CM launches Health Screening program for media representatives as a part of Vikas Saptah

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupendra Patel stated that journalism is the fourth pillar of democracy. The duty of journalism is to awaken society. If journalists are healthy, they can effectively keep society informed through their work.

The Chief Minister mentioned that Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi has always been concerned about the health and well-being of the public. To that end, he introduced the ‘Fit India’ initiative. As journalists become the voice of the people and work tirelessly, their health security is equally important.

Mr. Bhupendra Patel made these remarks during the inauguration of the state-wide program ‘Fit India – Fit Media’ aimed at health check-ups for journalists.

As part of Development Week, the Indian Red Cross Society and the Information Department jointly launched the ‘Fit India – Fit Media’ program at the Ahmedabad Red Cross Bhavan.

In this context, the Chief Minister praised the initiative taken by the Information Department and Red Cross for the health care of journalists.

He also supported the idea of conducting this health check-up program for journalists annually.

The Chief Minister said, “The first happiness comes from oneself,” which reflects our work culture. If we are healthy, we can excel in any business or profession. Due to stress and irregular lifestyles, journalists and all professionals should prioritize their health.

He emphasized that health check-ups are essential to identify ailments in the body, just as journalism is necessary to highlight flaws in society and government.

During this occasion, the Chief Minister elaborated on the usefulness of generic medicines available at Prime Minister Jan Aushadhi Centers. He appealed for the cooperation of media outlets to ensure these medicines reach people in remote areas.

While welcoming everyone, Gujarat Red Cross Society Chairman Mr. Ajay Patel expressed his gratitude to all attendees. He noted that the Chief Minister had organized this health camp out of concern for the health of journalists who constantly work for news.

Additionally, Mr. Ajay Patel provided information on health services and initiatives undertaken by the Gujarat Red Cross Society, mentioning that currently, there are 28 blood banks operating in the state, with arrangements for receiving blood test reports within an hour.

He also stated that on the 73rd birthday of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, the Gujarat Red Cross opened 73 Jan Aushadhi Centers in the state, with plans to open around 10,000 stores across the country in the near future.

At this event, Information Director Mr. K.L. Bachchani expressed his gratitude to the journalists and all attendees, stating that the media is the fourth and strongest pillar of democracy. Media professionals, who work diligently to raise public issues, sometimes overlook their own health. He expressed hope that the state-wide health screening program launched by the Information Department and Red Cross would benefit the maximum number of journalists and media personnel.

Moreover, he thanked the Chief Minister and all dignitaries on the stage, mentioning that Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi initiated Gujarat’s developmental journey when he was the Chief Minister. As we celebrate the completion of 23 years of his good governance, we are currently observing Development Week in the state. Today marks the beginning of the ‘Fit India, Fit Media’ state-wide campaign for media professionals. He also praised the work of the Indian Red Cross Society, Gujarat branch, which excels in health and social welfare activities.

Many people, including the Chief Minister’s Secretary Ms. Avantika Singh, Gujarat Red Cross CEO Dr. Prakash Parmar, Managing Committee Member Dr. Ajay Patel, Town Planning Committee Chairman Mr. Pritesh Mehta, as well as editors and senior journalists from newspapers and channels, were present at this event.