CM Honours Outstanding Journalists and IPRD Officials on National Press Day 2024, Celebrating Media’s Role in Democracy

KalimNews with inputs from IPR Gangtok, Gangtok, November 16, 2024 :  On the occasion of National Press Day 2024, the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Mr. Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, recognized the outstanding contributions of journalists and media professionals from across the state. Organized by the Information and Public Relations Department (IPRD) at Manan Kendra, the event celebrated the crucial role of the media in promoting transparency, democracy, and social justice.

Each year, the state government honours journalists for their exceptional work in various fields. This year, the Chief Minister presented awards to several distinguished journalists, acknowledging their dedication and impactful reporting.

Awardees:

• Mr. Pankaj Dhungel (East Mojo) was honoured for his outstanding reporting on Climate Change. His continuous efforts to raise awareness on environmental issues such as climate change, sustainability, and biodiversity have inspired action toward a sustainable future.

• Mr. Deepak Gurung (Anugamini) received recognition for his work on Human Rights. As an investigative journalist, he has exposed social injustices, including labor exploitation in Rangpo's pharmaceutical sector, and highlighted the challenges faced by migrant workers, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Mr. Raymond Lepcha (Summit Times) was recognized for his coverage of Women's Issues. His work has amplified the voices of women affected by gender-based discrimination, domestic violence, and economic disparities, making a significant impact on gender equality discussions.

• Mr. Babbu Tamang (Freelancer) was presented with the YN Bhandari Best Journalism Award, acknowledging his long-standing dedication to truthful and accurate journalism since 1999.

The Grameen Patrakarita Purashkar 2024, awarded by the Press Club of Sikkim, went to Mr. Sushil Rai, Sikkim Reporter, Correspondent from Namchi, for his contributions to grassroots journalism.

In addition to honouring journalists, the Chief Minister also felicitated officials from the Information and Public Relations Department for their contributions to journalism. The Certificate of Appreciation for 2024 was awarded to the following IPRD officials: Mr. Sagar Rai, (SIA, Namchi District), Mr. Bishal Shankar, (SIA, Gyalshing District), Ms. Sayreep Lepcha, (SIA, Mangan District), Mr. Phurba Dorjee Lepcha, (SIA, Soreng District), Ms. Nima Choden Bhutia (SIA, Gangtok District), Mr. Hishey Tenzing Bhutia (SIA, Gangtok District), and Mr. Samdup Lepcha (Photographer, Pakyong District).

During his address, Chief Minister Tamang-Golay emphasized the importance of the press as the Fourth Pillar of Democracy. He highlighted the significant role the media plays in shaping public opinion, holding the government accountable, and fostering transparency. "The press is an integral part of our society. It not only informs the public but also ensures that the government remains accountable," he remarked.

The Chief Minister also took the opportunity to reaffirm his government's commitment to media freedom, contrasting it with the previous administration's record. "Under the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government, we have ensured absolute independence for the media. Unlike the previous SDF government, where press freedom was restricted, today there is no interference, and journalists can operate freely and responsibly," he stated.

Tamang-Golay further outlined several initiatives introduced by his government to support the media community, including the implementation of a pension scheme for journalists and an annual grant of Rs 20 lakh to the Press Club of Sikkim to fund the scheme. The government has also introduced health insurance for journalists, covering medical expenses up to Rs 2 lakh at Manipal Hospital.

To bolster the financial sustainability of media outlets, the Chief Minister announced the revision of advertisement rates, ensuring they are fair and beneficial for the media industry. "This support enables journalism to thrive and sustain itself," he added.

The National Press Day celebrations in Sikkim were a momentous occasion to honour the tireless efforts of journalists and media professionals. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay’s address underscored the importance of media freedom and the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting the press, ensuring it can continue to serve as a pillar of democracy and a voice for the people.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang awarded an annual grant of Rs. 5 lakh to the Press Club of Sikkim. Additionally, he presented a cheque for Rs. 20 lakh to the Press Club of Sikkim as part of an annual grant aimed at supporting the welfare of journalists.

The Chief Minister also handed over insurance documents for 83 journalists through the Chief Minister's Discretionary Grant, which were officially presented to the Press Club of Sikkim.

Furthermore, under the Journalist Samman Yojana, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang distributed cheques for monthly financial support to 10 senior journalists aged 60 and above.

The event also included an engaging Open Floor Discussion, where both media professionals and the audience actively participated in a dynamic exchange of ideas. This interactive session provided an opportunity for attendees to raise pertinent questions, share their perspectives, and engage in meaningful dialogue about the challenges and opportunities in the media landscape. 

The discussion was expertly moderated by Ms. Sarojini Subba, Senior District Information Officer of Gangtok, whose insightful guidance ensured a constructive and thought-provoking conversation. The session highlighted the crucial role of open communication between the media and the public, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues facing journalism today.