At the 20th Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards, Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan underscored the vital role of journalism in democracy while honoring 24 journalists for their exceptional contributions across various media platforms.
New Delhi, March 27, 2026 – Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan addressed the essential contributions of journalism to the democratic process during the 20th Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards ceremony, held at the Hyatt Regency in New Delhi. This annual event, which took place on Friday, recognized the outstanding achievements of 24 journalists across various media platforms, including print, digital, and broadcast.
In his keynote address, Radhakrishnan paid tribute to Ramnath Goenka, the founder of The Indian Express group, whose legacy is synonymous with courage, independence, and an unwavering commitment to truth in journalism. He remarked, “The spirit of journalism must remain strong and relentless, for it is the bedrock of any democratic society.” This statement serves as a reinforcement of the challenges journalists face today, particularly in an era marked by increasing concerns regarding press freedom and the necessity for accurate reporting.
A Celebration of Journalistic Excellence
Established in 2006, the Ramnath Goenka Awards aim to honor and celebrate excellence in journalism while promoting high standards in the industry. This year’s ceremony featured awards in 19 distinct categories, encompassing a wide range of journalistic endeavors, such as investigative reporting, political journalism, feature writing, and regional language journalism. The awards were conferred by a distinguished panel of judges, including Justice B N Srikrishna, a former judge of the Supreme Court; Prof C Raj Kumar, founding Vice Chancellor of OP Jindal Global University; and Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies.
The full list of award recipients exemplifies the diversity and depth of journalistic talent in India. Among the winners were:
- Print (Hindi): Avadhesh Akodia (Dainik Bhaskar)
- Broadcast/Digital (Hindi): Sarvapriya Sangwan (BBC News Hindi)
- Print/Digital (Regional Languages): Muhammad Sabith & Akhil Sivanand (Mathrubhumi)
- Broadcast/Digital (Regional Languages): Fousiya Musthafa (News Malayalam 24×7)
- Environment, Science & Technology Reporting: Jayashree Nandi & Tannu Jain (Hindustan Times)
- Investigative Reporting (Print/Digital): Mridulika Jha (Aaj Tak)
- Sports Journalism: Srikkanth Dhasarathy (DT Next)
- Photojournalism: Praveen Jain (The Print)
This broad recognition not only honors individual journalists but also emphasizes the critical role of media in informing the public and holding those in power accountable.
The Current Landscape of Press Freedom
Radhakrishnan’s remarks come at a time when the media landscape in India is under scrutiny. Issues related to press freedom and the safety of journalists have emerged as prominent topics of discussion. The Vice-President’s emphasis on the importance of truth in journalism resonates with ongoing concerns raised by various media watchdogs about the increasing pressures on journalists, including censorship and threats from both governmental and non-governmental entities.
At the conclusion of the awards ceremony, Radhakrishnan reiterated the collective responsibility to safeguard a free press, stating, “It is the responsibility of every citizen to protect the integrity of journalism, as it is vital for the health of our democracy.” His call to action reflects broader societal debates about the role of the media in a democratic framework and the necessity for an environment where journalists can perform their duties without fear of retribution.
Upholding the Legacy of Ramnath Goenka
The Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards are named after Ramnath Goenka, a figure renowned for his fearless journalism and commitment to serving the public interest. These awards seek to inspire both current and future generations of journalists to uphold the values of integrity and courage in their reporting. Radhakrishnan’s tribute to Goenka serves as a reminder of the foundational principles that should guide the profession.
As journalism continues to evolve with technological advancements and changing audience dynamics, the recognition of excellence remains crucial for fostering high standards and ethical practices within the industry. The Ramnath Goenka Awards play a significant role in promoting these ideals while celebrating the contributions of journalists dedicated to informing the public and enriching democracy.
Implications for the Future
The significance of the Ramnath Goenka Awards extends beyond the recognition of individual accomplishments; they also serve as a barometer for the health of journalism in India. The awards highlight the ongoing need for robust protections for journalists and the importance of maintaining an environment where investigative and civic journalism can thrive. As threats to press freedom persist, the commitment to uphold journalistic integrity becomes increasingly vital.
The awards ceremony is not just a celebration but also a clarion call for the media industry to remain vigilant in its pursuit of truth. Radhakrishnan’s remarks resonate with the pressing need for collective action to safeguard the freedoms that are essential for democracy, reinforcing the notion that a free press is not merely beneficial but indispensable for societal progress.
In summary, the 20th Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards not only recognized outstanding achievements in media but also reaffirmed the essential role of journalism in a democratic society. By highlighting the work of journalists who confront challenges in pursuit of truth, the awards serve as a beacon of hope for those committed to the principles of freedom, integrity, and accountability. This event underscores the enduring legacy of Ramnath Goenka and the imperative to uphold the values he championed in the face of evolving challenges in the media landscape.
