Agnihotri Calls for Fearless, Unbiased Journalism
Announces ₹1 Lakh for Vepa Rao Foundation
Shimla, October 31: Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri on Saturday emphasised that fearlessness, impartiality and integrity are the fundamental pillars of journalism, urging media professionals to discharge their duties without pressure and remain committed to bringing facts and truth before the public.
Addressing the Prof. Vepa Rao Memorial Lecture organised by the Prof. Vepa Rao Foundation at the Gothic Hall of Gaiety Theatre, Agnihotri said that while adherence to the law was essential, the pursuit of truth and the search for news must continue relentlessly.
Sharing experiences from his own journalistic career, he paid tribute to the late Prof. Vepa Rao for his significant contribution to journalism and media education. He recalled Rao’s role in establishing and developing the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at Himachal Pradesh University, which went on to produce several distinguished journalists.
Agnihotri said Rao was deeply devoted to his students and extended support beyond academics, helping them find employment and guiding them in their personal lives. He said the professor’s impartial writing, commitment to journalism and concern for students remained an inspiration for the younger generation.
The Deputy Chief Minister also announced a grant of ₹1 lakh to the Prof. Vepa Rao Foundation from his discretionary fund.
Senior journalist Raju Santhanam, the keynote speaker, presented his views on journalism and said that challenges had always been part of the profession. He stressed that media professionals must preserve credibility, impartiality and professional commitment amid the changing media landscape.
Secretary, Language, Art and Culture and Education, Rakesh Kanwar, said Prof. Vepa Rao had mentored thousands of journalists across the country and maintained close personal ties with his students. Journalist Dinesh Sharma, along with Prof. Shashikant and Ashwani Sharma, also shared their experiences and recalled the lessons they had learnt from the late professor.
About Prof. Vepa Rao
Born in Andhra Pradesh in 1946, Prof. Vepa Rao made a notable contribution to journalism and media education. He served as Sunday Editor at Hindustan Times, was associated with The Tribune and later worked as Editorial Adviser at The Statesman. He passed away on October 31, 2022, at the age of 76.
The memorial lecture aimed to honour his lasting contribution to journalism and education while encouraging meaningful dialogue among media professionals, students and society.
The programme was attended by Foundation Founder Dr Meenakshi Chaudhary, Director of Language and Culture Torul S. Ravish, Director of Women and Child Development Dr Pankaj Lalit, SDM Shimla Urban Sunny Sharma, Dr Nagesh Thakur, Chandan Kapoor, Suresh Rana and other dignitaries, along with students of the university’s journalism department.
Samagra Sikhsha
