New Delhi : The National Press Day 2025 celebration, organised by the Information and Public Relations Department, Government of Sikkim, was grandly celebrated to commemorate the significant role of media in safeguarding democracy and upholding the values of a free and responsible press at Manan Kendra yesterday.
The event was graced by the Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, as the chief guest.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Prem Singh Tamang, expressed his delight at attending the National Press Day celebration held at Manan Kendra. He mentioned that although the event had originally been scheduled for November 16, he had decided to postpone it so that he could personally be present, as a mark of respect and admiration for the media fraternity.
He recalled that there had been a time when the relationship between the government and the press was strained, but stated that under the SKM Government, this relationship had transformed into one founded on freedom, trust, and mutual respect. He acknowledged the many challenges faced by journalists, including misinformation, threats to free expression, and concerns for safety. He emphasised that a journalist struggling for survival cannot serve society effectively, which is why the government had taken steps to support and strengthen the press as part of its responsibility. He added that the government had restored dignity and independence to the press, and stressed that these achievements must be protected.
The Chief Minister highlighted several key initiatives undertaken for the welfare of media personnel, including personal support to journalists and recognition as frontline workers during COVID-19; the establishment of the Press Club of Sikkim Bhawan in 2019 and provision of a 17-seater vehicle in 2024; health insurance under the Sikkim Swastha Suraksha Yojana; a pension scheme and annual grants for the PCS; increased advertisement rates; exposure tours; enhanced awards; and the introduction of new awards for reporting on climate change, women’s issues, and human rights.
He extended his congratulations to all award recipients across various reporting categories, noting that their work keeps the voice of truth alive.
He further stated that while the government may not be perfect, it remains committed to honesty and accountability. He encouraged the press fraternity to continue serving as Sikkim’s “Third Eye”—fearless, fair, and truthful. He said the government welcomed constructive criticism as guidance and urged journalists to use their pens against misinformation, drugs, and social evils affecting the youth.
The Chief Minister also visited the photo exhibition set up outside the main hall, curated by the Information & Public Relations Department, showcasing the department’s key activities and achievements.
Earlier, the event began with a theme song presented by the Information and Public Relations Department.
Further, an audio-visual presentation was delivered on the achievements of the IPR Department over the past year.
One of India’s leading AI and Digital Marketing coach, Mr Sorav Jain, addressed the programme, highlighting the growing importance of working with Artificial Intelligence to detect and prevent the spread of fake news in the digital era. He spoke about how misinformation gains momentum online, whether through fabricated videos, manipulated images, or altered documents, and how such content often goes viral before verification.
To empower individuals to navigate this landscape responsibly, he introduced the SIFT framework, which stands for
* Stop before reacting or sharing
* Investigate the source
* Find trusted coverage or credible references
* Trace the original context of the information
He also recommended Google’s SynthID as a reliable tool for detecting AI-generated content, noting its use of digital watermarking to verify text, audio, and visuals. Mr Jain stressed that even as AI reshapes information consumption, it must be used responsibly to protect truth, trust, and digital integrity
During the event, awards were presented to eminent journalists of Sikkim in recognition of their unwavering commitment to the field and their outstanding contributions to truthful and impactful reporting.
The first honour, the Chief Minister’s Award for Reporting on Climate Change, 2025, was presented to Mr Lalit Dahal. The award acknowledged his dedicated efforts in raising awareness about climate change and its growing impact on the environment.
The second honour, the Chief Minister’s Award for Reporting on Human Rights, 2025, was conferred upon Mr Hem Subba. He was recognised for his principled journalism and extensive reporting on human rights issues, reflecting a strong commitment to social justice and public interest.
The third award, the Chief Minister’s Award for Reporting on Women’s Issues, 2025, was presented to Ms Bhawani Thami. She was honoured for her tireless work in highlighting women-centric issues and amplifying voices that often remain unheard.
In addition, the YN Bhandari Best Journalism Award, 2025, was presented to Mr Ambar Gurung in recognition of his dedication to truth, ethical reporting, and exemplary service to the journalistic fraternity.
