APS Domana students learn art of narrative warfare from Pradeep Dutta
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: In today’s digital age, the outcome of wars is often shaped by dominant narratives rather than just battlefield victories.
Eminent journalist and motivator Pradeep Dutta highlighted the significance of narrative warfare, citing his experience during Operation Sindoor.
“We now live in an age where perception travels faster than truth, where screens shape narratives and visibility matters as much as virtue,” noted Dutta and added that this observation underscores the critical role of perception and narrative in modern conflicts.
During an interaction with students at Army Public School Domana, Dutta emphasised the importance of strategic communication in modern warfare. “It’s no longer enough to do the right thing, we must be seen doing it, clearly and convincingly, on a global stage.” This is particularly crucial in today’s digital landscape, where information spreads rapidly and narratives can be shaped in an instant.
As the founder of the digital platform Pradeep Dutta – Line of Communication (LoC), Dutta’s work focuses on demolishing anti-India narratives and promoting a counter-narrative that showcases the truth. His efforts highlight the need for effective communication and strategic narrative-building in modern warfare, where perception and narrative can be just as decisive as military might.
Pradeep with his motivational vocabulary left lasting impact on young minds. Using poetic expressions, Dutta inspired the students to chase their dreams with determination and focus. “Muqadran de mathe utte takhti lugdi unhadi, jerhey gharon bana ke chalde ne naqsha apne saffna da,” he said, emphasising that only those who set clear goals and work towards them can carve out their own niche in life.
As a master storyteller, Dutta shared several anecdotes to drive home the point that negativity and distractions should not hold them back from achieving their objectives. “Once you make up your mind, stick to that goal,” he advised, urging the students to stay focused and driven.
The students were fascinated by Dutta’s experiences as a war journalist and asked several questions about his reporting from conflict zones. When asked about fear, Dutta replied, “When you’re driven by passion, delivery takes over, and fear takes back seat.” His words resonated with the students, inspiring them to pursue their passions with courage and conviction.
Pushpinder Kaur, the principal of Army School Domana, presented Dutta with a memento and a painting made by one of the students while session was moderated by Madhur, the school counsellor. This was followed by a question-and-answer session, where students asked about war reporting, journalistic ethics, and the impact of digital media.
