and Research Society in Meghalaya. Organised by Hill Myna Magazine, the event focused on the theme “On‑Ground Reporting in Northeast India” and brought together journalists, media professionals, government officials, students and emerging voices to discuss the challenges and demands of field reporting in the region.
India Today NE journalist Tanmoy Chakraborty was one of three Northeast Indian journalists honoured for their contributions to journalism. The other awardees were Soma Basu, Senior Deputy Editor at The Hindu; Michaeljit Yumnam, a seasoned news and digital media reporter; and Imkonglemba Ao, Principal Correspondent at The Morung Express. Each speaker highlighted the importance of first‑hand reporting, verification and an understanding of local contexts. Basu stressed that credibility comes from engaging multiple sources, while Yumnam urged reporters to be present at incidents to move beyond second‑hand accounts. Ao emphasised physical presence over remote information, noting that on‑ground work strengthens professional skills.
Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills district, Abhilash Baranwal, delivered the chief‑guest address, underscoring the media’s duty to provide accurate and relevant information. The programme also featured an interactive audience session titled “The Room Speaks” and presented the Northeast Writers Award 2026 to regional literary voices.
Lakshmi Kharkongor, Director Media and Editor of Hill Myna Magazine, highlighted the publication’s impact through sustained reader engagement and stories that focus on people and meaningful change. The conclave represents Hill Myna Media’s initiative to create a platform for discussions on journalism, storytelling and regional perspectives across Northeast India.
