Mumbai: Guwahati-based journalist Nava Thakuria was honoured with the annual Devarshi Narad Jayanti Award at a function organised by Vishwa Samvad Kendra (VSK) Assam at Sudarshanalaya in Guwahati on June 7. Three emerging journalists—Ranjita Rabha of Pratham Khabar, Lakhyajit Gohain of NK Television, and Mridul Haloi of Dainik Asom—were also felicitated during the event.
The programme featured a keynote address by Prakhar Shrivastava, Senior Consulting Editor and Anchor at Delhi Doordarshan Kendra. Speaking on journalism and public discourse, he cautioned that the spread of half-truths can be more damaging than outright falsehoods. He also discussed historical and contemporary perspectives on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as the organisation marks its centenary year.
Accepting the award, Thakuria highlighted the continuing relevance of Devarshi Narad as a symbol of credible communication, constructive dialogue, and public engagement. He observed that India’s traditional, community-oriented journalistic values remain significant in today’s media landscape.
A journalism professional since 1990, Thakuria began his career in Assamese media before moving into English-language journalism. His work appears across print and digital publications in South and Southeast Asia, and he is a regular commentator on television discussions. He has also received several fellowships and recognitions, including one from the Geneva-based Press Emblem Campaign.
The event also saw the release of the souvenir Veena Bani, a Saraswati Vandana performance by Tribeni Bujarbaruah, and addresses by VSK Assam office-bearers including president Gouranga Sarma and secretary Kishore Shivam.
