The Kohima Press Club (KPC) celebrated its 24th Foundation Day on Monday, January 20 at the Angami Public Organisation (APO) Hall in Kohima.
Veteran journalist and Chairman of the Sovima Village Council, Sebastian Zumvü graced the program as the special guest.
In his address, Zumvü reminisced about the early days of journalism in Nagaland and reflected on its evolution over the years. He raised concerns about the decline of print media amidst the growing influence of social media content creators. Emphasizing the importance of ethical journalism, he urged KPC to collaborate with the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) to uphold professional journalistic standards. He remarked that merely owning a camera and a YouTube channel does not make one a journalist overnight.
KPC President Alice Yhoshü, in her address, recounted the club’s journey since its inception in 2001 by Kohima-based journalists dedicated to protecting and promoting press freedom. Over the years, the club has grown to include 68 members from both print and electronic media. Yhoshü acknowledged the contributions of the founding members and past leaders, attributing the club’s progress to their vision. She also highlighted the club’s pressing need for a permanent building and expressed optimism about the state government’s commitment to the project. She recalled Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s announcement in February 2023 regarding the construction of a press club building at the allotted site in the New Secretariat area, with assurances to commence the project in the next fiscal year.
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As part of the silver jubilee celebrations, Yhoshü announced the launch of the KPC’s official website, designed by Liyo Kikon. The website will serve as a digital archive, providing information on the club’s history, objectives, and activities, while enhancing its online presence and professionalism. “Despite challenges, the Kohima Press Club has achieved much, but there is still more to accomplish. As members of the Fourth Estate, we must uphold journalistic ethics and strive for a responsible media landscape,” Yhoshü remarked.
The website was officially launched by Sebastian Zumvü in the presence of club members. The event also included an annual report presentation by General Secretary Vishü Rita Krocha and a musical performance by Seyiekietuo Keretsü. Senior members Jonas Yanthan and Kopelo Krome delivered exhortations, and senior journalist Narayan B. Sagar chaired the program.