TODAY we celebrate our 24th anniversary. For this journey of more than two decades, so satisfying and rewarding, we profoundly thank our readers, contributors, patrons and advertisers without whose inestimable support we would not have been able to come so far. 

When we began in 1991, in the wake of a democratic revival in Bangladesh, we pledged that it was our responsibility to serve as a watchdog over the establishment and protection of democratic ideals, values of the Liberation War and people's inalienable rights. Over the years, we have redefined and reinvented ourselves with the changing times, but we have tried to stay true to our core values in our continuous quest to practice ethical journalism and promote rule of law, economic and social development, human rights, media freedom and accountability of institutions. 

We have been unwavering in our goal of being the spokesperson for the nation's achievements and aspirations, of its conscience and ideals. Despite pressures from different quarters, we have remained free from affiliation with or influence from any political party, grouping or alliance. 

In the process, sometimes we have made mistakes, but we have learnt from each of them; they have made us ever more aware of our professional obligation, challenging us to steadfastly protect people's right to know.

As we look towards the future, we see many challenges ahead as we encounter new territories, changing socio-political contexts and a global transformation of print media. But we vow to tackle these head on and remain relentless in our pursuit of being an independent, just voice.