Bhubaneswar, May 3:
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, which coincides with the birth anniversary of Devarshi Narada, regarded as the first journalist in the universe, the Indian Media Congress (IMC) organized a grand celebration in association with Organization of united working journalists, Indian federation of small and medium Newspapers & Rashtriya Patrakar Mahasangha, New DELHI at Geetagovinda Sadan in Bhubaneswar.
The event was presided over by Chief Advisor Dr. Pabitra Mohan Samantaray. Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari inaugurated the program by lighting the ceremonial lamp and officially unveiled the “Media Vision Document 2036”.
Jajpur MP Dr. Rabinarayan Behera attended as the Chief Guest and delivered an insightful address highlighting the role, responsibility, and ethical values of media professionals. He also emphasized the importance of ensuring journalists’ freedom, safety, and economic well-being.
Senior journalist and Editor-in-Chief of Nandi Live, Sanjay Jena, joined as the keynote speaker and elaborated on the constitutional values of journalism, stating that the pursuit of truth remains the core duty of journalists.
Editor-in-Chief of the daily “Samaya,” Guru Kalyan Mahapatra, spoke as a distinguished guest and shared detailed insights into the global significance of World Press Freedom Day and its observance worldwide.
Among other notable speakers, senior journalist and Editor of “Himmat,” as well as BJP State Social Media Head and Spokesperson, Umakant Pattnaik, discussed issues concerning journalists’ safety and press freedom, urging collective efforts for a stronger media future.
Vice President Rajanikant Samantaray conducted the proceedings and highlighted various activities of IMC. At the outset, Editor Kamalakanta Das presented a brief overview of IMC and emphasized the evolving role of media along with the need for a structured vision for 2036.
In his presidential address, Dr. Samantaray suggested expanding IMC by including eminent personalities and organizing various welfare programs for journalists.
On this occasion, special editions of the daily newspaper “Himmat” and the color magazine “Ollywood News” were also released.
Other dignitaries including Narisakti National president Dr. Chidatmika Khatua, Ouwj President Sanjay Kumar Das, General Secretary Pradyumna Kumar Das, and Treasurer Prasanna Prusti also shared their valuable views.
Journalists from various districts were felicitated with mementos and certificates of honor. More than 200 media representatives and distinguished guests attended the event.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by noted astrologer Pandit Haras Kumar Sahu.
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