- Statewide media delegation hails Rajasthan budget move increasing Journalist Samman Nidhi
- IFWJ submits 16-point charter seeking journalist protection law and welfare measures
- Over 500 journalists from across districts attend meeting at Chief Minister’s residence
NE NEWS SERVICE
JAIPUR, MAR 14
A large delegation of journalists from across Rajasthan gathered at the Chief Minister’s residence in Jaipur on Friday to express gratitude to Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma for announcing key welfare measures for media professionals in the recent State Budget, particularly the increase in the Journalist Samman Nidhi (honorarium).
The meeting witnessed participation from around 500 journalists representing multiple districts across the State, who welcomed the government’s initiatives aimed at strengthening welfare measures for working journalists.
The delegation was led by Upendra Singh Rathore, State President of the Indian Federation of Working Journalists (IFWJ), along with representatives of several journalist organisations.
During the programme, Rathore’s name was called first to welcome the Chief Minister, after which he presented a bouquet to Sharma and expressed gratitude for the announcements benefiting the media fraternity.
IFWJ Submits 16-Point Charter
Under the leadership of Upendra Singh Rathore, the delegation also presented a 16-point memorandum to the Chief Minister highlighting several key issues concerning journalists’ welfare and professional security.
While interacting with the Chief Minister, members of the delegation discussed safety concerns, accreditation issues and housing facilities for journalists.
Vikram Singh Karanot, State Secretary of the organisation, said: “Journalists in the State consistently raise issues of public interest. However, many times mafia groups and anti-social elements attack journalists after being hurt by news reports. In such circumstances, there is a need to implement a Journalist Protection Law in the State to ensure the safety of media professionals.”
Demand for Housing and Simplified Accreditation
Manveer Singh Chundawat, State General Secretary of IFWJ, also interacted with the Chief Minister and raised the demand for housing facilities for journalists and simplification of the accreditation process.
He urged the State government to take steps that would make it easier for journalists to access welfare schemes and official recognition.
Wide Participation from Across Rajasthan
The event saw participation from senior members of the organisation including Vice Presidents Shankar Nagar and Vishnu Sharma, and executive member Sanwaldan Ratnu.
Journalists from numerous districts — including Jaipur, Sirohi, Baran, Churu, Bharatpur, Ajmer, Jaisalmer, Hanumangarh, Dausa, Sawai Madhopur, Alwar, Bikaner, Karauli, Nagaur, Pali, Tonk and Bundi — attended the gathering.
Members of the delegation expressed hope that the Rajasthan government would take positive decisions on the issues raised and strengthen safeguards and welfare mechanisms for journalists across the State.
