National Press Day is an annual observance in India that celebrates the freedom and responsibility of the press. It commemorates the establishment of the Press Council of India (PCI) and highlights the crucial role of journalism in upholding democracy, transparency, and social justice.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: November 16
- Tagged as: Press Freedom Day, Journalism Day
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalPressDay
- When was it founded?: 1966
- Who founded it?: Press Council of India
History of National Press Day
National Press Day originated from the recommendations of India’s first Press Commission in 1956. The commission proposed creating a statutory body to protect press freedom and maintain ethical standards in journalism. This led to the establishment of the Press Council of India, which began functioning on November 16, 1966. Since then, this date has been observed as National Press Day to honor the press’s role in Indian democracy.
Timeline
- 1956: First Press Commission recommends creation of a press council
- 1965: Press Council Act passed
- 1966: Press Council of India established
- 1978: Press Council Act amended and PCI re-established
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | November | 16 | Sunday |
| 2026 | November | 16 | Monday |
| 2027 | November | 16 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | November | 16 | Thursday |
| 2029 | November | 16 | Friday |
| 2030 | November | 16 | Saturday |
Observed
National Press Day is observed throughout India with various events, seminars, and workshops organized by media organizations, journalism schools, and press associations. These events often focus on discussing current challenges in journalism, celebrating press freedom, and recognizing outstanding contributions to the field.
Fun Facts About National Press Day
- The Press Council of India is often referred to as the “watchdog of press freedom” in the country.
- India’s first newspaper, Hicky’s Bengal Gazette, was published in 1780 by James Augustus Hicky.
- The theme for National Press Day changes annually, reflecting current issues in journalism.
- The Press Council of India has quasi-judicial authority to address complaints against the media.
- National Press Day celebrations often include awards for excellence in journalism.
Quiz
- When is National Press Day celebrated in India?
- What organization was established on the first National Press Day?
- What year was the Press Council of India founded?
- Who is considered the “Father of Indian Press”?
- What was India’s first Hindi newspaper?
(Answers: 1. November 16, 2. Press Council of India, 3. 1966, 4. James Augustus Hicky, 5. Udant Martand)
FAQs
Q1: Why is National Press Day celebrated?
A: It celebrates press freedom and honors the Press Council of India’s role in maintaining journalistic ethics and accountability.
Q2: What is the significance of Press Day?
A: It recognizes the importance of journalism in keeping the public informed and empowered, upholding democracy.
Q3: What does the Press Council of India do?
A: It oversees journalistic standards, addresses complaints against the media, and protects freedom of the press from undue influence.
Related
- World Press Freedom Day
- International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists
- World News Day
- World Radio Day
- World Television Day