INDIA: In a significant moment for Indian media, Voice of Media (VOM) International Forum have conferred the prestigious Jeevan Gaurav Award 2025 upon Vishal Patil, Editor of Lokshahi Marathi, for his distinguished contribution to journalism and unwavering dedication to democratic values. The recognition was presented during the 4th VOM State Convention in Pandharpur, Maharashtra, where media leaders from across the country gathered to celebrate excellence and integrity in journalism.
Patil, a respected figure in Marathi media, heads Lokshahi Marathi, a dynamic 24×7 news channel known for its youth-led newsroom and public-centric reporting. Established on Republic Day 2020 by Swaraj Marathi Broadcasting LLP, the channel has rapidly grown into a trusted platform for breaking news, political commentary, and regional stories, supported by a network of over 100 young reporters across Maharashtra.
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As Editor, Patil has steered Lokshahi Marathi’s editorial vision with a commitment to accuracy and public interest. His flagship program News Planet with Vishal Patil has gained a strong following for its comprehensive analysis of national and global developments. From covering Bihar elections and railway tragedies to marking cultural milestones like the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, Patil’s work reflects a belief in informed public dialogue. While details of his early career remain limited, colleagues and viewers regard him as a senior pillar of Marathi journalism and a mentor to emerging reporters. His editorial philosophy echoes the channel’s core message: “ऐका… पाहा… जागरुक राहा” (Listen… Watch… Stay Aware).
The Rise of Voice of Media
The Jeevan Gaurav Award is presented by Voice of Media, an organisation that has rapidly emerged as a transformative force in global journalism. In just four years, it has grown into the world’s largest journalist community, spanning 41 countries, 170,000 members, and 4,500 full-time journalists. The scale of its outreach is unmatched in the global media landscape.
Voice of Media was established with a deeply personal mission. Founder and editor Sandeep Kale was compelled to act after witnessing the hardships faced by journalists and their families for standing by the truth. Resolving to change this reality, he built a global support ecosystem rooted in dignity, integrity, and positive journalism. His vision attracted a dedicated team including Chandramohan Puppala, Mandar Phanse, Sanjay Awte, Dharmendra Jore, Rahul Pandey, Divya Bhosale, Shantanu Doifode, Anil Mhaske, Ashwini Satav Doke, Yogendra Dorkar, Ajitdada Kunkulol, Mangesh Khatik, Vijay Chordia, Digambar Mahale, Chetan Katre, Arun Thombre, Amar Chaunde, Vijay Baviskar, Ramesh Kulkarni, Bhimesh Mutula, and Mufti Mohammad Haroon Nadvi.
Voice of Media’s welfare framework is built on five pillars: housing, healthcare, children’s education, advanced training, and post-retirement support. It promotes positive journalism, peacebuilding, innovation, and research while creating health and education cells across regions.
Its impact over the past two years has been substantial. The organisation has facilitated insurance for 48,000 journalists, supported the education of children from 65,000 journalist families, assisted 8,000 journalists excluded from government schemes, and extended help to 13,000 facing critical health challenges. It has also influenced state governments to implement more than 340 initiatives that uplift journalists, including enhanced post-retirement honorariums and official recognition for professionals in TV, radio, and digital media.
Voice of Media has proposed the establishment of Journalist Economic Development Corporations in every state to fund media entrepreneurship annually. It aims to construct 100 affordable homes for journalists in each district and establish a Skills University for future media technologies.
Recognised by the India Book of Records and acknowledged by the Guinness Book of Records as India’s leading journalist organisation, VOM maintains a firm stance of neutrality, declining association with political parties, caste identities, or mass movements. Its only mission is the welfare of journalists and the defence of press freedom.
A Call for Global Solidarity
With its membership set to expand from 170,000 to 300,000 in the next three years, Voice of Media is strengthening its international presence. The vision is clear: unite journalists across borders through a shared commitment to truth, welfare, and democratic values.
As the movement grows worldwide, its message stands firm. This is a collective mission built on unity, courage, and the belief that journalism thrives when journalists themselves are protected and empowered.
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