N※N

Andhra Pradesh Boosts Journalist Welfare Programs

  //media-entertainment.news-articles.net/content/ .. -pradesh-boosts-journalist-welfare-programs.html
  Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 23:48 GMT by The Hans India
      Locales: Andhra Pradesh, INDIA

Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh - February 19th, 2026 - Andhra Pradesh Minister for Information and Public Relations, Perni Nani Parthasarathy, reaffirmed the state government's commitment to bolstering the welfare of journalists during a meeting with the Journalists Welfare Trust yesterday. The discussion centered around expanding existing programs and addressing escalating concerns regarding journalist safety and working conditions across the state.

Building on initiatives launched in recent years, Minister Parthasarathy detailed plans for enhanced financial assistance programs. These include increased stipends for veteran journalists, particularly those facing economic hardship, and a newly proposed micro-loan scheme designed to support independent media ventures. This aims to empower local reporting and reduce reliance on potentially biased funding sources. The government also highlighted the ongoing housing scheme specifically geared towards journalists, with an ambitious target of providing affordable housing options to at least 500 eligible applicants by the end of the fiscal year.

Insurance coverage, a cornerstone of the existing welfare framework, will also see an upgrade. The government is negotiating with insurance providers to expand the scope of coverage, incorporating provisions for psychological trauma resulting from on-the-job dangers, as well as comprehensive medical assistance. This acknowledges the increasing mental health toll experienced by journalists, particularly those covering sensitive topics or operating in high-risk environments.

"Journalists are the fourth estate of our democracy, and their contribution to informed citizenry is invaluable," Minister Parthasarathy stated. "It is not merely a responsibility but a moral imperative for the government to ensure their well-being and create an environment where they can perform their duties without fear or hindrance."

However, the meeting wasn't solely focused on positive developments. A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the growing anxieties surrounding journalist safety. Reports of harassment, intimidation, and even physical violence against journalists have been on the rise nationally, and Andhra Pradesh is not immune to this trend. The Journalists Welfare Trust presented data indicating a 15% increase in reported incidents of threats against journalists in the last year alone.

"We are deeply concerned by these reports," Minister Parthasarathy conceded. "We are committed to taking concrete steps to ensure the safety and security of journalists. This includes working closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate threats, providing security training for journalists operating in vulnerable areas, and establishing a dedicated helpline for reporting incidents of harassment or violence."

The government is exploring the feasibility of establishing a 'Journalist Protection Task Force', comprising representatives from the police, the Information Department, and the Journalists Welfare Trust. This task force would be responsible for proactively identifying potential threats, conducting risk assessments, and implementing preventative measures. Furthermore, the government is considering legislative changes to strengthen legal protections for journalists, potentially including provisions for expedited prosecution of those who attack or harass members of the press.

Improving working conditions was another key agenda item. Many journalists, particularly those working for smaller publications or as freelancers, face precarious employment situations, lacking job security, adequate compensation, or access to essential resources. The government is planning to pilot a program offering subsidized access to professional development training, focusing on areas like digital journalism, investigative reporting, and data analysis. Discussions also included the possibility of establishing a press accreditation system to ensure legitimate journalists have easier access to official events and information.

The meeting, attended by a diverse group of journalists from across Andhra Pradesh, was lauded by participants as a constructive dialogue. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, attendees expressed optimism that the government's renewed commitment to journalist welfare would translate into tangible improvements in their lives and working conditions. Several journalists stressed the importance of continued collaboration between the government, the Journalists Welfare Trust, and media organizations to address the complex issues facing the profession. The Minister concluded by promising ongoing consultations and a transparent process in the implementation of these new initiatives.