Gangtok, July 17:
The 23rd Foundation Day of the Press Club of Sikkim (PCS) turned into a momentous occasion this year as celebrated journalist and EastMojo co-founder Karma Samten Paljor was awarded the prestigious Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar 2025. The award is considered one of the highest recognitions for journalistic excellence in Sikkim.
Held at Chintan Bhawan, the ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries including Rural Development Minister Mr. Arun Kumar Upreti and Health Minister Mr. G.T. Dhungel, along with advisors, press officials, and members of the media fraternity.
Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar 2025 to Karma Samten Paljor
Karma Paljor, known for his fearless storytelling and deep-rooted commitment to truth, is no stranger to accolades. A native of Sikkim, Karma has not only made a mark in regional reporting but also gained national prominence with his investigative pieces and impactful news coverage. He is a recipient of multiple national awards including the Ramnath Goenka Award for Excellence in Journalism.
While receiving the Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar, Karma Paljor expressed gratitude to his home state and encouraged budding journalists to focus on truth-telling and building public trust. “It’s an honour to be recognised at home,” he said, adding that the journey in journalism is “not about fame, but about staying true to the story.”
The award was accompanied by a cash prize of ₹1,01,000 from the Government of Sikkim through the Information and Public Relations Department, along with ₹31,000 from the Press Club of Sikkim.
What is the Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar?
Introduced by the Press Club of Sikkim, the Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar recognises a journalist’s outstanding contribution to society through responsible and impactful journalism. Named after the majestic Kanchenjunga peak, which symbolises the pride of the region, the award reflects the heights of integrity and courage that journalists aspire to.
This annual award has gained immense respect among media professionals not only in Sikkim but also in the eastern Himalayan belt. It represents a beacon of encouragement for journalists working in challenging terrains and socio-political environments.
Past Recipients of the Award
Over the years, the Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar has been awarded to journalists who have shown remarkable consistency in reporting, ethics, and service to public interest:
- Tashi Doma Bhutia (2023), known for her in-depth field reports in rural Sikkim.
- Rinzing Wangyal Bhutia (2022), who brought attention to border issues and ethnic representation through his stories.
- Bijay Subba (2021), a fearless investigative journalist who exposed environmental threats in North Sikkim.
Each recipient has demonstrated a unique strength — from investigative zeal to community-centered narratives — reinforcing the credibility of the award.
Celebrating Journalists Across the Spectrum
Apart from the Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar, this year’s foundation day also honoured other stalwarts and young voices in Sikkim’s media:
- The Patrakarita Seva Gaurav Samman went to four veteran journalists — H.K. Khawas, Chitra Bahadur Chettri, Binod Tamang, and Narendra Rai — for their decades-long service to the press and community reporting.
- Pema Wangchen Lama, a rising name in photojournalism, was presented with the Lagansheel Yuwa Patrakarita Puraskar, becoming the first photojournalist to be honoured under this category. His images have been vital in shaping public narratives in the digital space.
- A special felicitation was given to Pravin Khaling, a journalist-poet, for receiving the Dr Shova Kanti Thegim (Lepcha) Memorial Award 2025 earlier this month. His contributions to both journalism and literature have set him apart in the media landscape.
- MD Ramzan, a newspaper distributor from Namchi, received the Samachar Patra Vitrak Samman, showcasing that journalism is not just about content creators but also those who ensure its delivery to the masses.
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The Government’s Renewed Commitment to Press Freedom
During his address, Minister Arun Kumar Upreti reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of journalists in Sikkim. He spoke about existing and upcoming schemes such as medical insurance, travel support, pension provisions, and press accreditation to safeguard the profession.
He said, “The government values constructive criticism from the media and encourages journalists to be fearless in voicing public concerns.”
This gesture of support reflects the administration’s intention to collaborate with the press, making it a partner in Sikkim’s vision of Sunaulo, Samarth, Samriddha Sikkim — a golden, capable, and prosperous state.
The awards have slowly built a tradition of celebrating not just star reporters, but also the lesser-known yet equally important contributors to the media world — photographers, rural reporters, poets, and even distributors. With increased digitalisation and regional news gaining momentum, Sikkim’s media ecosystem is witnessing a transformation. The awards by PCS serve as a motivating force, pushing the boundaries of regional journalism into national relevance.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by PCS General Secretary Mr. D.R. Dulal, acknowledging the presence of government officials, municipal leaders, students, and media professionals. The dignified ceremony served not just as a commemoration of the Press Club’s journey, but also as a celebration of journalistic courage and dedication. In a time when misinformation runs rampant, awards like the Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar are crucial in recognising truth-seekers who stand tall, much like the mountain it is named after — unwavering, bold, and a symbol of trust.