Vaishnavi Rathore Honored with International Press Institute Award for Journalism Excellence

Recognition for Groundbreaking Reporting

On Monday, Vaishnavi Rathore received the prestigious International Press Institute India Award for Excellence in Journalism for her insightful coverage of the Great Nicobar Island Development Project.

As the first journalist to investigate the environmental and social ramifications of this controversial initiative, Rathore's work highlighted the potential destruction of a unique ecosystem and the risk of genocide for several endangered tribes.

Her reporting was made possible through crowdfunding efforts from readers.

This award, established in 2003, includes a trophy, a citation, and a cash prize of ₹200,000. The jury was chaired by former Supreme Court judge Madan B Lokur.

The International Press Institute, headquartered in Vienna, is committed to advocating for press freedom and enhancing journalistic standards. Its Indian chapter consists of editors, publishers, and senior figures from various media outlets.