Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Rajyavardhan Rathore, said that the government believes in freedom of press for the fourth pillar of democracy.
"When it comes to Freedom of Press, this government is totally with you. The government thinks exactly the way you do. It has been applicable in the past and now also, it will always be applicable. You are considered the fourth pillar of this democracy. And this fourth pillar is also very important," said Rathore while addressing a gathering to celebrate National Press Day in New Delhi.
A book related to the media was also released at the event by the dignitaries.
This year, the National Press Day celebration has been dedicated to the 'Role of Media in Facilitating Transparency in Public Affairs.'
Various seminars, symposia, workshops, debates and discussions on topics related to the Press were organised to mark the day.
Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar, said media should act with responsibility and not turn into paparazzi.
"When I talk of responsible media, one thing comes to my mind, that there should be the whole context and a sense of proportion when we talk about a particular topic and that should be within a particular limit, so that there is transparency and openness. But in the name of openness, there is paparazzi and in the name of transparency we dig into ones private life so much (that is not acceptable)," said Javadekar while addressing the gathering.
Various journalists, photographers and freelancers excelling in print media were also honoured by the Council which is the only authority enjoying the statutory mandate to encourage the media to pursue its duties.
