BHUBANESWAR: In a major move to bolster the social security of media professionals, the Odisha government has announced that it is in the final stages of implementing a dedicated pension scheme for journalists. Alongside financial security, the state is also weighing new legal safeguards to protect the profession and plans to revive the state’s accreditation committee.
The announcement was made by State Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan during a large gathering organized by the Odisha Union of Journalists (OUJ) on Friday.
Key Highlights of the Government’s Proposal:
Journalist Pension Scheme: Acknowledging that a pension has been a long-standing demand of the media fraternity, Minister Harichandan confirmed that the proposal is in its “final phase” and will soon be given a formal shape.
Legal Protections: The government is exploring legal safeguards to ensure journalists can perform their duties with greater security and independence.
Logistical Relief: Effective immediately, the Minister announced a significant 66% reduction in room rents for journalists staying at Works Department inspection bungalows. The rates will drop from ₹900 to ₹300 per day, aimed at supporting reporters on field assignments.
Revival of Committees: The state intends to restart the dormant accreditation committee to streamline the recognition and benefits process for media persons.
Cultural Collaboration
Higher Education and Culture Minister Suryabamshi Suraj, who also attended the event, emphasized the role of the media in preserving the state’s heritage. He called upon journalists to help protect the “original fragrance” of Odia language and culture, which faces challenges in the rapidly evolving digital age.
Broad Political Support
The event saw bipartisan support for the initiative. Bargarh MP Pradeep Purohit commended the ethical standards maintained by Odisha’s journalists, while Bhubaneswar Central MLA Ananta Narayan Jena described the press as the “conscience keepers” of society, essential for guiding effective governance.
Recognition of Excellence
The gathering also served as a platform to honor several eminent personalities across various fields:
Education & Cinema: Dr. Abhaya Kumar Pati (filmmaker) and Dr. Alok Kumar Kar (educationist).
Journalism: Soumyaranjan Sahoo, Naba Kishore Sahoo, Bibartan Panda, and Ajit Kumar Dhar.
Social Work: Bhairab Chandra Sethi and Chittaranjan Behera.
OUJ President Prasanna Mohanty welcomed the government’s commitments, noting that these steps provide a “positive signal” and a sense of much-needed security for the state’s journalistic community.
