Shimla
In the Prof. Vepa Rao Memorial Lecture, the Deputy Chief Minister shared his journalistic experiences and said that the struggle to find news should always continue.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said that the fundamental foundation of journalism is fearlessness, impartiality, and honesty. Journalists must perform their duties with determination and without any pressure. While it is essential to follow the law, the struggle to find news and uncover the truth must continue.
The Deputy Chief Minister was speaking as the chief guest at a Professor Vepa Rao Biography and Memorial Lecture, organized by the Professor Vepa Rao Foundation, in the Gothic Hall of the Gaiety Theatre on Saturday. The organizers honored him with a shawl, cap, and a memento.
Sharing his experiences from his journalistic career, the Deputy Chief Minister said that the late Professor Vepa Rao’s contributions to journalism and education were incomparable. He played a key role in the establishment and development of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at Himachal Pradesh University. The department, established under his leadership, has produced many distinguished journalists for the country. From 1990 to 2022, he worked tirelessly in the fields of journalism and education with unwavering dedication and hard work.
He said that he had closely observed and understood Professor Vepa Rao. He had a special affection for students and cared for each one of them. Supporting students in everything from finding employment to their family life was a hallmark of his personality. He served not only as a teacher but also as a guardian and guide for his students. A teacher should have such a sensitive approach towards his students.
Mukesh Agnihotri said that today’s young generation should draw inspiration from Prof. Vepa Rao’s unbiased writing, ideas, and dedication to journalism. Collective efforts are needed to further strengthen and expand the field of journalism.
He said that journalism is not limited to publishing news, but also involves the responsibility of bringing facts and truth to society. Young people involved in journalism should discharge this responsibility with courage and honesty.
Announcement of donation of Rs. 1 lakh from discretionary fund to Prof. Vepa Rao Foundation
On this occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister also announced a donation of Rs 1 lakh from his discretionary fund to the Prof. Vepa Rao Foundation.
Senior journalist Raju Santhanam, the keynote speaker, presented his essay on journalism. He stated that journalism has always faced challenges and will continue to do so in the future. In the changing media environment, journalists must maintain their credibility, impartiality, and professional commitment.
Secretary of Language, Culture and Education, Rakesh Kanwar, said that Professor Vepa Rao nurtured a generation of thousands of journalists across the country who have made their mark in the media world. He had a familial relationship with his students. Young people should embrace his ideas and ideals and move forward in journalism.
Journalist Dinesh Sharma, who hails from Shimla, shared his learnings and experiences under the guidance of Professor Vepa Rao. Professors Shashikant, Ashwani Sharma, and Rakesh Kanwar elaborated on their student experiences with Professor Rao and the life and journalism lessons they learned from him. Vijay Gupta thanked all the guests and participants present at the event.
Biography of Prof. Vepa Rao
Born in Andhra Pradesh in 1946, Prof. Vepa Rao made significant contributions to journalism and media education. He served as Sunday Editor of the Hindustan Times. He also worked with The Tribune and later served as Editorial Advisor at The Statesman.
His students remember him as an excellent teacher, as well as a warm, humorous, and guiding personality. He helped many students find their first jobs in the media world and remained a mentor to them even after they left school. He passed away on October 31, 2022, at the age of 76.
Organized in the memory of Prof. Vepa Rao, this lecture aims to commemorate his lasting contribution to journalism and education and to encourage meaningful dialogue and exchange of ideas among media professionals, students and society.
