NEW DELHI: You cannot fault Zee News for not trying. Ratings, or the lack of it, notwithstanding.

I&B minister Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi, along with Zee News director and author of the book Laxmi N. Goel, after unveiling `Pehal’ And the fact was also noted by information and broadcasting minister Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi yesterday when he said here, "I wish more news channels would follow Zee News' examples of showing programmes that are not always aimed at garnering ratings, but aimed at highlighting life beyond politicians, sting and page three."

Speaking at a the launch of a book Pehal, which has been inspired by a programme of the same name on Zee News, Dasmunsi took a light-hearted dig at television channels, which are "running after TRPs" and have forgotten their social responsibilities.

Former Zee News anchor Nidhi Kulpati, who has joined NDTV India, with Dish TV business head Jawahar Goel at the post-launch party Zee News director Laxmi N. Goel, who has authored Pehal that carries a chapter each on the big difference made in the society by small unknown people from various parts of the country, said, "I am really moved by the efforts of these ordinary people who are really leading extraordinary lives."

He added, "They deserve more in their lives. This book should really be reaching out to every corner of the nation and inspire our citizens to help the cause within their own limitations and, if possible, to open a new front to provide a solution to the problems persisting in their immediate environment."

Among the channel's socially motivated programmes, Goel said Pehal has acquired a unique place because of its larger than life tales of true humanity.

Forty of those who featured in the programme and the book were also honoured with a plaque at the Friday event, which was attended by many prominent people of Delhi.