06/09/2025
PRESS RELEASE
Indian Journalist Association (IJA) Celebrates 17 Years of Upholding Journalistic Integrity and Freedom as well as their stat office inauguration at Maisuma, Lal Chowk, Srinagar.
Association marks anniversary with commitment to ethical reporting and protecting the Fourth Estate in India
Maisuma, Srinagar – September 6, 2025 – The Indian Journalist Association, a leading body dedicated to fostering ethical and courageous journalism in India, is proud to announce its 17th anniversary. Since its inception on 5th September, 2008, the association has been at the forefront of championing a free and responsible press, protecting the rights of media-persons, and promoting high standards of reporting across the country.
Over the past 17 years, the association has grown into a powerful voice for journalists, providing support in the face of growing challenges and actively engaging in dialogue with government and civil society on the role of media in nation-building.
The anniversary is a moment to reflect on key milestones, including:
Advocacy for Journalist Protection: Actively campaigning for and contributing to the discourse on journalist protection laws to ensure the safety of those reporting from the ground.
Promoting Ethical Journalism: Instituting awards and workshops to recognize and encourage journalistic work characterized by in-depth analysis, truth-seeking, and unwavering integrity, countering sensationalism and misinformation.
Adapting to the Digital Age: Providing guidance and training to navigate the complexities and challenges of reporting in the digital era, including the use of Artificial Intelligence and addressing paid news concerns.
Celebrating Journalistic Excellence: Annually recognizing the "soldiers of the pen" whose work has made a significant impact on public opinion and government decision-making.
"Mr. Manzoor Pakhtoon, State Head. “This anniversary is a testament to the resilience and dedication of journalists nationwide. We have never been a mute spectator when the rights of media-persons have been trampled upon. We are more committed than ever to our core values of safeguarding democracy, defending people's rights, and working towards the larger goal of sustainable development through quality reporting".
The celebration was attended by Honourable Mr. Ahsan Pardesi, MLA Lal Chowk Constituency, who congratulated IJA for inaugurating a state chapter. “It will add value to the mission that IJA has been working in the country” said Mr Pardesi.
In CelebrationItifaq Ahmad Bhat a senior Journalist and Faheem Ahmad Reshi Social and Political activist was also attended the occasion who said IJA under the leadership of Mr. Pakhtoon will prove a significant step towards the mission of the organisation. Adding more grace to the event were the senior and leading journalists from Kashmir.
Founded in 2008, the Indian Journalist Association is an organization dedicated to protecting the interests of media-persons and upholding the principles of a free and responsible press in India. The association aims to foster a culture of ethical and fearless reporting critical to a healthy democracy Pakhtoon said.