The prestigious 32nd NAI Awards took place in a grand ceremony at the NDMC Convention Centre, recognizing outstanding contributions and innovations across journalism, media, and allied fields. The event was graced by Dr. Ali Achu, Ambassador of Algeria, who served as the Chief Guest, lending an air of distinction to the proceedings.
The evening saw the presence of notable dignitaries including AAFT University Chancellor Sandeep Marwah, IAS officers Dr. Rakesh Kumar and D.P. Bhalla, and former Member of Parliament Parvesh Verma. Organised by the Newspaper Association of India, which has been a pillar of support for journalists for 31 years, the event highlighted excellence in journalism and media.
Honouring Excellence The awards celebrated achievements across multiple categories Best News Channel: ABP News ,Best Editor (TV News): Amish Devgan, News India 18, Best News Show: DNA, Zee News, Best Podcast: Shalini Kapor Tiwari, Best News Anchor (Female): Aparna Moazzam, ABP News, Best News Anchor (Male): Aman Chopra, News India 18, Best Editor (Regional): Ramesh Chandra, Zee U.P/U.K, Best Journalist (Defence and Foreign Affairs): Sumit Chaudhary, TV9 Bharat Varsh, Best Journalist (Female): Pooja Yadav, Bharat 24, Best Young Editor: Ashif Aqbal, Prime News, Best Editor (Print): Ashish Tiwari, Amar Ujala (Chandigarh & Punjab), Best Journalist (Print): Anurag Mishra, Dainik Jagran, Best Digital News Program: The Chabutra, Sonal Dhayian, Literary, Social, and Special Awards, Best Author: Mr. Pravesh Jain, Best Social Reformer: Dr. Akanksha Vidyarthi, Best Panelist for News Debate: Manish Kumar Gupta, Entertainment and Creative Awards, Best Radio Jockey: RJ Purab, Red FM, Best Content Creator: RJ Ashish, Special Recognition Awards, Best IPS Officer: Dr. M.A. Saleem, DG CID Karnataka Police, Best Logistics Service Provider: Safewater Lines, Best Literary Entrepreneur Anecdote Publishing House – Sagar Azad.
Smt. Urmila Devi was bestowed with a Lifetime Achievement Award, M.A. Saleem was recognised as the Best IPS Officer for his exceptional service, Dook International won the Best Tourism Company award for their excellence in the travel sector, Adv. Prasad Hiremath received Best Advocate Award, Sumit Kumar received for Best Freelance Journalist and poet Award, Rashid Hashmi received best Journaliat Podcaster and Educator Award Perspectives on Media’s Evolution, the awards ceremony also served as a platform for thought-provoking discussions on the evolving landscape of journalism. Sandeep Marwah, in his address, highlighted the transformation of journalism from print-focused to a multi-platform domain, encompassing digital, electronic, and social media. Despite this evolution, he underscored the unwavering commitment of journalists to societal welfare.
Dr. Gururaj Nagathan, President of the Newspaper Association of India, emphasised India’s media freedom and its global influence. “Indian media continues to make the nation proud by its impactful contributions to politics, industry, and society,” he stated.
Vipin Gaur, General Secretary of NAI, reflected on the integral role of media as the “fourth pillar of democracy,” advocating for its continued dedication to shaping India’s narrative. His powerful statement, “Either I will become history or I will make history, for the sake of journalists,” resonated deeply, capturing the resilience and significance of the profession.
