ADMINISTRATOR KATARIA UNVEILS THE LOGO OF SENIOR JOURNALISTS FORUM, CHANDIGARH, ASSURES APPROPRIATE MEDICAL FACILITIES FOR SENIOR JOURNALISTS
Shrikant Acharya/Chandigarh
Punjab Governor and UT Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria today held an interactive session with members of the Senior Journalists Forum, Chandigarh, at Punjab Lok Bhavan and also unveiled the organization’s logo.
Welcoming the members of the Forum, Kataria highlighted the vital role of journalism in strengthening democracy and shaping public opinion. He said that the power of the pen, guided by truthfulness, integrity, and objective analysis, has earned journalists immense respect and recognition in society. Kataria observed that many important issues debated in Parliament and State Legislatures have emerged through journalistic reports and investigative journalism. Describing the media as a crucial pillar of democracy, he appreciated the role of journalists in bringing public concerns to the attention of governments and policymakers.
The Governor said that it is the responsibility of journalists to expose shortcomings in the system so that corrective measures can be taken in the larger public interest. He noted that constructive criticism and fearless journalism help governments and administrations improve their functioning and promote public welfare. Emphasizing the importance of self-improvement, Kataria remarked that individuals should learn from their shortcomings rather than trying to conceal them and should continuously strive for improvement. He further stated that journalists serve as guides for governments and administrations. Their observations and suggestions make a significant contribution to strengthening transparent, accountable, and people-centric governance.
Appreciating the initiative of the Senior Journalists Forum, the Governor described it as a commendable effort to bring senior journalists together on a common platform. He noted that many journalists face various challenges after retirement and said that such forums can provide support, mutual assistance, and opportunities for continued engagement. On the occasion, Governor Gulab Chand Kataria assured that all possible efforts would be made to provide appropriate medical facilities to senior journalists.
He said that necessary steps would be taken to achieve this objective. He also praised the media’s role in strengthening the country’s democratic framework.
Earlier, Jagtar Singh Sidhu, President of the Senior Journalists Forum, welcomed the Governor and briefed him about the objectives and activities of the organization. The Governor also formally launched the Forum’s new logo.
A.S. Parashar, Chairman of the Senior Journalists Forum, thanked Punjab Lok Bhavan for facilitating the interaction. The meeting witnessed a meaningful exchange of views on the role of media in a democratic society and issues related to the welfare of journalists.
