Raipur: The Raipur Press Club on Saturday celebrated the completion of 200 years of Hindi journalism by organizing the “Journalism Gaurav Martand Utsav” at Shri Ram Temple’s Sundar Sadan. The event was attended by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai as the chief guest.
The programme was held in two sessions, where speakers discussed the rich legacy of Hindi journalism, its contribution to nation-building, and the challenges ahead.
CM Vishnu Deo Sai Hails Journalism as Pillar of Democracy
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai highlighted the historical journey of Hindi journalism, recalling the launch of India’s first Hindi newspaper “Udant Martand” in Kolkata in 1836.
He said journalism played a crucial role in awakening the spirit of independence in India and called journalists the true soldiers of democracy. He also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for promoting nationalism through journalism.
The Chief Minister said leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Madhavrao Sapre, and Subhas Chandra Bose used journalism as a powerful tool for social reform and national awakening.
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CM Announces ₹1 Crore Grant for Raipur Press Club
CM Sai praised the role of the media in Chhattisgarh, particularly in highlighting developments from conflict-affected Bastar, saying such reporting has gained national and global attention.
He also acknowledged the media’s contribution in countering Naxalism and strengthening governance narratives in the state.
As a major announcement, the Chief Minister sanctioned ₹1 crore for the Raipur Press Club, fulfilling its demand for support.
Finance Minister OP Choudhary Highlights Role of Journalism
State Finance Minister OP Choudhary said the 200-year journey of Hindi journalism has been highly prestigious.
He noted that journalism emerged during British rule as a guiding light for society, helping expose injustice and lead people towards awareness.
He emphasized that the core responsibility of journalism is to guide society and the nation in the right direction.
Experts Highlight Challenges in Modern Journalism
Senior journalist and Director of India Habitat Centre, Dr. K.G. Suresh, said Indian journalism has always prioritised national interest from the freedom movement to the present day.
He said journalism has evolved with technology, but the rise of social media and citizen journalism has introduced new challenges.
He stressed the need for fact-based, research-driven journalism to maintain credibility and strengthen its social role.
CM Honors Journalists and Releases Publications
During the event, CM Vishnu Deo Sai presented Lifetime Achievement Awards to distinguished personalities for their contribution to journalism.
He also released several publications, including:
- Special edition of Navpradesh on 200 years of Hindi journalism
- Journalists’ directory of Raipur Press Club
- Book titled “Main Agahan Hoon” by Dinesh Yadu
Journalism Celebrated as Fourth Pillar of Democracy
Speakers collectively emphasized that Hindi journalism has played a key role in India’s freedom struggle and continues to serve as the fourth pillar of democracy. The event concluded with tributes to the legacy of Hindi journalism and discussions on its evolving role in the digital age.
