PIB Srinagar holds Varta to strengthen dialogue between media, government

Srinagar, Jul 16: The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India, Srinagar Wednesday organised a media workshop titled “Varta”, aimed at fostering constructive engagement between the media and government institutions.

The event brought together senior journalists and media professionals from print, electronic, and digital platforms for an open discussion on the evolving media landscape, responsible journalism, and communication of public welfare schemes.

The workshop was inaugurated by Director, Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), J&K Nitish Rajora who was the chief guest at the occasion. Also present was Director PIB Srinagar Qazi Salman while Assistant Director PIB Srinagar Sunil Koul presented a welcome address at the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Nitish Rajora underscored the media’s crucial role as the fourth pillar of democracy, especially in regions like J&K where public discourse and access to information are vital for democratic functioning.

"Media has a defining role to play in ensuring transparency and public trust. In an age where misinformation spreads faster than facts, the responsibility on journalists is greater than ever," he said. He stressed the need for coordination between media and government bodies.

Director PIB Qazi Salman underlined the transformation witnessed by the country across key sectors. "Over the past decade, India has undergone a remarkable journey of inclusive growth, doubling its GDP, expanding critical healthcare access to over 50 crore citizens, and ensuring that the hands that feed the nation are empowered with modern tools, income security, and market access," he said. As part of the workshop, presentations were made on major government initiatives in the health and agriculture sectors.

Operations Manager State Health Agency J&K, Dr. Waseem Akram  presented details of Ayushman Bharat–PMJAY and PMJAY Sehat schemes in the UT. Dr. Amal Saxena and Dr. Liyaqat Ali Chowdhury, both from SKUAST–Kashmir, presented the progress of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyaan, an agriculture-focused outreach campaign.