PCI to invite Prez Kovind as chief guest on National Press Day event

The Press Council of India will invite President Ram Nath Kovind as the chief guest at the function to mark the National Press Day on November 16, sources said.

In its meeting held today, the Council also proposed to invite Chairmen of all SAARC Press/Media Councils on the occasion, they added.

During the celebrations, several awards including the prestigious Raja Ram Mohan Roy Award will be given away for distinguished services in journalism.

A jury committee was formed with representatives from working journalists, editors, owners and government nominee to select the awardees.

Some members also expressed discontent over issuing of two notification by the Information and Broadcasting Ministry for reconstituting the council, the sources said.

On March 16, the government had notified the names of eight nominated members of the reconstituted council.

In another notification on May 30, the government announced 18 other members. The names under medium newspaper category were not announced as the matter related to it is sub-judice.