📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ramchandra9
Politics
J&K Government Confirms No Dedicated Welfare Fund for Journalists
✍️ Kashmir Life
🗓 26 Sep 2026, 11:33 AM
👁 12
The Jammu and Kashmir administration told the state assembly that there is currently no separate welfare fund for journalists. Officials said the matter will be examined for future policy action.
During a recent session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, a senior government spokesperson stated that the state does not maintain a dedicated welfare fund for members of the press. The admission came in response to questions raised by opposition legislators concerned about the financial security of journalists working in the region.
The official explained that existing welfare schemes for government employees do not extend to media personnel, and that the government is reviewing the possibility of creating a separate mechanism. No timeline was provided, but the spokesperson assured that the issue would be placed on the agenda of the upcoming budget discussions.
Journalist bodies have previously called for a specific safety net, citing the risks associated with reporting in conflict‑prone areas. The government's acknowledgment marks the first formal recognition of the gap, though concrete measures remain to be outlined.
Stakeholders are expected to submit proposals during the next fiscal planning cycle, after which the assembly may vote on the establishment of a dedicated fund.
The development underscores ongoing debates about press freedom and occupational welfare in the union territory, highlighting the need for clearer policy support for media professionals.
The official explained that existing welfare schemes for government employees do not extend to media personnel, and that the government is reviewing the possibility of creating a separate mechanism. No timeline was provided, but the spokesperson assured that the issue would be placed on the agenda of the upcoming budget discussions.
Journalist bodies have previously called for a specific safety net, citing the risks associated with reporting in conflict‑prone areas. The government's acknowledgment marks the first formal recognition of the gap, though concrete measures remain to be outlined.
Stakeholders are expected to submit proposals during the next fiscal planning cycle, after which the assembly may vote on the establishment of a dedicated fund.
The development underscores ongoing debates about press freedom and occupational welfare in the union territory, highlighting the need for clearer policy support for media professionals.