Karnavati, Gujarat – Vishwa Samvad Kendra, Gujarat, upheld its annual tradition by hosting the Devarshi Narad Journalist Award ceremony, a prestigious event recognizing excellence in journalism. The ceremony was chaired by Pradeep Joshi, All India Co-Prachar Pramukh of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and saw the presence of Dr. Harshadbhai Patel, Vice Chancellor of Gujarat Vidyapith, as the Chief Guest

Honoring Journalistic Excellence

The program celebrated the contributions of several prominent journalists across various media platforms, presenting them with the coveted Devarshi Narad Journalist Award:

• Print Media:  Parag Dave (PTI)
• Electronic Media: Dixit Soni (Zee 24 Kalak)
• Web Media:  Manoj Kariya (Divya Bhaskar Digital)
• Radio Journalism: RJ Pooja (Radio City)
• Special Honor: Krishnakant Unadkat (Sandesh)

A Call for Public Interest Journalism

In his address, Pradeep Joshi emphasized the enduring relevance of Devarshi Narad’s principles in journalism. He stated that Naradji never engaged in “Janastuti” (flattery of the public) but consistently prioritized public interest.

“Naradji maintained very wide contact and viewed everything from a broad perspective. Naradji remains an ideal for us even today,” Joshi remarked. He highlighted the Vishwa Samvad Kendra’s vision behind the Devarshi Narad Samman: to foster a class of journalists dedicated to working on significant issues with a focus on societal continuity.

Joshi underscored the critical need for public education in a time marked by various societal conflicts. He lamented that while journalism today shapes public thought, this vital work isn’t always executed with honesty, leading to an influence on our thinking processes.

Responsible Journalism: A Gandhian Perspective

Chief Guest Dr. Harshadbhai Patel, Chancellor of Gujarat Vidyapith, elaborated on the essence of responsible journalism. He articulated it as journalism centered on global dialogue, drawing parallels to Mahatma Gandhi’s approach: “journalism of harmony, journalism of freedom, journalism of self-respect, journalism of free speech.”

Dr. Patel stressed that national interest, cultural protection, a positive societal role, public awareness, and the safeguarding of values are integral to this form of journalism, which he termed “national journalism.”

Ceremony Highlights

The event commenced with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony by the dignitaries. Vijaybhai Thaker, Managing Trustee of Vishwa Samvad Kendra, welcomed the guests and elaborated on the significance of honoring journalists on Narad Jayanti. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Pradip Jain, Trustee of Vishwa Samvad Kendra.

The ceremony saw the presence of numerous distinguished guests, including Tejasbhai Patel, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Gujarat Prant Prachar Pramukh; Shri Jayminbhai Gajjar, Gujarat Prant Co-Propaganda President; and Karnavati Mahanagar Sanghchalak Maheshbhai Parikh, among others. DeshGujarat