Indian democracy owes much to independent press: Rathore

The success of Indian democracy owes much to an independent and responsible press which has played a crucial role in educating and empowering the masses, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said Sunday.

Journalists have acted like soldiers, utilising the weapons of pen and newspaper columns, he said in his address at a function organised by the Press Council of India here to commemorate National Press Day.

Rathore reiterated the government's commitment to protect, preserve and promote freedom of the press.

He called upon journalists to maintain professional integrity and ethical standards in their pursuit of truth.

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said freedom of press was sacrosanct in a democracy and that this freedom came with responsibilities.

The media has to facilitate active discussions and debates on various issues of national importance, he added.

The function also witnessed the conferring of national awards in various categories on print journalists for their outstanding contributions in various fields.

National Press Day marks the day of establishment of the Press Council of India (PCI) as a statutory agency to ensure free and responsible press.