National Press Day: Celebrating the Role of a Free Press in Democracy
| S. No. | Details | Information |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Why in the news? | National Press Day is observed every year on November 16 to commemorate the establishment of the Press Council of India (PCI) in 1966. This day highlights the role of a free press in a democracy and ethical journalism. |
| 2. | When Started | 1966 (establishment of the Press Council of India) |
| 3. | Theme | Changing Nature of the Press (2024) |
| 4. | Edition | 58th Edition (since 1966) |
| 5. | Reason | To commemorate the formation of the Press Council of India and highlight the role of free press in democracy. |
| 6. | Significance | Promotes press freedom, ethical journalism, and acknowledges media professionals. Emphasizes the press's role in strengthening democracy, social justice, and transparency. |
| 7. | Establishment of PCI | Formed in 1966, re-established under the Press Council Act, 1978. Acts as a watchdog of press freedom and ensures ethical journalistic practices. |
| 8. | Challenges | Ethical challenges (fake news, sensationalism), censorship, threats to journalists, and economic pressures on traditional media. |
| 9. | Celebrations | Panel discussions, workshops, seminars, awards, and recognitions for journalists. |
| 10. | Key Figures (2024) | Hon'ble Minister of Information and Broadcasting Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Dr. L. Murugan (Minister of State), Padma Bhushan Shri Kundal Ramanlal Vyas, Smt. Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai (PCI Chairperson). |
| 11. | Static Facts | Founded: July 4, 1966. Headquarters: New Delhi. Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai is the current Chairperson of the Press Council of India. |