Print media’s existence is under threat, but writing with a pen never dies: Senior Journalist Sohail Kazmi
Shoukat Sahil
Jammu: Senior Journalist of Jammu and Kashmir and Editor-in-Chief of Daily Taskeen, Sohail Kazmi said that it is the need of the hour for the journalists associated with Urdu Journalism to be in tune with modern Journalism. However, he also said: “In this era of digital media, the print media is facing serious threats. But writing with a pen never dies.”
In an Exclusive Interview with Asian Mail’s Editor-In-Chief Rashid Rahil, Sohail Kazmi, said, “There is no denying the fact that digital and social media are causing problems for the print media. But as far as the quality of journalism is concerned, it’s still in the print media. There is a difference between print media and digital media.”
He added, “I believe that writing is not for everyone, whether the writer is small or big, bad or good. Whatever one writes, it is written with conviction, and an attempt is made to minimize mistakes. That’s why I believe writing is the certificate of history.”
Kazmi emphasized, “Journalists associated with Urdu Journalism should raise their standards” because quality is recognized. He noted that life is a challenge, and hard work will bring success. “We should focus on quality and good work instead of getting disappointed.”
Responding to a question, Sohail Kazmi said, ‘Content based on documents always goes into the background of history. That is, written with a pen, it never dies; it is quoted somewhere. It is also mentioned in the next ten generations.”
He expressed concern that very few people in Jammu and Kashmir are aware of practical Journalism. “In fact, only 5% of people know about practical Journalism.”
Sohail Kazmi noted that the print media or newspaper industry in Jammu and Kashmir is solely dependent on government advertisements. “Government advertisements form the backbone of newspaper advertising. In 2014, the slogan of digital media was raised, but no attention was paid to keeping the print media alive.”
He emphasized the need for credible and quality journalism, saying, “I am firm that only credible and quality journalism will move forward.” Sohail Kazmi also stressed the importance of widening the scope of the Information Department for young people graduating from colleges and universities by studying journalism.
Kazmi suggested that media houses need to be strengthened at the local level to provide a platform for educated youth. He also advised the present government to formulate a comprehensive policy for local media houses.
When asked about his background, Sohail Kazmi revealed that he is a law graduate who chose to pursue journalism instead. Despite facing many difficulties, he successfully completed four decades in the field of Journalism.
