National Press Day Conference Organized at Paradkar Smriti Bhavan, Varanasi**Varanasi:
As per the scheduled programme, the Uttar Pradesh Unit of the Rashtriya Patrakar Mahasangha organized a special conference of journalists, correspondents, and conscious citizens on the occasion of National Press Day at the auditorium of Paradkar Smriti Bhavan.
The conference was graced by Anup Kumar Satpathy (IRTS), Principal Chief Operational Manager, North Eastern Railway as the Chief Guest.
The distinguished guests included Arun Yadav (Editor, Nishpaksh Bharatdoot), Ajay Kumar, senior railway official, eminent human rights activist Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, and BJP leader Chandra Prakash Singh.
The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp by the guests.
Conducting the event, Kamalakar Pandey, Varanasi Bureau Chief of Uddhav Netra (National Hindi Daily), welcomed the dignitaries and introduced them to the audience. He remarked that it was a matter of great pride that the Press fraternity had gathered in Varanasi on National Press Day, and that perhaps this was the first formal celebration of Press Day in the city, being organized by the Mahasangha.
Inviting the Chief Guest to address the gathering, Pandey set the tone for the ceremony.
In his keynote address, Anup Satpathy reflected on the significance of the day, stating that “Journalism is a symbol of light in darkness.” He emphasized that whatever good or bad society knows today is because of an aware, dedicated, and impartial journalist. Appreciating the efforts of the Rashtriya Patrakar Mahasangha, he praised its mission of uniting journalists under one banner and working selflessly for their welfare across the nation.
Distinguished guest Arun Yadav highlighted the need for strengthening small and medium newspapers, stating that while large media houses exist in abundance, real support and upliftment are needed for the smaller publications. He applauded the Mahasangha’s initiative in organizing such a meaningful event on National Press Day and congratulated the national president and the entire team.
Human rights activist Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi discussed the growing use of new technologies like AI in journalism. He noted that many rely solely on Google or AI tools today, making it even more essential for journalists to uphold truthful and courageous writing that reflects reality and distinguishes truth from falsehood.
Sr. DRM Operation, Varanasi Ajay Kumar commended journalism as one of the strongest pillars of the nation, saying that a responsible journalist can guide society in the right direction.
BJP leader Chandra Prakash Singh also shared his views on the progress and responsibilities of modern journalism.
On this occasion, Dr. Pabitra Mohan Samantaray, National President of Rashtriya Patrakar Mahasangha, honoured the chief and distinguished guests with traditional stoles and mementos.
Marking the Press Day celebration, Chief Guest Anup Satpathy felicitated several renowned journalists—including former Kashi Patrakar Sangh President and senior journalist B.B. Yadav, and Bipul Kumar Pathak, along with several other media professionals—for their impartial and dedicated contributions to the field of journalism. He encouraged them to continue strengthening the noble profession.
Certificates of appreciation were presented to all participating journalists, acknowledging their contribution and presence at the conference.
The event concluded with the National Anthem, followed by a formal vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Kajal, expressing gratitude to all guests and participants.
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