National Press Day

National Press Day 2019
Question: Consider the following statement:
(1) National Press Day 2019 was observed across India on November 16.
(2) The Press Council of India is an autonomous body.
From the above correct statement/s is/are:

(a) Only(1)
(b) Only (2)
(c) Both (1) and (2)
(d) None of the above
Answer: (c)
Related facts:
  • National Press Day 2019 was observed across India on November 16.
  • Addressing an event on this day Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that a free press is the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy.

National Press Day:

  • National Press Day is celebrated every year on 16 November. The day marks the presence of an independent and responsible press in India.
  • The media is called the fourth pillar of democracy. It is said that journalists are a mirror of society, which brings out the truth even in adverse circumstances.
  • This day symbolizes freedom of the press and its responsibilities towards the society. The Press Council of India started functioning on this day.
  • Today, around 50 countries in the world have the Press Council or Media Council.

Press day celebration reason:

  • The First Press Commission (in 1956) had envisioned a ‘Press Council’ to protect freedom of the press in India and a higher ideal in journalism.
  • After that, the Press Council was established on 4 July 1966 in India which started its work from 16 November 1966. It is a statutory and quasi-judicial institution.
  • The Press Council of India ensures the independent work and high standards of the press in India.

Links:

http://www.newsonair.nic.in/News?title=Today-is-National-Press-Day&id=374599

https://indianexpress.com/about/national-press-day/