Munish Sood
Mandi
The Press Club Mandi celebrated its 25th Foundation Day with great enthusiasm and a sense of pride, marking its Silver Jubilee at the Press Club building in Mangwai. The event brought together senior journalists, founding members, office bearers, and a large number of members, reflecting on the club’s journey, achievements, and future roadmap.
The event began on a ceremonial note with President Subhash Thakur felicitating senior members by presenting them with flowers, acknowledging their invaluable contribution in shaping the institution over the years. This was followed by a cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing 25 years of unity, dedication, and commitment to journalism.
Founding members D.P. Gupta and Khem Chand Shastri shared detailed insights into the club’s history, recalling its early struggles, gradual growth, and key milestones. They highlighted how the Press Club has evolved into a strong and respected platform for journalists in the region, consistently working towards safeguarding professional values and promoting unity among media persons.
Treasurer Bhagat Singh Guleria also addressed the gathering, underlining the club’s steady progress and the importance of collective efforts in achieving organizational goals. In a gesture of recognition, the executive committee honored President Subhash Thakur with a traditional cap and muffler for his leadership and contribution.
Adding to the occasion, senior journalist Radha Krishan Verma from Pandoh presented a dinner set to the club, symbolizing goodwill and solidarity within the journalist community.
A comprehensive report of the club’s activities for the year 2025–26 was presented during the event. Under the leadership of President Subhash Thakur, the Press Club has taken several significant steps towards strengthening infrastructure and expanding its outreach. A proposal seeking a budget of ₹22 lakh was submitted to the Chief Minister for the development of the Press Club building. Out of this, an estimate of ₹11 lakh has already been prepared and forwarded through the Public Works Department and the District Public Relations Office for approval.
The club has also made visible progress on infrastructure upgrades. An LED television has been installed within the premises to enhance facilities for members. The tendering process for the construction of a boundary wall has been initiated, while an amount of ₹3,70,900, which was due to lapse in March 2025, was successfully restored. Work on the construction of the safety wall has also commenced, marking a key step in improving the overall infrastructure of the Press Club.
Beyond journalism, the Press Club Mandi has actively contributed to social causes. During times of need and emergencies, the club organized community-focused initiatives such as food distribution drives, medical health camps, and cricket camps. These efforts underscored the club’s commitment to social responsibility and its role as an active stakeholder in community welfare.
The club also extended support to its members in the health sector, providing assistance, including financial help, during medical emergencies. These welfare measures have strengthened the sense of solidarity and mutual support among members.
In his address, President Subhash Thakur expressed gratitude to former members and senior journalists who played a pivotal role in establishing the Press Club building and nurturing the institution in its formative years. He emphasized that the club’s achievements are the result of collective efforts and reaffirmed the commitment to further strengthening the organization.
The event witnessed the presence of Senior Vice President Roop Lal Kaundal, Vice Presidents Vinod Rana and Saroj Thakur, Chief Advisor Rajneesh Himalayan, Advisor Sonia Sharma, Secretary Surender Sharma, Press Secretary Rakesh Sharma, and several senior and young members. Prominent among those present were Jai Kumar Bhardwaj, Deependra Manta, Asha Thakur, Shivani, Yugal, Latesh Sharma, and Gaurav Verma, along with other members.
The Silver Jubilee celebration not only marked a significant milestone in the journey of Press Club Mandi but also served as a reflection of its continued commitment to journalistic excellence, institutional development, and meaningful engagement with society.
