Grand 33rd NAI National Convention & Achievement Awards 2025
New Delhi | NDMC Convention Centre, Sansad Marg
The winter sun had just begun to mellow over Lutyens’ Delhi as the NDMC Convention Centre buzzed with an unmistakable energy. Cars lined the iconic Sansad Marg, camera crews positioned their tripods, and journalists hurried into the grand hall—each step symbolizing dedication to a profession built on truth, resilience, and responsibility.
This was no ordinary gathering.
It was the 33rd National Convention & NAI Achievement Awards 2025, hosted by the Newspaper Association of India (NAI)—a moment where India’s journalistic fraternity paused, reflected, and honored its brightest stars.
Where India’s Storytellers Unite
Inside the towering auditorium, conversations flowed across generations—veteran editors exchanging thoughts with digital-first journalists, rural correspondents sharing experiences with national anchors, and scholars debating media ethics with policymakers and doctors who serve society in their own profound ways.
The atmosphere felt like a festival of intellect—celebrating not just achievements, but the spirit of India’s fourth pillar.
The event was graced by Shri V. Vijayendra Prasad, Member of Rajya Sabha and one of India’s most celebrated scriptwriters. His presence added the gravitas of storytelling greatness—a reminder that whether in cinema or journalism, narratives shape nations.
Speaking to a packed hall, he praised the media’s power to inform, inspire, and ignite constructive change.
“A journalist is the first historian of every moment,” he noted, emphasizing the profession’s profound responsibility.
A Voice of Vision: Dr. Sandeep Marwah’s Stirring Message
If inspiration had a voice that night, it came from Dr. Sandeep Marwah, internationally renowned media icon and President of Marwah Studios. As Special Guest of Honour, his keynote was nothing short of electrifying.
He spoke of journalism as a mission—a calling that demands courage, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to truth.
“A journalist does not merely report events,” he said.
“They shape the collective conscience of a nation.”
His words drew repeated applause, resonating deeply with the audience of young reporters and senior newsmakers alike.
Dr. Marwah also applauded NAI for sustaining a 30-plus-year legacy of empowering journalists across India—especially those who work far from the limelight yet shape public discourse every single day.
A Family of 10,000 Journalists — and Growing
The Convention touched a sentimental high when Vipin Gaur, General Secretary of NAI, took the stage.
A journalist turned media leader, Gaur’s presence commanded warmth and sincerity.
In his welcome address, he reminded the audience that NAI was not merely an organization—it was a movement.
“NAI today represents a family of more than 10,000 journalists,” he said with pride.
“From cities to remote districts, our mission is the same: to uphold ethics, protect journalists’ rights, and celebrate excellence wherever it exists.”
His message reflected the organization’s expanding commitment—from safety programs to training workshops and initiatives for digital media professionals navigating a new era of journalism.
Honoring India’s Finest — The Award Moments That Mattered
As the lights dimmed and the spotlight swept across the stage, the awards ceremony unfolded with an air of dignity and celebration.
Each awardee had a story—stories of fearlessness, perseverance, creativity, community service, and contribution to India’s democratic discourse.
Major Honors of the Evening
-
Life Time Achievement Award: Kunwar S. Vishal
-
Best Editor: Aman Chopta
-
Best Newspaper: Amar Ujala
-
Best Journalist – Foreign Affairs & War: Sumit Chaudhary
-
Best Digital Media Platform: The News Pinch
-
Best News Anchor: Ramesh Bhatt
-
Best Photo Journalist: Jitender Rana
…and many more trailblazers who elevate India’s media landscape every day.
A few moments stood out—the tears of gratitude, the cheers of colleagues, the proud smiles of families capturing the recognition of years of hard work.
More Than Journalism: Celebrating Excellence Across Fields
The NAI Awards extended far beyond the newsroom to celebrate professionals shaping society in multiple dimensions:
-
Best Cardiologist: Dr. Girish
-
Best Service in Paramilitary Force: Hemanthraju, DIG BSF
-
Best Researcher & General Physician: Dr. Rayappa Holeppanavar
-
Media Leadership & Academic Excellence: Prof. Rashid Hashmi
-
Distinguished Filmmaker: Prof. Sanjeev Sood
-
Best Ayurvedic Practitioner: Dr. Savita Rayappa Holeppanavar
-
Integrity & Ethical Policing Award: Ajay Pal Singh Tomar
-
Excellence in Law & Order Management: Nimish Patil, IPS
-
Excellence in Technology Innovation: Venkatesh
- Excellence Costumer Services: Venkatesh
These categories showcased a powerful truth:
journalism thrives when society thrives, and celebrating excellence in other domains strengthens the collective spirit of the nation.
A lively rope-skipping performance injected youthful energy into the ceremony, drawing applause and adding a vibrant cultural touch.
Behind the Scenes: The Team That Made It Happen
Alongside Vipin Gaur, the leadership team stood tall—
Dr. Gururaj Nagthan (President),
Om Prakash Sharma (Vice President),
Anant Kumar (Secretary),
and Vivek Sharma,
—all of whom played pivotal roles in orchestrating a seamless, memorable event.
Their collective effort showcased NAI’s organizational strength and dedication.
A Night to Remember. A Legacy to Carry Forward.
As the curtains fell and guests exchanged goodbyes, one sentiment echoed through the hall:
the 33rd NAI National Convention was not just an event—
it was a celebration of India’s democratic soul.
In an era of rapid digital transformation, rising challenges, and evolving public expectations, NAI’s commitment to ethical journalism remains a steady, guiding lighthouse.
And as the awardees walked out with their trophies—some gleaming, some emotional—they carried with them not just recognition, but renewed purpose.
