Chameli Devi Jain Award for Outstanding Woman Media Person

Award Details:

• The Chameli Devi Jain Award for Outstanding Woman Media Person of the Year was jointly awarded to Ritika Chopra, Chief of National Bureau (govt) at The Indian Express, and independent journalist Greeshma Kuthar.

 Significance:

•  The award, established by the Media Foundation in 1980, honors women journalists for their exceptional contributions to journalism, celebrating courage, dedication, and integrity in the field.

Historical Context:

• The award is named after Chameli Devi Jain, a freedom fighter and community reformer who was imprisoned during India’s independence movement.
• It has been presented annually since 1982, recognizing impactful journalism in various areas such as social development, politics, gender justice, human rights, health, conflict, and consumer values.

Selection Process:

•  An independent jury comprising senior journalist and columnist Radhika Ramaseshan (Chair), award-winning journalist and author Mariyam Alavi, and Down to Earth managing editor Richard Mahapatra selected the winners from over 65 entries of women journalists.

2024 Winners:

• Ritika Chopra: Chopra, also the national education editor at The Indian Express, is recognized for her investigative stories in education and government policy.

   

• Greeshma Kuthar: Kuthar, an independent multimedia journalist, is acclaimed for her deeply-researched long-form investigative reporting, particularly from conflict areas like Manipur.

Past Winners:

• Include Barkha Dutt, Neerja Chowdhury, Usha Rai, Pamela Philipose, Sunita Narain, Nirupama Subramanian, and Patricia Mukhim.
• Award also recognizes women journalists from rural areas.

Award Ceremony and BG Verghese Memorial Lecture:

• Ceremony held annually at the India International Centre, New Delhi.
• BG Verghese Memorial Lecture, on significant topics, follows the award presentation.

Media Foundation:

• Founded in 1979, The Media Foundation is dedicated to upholding freedom of speech, expression, and information, and enhancing the quality of life through media and communication.
• In addition to the Chameli Devi Jain Award, TMF hosts quarterly Media Dialogues to analyze and debate crucial media-related issues.

Impact and Inspiration:

• The award inspires future generations of journalists, especially women.
• Reinforces the importance of hard work, determination, and integrity in journalism, regardless of gender barriers.