The Newspapers Association of India, in collaboration with I.T.S School of Management, organized the 11th edition of “Kalam Ke Sipahi – A Cultural Festival and Awards Ceremony” on Tuesday. The event was conducted under the patronage of Dr. Vipin Gaur, Secretary General of NAI. The program commenced with the formal lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the spirit of “Kalam Ke Sipahi”. Dr. Sood from I.T.S School of Management delivered the inaugural address, followed by a warm welcome speech by Dr. Vipin Gaur.
The event featured prominent dignitaries including the Ambassador of Algeria, Dr. Ali Achoui, former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and former Lok Sabha MP Shri Tirath Singh Rawat, and Lok Sabha MP of Bengal Jagannath Sarkar. Stand-up comedian Deepak Saini also graced the event as a special guest.
Dr. Ali Achoui emphasized the vital role of media in reaching out to every section of society, ensuring that government schemes benefit all. He highlighted the power of social media in keeping the world informed instantly. Dr. Ajay Kumar, Director of I.T.S School of Management, hailed the media as the “fourth pillar of democracy” and stressed its influence in shaping public opinion on global issues.
The chief guest, Tirath Singh Rawat, reflected on the media’s crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic. He urged the media to present complete and unbiased truths to avoid misunderstandings. Despite his personal experience with media distortion, Rawat emphasized the value of transparency and applauded Dr. Vipin Gaur’s ongoing efforts for the welfare of journalists.
Dr. Vipin Gaur, in his address, paid tribute to the “soldiers of the pen” who work for the nation’s benefit. He dedicated the event to the memory of the late Dr. M.R. Gaur, founder of the Indian Newspaper Association. The guests expressed their appreciation, describing the event as a rejuvenating experience that fostered intellectual exchange and positive energy.
Several media professionals and influencers were honored at the ceremony, including Rajendra Dev Shukla (ABP News), Sunil Negi (UK Nation News), Suvarna Kumar (Pradeepam Daily), Pranab Kumar Das (Country and Politics), Purnima Jha (Bharat 24), Prasad Hiremath (Hi Karnataka), Shashikesh Ranjan (Bharat 24), Deepshikha Singh (News Nation), and Prof. Rashid Hashmi (Sharda University), among others.
In addition, notable individuals like K. Sanjeevi (Editor, Sanjethanthi), Dr. Ali Achoui (Ambassador of Algeria), and Dr. Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer (Media Advisor) were also recognized, making the event a grand success.