-Yogesh Joshi
Kota: Journalists are not merely messengers of information, but the mirror of society who acquaint the public with reality. With this vision, the Media Council of Journalists Rajasthan held a grand felicitation and networking event — “Sneh Milan & Abhinandan Samaroh” — in Kota, where prominent media personalities were honored for their contribution to journalism.
The chief guest, Rajesh Krishna Birla, State Chairman of Red Cross Rajasthan, remarked, “A journalist does not just narrate events but also influences the direction and condition of society. They are the sentinels of trust, and must function with impartiality, fearlessness, and truthfulness.”
The event, held at Shiv Jyoti School Auditorium, Srinathpuram, saw the participation of journalists from across Rajasthan and other states like Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Haryana. Distinguished guests included Kota South MLA Sandeep Sharma (who presided over the event), Kota Dairy Chairman Chain Singh Rathore, Congress City President Ravindra Tyagi, BJP leader Pankaj Mehta, and many others from the media and political fraternity.
The event featured a galaxy of eminent dignitaries, including: Dinesh Pancholi, Co-coordinator, Ravindra Tyagi, Kota City President, Congress, Pankaj Mehta, Senior BJP Leader, Rakesh Jain, BJP Kota City President, Vivek Rajvanshi, Leader of Opposition, Sanjay Rathi, National President, Media Council of Journalists, Lalit Sharma, National Coordinator, Pradeep Sharma, National General Secretary, Manoj Goyal, National Spokesperson & Program Host, Neeraj Gupta, State President, Sandeep Goyal, State General Secretary, Manohar Pareek, State Spokesperson and Event Convener, Yogesh Joshi, State General Secretary (Organization), Pranay Vijay, District Coordinator, Kota
Highlights of the Ceremony:
Journalists were honored with tilak, garlands, mementos, and certificates for their outstanding contributions.
Sandeep Sharma emphasised the media’s pivotal role as the fourth pillar of democracy, giving voice to public sentiment and ensuring the accountability of other democratic institutions.
Chain Singh Rathore praised journalists as the embodiment of truth and fearlessness, stating, “Journalism must fearlessly stand for the truth and guide society with honest information.”
Raghu Aditya, Editor of Punjab Kesari Rajasthan, spotlighted the challenges faced by journalists today — from political pressure to financial hurdles — and applauded their relentless pursuit of truth despite adversity.
Both BJP and Congress leaders present expressed support for journalist welfare, unity, and protection of press freedom.
Forward Path for Journalism
Discussions were held on forming an apex body to unify various journalist associations under one banner for stronger advocacy and welfare. National Convener Lalit Sharma announced steps toward this initiative.
Media Council President Neeraj Gupta assured that the organisation remains steadfast in its mission to defend journalists’ rights and interests, while District Convener Pranay Vijay praised journalists as “soldiers of truth.”
This event served not only as a celebration of journalism but also as a powerful forum for reflection, dialogue, and commitment to strengthening the profession’s future.
