Pics by Umesh Marpalli

Daijiworld Media Network—Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Jul 4: The District Working Journalists’ Association of Udupi and Press Club Udupi celebrated ‘Journalists’ Day’ on Friday July 3 at Lions Bhavan, Brahmagiri.

N Raju, president, State Working Journalists’ Association, said in his inaugural speech, “Journalists do not have life security. Most of the sectors have been changing such as education, film industry, sports, and so on. A retired journalist is not getting more than Rs 6,000 as monthly allowance. It has become an unorganized sector. The state government has provided ‘Arogya Bhagya’ and nothing else.”

“Most journalists have intellectual satisfaction but their economical background is not as good. Bus pass for media workers remains a dream. A continuous practice is essential for commitment and intellectual development. We should fight collectively to get our rights,” he exhorted.

Madana Gowda, a member of Bharatiya Journalist Board, said, “At present, the media representatives, especially freshers, lack training. Media has the responsibility of leading society in a good way. The importance of a subject and public interest are important for the electronic media. If the readers increase, the society will go on to change. Journalists should not be a burden to society. There are lots of differences so far regarding respect, dignity, and social commitment.”

Senior journalists B B Shettigar of ‘Vartha Bharathi’, Mahmad Sharif, and students Samanvi, Archana Upadhyaya, Aditya Pandelu, and Dheeraj Nayak were felicitated by the district association.

Ganeshu Pandelu, chief secretary, welcomed the gathering and Rajesh Shetty, treasurer, proposed the vote of thanks. Raheem Ujire compered the programme.

Jayakar Suvarna, District Working Journalists’ Association, presided over the programme.

Information department officer, Rohini, Rakesh Kunjur, joint secretary, Najeer Polya, sports secretary, Chethan Padubidre, convener, and other members were present.