National Press day is being observed today marking the inception of the Press council of India, PCI in 1966.

President Pranab Mukherjee in his message on the occasion said, the media plays a lead role in raising issues close to the hearts of the people while playing the catalytic role of the societal conscience keeper.

Mr. Mukherjee also said, that the media also needs to conduct itself with a sense of accountability and uphold ethical standards.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said, India believes in complete independence of the media from external control. Dr. Singh said, censorship is not the answer for irresponsible journalism and urged the fourth estate to collectively ensure that objectivity is promoted and sensationalism is curbed.

Pointing out that sometimes irresponsible journalism can have serious consequences for social harmony, Dr. Singh said, it is for the media to introspect how best they can serve the country and society for their well being.

On the occasion of National Press Day, the Press Council of India honoured the winners of the first National Awards for Excellence in Journalism. Among the winners were, Damayanti Datta of India Today, Priyanka Dubey of Tehelka in investigative journalism category. R. Sambasivan of Desabhimani won in rural journalism category while Rajesh Parshuram Joshte of Lokmat bagged the Stree Shati Award.

Speaking on the occasion, Information and Broadcasting minister Manish Tewari said, there will be no attempt from the government to police the media. He said, the freedom of speech as guaranteed by the constitution is an accepted fact in the country. He said, self regulation is the way forward, and the government will not take any step without the consensus among the stake holders.

Speaking on the occasion, PCI Chairman Justice Markhandeya Katju said, no freedom can be absolute and journalists should strike a balance in discharging their responsibilities and self regulation.