Former Chief Secretary Dr SK Joshi has observed that the G20 presidency has provided a golden opportunity for India to correct the international narrative created by western media against it.
The ex-official spoke at a gathering on the occasion National Public Relations Day organised by the Public Relations Society of India-Hyderabad chapter (PRSI), in collaboration with the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) and Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) on Friday.
Addressing public relations and corporate communications professionals and journalism faculty and students, Dr SK Joshi said that in the VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous) world PR professionals should give confidence to people by infusing positivity. He observed that a series of meetings organised as part of G20 helped the country to showcase its rich culture, heritage and value system. “But we need to have a permanent mechanism to counter the negative narrative against India.” Dr Joshi appreciated the PRSI leadership for having chosen a theme of international importance as this year’s theme, ‘G20-Indian Values and PR Perspectives’.
The guest of honour, Prof. K Stevenson, Dean, Social Sciences, Osmania University, said that G20 provided an opportunity for public diplomacy in an unprecedented way. Given the VUCA situation, he said that PR professionals should be agile to spread good in the society. “So much toxity is around us. Social media is further vitiating the atmosphere. PR professionals should gear up to spread good,” he said.
Dr Ramu, Chairman PRSI-Hyderabad Chapter, who presided, said that PR is the most misunderstood word in day-to-day conversations. “The entire world revolves around relations and life is all about the art of balancing our relationships with others. Good that business establishments, corporates and NGOs have realised the importance of PR for image building and reputation management. The art and science of public relations is key for the success of individuals and institutions,” Dr Ramu added.
Later, Dr Joshi gave away certificates of appreciation to those who participated in the contest conducted for YouTubers on the theme of the National PR Day. K Yadagiri, secretary, PRSI, proposed a vote of thanks.
