Government Reaffirms Commitment to Journalist Welfare, Enhances Support Measures
PIB-accredited journalists continue to receive CGHS benefits; print media advertisement rates increased by up to 26%
The Impressive TimesNew Delhi : The Government of India has reiterated its strong commitment to ensuring welfare, security, and support for journalists across the country. Highlighting ongoing initiatives, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting informed the Lok Sabha that journalists accredited with the Press Information Bureau (PIB) are fully covered under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), enabling them and their family members to access treatment in government and CGHS-empanelled private hospitals at approved rates.
A key component of the government’s support is the Journalists Welfare Scheme (JWS), which provides one-time ex gratia financial assistance to journalists and their families during situations of extreme hardship. This includes cases such as the death of a journalist, permanent disability, major listed ailments, or serious injuries requiring hospitalization. The scheme is inclusive in nature, covering both accredited and non-accredited journalists, whether recognized by PIB or State/UT Governments.
From 2014–15 to 2024–25, the Government has extended financial assistance to 402 journalists or their families under JWS, reflecting sustained attention to the social and economic challenges faced by media personnel.
Responding to concerns raised by “Manyata Praapt Patrakar Kalyan Samiti Delhi,” the Ministry clarified that newspapers are registered under the Press and Periodicals Registration Act, 2023, and its 2024 Rules, facilitated through the Press Seva Portal—a seamless, fully digital platform designed for ease of registration and compliance.
In another major development supporting the print media industry, the Central Bureau of Communications (CBC) has recently increased print advertisement rates by up to 26%, ensuring fair compensation and enhancing financial sustainability for newspapers. The CBC also emphasized that issuance of government advertisements remains transparent and policy-driven.
Nominations to various committees of CBC, PIB, and the Press Council of India continue to be made in accordance with respective policy guidelines and regulatory frameworks.
The information was presented in the Lok Sabha by Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan, in response to questions from MPs Arvind Ganpat Sawant and Sanjay Uttamrao Deshmukh.
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