THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Nov 2: The Ranchi Press Club and the RBS Vedic Trust jointly presented the Jharkhand Journalism Awards 2025 on Sunday, recognising the remarkable contributions of journalists from across the state. During the event, Jharkhand Assembly Speaker Ravindra Nath Mahto announced that, as the Jharkhand Vidhan Sabha completes 25 years, the Assembly would initiate a special award to honour journalists for their outstanding service.
The felicitation ceremony, held at a hotel was attended by Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman and senior journalist Harivansh as the chief guest. Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore and Padma Shri Balbir Dutt were also present, along with several senior media professionals.
Lifetime Achievement and Special Awards
Veteran journalist Srinivas, retired from Prabhat Khabar, received the Lifetime Achievement Award and a cash prize of ₹51,000. Other honourees included Shakeel Akhtar (Best Reporting – Print), Rajkumar Singh of Samachar Wala (Best Reporting – Electronic), Manik Bose of Dainik Bhaskar (Best Photography – Print), and Rakesh Tiwari of Aaj Tak (Best Video Journalism – Electronic), each receiving ₹25,000.
Although Shakeel Akhtar could not attend due to health reasons, his long-standing contribution to print journalism was warmly acknowledged. Additionally, Sonali Das, Brajesh Rai, Chandan Mishra, Dilip Srivastava, Nilu, and Shyam Kishore were recognised in the Outstanding Award category, while Gauri was honoured as the Emerging Talent of the Year.
Speaker’s Announcement Wins Praise
In his address, Harivansh commended the Ranchi Press Club and RBS Vedic Trust for their initiative in honouring journalists, describing it as a vital step in recognising the “pillars of democracy.” He also highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism and other fields, noting that while nearly 40 lakh jobs may be displaced, 60 lakh new opportunities could emerge for those with technical skills.
Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore praised the organisers and urged the Jharkhand Assembly Speaker to institutionalise awards for journalists. Responding positively, Speaker Ravindra Nath Mahto announced that as part of the Assembly’s 25th anniversary celebrations, a special award will be introduced to honour media professionals for their contribution to society.
Senior Journalists Advocate Mentorship
Padma Shri Balbir Dutt appreciated the initiative and encouraged young journalists to seek guidance from their senior counterparts to uphold journalistic integrity. Nityanand Shukla, President of the RBS Vedic Trust, expressed gratitude to the Ranchi Press Club for its collaboration and confirmed that the Trust would continue supporting efforts to recognise excellence in journalism.
Jury and Dignitaries
The awardees were selected by a distinguished jury comprising senior journalist and former Information Commissioner Baijnath Mishra, retired IAS officer Ranendra, former Ranchi University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ajit Sinha, Ranchi Press Club President Surendra Soren, and RBS Vedic Trust Chief Trustee Nityanand Shukla.
The event saw the presence of dignitaries from social, political, and corporate sectors, underscoring the growing recognition of Jharkhand’s vibrant media community and its role in shaping informed public discourse.
