PCS honours Mala Rana Patro with Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar

ISABELLA GURUNG

Lagansheel Yuwa Patrakar Puraskar presented to Sandeep Prasad

GANGTOK,:  Himali Bela editor Mala Rana Patro was conferred the Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar, while freelance journalist Sandeep Prasad received the Lagansheel Yuwa Patrakar Puraskar during the 24th Foundation Day celebration of the Press Club of Sikkim (PCS) held at Chintan Bhawan here on Friday.

On the occasion, senior journalists Meena Chettri, Sushma Chettri and Krishna Limboo were honoured with the Varishta Patrakar Samman, while MK Minda and Dinesh Mukhia were presented Avinandan honours in recognition of their contributions to journalism and the media fraternity.

The function was attended by Education Minister Raju Basnett as the chief guest, Gangtok MLA Delay Namgyal Barfungpa, GMC Mayor Tshering Palden Bhutia, senior journalists, government officials, media professionals and invited guests.

Addressing the gathering, Basnett described journalism as one of the strongest pillars of democracy and lauded the Press Club of Sikkim for fostering unity among media professionals over the past 24 years.

"Today, we are not merely celebrating the foundation day of an organisation, but honouring a vital pillar of democracy. Independent, responsible and honest journalism is the lifeblood of any democratic society. Journalism is not just about delivering news, but about providing correct information, shaping public opinion, holding those in power accountable and giving people a platform to voice their concerns with dignity," he said.

Recalling the formation of the Press Club of Sikkim in 2002, Basnett said the organisation had grown from a modest initiative into a family of around 160 members, bringing together journalists, editors, publishers, photographers and media workers from Nepali, English and Hindi publications under one umbrella.

He paid tribute to the club's founding president C.D. Rai and former office bearers for laying a strong foundation of professionalism and extended his best wishes to the current executive committee led by president Samir Hang Limboo.

The minister also highlighted the State government's continued support towards strengthening media infrastructure.

"I am happy that the government has been consistently supporting the Press Club. Along with repairing the building damaged by a storm, work is being planned for an additional floor with a multipurpose hall, which will provide journalists with a better and more modern workspace," he said.

Basnett further informed that a modern digital media studio would be established with Rs 10 lakh support from Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba's MPLAD fund.

"This is not just another building. It is an investment in the future of journalism. In today's digital era, such infrastructure is essential for producing fact-based, high-quality and credible journalism," he said.

He also referred to the government's initiatives, including the provision of a 16-seater vehicle for journalists, monthly pension for senior journalists and the commitment to revive the health insurance scheme.

Gangtok MLA Delay Namgyal Barfungpa, in his address, described the relationship between politicians and journalists as similar to "Tom and Jerry", marked by disagreements but built on mutual respect.

"Our relationship is like Tom and Jerry. Sometimes we sit together over tea, and sometimes we argue. But both politicians and journalists have an important role to play in democracy," he remarked.

Reflecting on the changing media landscape, Barfungpa said technology had transformed journalism.

"There was a time when we waited until the next morning to read what happened in a press conference. Today, news is instant. Neither journalists nor politicians can afford to mislead people because information is immediately scrutinised," he said.

Barfungpa emphasised that journalism requires passion and perseverance despite financial challenges.

"Journalism is not an easy profession. It demands dedication and passion. Whatever you do, give it your hundred per cent. Success comes when you work sincerely and remain grateful," he said.

Congratulating the award recipients, he made a special mention of Mala Rana Patro, praising her resilience after the demise of her husband, late Ram Patro.

"She worked tirelessly to keep both SIKKIM EXPRESS and Himali Bela alive during difficult times. Today, seeing SIKKIM EXPRESS editor Amit Patro successfully carrying forward that legacy is a matter of pride. A mother is truly fortunate when her child continues her life's work with such commitment," he said.

Accepting the Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar, Mala Rana Patro dedicated the honour to every individual who contributed to the growth of SIKKIM EXPRESS and Himali Bela over the decades.

"As SIKKIM EXPRESS completes 50 years and Himali Bela prepares to celebrate its Golden Jubilee next year, I look back on a journey that would never have been possible without the support of successive governments, our readers, well-wishers and fellow journalists," she said.

Recalling the difficult years following the untimely demise of her husband, late Ram Patro, she said balancing motherhood while ensuring the survival of two newspapers had been one of the greatest challenges of her life.

"Raising young children while keeping the newspapers alive was not easy. But I realised that with patience, hard work and determination, success eventually comes. Today, my son Amit Patro has taken over the responsibility of managing the newspapers, and that gives me immense satisfaction," she said.

Calling the honour deeply emotional, Patro said receiving recognition from fellow journalists carried special significance.

"Receiving the Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar from my own journalistic family is perhaps the greatest achievement of my life. I dedicate this honour to every editor, correspondent, staff member and well-wisher who stood with SIKKIM EXPRESS and Himali Bela throughout this journey," she said.

She also acknowledged the role of women journalists in the State's media landscape.

"Women journalists have contributed shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts in strengthening journalism in Sikkim. Recognising their contribution is truly commendable," she said.

Patro further thanked the State government for creating a positive atmosphere for journalism.

"The present government under Chief Minister PS Golay has created a supportive environment for journalists and media organisations. Measures such as increasing government advertisements and revising advertisement rates have strengthened the media industry," she said.

She concluded by reaffirming the commitment of SIKKIM EXPRESS and Himali Bela towards responsible journalism.

"With this honour comes greater responsibility. We will continue working with renewed dedication to keep the people of Sikkim informed through responsible and credible journalism," she added.

Receiving the Lagansheel Yuwa Patrakar Puraskar, Sandeep Prasad remembered late Kiran Rasaily, saying the recognition was bittersweet because the celebrated architect had always encouraged him.

"He constantly motivated me and would often say, 'When will Sandeep receive his award?' Sadly, on the very day my award was announced, he passed away. While this is one of the happiest moments of my life, I also remember him with deep respect," Prasad said.

Expressing gratitude to the Press Club of Sikkim, Prasad described journalism as a lifelong responsibility rather than just a profession.

"Journalism is not merely a profession; it is a responsibility towards society. Searching for the truth, amplifying people's voices and delivering unbiased information is a duty. I accept this award not as a personal achievement, but as a reminder of my greater responsibility," he said.

Prasad also acknowledged the editors, senior journalists and media organisations that shaped his career.

"The opportunities, trust and guidance I received from editors and senior journalists helped me reach this stage. Their faith in me built my confidence and strengthened my commitment to ethical journalism," he said.

Reaffirming his commitment to professional values, he added, "This award is not the end of my journey but the beginning of a greater responsibility. I will continue to practise journalism with truth, impartiality, honesty and professionalism at its core."