DIPR Chief Urges Responsible Reporting to Uphold Democracy; PIB Director Highlights India’s Inclusive Growth Journey
Ulfat Jaan
SRINAGAR July 16 : In a significant effort to enhance transparency and cooperation between media professionals and government bodies, the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar, organized a day-long interactive workshop titled “Varta” on Wednesday. The event brought together seasoned journalists, editors, and media representatives from print, electronic, and digital platforms across Jammu & Kashmir, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas on responsible journalism, ethical reporting, and the effective dissemination of government initiatives.
“In today’s digital age, where misinformation can spread unchecked, journalists bear the crucial responsibility of separating fact from fiction,” he asserted. “The media must act as a bridge between governance and the public, ensuring accountability while countering sensationalism. Only through credible, balanced reporting can we maintain societal trust in our institutions.”
He further called for stronger collaboration between media professionals and government agencies to ensure accurate and timely information reaches citizens, especially in remote and underserved areas.
Shri Qazi Salman, Director of PIB Srinagar, delivered an inspiring address on India’s socio-economic transformation over the past decade. Highlighting key milestones such as the expansion of healthcare, agricultural reforms, and digital empowerment, he emphasized that the nation’s progress stems from collective effort and inclusive policies.
“From doubling GDP to ensuring healthcare for millions through Ayushman Bharat, India’s growth story is not just about numbers—it’s about dignity, opportunity, and resilience,” Salman remarked. “Our farmers, women, youth, and marginalized communities are now active participants in this progress, thanks to technology-driven governance and transparent policy implementation.”
He urged media professionals to amplify these success stories while maintaining rigorous journalistic standards, ensuring that citizens are well-informed about government initiatives that impact their lives.
The workshop featured detailed technical sessions on flagship central programs, with experts providing insights into their implementation and impact in Jammu & Kashmir.
Dr. Waseem Akram, Operations Manager of the State Health Agency, presented compelling data on the success of Ayushman Bharat in J&K. He revealed that over 95% of families in the UT now possess Golden Cards, enabling them to access cashless medical treatment. To date, more than 17 lakh treatments worth ₹3,120 crore have been provided, positioning J&K among the top-performing regions under the scheme.
“This initiative has not only alleviated financial burdens but also significantly improved healthcare accessibility in remote areas,” Dr. Akram stated.
A team from Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST–Kashmir), including Dr. Amal Saxena and Dr. Liyaqat Ali Chowdhury, outlined the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyaan, a farmer-centric outreach program. The initiative focuses on:
Drone-based precision farmingfor efficient resource use.
Climate-resilient agricultural techniques to combat erratic weather patterns.
High-density orchards to boost fruit production.
Real-time advisory services via digital platforms.
“Our goal is to empower farmers with cutting-edge technology and knowledge, ensuring sustainable growth in the agriculture sector,” Dr. Saxena explained.
The workshop included an open forum where journalists raised questions, sought clarifications on policy implementation, and provided feedback. Many participants praised the initiative, emphasizing the need for more frequent interactions between media and government representatives to ensure accurate reporting and public awareness.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from PIB Srinagar, reiterating its commitment to facilitating informed journalism and nurturing a collaborative ecosystem between the media and government. By fostering such dialogues, “Varta” has set a precedent for future engagements aimed at strengthening democracy through transparency and public trust.
