Pics: Justin D’Silva
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Oct 22: The Udupi District Working Journalists Association (UDWJA) organised the ‘Silver Sports Ceremony’ as part of its silver jubilee celebration at Mahatma Gandhi District Stadium, Ajjarkad, Udupi, on October 22.
The event commenced with the hoisting of the flag and the release of tricolour balloons. A grand march-past, featuring members from various taluk associations, was led by the silver jubilee Committee's joint secretary, Deepak Jain. The sports torch, lit under the guidance of sports director Raju Kharvi, was handed over to Udupi District Athletics Association president, Hariprasad Rai.
Dr Vidyakumari, deputy commissioner of Udupi district, said in her inaugural address, “The news media operates 24/7 to deliver factual information to the public. Journalism has evolved into a major industry, with growing competition to present both facts and diverse content. Journalists face immense pressure to perform at a competitive level, and it's only through full immersion in their work that they can provide accurate information. However, this often leads to health issues and limited family time. Events like this help us unwind and promote well-being.”
Dr Avinash, medical director of Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, expressed pride in participating in the event organised for the silver jubilee, which also included the distribution of scholarships to journalists' children. “I share a strong relationship with Udupi district journalists. When it comes to addressing basic necessities, issues need to be highlighted in the media,” he said.
He also mentioned his preference for reading newspapers over digital media due to eye strain. “People should cultivate the habit of reading newspapers, as it supports the news industry. Celebrating a sports day once a year is not enough; everyone should aim to exercise for an hour daily,” he added.
Rayappa, CMC commissioner, addressed the gathering, stating, “Journalists play a crucial role in alerting government officials to local issues and raising public awareness on various matters. Once the news about waste management was published, it significantly increased public awareness of the problem.”
Mohammad Shareef, director of the silver jubilee committee, provided an overview of the association’s ongoing activities. He mentioned that the silver jubilee celebrations were inaugurated by former chief minister Bommai, with 25 programmes planned in honour of the 25th anniversary. “This sports day fosters camaraderie among journalists from different taluks,” he added.
Rayappa, the city commissioner, was felicitated during the event for his upcoming superannuation. Dr Vidyakumari took the salute during the march-past.
The team from Kundapura won the best march-past award, and winners of various events were honoured with medals.
After the formal event, several sports competitions took place, including 100 meters for men and women under 40, above 40, and above 50; 200 meters for men; shot put; long jump; tug-of-war; and various fun events.
Nazeer Polya, general secretary of Udupi District Working Journalists Association, welcomed the gathering. President Rajesh Shetty Alevoor presided over the event, while treasurer Umesh Marpalli delivered the vote of thanks. Journalist K C Rajesh compered the event.
Businessman Anand P Suvarna, MAHE sports secretary Vinod Nayak, assistant director of the Udupi sports and youth empowerment department Dr Roshan Kumar Shetty, state committee member Kiran Manjanabail, national committee member Arun Kumar Shiroor, and others were present on the occasion.