Journalists Are the Fourth Pillar of Democracy: Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma

Jaipur, March 2026 : Bhajanlal Sharma on Friday said that journalists are the fourth pillar of democracy and serve as a strong bridge of communication between the government and the public.

Interacting with journalists from across the state at the Chief Minister’s residence, Sharma emphasised that society places great trust in journalists, who play a vital role in highlighting issues related to public interest and raising awareness.

He said that when the media functions with impartiality and responsibility, democracy becomes stronger. The Chief Minister added that the state government is committed to ensuring the respect, welfare and safety of journalists. He noted that several decisions for the welfare of journalists have been included in this year’s state budget.

Sharma praised journalists for their dedication, saying they continue to work tirelessly even in difficult circumstances to deliver important news to the public. In the current information-driven era, he said, the role of journalists has become even more significant as they provide accurate and reliable information to society.

During the interaction, the Chief Minister also spoke about key development initiatives undertaken by the state government in sectors such as electricity, water supply and employment.

He said the government is implementing development works across the state with a long-term vision, keeping future needs in mind. A comprehensive development roadmap is being prepared from village panchayats to urban bodies with the goal of achieving “Developed Rajasthan 2047.”

Sharma said that ensuring access to basic facilities such as water remains a top priority. The government is accelerating work on major water projects including the Ramjal Setu Link Project, Dewas Project, the Yamuna Water Agreement, as well as projects related to Indira Gandhi Canal, the Gang Canal and the Mahi River.

He also highlighted efforts to strengthen the state’s power infrastructure. According to the Chief Minister, 22 districts in Rajasthan are currently receiving electricity during the daytime, and the government aims to extend daytime electricity supply to all districts by 2027.

On employment, Sharma said the state government is working to create ample opportunities for youth. The government has set a target of providing four lakh jobs in the government sector and six lakh jobs in the private sector. So far, around 1.25 lakh appointments have already been made, while recruitment processes for 1.33 lakh positions are underway. Additionally, recruitment calendars for more than one lakh posts have been issued.

During the programme, the Chief Minister personally interacted with journalists from different districts and listened to their suggestions. He assured them that the government would address their concerns.

Journalists present at the event expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for the budget announcements aimed at journalist welfare. They particularly welcomed the decision to increase the monthly honorarium under the Rajasthan Senior Accredited Journalist Honour Scheme from ₹15,000 to ₹18,000, as well as the announcement of a housing scheme in Jaipur through the Rajasthan Housing Board.

Representatives of various journalist organisations, press clubs and senior journalists from across the state were present on the occasion.