Wednesday, January 12 2005 12:08 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kolkata: There is no substitute to an alert and energetic media in warning early about natural disasters even in the presence of scientific warning systems, according to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

''Whatever warning system there be, there is no substitute to an alert and energetic media,'' the Prime Minister said while inaugurating the diamond jubilee celebrations of the Press Club, Kolkata, last evening (Jan 11, 2005).

He said that it was thanks to the media that donation received by the Centre in a fortnight for the tsunami affected was more than what was received in a month for the affected people of the Gujarat earthquake. ''There is no credit for the Government in this.''

The Prime Minister also lauded the media for ''keeping up pressure on the local and Central Governments to act in the service of society''.

Stating that the 'free and energetic' media in India served not only as an early warning system for disasters, but also in times of a social crisis, he said, ''It helps the Government remain alert to the needs of ordinary people.''

Pointing out that 'better years' were ahead for the country, the Prime Minister said that the media had a crucial role in guiding the process through suggestions and criticisms. ''We look forward to a better interaction between the Government and the media.''