Bhubaneswar: The PG Department of Public Administration along with its Masters in Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) programme observed National Press Day 2025 by hosting an insightful academic gathering that brought together leading journalists, faculty members, researchers and students for a day of meaningful dialogue and critical reflection on contemporary media challenges.
Veteran journalist and long time BBC contributor Shri Sandeep Sahu and Shri Sisir Bhatta Mishra, Editor of Nandighosha TV, addressed the audience as keynote speakers, each offering distinct perspectives on the evolving landscape of journalism.
In his remarks, Sandeep Sahu underscored the pivotal role of the media as a platform for marginalized communities and an instrument for ensuring accountability in governance. Citing India’s 151st position in the World Press Freedom Index, he expressed concern over declining public trust in news institutions. Drawing from more than three decades of field experience, he spoke candidly about the pressures, uncertainties and personal sacrifices inherent in journalism, urging students to uphold honesty, integrity and resilience.
Bringing a motivational lens to the discourse, Sisir Bhatta Mishra encouraged aspiring journalists to pursue the profession with passion, empathy and a commitment to amplifying unheard voices. He shared anecdotes from his student years and professional journey, highlighting how lessons from both challenging and rewarding phases shaped his leadership and expertise in the media sector.
An interactive open forum followed the keynote sessions, with discussions touching on the media–state dynamic, ethical dilemmas during crises, the growing impact of AI on newsroom cultures and the role of social media as a driver of constructive societal change.
The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Pratima Sarangi, Head of the Department, who emphasized the vital role of journalism in strengthening democratic values. She stressed that an informed society is essential to national development and highlighted the shared responsibility of citizens in nurturing transparent communication ecosystems. Dr. Hemant Kumar Dash, Assistant Professor, coordinated the event, presented the thematic note and introduced the dignitaries. The vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Rajiv Milan.
The observance provided a significant platform for critical thought and academic engagement, reaffirming the necessity of a free, ethical and accountable press in sustaining democratic ethos and public trust.
