New Delhi: National Press Day is celebrated on November 16, every year marking the relentless commitment of journalists and media professionals. This day is a reminder to the media to maintain the truth, foster transparency, and keep informed the citizens of the country through information. Observed since 1966, this day marks the formation of the Press Council of India, an organisation that ensures the free and trustworthy functioning of the press. This day celebrates the unwavering efforts of media and journalists in fostering democracy, uncovering injustices, and giving voice to those who need it.

On this day, it is essential to recognise the role of a free press in shaping the public discourse and protecting the fundamental right to information. National Press Day supports the importance of press freedom. Here are some of the National Press Day quotes, images and speech ideas to share with your fellow media professionals and remind them of the importance of this day.

National Press Day quotes

Here are some quotes to celebrate National Press Day and celebrate the power of free and responsible journalism:

1. “Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy.” – Walter Cronkite
2. “The pen is mightier than the sword.” – Edward Bulwer-Lytton
3. “Journalism is what maintains democracy. It’s the force for progressive social change.” – Andrew Vachss
4. “A free press can be good or bad, but, most certainly, without freedom, the press will never be anything but bad.” – Albert Camus
5. “The press is the best instrument for enlightening the mind of man and improving him as a rational, moral, and social being.” – Thomas Jefferson
6. “The liberty of the press is essential to the security of freedom.” – John Adams
7. “A good newspaper, I suppose, is a nation talking to itself.” – Arthur Miller
8. “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.” – Thomas Jefferson
9. “Journalism is the first rough draft of history.” – Philip Graham
10. “Freedom of the press is the mortar that binds together the bricks of democracy.” – Frank Kafka
11. “A free press is the lifeblood of democracy.” – Nelson Mandela
12. “The role of journalism is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.” – Finley Peter Dunne
13. “News is what somebody does not want you to print; all the rest is advertising.” – George Orwell
14. “Press freedom is not just a right; it’s a responsibility.” – Unknown
15. “Without a free press, there can be no democracy.” – Unknown
16. “The press is not only free, it is powerful.” – Lord Macaulay
17. “A truly free press is the voice of the people.” – Unknown
18. “A free press reflects the health of a nation.” – Unknown
19. “Truth is powerful, and it prevails.” – Sojourner Truth
20. “The power of the press is the freedom to investigate, inform, and inspire.” – Unknown
21. “Journalism is an act of faith in the future.” – Ann Curry
22. “Democracy dies in darkness.” – Washington Post tagline
23. “The media is the most powerful entity on earth.” – Malcolm X
24. “In journalism, there has always been a tension between getting it first and getting it right.” – Ellen Goodman
25. “Journalism is a profession of courage, integrity, and relentless pursuit of the truth.” – Unknown
26. “The press is the eyes and ears of the public.” – Unknown
27. “Courageous journalism speaks truth to power.” – Unknown
28. “A free press shines a light in the darkest corners.” – Unknown
29. “Journalism is not just about reporting facts; it’s about fighting for the truth.” – Unknown
30. “The press must grow day in and day out – it is our duty to write to understand.” – Unknown
31. “A responsible press is the cornerstone of a responsible society.” – Unknown
32. “The press is the watchdog of democracy.” – Unknown
33. “Without fearless journalism, the truth may remain hidden.” – Unknown
34. “A nation without a free press is like a body without a soul.” – Unknown
35. “Journalism: the mirror of society, reflecting both its triumphs and flaws.” – Unknown
36. “The journalist’s duty is to report what needs to be told, not just what is easy to hear.” – Unknown
37. “Press freedom ensures that no voice goes unheard.” – Unknown
38. “A vibrant press creates an informed citizenry.” – Unknown
39. “True journalism seeks facts, not approval.” – Unknown
40. “Great journalism holds the powerful accountable and gives voice to the voiceless.” – Unknown
41. “Press freedom is not a privilege, but a public right.” – Unknown
42. “In the age of misinformation, a free press is a beacon of truth.” – Unknown
43. “Journalism is the voice of the voiceless and the conscience of society.” – Unknown
44. “A journalist’s pen can challenge empires and create revolutions.” – Unknown
45. “Good journalism is the foundation of an informed society.” – Unknown
46. “A free press ensures that truth triumphs over propaganda.” – Unknown
47. “Journalism is the protector of democracy, justice, and human rights.” – Unknown
48. “The press is a bridge between the governed and the governing.” – Unknown
49. “A free press guarantees that no tyrant goes unchallenged.” – Unknown
50. “The freedom of the press is the freedom of the people.” – Unknown

National Press Day images

Here are some of the National Press Day images to share to mark this day:

National Press Day image. Pinterest

National Press Day image. Pinterest

National Press Day speech

Here is a speech sample for National Press Day to mark the importance of the day:

Good morning everyone,

Today, we gather to celebrate National Press Day, a day dedicated to acknowledging the vital role of the press in shaping our society. On this day, we honour the Press Council of India, established in 1966, which upholds the freedom and responsibility of the press.

The press is often referred to as the “fourth pillar of democracy,” and rightly so. It serves as the watchdog of society, holding those in power accountable, bringing hidden truths to light, and empowering citizens with information. A free press is not a luxury but a necessity for a healthy, functioning democracy.

However, with great power comes great responsibility. The press must uphold the values of truth, accuracy, and fairness while resisting the lure of sensationalism. In an age of digital transformation, where information flows rapidly, the role of responsible journalism has never been more critical.

National Press Day reminds us of the importance of press freedom and the duty to use this freedom wisely. As citizens, let us support and respect journalists who work tirelessly, often under challenging conditions, to keep us informed. Let us champion a press that is fearless, ethical, and committed to the truth.

Thank you!

Despite various challenges and hardships, journalists continue to fearlessly report from the ground, throwing light on critical issues and encouraging positive change. Share these National Press Day quotes and images to remember the importance of media and journalists.