The Kohima Press Club (KPC) celebrated its 25th anniversary on January 20 with a reflective program, bringing together members, well-wishers, and guests to honor 25 years of storytelling, solidarity, and service. Held at the Capital Convention Centre in Kohima under the theme “Traversing 25 years of storytelling: Inspiring the future,” the event featured Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty, President of the Press Club of India, as the guest of honour. This milestone not only highlighted the years of existence but reaffirmed the KPC’s commitment to journalism and the future of storytelling in the region.
In her presidential address, Alice Yhoshü, KPC’s president, traced Nagaland’s journalism roots back to the 1930s, recalling that while journalist groups predated the formal establishment of the Press Club, serious discussions about its formation began in the early 2000s. She noted these conversations flourished among a small group of journalists in Kohima. The KPC officially launched on January 20, 2001, based on a shared belief in the necessity of a free and ethically grounded press for a healthy democracy. Yhoshü emphasized the KPC’s commitment over the past 25 years to uphold the principles of ethical journalism and public service.
Reflecting on the organization’s journey, she honored the founding members and expressed hope that the jubilee celebrations would inspire future journalists. Former KPC Vice President Vibou Seyie remarked that the occasion was a time for reflection on their progress, emphasizing gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the fourth estate of democracy. Seyie underlined that, despite technological changes and challenges, the core mission of safeguarding democracy must continue.
Seyie described journalism as a rare privilege that provides a platform and voice for the community, despite the immense stress it entails. Reminiscing about her early days in journalism, she noted how difficult it was financially. Over the years, journalists have faced numerous challenges, including working under pressure, limited resources, career insecurity, and societal tensions. She likened their lives to living two realities — one of social engagement and another marked by the struggle of daily life.
A moment of silence was held in memory of journalists who had passed away, followed by a jubilee feast. In her address, Pisharoty highlighted the increasing pressure on journalism in India, citing legal constraints and financial stresses. She urged the public to support independent media, which is vital for upholding democracy.
Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio congratulated the KPC on reaching this significant milestone, encouraging continued commitment to ethical journalism amidst rapid changes and misinformation. He expressed the need for greater collaboration between the media and government to foster informed public discourse and development. The CM praised the KPC’s evolution over the years, underlining its role as a bastion of democratic values and ethical reporting, stepping beyond routine journalism.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/kohima-press-club-marks-25-years-of-storytelling
Category: Nagaland
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Publish Date: 2026-01-20 23:48:00
