New Delhi: National Press Day is observed on November 16 every year to commemorate the establishment of the Press Council of India (PCI) in 1966. The day holds immense historical and cultural value as it highlights the crucial role played by the press in a democratic society. It emphasises the need for ethical journalism that upholds truth, accuracy, and fairness, and promotes and protects the freedom of the press, which is the backbone of democracy.
Theme
The theme for National Press Day 2023 is “Media in the Era of Artificial Intelligence.” This theme underscores the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the media landscape and the challenges and opportunities it presents to journalism in the modern era.
History
The Press Council of India is a statutory quasi-judicial autonomous authority established in 1979 under the Press Council Act, 1978. It was re-established to preserve the freedom of the press and maintain and improve the standards of newspapers and news agencies in India. The PCI serves as a regulatory authority for the country’s news industry and ensures ethical standards in journalism while safeguarding the freedom of the press.
Importance
National Press Day is a day to celebrate the importance of a free and responsible press in a democratic society, emphasising ethical journalism, truth, accuracy, and impartiality. It promotes and defends press freedom, the foundation of democracy, and highlights the press’s responsibility to preserve a country’s democratic values. The day also serves as a platform to celebrate the achievements of the press while addressing the challenges it faces, emphasising the need for responsible journalism and the role of the press in safeguarding democratic values.
National Press Day is a significant occasion to recognize the contributions of the Press Council of India and the vital role of a free and independent press in India. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by journalists to bring the truth to the public, often facing threats and challenges in their pursuit of honest reporting.
National Press Day is a time to reflect on the importance of a free and responsible press in a democratic society, celebrate the achievements of the press, and address the challenges it faces. The theme for 2023, “Media in the Era of Artificial Intelligence,” highlights the evolving landscape of journalism in the digital age and the impact of artificial intelligence on the media industry.