Similarly, the Kashiraj Pradhan Lifetime Journalism Award, 2025, was conferred upon Mr Khagendramani Pradhan, honouring his lifelong contribution to journalism, translation, and service to society.
The event also featured the release of the Coffee Table Book, a visually rich compilation of Sikkim’s developmental milestones, followed by the launch of Sikkim Today, the Department’s flagship magazine capturing the State’s key narratives over the past year.
The Chief Minister also unveiled the official jersey of the IPR Cricket Team, which will represent the Department in the forthcoming Inter-Departmental Cricket Tournament.
To acknowledge the excellence within the Department, the Chief Minister presented Certificates of Appreciation to IPR personnel for their commendable service across districts.
In addition, Mr Samdup Dorjee Bhutia (HQ) was recognised separately for his exemplary dedication a Commendation Certificate was presented, reflecting the Department’s appreciation for dedicated staff contributions.
Strengthening the media fraternity further, the Government extended financial support to the Press Club of Sikkim. The Chief Minister handed over the Annual Grant-in-Aid of ₹5 lakh, received by Press Club President Mr Bhim Rawat and the executive committee. A ₹20 lakh cheque was also presented under the Patrakar Samman Yojana, reinforcing the State’s commitment to journalist welfare and institutional development.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the launch of the Automated Billing System cum Advertisement Management System, marking a significant step toward digital governance within the Department. Released through the hands of the Chief Minister, the system now enables,
* Online submission and payment of advertising bills.
* Digital billing for media houses.
* Faster processing and redressal.
* Greater transparency and efficiency in advertisement management.
The new digital mechanism is expected to greatly streamline the workflow between media organisations and the IPR Department, ensuring quicker settlements and improved service delivery.
In his address, YN Bhandari Journalism Awardee 2025, Mr Ambar Gurung, shared that being recognised on such a significant day filled him with immense happiness and pride, reflecting back to his beginnings in 1978.
Mr Gurung acknowledged the legacy of Late Y N Bhandari, stating that receiving an award associated with such a distinguished figure made the moment even more meaningful. He also extended special thanks to Mr Khagendramani Pradhan, whom he credited as the person from whom he learned the true essence of journalism.
Reflecting on his 21 years of service in journalism, Mr Gurung noted that the journey has been one of learning, growth, and resilience, shaped by both opportunities and challenges.
Subsequently, in recognition for consistently highlighting important news and issues from rural areas, Journalist, Sikkim News 24, Mr Suraj Limboo, was conferred with Grameen Patrakarita Puraskar 2025, honoured by the Press Club of Sikkim, with a cash award, a memento, and a certificate of appreciation.
Thereafter, the Chief Coordinator of the 60+ Journalists of Sikkim, Mr Bijay Bantawa, felicitated the Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang.
Similarly, a member of the Press Club of Sikkim, Mr Puran Tamang, also presented a felicitation to the Chief Minister in acknowledgement of his continued support to the media fraternity.
At the onset of the programme, a documentary titled “The Sacred Steps to Tholung” was screened, highlighting the revered ceremony Khamsel, which is observed once every three years. The film showed how devotees take part in a difficult journey, walking through steep and rough paths to reach the holy place.
A panel discussion on the theme Safeguarding Press Credibility Amidst Rising Misinformation was held, featuring two speakers who shared insights on the evolving landscape of journalism and the challenges posed by the growing spread of misinformation.
The first speaker, Ms Priyanshi Sharma, Co-founder of Peek TV, is an award-winning prime-time journalist and mediopreneur. She is a Torchbearer Awardee from ISB and a former Principal Anchor at NDTV.
The second speaker, Mr Vedanta Agarwal, Co-founder of Peek TV, is known as India’s youngest prime-time news anchor at the age of 23. A former Principal Anchor and Correspondent, NDTV.
The session discussed reflections on maintaining press integrity, fostering public trust, and adapting journalistic practices in a rapidly changing digital media environment.
The event was enriched by vibrant cultural performances and a fashion show showcasing traditional attire by the ‘e-Learning Language’ team of the Information and Public Relations Department.
