SHILLONG: With an aim to highlight the role of television bringing about social changes in the country and Meghalaya in particular, the Mass Media department of St. Anthony’s College, released a book entitled ‘Role of TV in Social Change- A Study of Rural Meghalaya” on the college premises on Thursday.
Written by Dr. Sr. Mary Harriet, an Assistant Professor of the department, this book attempts to analyze the role of television as a medium of information and it examines its relationship with social development, cultural changes, growth of education and economic condition.
After releasing the book, former Principal of St. Anthony’s College, Rev. Fr (Dr) Ioannis Warpakma said that the book is not only a treasure house for the rural people but also a guideline for other new researchers.
Highlighting on the role of television in rural Meghalaya, Rev Warpakma said “Since the introduction of television in the state, a lot of transformation has been achieved by the rural people in terms of hygiene, livelihood etc.”
Meanwhile, speaking on the role of money especially during elections, the St Anthony’s former principal said prior the elections, the rural people are being brainwashed, with money which is distributed by the representatives, he also stressed on the need to change the mindset of the people and the representatives.
It may be noted that Dr. Sr. Mary Harriet also belongs to the congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of the Mission (RNDM). She also possesses an M.A in Journalism and Mass Communication and a Ph.D in Mass Media.