National Press Day is celebrated annually on November 16 to honour the vital role of the press as an essential forth pillar for growth in democracy. It highlights press and media freedom, journalistic ethics, and the challenges faced by journalists in today’s digital world. The day commemorates the importance of a free and independent press in India, advocating for the right to freedom of speech and expression.
National Press Day, observed on November 16, marks the day the Press Council of India (PCI) began its operations in 1966. Established as an independent body, the PCI’s primary role is to ensure that the press maintains high standards of journalism while remaining free from external influences. The idea for the Council was first proposed by the First Press Commission in 1956, which emphasized the need to protect press freedom and promote ethical reporting. Since its formation, the PCI has played a crucial role in safeguarding the independence of the press, even holding authority over state actions to ensure that the media can operate without fear or interference. This day symbolizes a free and responsible press, central to democracy. It is commemorated through various activities, including the National Awards for Excellence in Journalism and the release of a Souvenir.
The Press Council of India (PCI), since its inception, has taken significant strides in shaping the landscape of press freedom and ensuring that the media in India upholds high ethical standards while remaining independent.
The theme for the National Press Day 2024 is ” CHANGING NATURE OF THE PRESS” as shared by the Press Information Bureau, the nodal agency of Ministry of Information & Broadcasting celebrate the day by reemphasizing the vital role of press in Nation’s progress.
(Source: Press Information Bureau)
National Press Day serves as an important reminder of the vital role that the press plays in shaping our democracy. let us all (conscious citizens) work collectively to uphold press freedom, maintain journalistic standards, and address challenges facing the nation. Together we can easily manage issues like media ethics and press safety to adapting the new skills of the digital age, to guide and support the digital press and digital media in its mission to express, educate, and empower the communities.
National Press Day not only celebrates the achievements of the press but also reinforces the responsibility it carries in building a more informed and transparent society, ensuring that the future of journalism remains strong, free, and responsible. Let’s work collectively and responsibly for Viksit Bharat | VishwaGuru Bharat@2047
Time is perfect and the ecosystem aligned for every conscious citizen express their ideas and views, reflect on important issues through reviews and share local news for the benefit and growth of all members of community and society. That’s the main vision and focus for co-creating the digital positive people’s platform to nurture the all-important right to express oneself, freely! The freedom to share, say and seek what’s on your mind and let the world know about it.
