JAMMU, Dec 22 : Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh, today released the reprint and e-book edition of “Fifty Years as a Journalist”, the autobiography of veteran journalist, Lala Mulk Raj Saraf, described by some as the Father of Journalism in Jammu & Kashmir.
The book has been published by Jamna Devi Gian Devi Saraf Trust. The programme was held at the initiative of Ms Rachna Vinod, a veteran radio broadcaster and granddaughter of Mulk Raj Saraf.
Speaking to media on the occasion, Dr Jitendra Singh acknowledged Saraf’s seminal role in introducing and institutionalising journalism in Jammu & Kashmir, and shaping public discourse during a crucial phase of the region’s history. He observed that Saraf’s rich legacy has been meaningfully carried forward by his children and subsequent generations, who have continued to serve society
The Minister described the book as a landmark chronicle of public life and the evolution of journalism in the region, noting that it documents not only a personal journey but also the institutional foundations of a free and responsible press. He recalled that the launch of Ranbir, Jammu & Kashmir’s first newspaper, on 24 June, 1924, marked a defining moment that helped shape informed public discourse and democratic engagement.
There were times, Dr Jitendra Singh recalled, in the early 20th century when newspaper culture was hardly known in J&K. There were hardly a few newspapers like “The Tribune” in English which was published from Lahore (later Chandigarh) which reached here two days later or maybe the Urdu “Milap. Saraf and his contemporaries were among the first to engage in this medium.
Dr Jitendra Singh underlined the continuing relevance of Lala Mulk Raj Saraf’s values of courage, integrity, and public service at a time of rapid transformation in the media landscape. He said the autobiography offers enduring lessons for journalists and citizens alike on ethical leadership, community-centred reporting and institution-building. Dr Singh welcomed the reprint and digital edition as timely initiatives that would make this seminal work accessible to younger readers, researchers and media professionals, thereby extending Saraf’s legacy to new generations.
The book has been published by Jamna Devi Gian Devi Saraf Trust. The programme was held at the initiative of Ms Rachna Vino, a veteran radio broadcaster and granddaughter of Mulk raj Saraf.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
