New Delhi, June 23:
A new national-level apex body representing democratically managed state-level press clubs across India has been officially formed under the name Federation of Press Clubs (FPC). The organization aims to serve as a united, non-partisan platform for media professionals and press clubs nationwide.
According to a press release, the Federation has been registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, marking a significant step toward building a stronger and more organized network of journalists’ bodies across the country.
The inaugural meeting of the Governing Council was held at the Press Club of India in New Delhi on June 22, where representatives from eight prominent press clubs came together as founding members.
These include the Press Club of India, Mumbai Press Club, Press Club Kolkata, Press Club Hyderabad, Chandigarh Press Club, State Press Club (Madhya Pradesh), Gauhati Press Club, and Agartala Press Club.
The newly formed Federation will be led by veteran journalist Gautam Lahiri as President. The council also includes Snehasis Sur, Samar Khadas, and Vijay Reddy as Vice-Presidents, while Saurabh Duggal has been appointed Secretary General.
Other key office-bearers include Sangeeta Barooh Pisharoty as Assistant Secretary General and Neeraj Thakur as Treasurer. Executive members include Pranab Sarkar, Khagen Kalita, and Praveen Khariwal.
In one of its first major decisions, the Federation announced that membership will soon be opened to other press clubs and similar media organizations across India, broadening its national reach and influence.
The initiative is expected to provide a stronger, unified voice for journalists and media institutions while addressing issues concerning press freedom, professional rights, and ethical journalism in India.
