Bhubaneswar, Odisha – October 10, 2023
In a significant move to enhance the welfare and protection of journalists in Odisha, a delegation of journalists led by National Media Foundation Chairman Shri Rajendra Jain met with Odisha Chief Secretary Shri Manoj Ahuja at Lokseva Bhavan late in the evening. The meeting was part of a broader initiative to strengthen the support system for journalists and address various challenges they face.
Warm Welcome and Congratulatory Note
The meeting began with Shri Rajendra Jain extending a warm welcome to the Chief Secretary by presenting him with a bouquet and a shawl. Chief Secretary Shri Manoj Ahuja was congratulated by the National Media Foundation team for their efforts in organizing the 51st National Seminar and Awards Ceremony, which was held recently in a grand manner.
Detailed Discussion on Seminar Programs
Shri Rajendra Jain provided detailed information to the Chief Secretary about the three-day programs of the National Media Foundation. He highlighted the foundation’s commitment to promoting excellence in journalism and its ongoing efforts to support media professionals across the country.
Advocacy for Journalist Protection Act
A key agenda item during the discussion was the implementation of the Journalist Protection Act in Odisha. Shri Rajendra Jain emphasized that since this act is already in force in many states across the country, it should be implemented in Odisha as well to ensure better protection for journalists. The Chief Secretary assured that he would soon study the Journalist Protection Acts in other states and take appropriate decisions in the interest of journalists.
Pension Schemes and Insurance Facilities
The delegation also raised the issue of pension schemes for journalists, which are currently available in several states including Rajasthan. Shri Rajendra Jain argued that such schemes should be extended to Odisha as well to provide financial security to journalists after their retirement. Chief Secretary Shri Manoj Ahuja indicated that a positive decision on this matter would be taken soon.
Additionally, demands were made to simplify and enhance facilities such as accident and health insurance for journalists. The delegation emphasized that these facilities are crucial given the risky nature of journalistic work. The Chief Secretary sympathetically considered these demands and assured that steps would be taken to address them promptly.
Accreditation and Other Benefits
The delegation also pushed for the accreditation of journalists, which would provide them with greater recognition and benefits. Accreditation is seen as a way to legitimize journalists’ work and offer them access to various government facilities and events. The Chief Secretary assured that this proposal would be given due consideration.
Delegation Members
Accompanying Shri Rajendra Jain during this meeting were several key members of the National Media Foundation:
Shri Sarat Chandra Behera journalist.
Shri Sukirti Jain: Senior Advisor of National Media Foundation.
Dr. OP Yadav: Media Officer of SAARC countries.
Positive Outcomes Anticipated
This meeting marks a significant step towards improving the working conditions and welfare of journalists in Odisha, aligning with broader national efforts to support media professionals. The assurances given by the Chief Secretary are seen as a positive step forward in addressing long-standing issues faced by journalists in the state.
“We are hopeful that these discussions will lead to tangible benefits for our community,” said Shri Rajendra Jain after the meeting. “The support from the Chief Secretary is encouraging, and we look forward to seeing these commitments translated into action.”
The National Media Foundation has been at the forefront of advocating for journalists’ rights and welfare across India. This recent engagement with the Odisha government is part of its ongoing efforts to ensure that journalists receive the support they need to perform their critical role in society effectively.
