Mangaluru, May 24: Journalists play a vital role in correcting society by reporting news with critical understanding and social responsibility, said Ivan D’Souza.
He was speaking after inaugurating Press Club Day-2026 held at Red Cross Centenary Prerana Hall in Mangaluru on Sunday.
“Journalists analyse and interpret the true meaning behind a speaker’s words before presenting them to society through news reports. In this way, they safeguard the health of society and contribute towards correcting it,” he said.
Recalling his earlier experiences, Ivan D’Souza said that journalists and police personnel are usually the first to reach the spot during any major incident. Referring to a past flight crash incident, he said his voluntary service in helping lift the deceased was recognised through photographs published in newspapers. “Journalists also play an important role in recognising and appreciating service to society,” he added.
During the programme, Deepak G. Belthangady, founder of Rajakesari Trust and noted social worker, was honoured with the Press Club Award-2026.
Speaking at the event, H. N. Mithun, Deputy Commissioner of Police of Mangaluru City, said, “Journalists in Mangaluru are working with restraint and social concern. By recognizing selfless service workers, they have conveyed a positive message to society.”
Awardess selected for Press Club Honour Raymond Dcunha, Balashubhramanya Kayara, Ramanna Y. Harsha and R.M. Rajendran were honoured.
The programme was presided over by P. B. Harish Rai, President of the Mangaluru Press Club. CA Shantharam Shetty, Chairman of the Dakshina Kannada district unit of the Red Cross Society, presented merit awards to the children of journalists. Senior Assistant Director of the Information Department B. A. Khader Shah honoured those selected for the Press Honour Award.
President of the Dakshina Kannada Working Journalists’ Association Pushparaj B. N., General Secretary Rajesh K. Poojary, President of the Press Bhavan Trust Annu Mangaluru, and State Executive Committee member of the Journalists’ Association Srinivasa Nayak Indaje were present on the occasion.
Mohammed Arif Padubidri, Atmabhushan Bhat, Wilfred D’Souza, Daya Kukkaje and Vijaya Kotyan Padu introduced the awardees. Press Club General Secretary Ibrahim Adkasthala delivered the vote of thanks, while Lokesh Rai compered the programme.
Ananda Shetty, recipient of the Media Academy Special Award; Ramakrishna R. and Rajesh Shetty Dota, recipients of the KUWJ Award; Abdul Rahiman T.; District Rajyotsava Award recipients Satish Ira, Rajesh Shetty Daddangadi and A. K. Kukkila; and Harish Motukana, recipient of the Sullia Taluk Kasapa Award, were felicitated during the programme.