RONO HILLS, Nov 2: A two-day interdisciplinary national conference, Digi-Tribidentity 2026, organised by the Department of Mass Communication, Rajiv Gandhi University, in collaboration with the Department of Mass Communication, Saint Claret College (Autonomous), Ziro, and supported by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), North Eastern Regional Centre, Shillong, commenced at the RGU premises here today.
Themed ‘Digital Frontiers and Indigenous Voices: Navigating Tribal Identity in the Age of Social Media’, the conference brings together academicians, researchers and scholars from various institutions to deliberate on digital media, indigenous identity, cultural preservation and communication. The two-day event is being conducted in a blended mode, with both offline and online participation, facilitating academic discussions and research presentations on the representation of tribal identity in the digital age.
In his inaugural address, RGU Vice Chancellor Prof Shivaraj highlighted the rich cultural and linguistic diversity of Northeast India and the importance of digital technologies in preserving indigenous heritage. He observed that digital platforms offer tribal communities opportunities to share their traditions and engage with wider audiences, but cautioned that such engagement should not undermine their distinct cultural identities.
He encouraged tribal youth to develop digital competencies while remaining connected to their cultural roots. Stressing the importance of ethical research, cultural sensitivity and responsible digital communication, he called for interdisciplinary approaches to addressing emerging challenges in the digital landscape. Expressing hope that the conference would strengthen academic collaboration and research, he formally declared the conference open.
Addressing the gathering, SCCZ Principal Dr Alwyn Mendoz reflected on the development of Mass Communication education in the State. He also highlighted the growing influence of digital media and social networking platforms in shaping public narratives, education and communication, while emphasising their positive and negative implications.
B B Sharma, former Director (News), All India Radio, Imphal, appreciated the relevance of the conference theme and commended the organisers for bringing together scholars to discuss digital media, cultural representation and identity. He also reflected on the importance of national belonging and inclusiveness in communication.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof Irene Lalruatkirmi, HoD Mass Communication (Mizoram University), emphasised the relationship between culture, communication, technology and social justice. She highlighted how digital platforms enable indigenous communities, particularly younger generations, to document and promote their cultural identities while challenging stereotypical representations of Northeast India.
She stressed the importance of bridging the digital divide and promoting indigenous participation in digital spaces, particularly among women. She also raised concerns about the ownership, consent, preservation and ethical use of digital archives. Emphasising the need to decolonise knowledge, she urged researchers to work collaboratively with indigenous communities and ensure that their voices and cultural perspectives are represented responsibly.
The occasion also saw the release of the book Digital Media and Cultural Communication.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Arvind Kumar Pal highlighted the growing significance of social media in research, academia and contemporary communication.