LAL BAHADUR SHASTRI

NEW DELHI

22nd April, 1964.

MESSAGE

My memory of the Pioneer is as old as that of my childhood. I must frankly admit that since 1920-21 we were not much enamoured of the Pioneer. Those were the days of the British and we felt that the Pioneer was with those in power at the time and was highly critical of policies and programmes of the freedom movement. However, it must be said - if I recall correctly - that the Pioneer never hit below the belt.

Since Independence the paper is in the forefront of those who have tried to give an impetus to the developmental and constructive activities in this country, in particular in Uttar Pradesh. Pioneer has tried to move with the time. Its news and views reflect the atmosphere of change which the paper has imbided. It is undoubtedly one of the oldest newspapers and has held a top position in the State. It must derive satisfaction from the fact that Mr Rudyard Kipling was on the staff of the Pioneer and it is now being edited by Shri S. N. Ghosh, a man of ability and also humility. My Personal acquaintance with him dates back to 1934 and the more I have seen and met him the more regard I have developed for him.

Shri Ghosh is responsible for the Pioneer carving out a special place for itself during the last two decades and the success of the paper is primarily due to the dynamic and vigorous editor. He is straight and hard-hitting in his writings and yet will rise above petty and personal controversies.

I convey my best wishes on this happy occasion of the Centenary of the paper and look forward to its further growth and prosperity.

Lal Bahadur