Media Release

Mumbai, Sep 7: “Reporting must always be balanced, journalism should be fair, and media should remain open to criticism. Accuracy in reporting is of utmost importance, and there can never be a compromise in news. Practice and quality are the essence of journalism. It is commendable that Kannada media in Maharashtra reports from the perspective of Kannadigas, which is why Mumbai-based Kannada journalists are also regarded as national journalists,” said Ayesha Khanum, president of the Karnataka Media Academy.

She was speaking after inaugurating Journalists Day 2025 and the KT Venugopal KPSM National Maadhyamashree Award-2025 ceremony, organised by Kannadiga Patrakartara Sangha, Maharashtra, at the Club House Hall of Solitary Corporate Park, Andheri East, on Sunday.

The programme was presided over by Sangha president Rons Bantwal. Guests of honour included Dr Suneetha M Shetty, senior litterateur and Rajyotsava awardee; Bhagirathi G Murulya, MLA of Sullia; and John Wilson Lobo, promoter of Suktha News Media Pvt Ltd.

On the occasion, senior journalist D Umapathi (Chitradurga, New Delhi) was conferred the National Maadhyamashree Award-2025. He was felicitated with a shawl, citation, bouquet, award plaque, and a cash prize of Rs 25,000.

A special felicitation was also accorded to noted social worker and transgender activist Sridevi Londhe of Kalyan.

In her address, MLA Bhagirathi Murulya said, “Journalists are professionals without pretension. With books and pens as their assets, they have the power to provide solutions to society’s problems. From birth to death, journalism serves humanity, inspiring others to do good.”

Accepting the award, Umapathi said, “It is the dharma of journalists to deliver truth to the people. Journalists are the true spokespersons of society. Though journalism has now grown into a corporate-level industry, it must always carry social concern.”

Speaking on the occasion, Sridevi Londhe said, “Gender discrimination remains a major issue. Though our minds and bodies may differ, we too are God’s children. This recognition by the Journalists’ Association fills me with pride and hope for an equal life for the third gender.”

Dr Suneetha Shetty, chairperson of the award committee, highlighted the contributions of late KT Venugopal, while urging journalists to be both good writers and dedicated professionals.

In his presidential remarks, Rons Bantwal stressed the importance of integrity, discipline, and conduct in journalism.

The event also marked the induction of new office-bearers of KPSM for 2025–2028:

• President: Dr G P Kusuma

• Vice president: Vishwanath Poojary Niddodi

• General secretary: Savita Suresh Shetty

• Treasurer: Suresh K Moolya

• Joint secretary: Shyam M Hande

• Joint treasurer: Dr Durgappa Y Kotiawar

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, advisory members, and well-wishers.

The programme began with a prayer by Vidya M Bhandary, a welcome by Dr Shiva Mudigere, and introductions by office-bearers. Dr G P Kusuma compered and proposed the vote of thanks. The event concluded with the national anthem.