Sikkim on Tuesday marked National Press Day with a state-level celebration at Manan Kendra, bringing together leading journalists, media professionals, government officials, and invited guests for a day dedicated to honouring the press and strengthening the bond between the media and the state administration. The programme served as a reminder of the enduring role of journalism in protecting democratic values, fostering accountability, and amplifying the voices of citizens.
The event, organised jointly by the Department of Information and Public Relations (IPR) and the Press Club of Sikkim, highlighted the contribution of journalists working across print, television, radio, and digital platforms. The atmosphere at Manan Kendra reflected both pride and responsibility as reporters and editors from across the state gathered to celebrate their profession at a time when the media landscape faces growing challenges.
A major highlight of the programme was the presentation of awards to journalists for outstanding work in diverse fields. Reporters who had produced impactful stories on climate change, women’s issues, social injustices, environmental protection, and human-interest narratives were recognised and felicitated. The awards were seen as encouragement for journalists to continue pursuing honest, ethical, and empathetic reporting amid increasing pressures on the profession.
Officials and senior editors emphasised that National Press Day, observed annually to commemorate the establishment of the Press Council of India, represents the media’s responsibility as a watchdog of society. Speakers reminded the audience that the freedom of the press is not merely a privilege but a duty that must be upheld with integrity, transparency, and commitment to the truth.
The programme also featured meaningful discussions on the realities confronting journalists, including the rise of misinformation, declining trust in media institutions, shrinking press freedom worldwide, and the physical and mental risks involved in reporting from conflict zones or sensitive areas. The Press Club of Sikkim showcased its welfare initiatives such as health insurance schemes, pension benefits, exposure tours, and annual grants, which are designed to improve professional security and promote the overall well-being of media workers in the state.
Adding significance to the event, several senior journalists from Delhi attended the ceremony and shared insights on the rapidly changing landscape of Indian journalism. Their addresses touched on the importance of embracing digital transformation while preserving the core values of balanced reporting, fact-checking, and ethical journalism.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, the chief guest of the programme, delivered a comprehensive address acknowledging the essential role of the press in shaping public opinion and strengthening democracy. He noted that the original programme scheduled for November 16 had been postponed so that he could be personally present. The Chief Minister said this gesture reflected his respect for the media community and the importance he places on maintaining a healthy relationship between the government and the press.
In his speech, Tamang highlighted that under the SKM government, the relationship between the state administration and journalists had become more open, cooperative, and respectful. He praised the media for acting as Sikkim’s “Third Eye,” a force that keeps the government alert and accountable. He urged journalists to continue reporting courageously, especially on issues affecting youth, social challenges, and emerging threats such as misinformation and online manipulation.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s ongoing initiatives to support journalists, especially those who worked tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He mentioned personal assistance to journalists during the pandemic, health coverage under the Sikkim Swastha Suraksha Yojana, pension facilities, enhanced advertisement rates, and continued institutional recognition through annual awards. He reiterated that a free and responsible press is indispensable for a strong society.