Senior Journalist M.R. Manvi Honored with Bardoli Award for Contributions to Journalism and Society

Ankola: Veteran journalist M.R. Manvi was honoured with the prestigious Bardoli Award-2025 on Monday for his outstanding contributions to journalism, education, and social service over the past 30 years. The award, presented annually by the Ankola Working Journalists Union, was handed over by MLC Ganapati Ulvekar at a special event held at Gokhale Centenary College, Ankola.

Speaking at the event, Ganapati Ulvekar praised the vital role of journalists in a democratic society. “Journalists are the backbone of our nation. They bring attention to social issues and help ensure timely solutions. The progress of our country heavily relies on their hard work,” he said.

Accepting the award, senior journalist M.R. Manvi, associated with Vartha Bharati, said, “This award is not just a personal achievement, but a recognition of the collective efforts of the entire journalistic community. The pen is a gift from God, and it’s a journalist’s duty to use it for truth and the betterment of society.”

Manvi emphasized that a journalist is more than a news bearer — they are the eyes, ears, and voice of society. “Our duty is to expose injustice, amplify the voices of the marginalized, and present verified truth to the public. Even if it delays the news, truth should always come first,” he stated.

Calling the award a new responsibility, Manvi pledged to continue promoting journalism rooted in justice, truth, and humanity.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. Chakappa Naik, Ankola Tehsildar, who highlighted the importance of journalism in representing the underprivileged and fighting for social justice, despite challenges journalists often face.

The program was presided over by Arun Shetty, President of Ankola Taluk Working Journalists Union. Other dignitaries who spoke included S.V. Vastrad, Principal of Gokhale Centenary College, and R.V. Keni, Administrative Officer of Canara Welfare Trust.

On this occasion, Kumari Manya Naik, who cleared the NEET exam from the Medical Department, was also felicitated.

The event featured Vasudev Gonga delivering the welcome address, Mohan Dargiker reading the citation, Subhash Karibail as the master of ceremonies, and Nagraj Jamblekar proposing the vote of thanks. Several journalists including Raghav Kakarmath, Nagraj Manjuguni, K. Ramesh, Akshay Naik, Anup Gonga, and others were present at the event.