Shillong, Nov. 30: Meghalaya minister for information and public relations Ampareen Lyngdoh today urged the media to play an important role in building a better society as she expressed concern over the rise of crimes committed against women and children.

In her address during delayed National Press Day celebrations organised here this evening by the Shillong Press Club, in collaboration with the Meghalaya directorate of information and public relations, Lyngdoh lauded the "vibrant" media of the state for achieving many important milestones in the last few decades.

November 16 is observed as National Press Day.

Expressing concern over the rise in crime against women and children, Lyngdoh said the media had an important role to play in building a better society by way of proper and factual dissemination of news and information.

"Sensitive reporting of news pertaining to crimes against women and children is needed, taking into account the welfare and betterment of the society and the state as a whole," she said.

As part of the celebrations, a discussion was moderated by journalist Bidhayak Das. Meghalaya Commission for Protection of Child Rights chairperson Meena Kharkongor spoke on the theme Crimes against Women and Children: Challenges Faced. Rubina Subba, the standing counsel for the Meghalaya State Commission for Women and East Khasi Hills superintendent of police M. Kharkrang also participated in the discussion.

Winners of a carom competition held as part of the National Press Day celebrations were felicitated by the minister in the presence of information and public relations director M. N. Nampui, other dignitaries and members of the print and electronic media.