Ram Nath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards Celebrate Professional Achievement and the Spirit of Fearless, Principled Journalism: Vice President
Discussion, Debate, and Dissent Must Lead to Decision-Making in the National Interest, Not Disruption: Vice President
Newspapers Should Lead the Effort to Shed Colonial Mindsets: Vice President
NEW DELHI, MARCH 27, 2026: The Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, addressed the 20th Edition of Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards organised by The Indian Express Group in New Delhi today.
The Vice President said that the awards celebrate not only professional achievement but also the enduring spirit of fearless and principled journalism. Noting that the awards are in their 20th year, he said they honour the legacy of Shri Ramnath Goenka, defined by courage, independence, and an unwavering commitment to truth, particularly during some of the most challenging periods in India’s history. He added that in an era where media is both powerful and under intense scrutiny, Shri Goenka’s ideals remain a guiding light.
The Vice President highlighted Shri Goenka’s role during the Quit India Movement, when he chose to shut down the newspaper in protest against British censorship. He also recalled Shri Goenka’s contribution as a member of the Constituent Assembly, including his interventions on issues such as taxation of newspapers.
Referring to the Emergency in India, the Vice President noted that Shri Goenka demonstrated the power of silence by publishing a blank editorial, which became a powerful symbol of press freedom and the citizen’s right to expression. The Vice President said despite facing imprisonment of editors, disruption of power supply, financial losses, and harassment, Shri Goenka remained steadfast in his commitment to democratic values and freedom of expression.
The Vice President observed that Shri Goenka’s life journey – from Darbhanga to Chennai and later as a Member of Parliament from Vidisha reflected the essence of India’s unity in diversity. He also noted that Shri Goenka published newspapers in multiple regional languages along with English to ensure wider reach, and that his values continue to define The Indian Express as a symbol of fairness, courage, and independence.
The Vice President stated that discussion, debate and even dissent must ultimately lead to decision-making in the interest of the nation, rather than result in disruption.
He also recalled the Prime Minister’s emphasis on shedding colonial mindsets and noted that media institutions like The Indian Express have a key role in presenting global and national developments from an Indian perspective rooted in the country’s civilisational ethos.
The Vice President emphasised the importance of highlighting stories of progress, innovation, and grassroots transformation, stating that a balanced narrative must include both challenges and achievements.
Concluding his address, the Vice President congratulated all the award winners and commended the organisers for sustaining the tradition of recognising excellence in journalism.
About the Author
