Medical cashless facility for journalists – Nayab Singh Saini

Chandigarh : Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini, while extending his warm greetings to the media fraternity on National Press Day, today announced the introduction of a medical cashless facility for journalists, similar to the benefits provided to government employees. In addition, in response to the request of Journalists’ Housing Society, the Chief Minister assured that the matter is currently under consideration and the government is seriously exploring options to address it.

The Chief Minister was speaking at an event organized here to mark National Press Day, where he acknowledged and praised the invaluable contribution of journalists to the nation, society, and the public at large. He commended the media for its active role in nation-building, highlighting the crucial role of journalists in upholding democratic values and ensuring transparency.

He said that in our democratic system, journalism is considered the fourth pillar of democracy and is widely recognized as a vigilant watchdog of society. Newspapers and magazines serve as a vital link between the government and the public. Journalists play a crucial role in informing the public about the government’s progressive and welfare initiatives, as well as in voicing the public’s concerns to the government.

Referring to the respect and recognition granted to journalists by the Haryana Government, Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the current state government is committed to their welfare. He said that former Chief Minister Mr Manohar Lal brought the demand for pension of journalists to a conclusion. Currently, journalists over the age of 60 are entitled to a monthly pension of Rs 15,000. Also, the state government has approved two significant amendments to the pension scheme. These include the continuation of pension benefits even if a criminal case is filed against a journalist, and the provision that more than one member of a journalist’s family can now receive pension benefits. Furthermore, accredited journalists are entitled to free travel for up to 4,000 km per year on Haryana Roadways buses, including Volvo buses. The state government remains committed to the welfare of journalists, and in the future, all pending demands of the journalists will be carefully considered and addressed.

The Chief Minister said that in today’s era of social media, the responsibility of journalists has increased even further. He expressed hope that journalists will continue their work with the same dedication, helping to inform and empower the people, the nation, and the country. He also expressed confidence that, as the fourth pillar of democracy, the media will uphold its reputation and continue to serve the nation with integrity.

On this occasion, the OSD to Chief Minister, Sh. Virender Singh Badhkhalsa, Additional Director Information, Public Relations, and Language Department, Mrs. Varsha Khangwal, Deputy Director Sh. Devender Sharma, and other officials were also present.