Rekha gets G Santha Teacher Memorial Journalism Award

Bengaluru, Feb 17: Rekha Satheesh, a Senior Chief Sub-Editor with The New Indian Express, Kochi, Kerala, has been chosen for the first G. Santha Teacher Memorial Journalism Award.

The award has been instituted by Inspired Indian Foundation (IIF), Bengaluru, a platform for unsung heroes. Announcing the details of the initiative in Bengaluru today, Sindhu A., National Coordinator for IIF said that the award has been instituted to recognise unsung heroes in Journalism, to begin with.

The award carries a cash prize of Rs 10,001, a hand-crafted mural plaque and certificate of appreciation. The award will be given away during an event to be held in Bengaluru in May 2016. A team of journalists, writers and scientists constituted the selection panel.

"Journalists write about heroes, they make heroes of ordinary people and their deeds, but their efforts are recognised on a few platforms, until and unless they are acclaimed individuals in the field. We understand that those working on the Desk are the real unsung heroes in Journalsim," says Sindhu.

She said that the Foundation has undertaken a unique selection process involving editors, reporters and copy editors of various publications.

"We plan to increase the award category by next year, expanding on various areas of Journalism," said Sindhu. The G. Santha Teacher Memorial Journalism Award will be announced every year on February 17.

In a release, IIF said this year's winner Rekha Satheesh is a journalist since 1997. Currently a Senior Chief Sub-Editor with The New Indian Express, Kochi, she has earlier worked with The Times of India, Kochi, as well.

Her present job includes editing and handling the Desk. She has earlier handled State, Nation and Page-1 Desks, in addition to working with the Features section.

Citing the reasons for her selection, IIF said: "Her flawless editing, reputation with colleagues and respect from her superiors, apart from being a humble human being were considered by the panel. But her knowledge, commitment and ability to turn stories into interesting pieces of news made the choice easier."

The award has been instituted in the name of G Santha, a Kerala-based teacher who promoted English literature all through her life. She passed away at the age of 65 on 17 February 2007, following a heart attack.

Inspired Indian Foundation is a registered movement based out of Bengaluru that strives to recognise unsung heroes. Formed with the blessings of former Indian President Dr A P J Abdul Kalam, the Foundation spearheads a host of silent activities supporting ordinary Indians.

OneIndia News