Modern Auditorium of Journalists’ Welfare Trust Inaugurated at Chandmari
Dalim Phukan
Hills Live News, Guwahati, October 5: A permanent office and a modern air-conditioned auditorium of the All Assam Journalists’ Welfare Trust were inaugurated at Chandmari here on Sunday, marking a significant step towards strengthening welfare initiatives for journalists in Assam.
The programme, anchored by journalist Naba Jyoti Kalita, began with the Assam State Anthem. Senior journalist and former Executive Editor of The Assam Tribune Prasanta Jyoti Barua, litterateur Dr Nanda Singh Barkala, Dainandin Barta Chief Editor Naren Hazarika and Trust Chairman Shankar Goha-in inaugurated the programme by lighting the ceremonial lamp.
Speaking on the occasion, Kumar Padmapani Bora, Commissioner-Secretary, Information and Public Relations Department, Assam, said the government would soon adopt a new media policy for the state. He said discussions on the proposed policy were at the final stage.
Dr Nanda Singh Barkala said the new auditorium, associated with several eminent personalities including Hiren Bhattacharyya, Dr Bhupen Hazarika and Navakanta Barua, would serve the needs of journalists and society. He described the pen as a powerful reflection of life and urged journalists to remain committed to truth and human values. Ok
Senior journalist Prasanta Jyoti Barua recalled his long journalistic career and offered suggestions for strengthening the Trust. Prafulla Barman, president of the Kamrup Metropolitan District Sahitya Sabha, praised the initiative and highlighted the difficulties faced by journalists while working in challenging circumstances.
Senior journalist Montu Saikia urged journalists to remain accountable to the people, while columnist Shankar Das stressed the importance of collective welfare and truth-based journalism. Sonmoni Dutta called for greater welfare and security for journalists and their families.
Trust General Secretary Dimpul Chutia said the organisation was established with the objective of standing beside journalists during difficult times. Chairman Shankar Gohain highlighted the challenges facing the media and stressed the continuing importance of print journalism.
Several distinguished personalities were felicitated with certificates of honour, mementoes and traditional Assamese gamosas. Journalists attending the programme also shared their grievances and suggestions regarding the welfare of the media fraternity.