New Delhi :
Rashtra Times, a respected national weekly newspaper, celebrated its 45th Foundation Day today with a commemorative event at the Press Club of India, New Delhi. The occasion brought together leading voices from journalism, academia, civil society, and public life to reflect on the publication’s enduring legacy and its continued commitment to truth, integrity, and public service.
Founded in 1981, Rashtra Times has spent over four decades chronicling India’s socio-political landscape with clarity, conviction, and credibility. The ceremony began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by a warm welcome for the guests and the release of a special souvenir commemorating Rashtra Times’ four-decade-long journey.
Editor Vijay Shanker Chaturvedi, addressing the gathering, reflected on the publication’s founding vision and continued relevance.
“When we started Rashtra Times, it was driven by a simple dream, to stand by the truth. Even after 45 years, our commitment remains the same. What you see today is the result of the shared dedication of our readers, writers, and well-wishers.”
The event was attended by Gautam Lahiri, President, Press Club of India; Jai Prakash Aggarwal, former Member of Parliament; J.K. Jain, former Member of Parliament; Ramakant Goswami, former Delhi Minister; Anil Vajpayee, former MLA; Dr. Yoganand Shastri, former Speaker, Delhi Legislative Assembly; Anil Bhardwaj, Head of Communications, Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee; Kishor Upadhyay, MLA, Uttarakhand; Neeraj Thakur, Secretary General, Press Club of India; and Padma Shri awardee and social worker Jitendra Singh Shunty.
In his address, Gautam Lahiri said:
“At a time when large sections of the media face commercial pressure, publications like Rashtra Times offer a platform for balance and discernment. It’s more than a newspaper, it’s a chronicle of democracy. I must also acknowledge the significant contribution of Vijay Shanker Chaturvedi ji in shaping the Press Club of India as we know it today. His years of commitment, leadership, and institutional vision have played a vital role in its development.”
Former MP Jai Prakash Aggarwal praised the paper’s unflinching dedication to democratic values:
“To maintain editorial integrity for 45 years without compromise is no small feat. Rashtra Times stands as proof that impartial journalism is still possible.”
Speaking on the occasion, J.K. Jain said:
“The publication has evolved with the times without ever abandoning its core ideals. It continues to represent a generation of journalism that places social responsibility above all else.”
During the ceremony, more than 25 individuals were felicitated for their outstanding contributions to journalism, literature, social service, and public life. Honorees included senior journalist Sanjay Goel, social worker Rajender Yadav, veteran journalist Dev Sagar Singh, writer and music educator Mrs. Nain Bharti, social worker Ms. Rakhi Arora, Gandhian thinker Ramesh Chand Sharma, senior journalist Alok Gaur, and social worker Ms. Sunita Dhawan.
Concluding the event, Editor Vijay Shanker Chaturvedi offered a vote of thanks, stating:
“For us, this celebration is not merely ceremonial; it is a moment of introspection. Our mission remains to stand with the truth, amplify the voices of the people, and uphold the core values of journalism.”
