Kiran B Munankar
The media plays a vital role as the fourth pillar of democracy, shaping public opinion, guiding national development, and holding governments accountable. As a powerful tool for progress, it must remain independent and impartial, committed to informing and educating the public. A free and unbiased press strengthens democratic values by enabling citizens to make informed decisions and encouraging transparency in governance. By doing so, the media fulfils its duty as a watchdog, contributing to the well-being of society.
A healthy media ecosystem also influences government decisions and policy formation, making it essential to the State’s overall development. The government of Goa, under the leadership of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who also holds the Information and Publicity portfolio, has shown consistent commitment to the welfare of journalists and media institutions. Through the Department of Information and Publicity, various schemes have been implemented to support journalists, acknowledging their role in building an informed and aware society. These efforts reflect the government’s intent to foster a positive and enabling environment for the media.
The Goa State Journalist Welfare Scheme, launched in 2003, is among the most significant initiatives for journalists. The Chief Minister has made several amendments to strengthen the scheme further. Earlier, the pension was Rs 1,000, while the family pension was Rs 500, with journalists contributing Rs 36,000 to the fund. Following the latest revisions, both journalists and family pensioners now receive a pension of Rs 10,000 per month. This enhancement is a substantial boost to the welfare of the journalist community. To be eligible, applicants must have 18 years of full-time journalistic experience and 15 years of residence in Goa.
The government has also made efforts to ensure journalists have access to modern tools essential for their work. One notable initiative is the Assistance for Purchase of Laptop/Camera for Journalists Scheme, implemented to provide subsidised laptops, note pads, cameras, and smartphones. Recognising the importance of technology in journalism—especially as the world transitions rapidly to digital platforms—the scheme enables journalists to stay updated and better equipped to perform their duties.
Initially discontinued due to low response, the scheme was reintroduced after demands from the Goa Union of Journalists. Journalists who had availed of it five years ago are now eligible again. The revived scheme has been receiving positive feedback. Applicants must have eight years of experience, along with a payslip and residence certificate.
Another important welfare measure is the Patrakar Kritadnyata Nidhi Scheme (Journalists’ Benevolent Fund), which provides immediate financial assistance to journalists facing emergency situations or indigent circumstances. Assistance of up to Rs 2 lakh is granted for medical treatment, marriage of a daughter, funeral expenses, travel for medical reasons, house repair due to natural calamities, scholarships for children, and other approved needs. A lumpsum grant is also provided to the next of kin in the event of a journalist’s death.
Every year, the government of Goa recognises journalistic excellence through the Goa State Journalist Awards Scheme. These awards encourage quality reporting and honour exceptional work in categories such as National Integration and Communal Harmony, Rural Reporting, Public Health, Women and Children, Sports, Art and Culture, Education, and Photojournalism. A Lifetime Achievement Award is being presented; this year, it will be conferred on veteran cartoonist Alexyz (Alex Fernandes). Awardees receive Rs 25,000, while the Lifetime Achievement recipient receives Rs 1 lakh. The awards are presented on National Press Day, observed annually by the Department to mark the foundation of the Press Council of India.
Several more schemes are in the pipeline for the betterment of the media fraternity. It is important to acknowledge the efforts of the Chief Minister, former and present Directors of Information and Publicity, presidents of the Goa Union of Journalists, and senior journalists such as Gurudas Sawal, who have contributed immensely to shaping and implementing these initiatives.
As the information officer for schemes, I urge journalists to familiarise themselves with all welfare programmes offered by the Department. Reviewing the scheme requirements, keeping documents ready, and seeking clarification when needed will help journalists fully benefit from the support available to them.
(The writer is Information Officer at the Department of Information and Publicity.)
