The committee that suggested the division of Samachar news agency was headed by:
(A) B. G. Verghese
(B) Kuldip Nayyar
(C) Arun Shourie
(D) Sham Lal
Correct Ans: (B)
Explanation:
Kuldip Nayar headed the committee that suggested the division of the Samachar news agency. During the Emergency in 1976, the government, in an attempt to centralize news dissemination, merged four major news agencies—PTI, UNI, Hindustan Samachar, and Samachar Bharati—into a single entity called Samachar. Consequently, this move aimed to streamline operations and control media narratives. However, it also raised significant concerns about press freedom and independence.
After the Emergency ended in 1977, the new government, determined to restore press autonomy, formed a committee led by Kuldip Nayar. Notably, the committee recommended dividing Samachar back into its original four agencies. Moreover, this division sought to ensure independent news flows while preventing government control over the media.
In addition, Kuldip Nayar and his committee played a pivotal role in reviving press freedom. Therefore, their recommendations contributed significantly to re-establishing competition and autonomy among news agencies. As a result, this decision helped strengthen the democratic values deeply rooted in Indian journalism.
Overall, by leading this committee, Kuldip Nayar showcased his unwavering dedication to protecting journalistic integrity. Thus, his efforts ensured that Indian media could operate freely, without external interference.
