In a significant meeting held at Raj Nivas, Newspapers Association of India (NAI) General Secretary Vipin Gaur, along with Vinod Lalwani, National Executive Secretary of NAI, and Prasad Hiremath, General Secretary of NAI Karnataka State, met the newly appointed Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, Shri K. Kailashnathan, IAS (Retd.). The delegation extended their heartfelt congratulations to Shri Kailashnathan on his appointment and discussed crucial issues concerning the welfare of journalists in the Union Territory.
During the meeting, Vipin Gaur presented a comprehensive set of proposals aimed at improving the working conditions and social security of journalists in Puducherry. The proposals included the introduction of a Pension Scheme, Accidental Protection Cover, and a Journalist Protection Law to safeguard journalists from violence and harassment while on duty.
Shri Kailashnathan warmly welcomed the NAI delegation, expressing his deep appreciation for the role of journalists, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. He acknowledged the remarkable work journalists perform for society and the government, often putting their lives at risk. He assured the delegation that the Puducherry government would make every possible effort to address the concerns raised and support the welfare of journalists.
Vipin Gaur, while appreciating the Governor’s support, emphasized the need for continuous improvements in journalism, advocating for the collaboration of both the Central and State Governments. He reiterated the importance of policies designed to empower journalists and strengthen the press at the grassroots level. In his letter to Shri Kailashnathan, Gaur outlined key demands, which included:
- Pension Scheme: A pension scheme for working journalists in Puducherry to ensure their financial security in later years.
- Accidental Protection Cover: Insurance coverage for journalists facing hazards while performing their duties.
- Journalist Protection Law: A law aimed at protecting journalists from violence and harassment.
- Advertisement Policy: A policy to support small and medium newspapers, which play a vital role in public information dissemination.
- Transport Passes: Free transportation passes to facilitate journalists’ mobility within the Union Territory.
- Recognition of Web Portals: Accreditation of web portals in the digital age to recognize online journalists.
- Media Centers: Establishment of media centers with essential resources like computers and internet access.
- Medical Facilities: Medical insurance or free healthcare for journalists and their families.
- Educational Assistance: Scholarships or educational support for the children of journalists.
The NAI delegation expressed confidence that the implementation of these proposals would greatly enhance the welfare of journalists in Puducherry and further strengthen the local media landscape. Shri Kailashnathan assured that the government would take these proposals into serious consideration and work towards their realization.
This meeting marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to improve the conditions of journalists in Puducherry, ensuring their safety, security, and professional growth in the ever-evolving media industry.
