GANGTOK, (IPR): On the occasion of National Press Day, the State government presented awards to journalists for having excelled in various fields.
The awards were presented by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay during a ceremony organised by State Information and Public Relations department at Manan Kendra here.
Freelance journalist Babbu Tamang was recognised with ‘YN Bhandari Best Journalism Award’ for his long-standing dedication to truth. As a dedicated and passionate journalist, he has made significant contributions in the field of journalism. Since starting his career in 1999, he has diligently reported on a wide range of critical issues, bringing forth the voices of those often overlooked.
Pankaj Dhungel, the Sikkim correspondent for East Mojo and ANI, won the ‘Chief Minister’s Award for Reporting on Climate Change’. His consistent efforts in raising awareness about climate change and environmental sustainability have had a significant impact in engaging the public and inspiring environmental responsibility.
Anugamini reporter Deepak Gurung received the ‘Chief Minister’s Award for Reporting on Human Rights’. Through his investigative work, Gurung has exposed social injustices and advocated for the rights of marginalized communities, including migrant workers and those facing exploitation in the pharmaceutical sector during the pandemic.
Summit Times deputy editor Raymond Lepcha received the ‘Chief Minister’s Award for Reporting on Women's Issues’. His commitment to highlighting gender-based discrimination, domestic violence, and women's rights has contributed to broader societal understanding and the advocacy for equality.
Likewise, the ‘Grameen Patrakarita Purashkar’, awarded annually by Press Club of Sikkim, was presented to Sushil Rai, a Sikkim Reporter correspondent from Namchi. His diligent reporting from rural areas has been vital in bringing attention to local issues.
Acknowledging the invaluable contributions of IPR officials, the Chief Minister also presented certificates of appreciation to the following individuals for their dedication and service to the department: Sagar Rai, SIA, Namchi district; Bishal Shankar, SIA, Gyalshing; Sayreep Lepcha, SIA, Mangan; Phurba Dorjee Lepcha, SIA, Soreng; Nima Choden Bhutia, SIA, Gangtok; Hishey Tenzing Bhutia, SIA, Gangtok district; and Samdup Lepcha, photographer, Pakyong.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister acknowledged the pivotal role of media as the fourth pillar of democracy, underscoring its responsibility in shaping public opinion and ensuring accountability. He expressed pride in the State’s journalists, whose work not only informs the public but also drives positive change across various social, environmental and political issues.
The Chief Minister shared his pride in launching the ‘Tista Rangit Aviral Kalam Award’, presented annually at the State-level Independence Day celebration, to recognize outstanding journalists at the State level. He emphasized that the awards reflect not only the government’s commitment to the welfare and support of the journalists, and acknowledgment of their contributions, but also freedom of the ‘fourth pillar of democracy’ under the present government.