Annually on November 16, the Press Council of India (PCI) observes “National Press Day” with the aim of acknowledging the existence of independent newspapers. The initiative took root in 1956 with the establishment of the first Press Commission, tasked with promoting and regulating ethical practices in journalism while administering statutory authority in media. In pursuit of this objective, the Press Council of India was inaugurated on November 16, 1966. Since its inception, the council has steadfastly pursued its mission.
The composition of key personalities is pivotal to the council’s structure, with the Chairman being a retired Supreme Court judge. Excluding the Chairman, there are 28 other members, with 20 representatives from media organizations nominating 5 members through joint sessions of both houses. The remaining three members represent the fields of culture, literature, and law.
The media’s significance in upholding principles of press freedom and democratic governance is paramount. Serving as the fourth pillar of democracy, the media influences affluent individuals, engages in political interventions, and safeguards the values of media work. The Press Council of India, in addition to defending press freedom, significantly contributes to improving media standards, overseeing media activities, and amplifying the voices of the voiceless.
National Press Day acts as a reminder of the critical role played by media outlets in shaping public opinion and addressing challenges in the country’s administration. It underscores the importance of preserving the values of press freedom and democratic governance. Celebrating National Press Day is an opportunity to raise awareness among the public about the crucial role played by media outlets in providing moment-to-moment news about the world. Whether through newspapers, TV, or smartphones, we engage with news daily to stay informed.
Furthermore, in 1841, the first Kannada newspaper, “Mangaluru Samachara,” emerged, brought by the Basel Mission Society on July 1. Recognized as the first Kannada newspaper, this day is observed as Kannada Press Day.
National Press Day is dedicated to recognizing the pivotal role of the press in our world and highlighting the continuous flow of news that we engage with through newspapers and various media platforms.
