Exploring Communication’s Role Today National Seminar Highlights Social Media’s Impact on Society

Udaipur: A one-day national seminar on the theme “Exploring the Evolving Role of Communication in Modern Society” was organized on Thursday at the Vice-Chancellor’s Secretariat auditorium in Pratapnagar by Lokmanya Tilak Teachers’ Training College, a constituent unit of Janardan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth.

Delivering the keynote address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Shiv Singh Sarangdevot emphasized that in Indian philosophy, “word” is considered equivalent to “Brahma.” From Vedic times to the present, its resonance has echoed in all directions. He underlined that communication has become a vital force in the economic, social, and political progress not only of India but across the globe. Technological advancements in the transmission of information have triggered a communication revolution, bringing both positive and negative consequences.

Prof. Sarangdevot highlighted the critical need for truthfulness and authenticity in the communication process. He stressed that while technology is essential, only through caution, awareness, and balanced usage can modern communication tools be used effectively. Referring to Artificial Intelligence, he said it is now influencing education, social life, economy, politics, business, healthcare, and the environment, presenting both vast opportunities and significant challenges.

Pointing to global trends, Prof. Sarangdevot noted that 65% of India’s youth between the ages of 18 and 35 use social media, typically spending 3–4 hours daily, compared to just 45 minutes in Japan. This overuse is contributing to negativity, depression, decreased tolerance, and reduced concentration among youth.

Chancellor Bhawar Lal Gurjar, presiding over the session, stated that although communication tools are expanding across all sectors, their disadvantages and societal effects are also emerging. He stressed the urgent need to address the adverse impact of social media on youth and explore how digitization affects both the literate and illiterate sections of society.

Seminar Convener Dr. Ami Rathore shared that over 150 participants from 8 states including Nashik, Dehradun, Alwar, Bangalore, Bhopal, Navsari, Jodhpur, and Hisar attended the event in both online and offline modes, with 70 research papers presented.

The seminar featured five technical sessions, with insights from Prof. Paritosh Duggad, Prof. Seema Malik, Prof. G.M. Mehta, and Prof. Manju Mandot, who examined various dimensions of AI, social media, and digital platforms.

The event was compered by Dr. Indu Bala Acharya, while Dr. Balidan Jain expressed the vote of thanks.

Other notable attendees included Prof. Saroj Garg, Dr. Ami Rathore, Dr. Balidan Jain, Dr. Sunita Murdia, Dr. Bhuralal Sharma, Dr. Sarita Menaria, Dr. Amit Dave, Dr. Neetu Vyas, Dr. Rajni Dhyabhai, Dr. Usha Sharma, Dr. Himmat Singh Chundawat, Dr. Harish Menaria, and Dr. Harish Chaubisa, along with deans, directors, students, and scholars from Vidyapeeth.