Shimla Hosts Ceremony to Support Journalists' Welfare and Safety
Celebrating Journalists' Welfare in Shimla
Subhash Mahajan
Shimla
A significant event was organized by the Media Wellbeing Association at Holiday Home in Shimla, focusing on the welfare, safety, and dignity of journalists. Under the leadership of Himachal Pradesh In-charge and North India Senior Vice President Sanjay Bhutani, free accidental insurance policies valued at ₹10 lakh each were distributed to journalists throughout the state.
The gathering was presided over by the Chief Minister’s Principal Media Advisor Naresh Chauhan, with Education Minister Rohit Thakur serving as the chief guest and Shimla Mayor Surender Chauhan as the special guest. Several senior journalists, including Dr. Ashwini Sharma, Dr. Shashi Bhushan, Archana Phool, Anil Hedly, and DIPR’s Simple Saklani, were honored during the event, alongside social workers Gurmeet Singh Arora and Bimla Thakur.
During the proceedings, Education Minister Rohit Thakur revealed that the Chief Minister has consented to provide pension benefits for journalists aged 60 and above, with an official announcement anticipated shortly. He commended the Association’s welfare model as “an inspiration for the entire nation” and stressed the importance of a robust media in bolstering democracy.
Naresh Chauhan reaffirmed the government's dedication to establishing insurance and pension schemes for journalists, emphasizing that safeguarding media interests is a primary concern. Mayor Surender Chauhan praised the Association’s initiatives, describing it as a “beacon of hope” for journalists who serve as a vital link between society and governance.
Association President Chandrashekhar Dharni discussed ongoing projects, including term insurance, health policies, and cashless medical services for journalists and their families. He highlighted the necessity of protecting journalists’ rights in the evolving media landscape.
On this occasion, Gurmeet Singh, President of Nofal Ek Umeed NGO, announced the provision of free ambulance services for families of journalists in need, along with medical assistance at PGI Chandigarh.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Association General Secretary Dr. Surender Mehta, attended by a large audience of journalists and social activists.