New Delhi, May 31: India’s Vice President, C.P. Radhakrishnan, attended the 140th anniversary celebration of Deepika Malayalam Daily at K.C. Mammen Mappillai Hall in Kottayam, Kerala, on Sunday. He presented the Deepika Excellence Awards during the event.
In his address, Vice President Radhakrishnan described Deepika’s 140-year journey as a remarkable legacy of commitment, courage, reliability, and public service. He highlighted the challenges of establishing a newspaper in the late 19th century, emphasizing that extraordinary determination and foresight were essential when educational and communication resources were limited.
He underscored the critical role of responsible journalism in democracy. Radhakrishnan noted that political leadership is one of the most challenging areas of public life, and constructive criticism should be fair and balanced. The true duty of journalism is to commend good deeds while courageously criticizing wrongdoings when necessary.
Radhakrishnan stated that the social responsibility of newspapers extends far beyond mere event reporting. Journalism should also spotlight stories of hope, innovation, compassion, and scientific progress, as such creative journalism boosts confidence among youth and inspires them toward nation-building.
He remarked that editorial opinions have a legitimate place in newspapers, while news reporting must remain objective and factual. He cautioned against the growing trend of editorializing in news reporting. Radhakrishnan praised Deepika for promoting social harmony, education, culture, and creative public dialogue, enriching Kerala’s literary and cultural landscape for generations.
Expressing concern over the changing media landscape, the Vice President pointed to the rising challenge of misinformation, declining public trust, commercial pressures, and the rapid changes brought by digital platforms. He noted that today, people are often swayed by captions and headlines without engaging deeply with issues and debates.
Radhakrishnan concluded by stating that every challenge faced by the media also presents an opportunity. He expressed hope that Deepika would continue to inspire young journalists while upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
He congratulated the management, staff, contributors, advertisers, distributors, and readers of Deepika, wishing the newspaper continued success, relevance, and excellence in serving society and the nation for many more years.
The event was also attended by Kerala’s Governor, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, Assembly Speaker Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, former West Bengal Governor C.V. Anand Bose, Archbishop Mar Mathew Moolakkatt of Kottayam, Chairman of Nation Deepika Limited Francis Cletus, Managing Director Michael Vettikat, and Chief Editor Dr. George Kudilil.
Leave a Comment