MWBA Expands Journalist Welfare Initiatives in Himachal Pradesh

The Media Wellbeing Association (MWBA) has announced the formation of a new unit in Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh, aimed at enhancing journalist welfare. Senior journalist Subhash Mahajan has been appointed as the Acting District President. The organization is also providing accident insurance policies and plans to conduct an AI training camp for journalists. This initiative reflects MWBA's commitment to supporting journalists in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 15, 2026, 16:48 IST

MWBA Launches Chamba District Unit

TNR News Network
Shimla/Chamba

The Media Wellbeing Association (MWBA) is enhancing its efforts in journalist welfare and organizational growth in Himachal Pradesh with the establishment of a new unit in Chamba district. Following discussions with Sanjay Bhutani, the Himachal in-charge, and State President Vishal Sood, senior journalist Subhash Mahajan has been appointed as the Acting District President for Chamba.

The newly formed district executive team comprises Vikas Thakur as Vice President, Hem Singh Thakur as General Secretary, Rishav Mahendru as Joint Secretary, and Deepak Sharma as Treasurer. Meva Singh Rana, the North India Organizing Secretary of MWBA, confirmed that Vishal Sood will be responsible for assembling the state executive and appointing district presidents by the end of the month, under Bhutani's supervision. An advisory board consisting of 11 senior journalists will also be established.

Recently, MWBA organized a special event in Shimla where it distributed free accident insurance policies valued at ₹10 lakh each to 50 journalists. The ceremony was attended by Education Minister Rohit Thakur as the chief guest and was overseen by the Chief Minister’s Principal Media Advisor, Naresh Chauhan.

A delegation led by North India President Chandrashekhar Dharni met with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, presenting a comprehensive memorandum that requested pension plans, health services, accident insurance, and social security measures for journalists, akin to those in Haryana. The Chief Minister responded favorably, promising to give serious attention to the welfare of journalists.

Additionally, MWBA has proposed a three-day training camp on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for journalists in Kullu-Manali. This camp will cover essential topics such as fact-checking, data analysis, content creation, digital media management, and the ethical use of AI. The Chief Minister has expressed support for this initiative, with specific dates to be confirmed shortly.

This expansion and focus on welfare underscore MWBA’s dedication to protecting journalists while providing them with the necessary skills to succeed in an ever-changing media environment.