Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Sep 22: Renowned investigative journalist and editor-in-chief of Vijaya Times, Vijayalakshmi Shibarur, who has consistently fought against injustice and arrogance in society, has been honoured with yet another prestigious award. She has been conferred the Environment Journalism Award for the year 2017. The award was presented to her at Sulochana Auditorium, Vartha Soudha.
Known for her fearless reporting and social concern, Vijayalakshmi Shibarur has won the love and trust of the people of Karnataka. Adding another feather to her cap, the Karnataka government has presented her with this award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to environmental journalism.
The Karnataka government instituted the Development and Environment Journalism Awards to recognise journalists who have made unique achievements in these fields. For the years 2017 to 2023, a total of 14 journalists have been selected. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 1 lac.
Originally from Shibarur village in Dakshina Kannada district, Vijayalakshmi has been serving various media houses in Karnataka for nearly 25 years. She has effectively highlighted issues such as forest conservation, hazardous food products, plastic hazards, and environmental awareness through electronic and social media.
Her impactful reports on environmental concerns and her investigative Gatecrash programme, which exposed illegal activities, have been widely appreciated. The award is seen as due recognition for her relentless efforts.
Since the beginning of her career, Vijayalakshmi has stood firmly for justice and fought against social injustice. With a deep concern for society and immense faith in nature, she often mentions in her speeches that nature itself has guided her professional journey. It is this very belief in nature that has earned her the award.
The Karnataka government has expressed pride in including her name among journalists who have made unique contributions.
Encouraging the youth, she often says, “Do not fall into ignorance. Work for justice. If the government does not function properly, it must be questioned. One must not remain silent.”
“I love society and will continue to work for it until my last breath. In the fields of education and journalism, I will always move forward with justice,” she said, expressing her gratitude.