Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, July 16: The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar today organized a media workshop titled “Varta”, aimed at fostering constructive engagement between the media and Government institutions.
The event brought together senior journalists and media professionals from print, electronic, and digital platforms for an open discussion on the evolving media landscape, responsible journalism, and communication of public welfare schemes.
The workshop was inaugurated by Nitish Rajora, Director Information and Public Relations (DIPR), J&K, who attended the event as chief guest.
Also present was Qazi Salman, Director, PIB Srinagar. The welcome address was delivered by Sunil Koul, Assistant Director, PIB Srinagar.
Speaking on the occasion, Nitish underscored the media’s crucial role as the fourth pillar of democracy, especially in regions like Jammu & Kashmir where public discourse and access to information are vital for democratic functioning.
“Media has a defining role to play in ensuring transparency and public trust. In an age where misinformation spreads faster than facts, the responsibility on journalists is greater than ever,” he said.
Director stressed the need for coordination between media and Government bodies and remarked, “Journalists must function as informed intermediaries between institutions and the public. Only through constructive engagement can we ensure that accurate and reliable information reaches people.”
Qazi Salman, Director, Press Information Bureau, underlined the transformation witnessed by the country across key sectors and said: “Over the past decade, India has undergone a remarkable journey of inclusive growth, doubling its GDP, expanding critical healthcare access to over 50 crore citizens, and ensuring that the hands that feed the nation are empowered with modern tools, income security, and market access. These are not isolated achievements but a collective movement towards dignity, resilience and national self-reliance.”
As part of the workshop, presentations were made on major Government initiatives in the health and agriculture sectors.
Dr. Waseem Akram, Operations Manager, State Health Agency, J&K, presented details of Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY and PMJAY Sehat schemes in the UT.
Dr. Amal Saxena and Dr. Liyaqat Ali Chowdhury, both from SKUAST-Kashmir, presented the progress of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyaan, an agriculture-focused outreach campaign.
Each expert session was followed by an interactive feedback session, allowing media persons to engage directly with the speakers.
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