Staff Reporter
GUWAHATI: A delegation of the Assam Press Correspondents' Union (APCU) met Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma last night regarding the implementation of various welfare schemes for journalists, including life insurance schemes, a hike in the amount of journalists' pensions, and revision of advertisement rates to the media houses of the state.
The APCU delegation submitted a memorandum signed by its president, Swapan Kumar Rabha; working president, Mousamjyoti Baishya; and secretary general, Sarat Senchowa, to the chief minister. Two senior officer-bearers of the APCU-Ratan Kalita and Niren Chandra Mali-were among the team.
After a patient hearing, the Chief Minister assured the delegation of looking into the demands raised by the journalists.
In its memorandum, the APCU urged the Chief Minister to resume the now-stalled schemes meant for journalists, like media fellowships, one-time financial assistance, etc.
On the pension amount for journalists, currently Rs 8,000 per month, the APCU urged the Chief Minister to hike it to Rs 20,000 per month. It also requested the chief minister to provide a pension to 40 journalists every year.
On the advertising rates for media houses, the delegation urged the Chief Minister to revise the advertisement rates as they have not been revised for the past few years. It also urged the Chief Minister to clear bills for advertisements regularly.
The Chief Minister extended financial assistance to ailing APCU's chief adviser, Abdul Khalek.
The APCU delegation felicitated the Chief Minister with a gamosa and a citation.
Also Read: ASTC Launches "Rhino Food Xpress" in Guwahati to Boost Entrepreneurship and Business Opportunities
Also Watch: