Itanagar: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday reaffirmed his dedication to the well-being of journalists in Arunachal Pradesh and emphasized his government’s ongoing efforts to support them.
During a meeting with representatives from the Arunachal Press Club (APC) and the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) at the civil secretariat here, Khandu reiterated the state government’s steadfast commitment to the journalists of the state.
“We have undertaken several initiatives to enhance their working conditions and quality of life, including office infrastructure, government-sponsored medical insurance, pension schemes, housing benefits, and other welfare measures,” he said.
Accompanied by Information and Public Relations (IPR) minister Nyato Dukam, Khandu discussed various initiatives aimed at improving the working conditions and overall quality of life for journalists in the state.
He also emphasized the need to streamline media operations in Arunachal while respecting the long-standing institutions that have guided journalists for decades.
Acknowledging the vital role of the press in shaping public opinion and fostering transparency, Khandu highlighted the importance of modernizing media practices while ensuring that the core values and principles of journalism are upheld.
“Institutions like the APC and APUWJ have been pillars of our media landscape. It is crucial that we respect and support these organizations as we work towards a more organized and efficient media environment,” he stated.
The chief minister suggested that the APC and APUWJ could organize an annual conclave featuring experts and thought leaders to discuss pressing issues affecting Arunachal, thereby enhancing public understanding and awareness.
Echoing the chief minister’s sentiments, IPR minister Dukam announced his support for the state media fraternity led by APC and APUWJ in their day-to-day operations.
“The doors of my office are always open for suggestions and support as and whenever required,” he assured.
Earlier, APC president Dodum Yangfo and his APUWJ counterpart Amar Sangno presented a memorandum to the chief minister regarding the welfare of the state’s media fraternity.
The early implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Working Journalists Pension Scheme (APWJPS) 2022, the Arunachal Pradesh Electronic and Digital Media Advertisement Policy, 2020 and corpus fund for non-working journalists like video editors, content writers, social media handlers, desktop operators, management (circulation, advertisement, accountants etc.) and printing staff, etc. were among the key demands put forward by the APC and APUWJ.
Others present at the meeting included commissioner to the chief minister Sonam Chombay, IPR secretary Nyali Ete, APC general secretary Damien Lepcha, vice-president Bengia Ajum, APUWJ general secretary Sonam Jelly, vice-president Ranju Dodum and executive members of the APC and APUWJ.
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