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MUMBAI: The IBN18 Network is proud to announce the second edition of the Citizen Journalist Awards that will honor the indomitable Citizen Journalists (CJ) who have been highlighting the wrongs of society and fighting against tremendous odds, bureaucratic red tape and even the lethargy of their fellow citizens to bring about a positive change in our society. The award winners will be honored by legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan the superstar of the silver screen and one of the most respected public figures in the nation today. Mr. Bachchan whose sheer presence will draw a nationwide attention will be the Chief Guest at the Award and will give out the award to the winners in six different categories at a ceremony to be held in New Delhi on February 15, 2010.
Instituted in the year 2008, IBN18 Network?s ?Citizen Journalist? is a path breaking initiative that has become the platform of empowerment for the citizens of India, that lauds the democratization of news and is built on the principles of inclusive journalism. This platform aims to create awareness about the power that a normal citizen of the country really has to bring forth the truth. Mr. Amitabh Bachchan who has not just the adulation but also the respect of millions of Indians and who has lent his voice to causes affecting the common man in India was the logical choice to be associated with this initiative. He will give away the Citizen Journalist Award in the following categories.
Fight Back CJ ? The category where CJs can fight for their rights or against any wrong they see around them.
Save Your City ? The category where the CJs highlight their city-centric problems
Be the Change CJ - This category sees participation from volunteers who see a problem or experience it first hand
CJ VIDEO - The category which highlights the alert CJs, who have a mobile camera at their disposal and click videos about issues they feel strongly about.
CJ PHOTO - The category where CJs who have reported a story using a picture to say it all
Special CJ ? A special award category for the CJs who have had made a significant contribution to the CJ movement.
Speaking on the occasion, Rajdeep Sardesai, Editor-in-chief, IBN18 said, ?Built on the principles of inclusive journalism, the Citizen Journalist Awards is a platform of empowerment that brings together and honors our countrymen who raised their voice to defend the rights of their fellow citizens. We are delighted to have Mr. Amitabh Bachchan as our chief guest who is esteemed nationwide for speaking out on issues which will impact the lot of the man on the street.?
Ashutosh, Managing Editor IBN7, added, ?Citizen Journalist Awards is a movement that not only engages the viewer in public life and encourages them to be proactive, but also transforms news into an interactive and multi-perspective process. Citizen Journalist Awards will definitely inspire many of our countrymen to speak out and voice their concern which leaves a mark on their lives and the lives of their loved ones.?
Nikhil Wagle, Editor, IBN-Lokmat added, ?After the success of the first edition of Citizen Journalist Awards, this path breaking initiative in its second edition will definitely motivate the common man to raise their voice against the injustice and serves as a source of inspiration to citizen journalists of the future.?
