Bengaluru: November 16 marks National Press Day in India, a day to honor press freedom and journalistic ethics. On this date in 1966, the Press Council of India, a quasi-judicial autonomous body, was established by an Act of Parliament to protect press freedom and uphold the standards of journalism in India. This day symbolizes the role of the press in safeguarding democracy and maintaining ethical journalism.

The Hon'ble Minister of Information & Broadcasting, Railways, and Electronics & Information Technology will grace the National Press Day function as the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker at the National Media Centre in New Delhi on November 16, 2024. Hon'ble Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. L. Murugan, along with veteran journalist Padma Bhushan awardee Shri Kundan Ramanlal Vyas, will join as Guests of Honour. The event will welcome eminent journalists, senior government officials, and students from renowned journalism institutes.

This year’s theme, “Changing Nature of Press,” reflects the profound transformations within the media landscape. With the advent of digital platforms such as social media, blogs, and podcasts, news has transcended traditional boundaries, allowing audiences to access and engage with news in real time. Digital platforms empower individual voices, facilitating greater representation through citizen journalism and inclusive dialogue. These platforms also allow for rapid dissemination of critical news during emergencies, as witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic, where timely updates proved essential for public safety.

Beyond technological advancements, the press has increasingly contributed to social change by amplifying issues like gender equality, racial justice, and climate action. The media now influences public opinion and policy, not only by reporting events but also by shaping the narrative through in-depth investigations and online movements.

Despite these advancements, the press faces challenges that threaten its core values of accuracy and accountability. Sensationalism, where media outlets prioritize attention-grabbing headlines over substantive reporting, along with paid news practices, erodes public trust. The rise of fake news and deepfakes further intensifies these issues, as misinformation can spread rapidly across digital platforms. Initiatives in fact-checking and AI-driven tools offer partial solutions, but the fight against misinformation remains critical for the future of journalism.

As the media continues to evolve, it must address these challenges while embracing the opportunities provided by new platforms and technologies. This year’s National Press Day theme, “Changing Nature of Press,” aims to spark discussions on the evolving media landscape, its challenges, and its positive impacts on society.

National Press Day, celebrated on November 16, embodies the ideals of a free and responsible press in India. On this day in 1966, the Press Council of India began its mission as a moral watchdog, ensuring that the press maintained high ethical standards without succumbing to external pressures. Although many countries have Press or Media Councils, the Press Council of India stands out as a unique body with statutory authority, even over state mechanisms, to uphold the independence of the press.

The first Press Commission recommended the creation of a Press Council in 1956, believing that a statutory body composed of industry professionals would best maintain journalistic ethics. Established on November 16, 1966, the Press Council of India continues to fulfill this objective, embodying a responsible and free press. This day is celebrated by those who cherish these values and the freedom it represents.