RAIPUR/BHILAI: Chhattisgarh Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh conferred Dainik Bhaskar Editor (Digital) Dr. Vishvesh Thackeray with the prestigious Vasundhara Samman during the 24th annual celebration of the award, which coincided with the 48th death anniversary of Devi Prasad Choubey. Senior journalist Diwakar Muktibodh was also felicitated at the event with a Shawl-Shreephal.

The ceremony featured Journalist Prakash Dubey and Dr. Himanshu Dwivedi as the main speakers, with Pawan Kumar, Executive Director of Bhilai Steel Plant, attending as a special guest. Padma Shri awardees Shamshad Begum, Usha Dinesh, and Radheshyam Dinesh were also present as distinguished guests. Additionally, the sons of the late Devi Prasad Choubey, Pradeep Choubey and Ravindra Choubey, along with his grandson Avinash Choubey, attended the event.

Dr. Raman Singh in his address highlighted the significant role of journalism in the development of Chhattisgarh, noting that the Vasundhara Samman has brought national recognition to journalists and writers from the region. He also reflected on the political integrity and commitment of notable figures like Chandulal Chandrakar, Motilal Vora, Kant Verma, and Chandrashekhar Sahu, who transitioned from journalism to politics.

After receiving the Vasundhara Samman, Dr. Vishvesh Thackeray expressed his gratitude, emphasizing the importance of literature and journalism in shaping public thought. He remarked that journalism is not facing any crisis and remains an enduring profession, dedicated to serving the public and fostering the ideals of Devi Prasad Choubey.