India, Nov. 15 -- As we celebrate National Press Day on November 16 in Hindustan every year, let's pay our heartiest tributes to everyone who contributed to the growth of print media and also its watchdog and mentor, the Press Council of India (PCI). Since its inception and functioning, the Press Council continues to symbolise a free and responsible press in the largest democracy of the world.

It would not be an exaggeration if we claim that among all press or media councils functioning in various countries all over the world, the PCI emerges as a unique entity that exercises authority over the media and also safeguards the independence of the press in this populous country.

For the record, the PCI was first constituted on July 4, 1966 ...