Newspaper Association of India honours distinguished personalities from journalism, education and social service at the 13th Kalam Ke Sipahi Samman
Ghaziabad: Journalism is not merely about reporting events; it carries the responsibility of giving voice to society, highlighting issues of public interest and strengthening democratic values. In an era of rapidly expanding digital media, truth, ethics and credibility remain the fundamental pillars of responsible journalism. This message resonated strongly at the 13th Kalam Ke Sipahi Samman held at the Chanakya Auditorium, I.T.S., Mohan Nagar, Ghaziabad.
Organised by the Newspaper Association of India (NAI) in association with I.T.S. – The Education Group, the prestigious ceremony brought together eminent personalities from journalism, media, education and social service, along with journalists, students and young professionals.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Arpit Chadha, Vice President, I.T.S. – The Education Group; Prof. Dr. Ajay Kumar, Director, I.T.S. School of Management; and Dr. Vipin Gaur, General Secretary, Newspaper Association of India, were among the prominent dignitaries present on the occasion.
Journalism Must Go Beyond Reporting News
Addressing the gathering, the speakers underlined that the responsibility of journalism extends beyond merely disseminating information. Giving voice to vulnerable sections of society, highlighting public concerns and creating social awareness are equally important responsibilities of the media.
Lok Sabha Member Atul Garg emphasised the importance of journalism being connected with public interest and social concerns. He said the media is an important pillar of a democratic society and journalists must give priority to facts, public interest and responsible reporting.
Minister of State Narendra Kashyap highlighted the important role played by the media in bringing the realities of society before the public. He stressed the importance of using journalism as a means of creating awareness and contributing to positive social change.
Additional Commissioner of Police Keshav Kumar Chaudhary spoke about the role of the media in creating awareness about social issues, crime and public concerns. He also emphasised the importance of constructive communication and coordination between the police and the media.
Credibility is the Biggest Responsibility in the Digital Era
Prof. Dr. Ajay Kumar, Director, I.T.S. School of Management, spoke about the rapidly changing landscape of journalism. He said that while digital and social media have increased the speed at which information reaches people, they have also increased the responsibility of journalists to verify facts and maintain credibility.
He emphasised that technology may transform the way journalism is practised, but its core values—truth, ethics and credibility—will always remain fundamental.
‘Kalam Ke Sipahi’ is a Recognition of Responsibility, Says Dr. Vipin Gaur
Dr. Vipin Gaur, General Secretary, Newspaper Association of India, said that the purpose of the Kalam Ke Sipahi Samman is not merely to honour individuals, but also to recognise their contribution and responsibility towards journalism and society.
He said the pen has the power to bring about meaningful change and that the real strength of journalism lies in its credibility. Honouring individuals who contribute positively to society through their work, ideas and commitment is a matter of pride for the entire media fraternity, he added.
Dr. Gaur emphasised the need to connect the younger generation with the fundamental values of journalism. He said that despite the rapid expansion of digital platforms, facts, truth and public interest must remain at the heart of journalism.
Distinguished Personalities Conferred with Kalam Ke Sipahi Samman
During the ceremony, individuals who have made notable contributions to journalism, education, social service and other fields were honoured with the 13th Kalam Ke Sipahi Samman.
The awardees included Amrita Chaurasia, Zuber Akhtar, Shivani Negi, Ritik Bhardwaj, Amrita Garg, Prof. Rashid Hashmi, Kiran Bhardwaj, Kanchan Dogra Negi, DJ Gauri and Jaya Mishra, among other distinguished personalities.
The auditorium resonated with applause as the awardees were felicitated. The recipients expressed their appreciation and said that such recognition inspires them to continue working with greater dedication and responsibility in their respective fields.
Connecting Young Minds with the Values of Journalism
The event witnessed significant participation from students and young professionals. They were introduced to the changing landscape of journalism, the growing role of digital media and the importance of responsible and ethical reporting.
According to the organisers, the Kalam Ke Sipahi Samman is not merely an awards platform but also an initiative to promote the values of journalism, strengthen social responsibility and create meaningful interaction between experienced professionals and the younger generation.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks to the distinguished guests, awardees, journalists, students and all those associated with the organisation of the event.
The 13th Kalam Ke Sipahi Samman reinforced a significant message: while technology and platforms may continue to evolve, the true identity of journalism will always remain rooted in truth, credibility, ethics and public interest.
