KPC raises welfare issues for journalist with IDAN chairman

DIMAPUR — Officials of the Kohima Press Club (KPC) held a meeting with Abu Metha, chairman of Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN) and advisor to Chief Minister, on Saturday at his office in Kohima.

An update from KPC stated that its officials have highlighted several matters concerning the welfare of the press and media fraternity including the need to introduce a pension scheme for journalists in Nagaland as it is the only state in the region which is yet to implement.

It stated that Metha has assured to take the matter up with the state government along with the proposed construction of the Kohima Press Club building in New Secretariat area on priority.

Later, Metha took to the micro-blogging site X and wrote, “Had a productive meeting with the leadership of the Kohima Press Club. We discussed several matters pertaining to the welfare of the press and media fraternity; and the role of the media in ensuring better delivery mechanisms.

“The media is the fourth pillar of democracy and all sections must collectively contribute towards strengthening the fourth estate, making it more vibrant and ensuring that the foundations of democracy are firm and strong.”

It may be mentioned that the Kohima Press Club, along with its Dimapur and Mokokchung counterparts have over the years been flagging the need for the state government to implement a pension scheme for journalists in Nagaland. However, any step in that direction is yet to be initiated.

As for the construction of KPC building, Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio had, during the conventional budget press conference on February 27 last, announced that the state government would construct a permanent press club building at the KPC’s newly allotted plot in New Secretariat area within one year.

The announcement marked a significant milestone in addressing the pressing need for a dedicated space for journalists to congregate, exchange ideas and dialogues, hold press conferences, and carry out day-to-day professional activities, KPC stated in a press release.

The media officer to the chief minister, Ayieno Kechu, while the KPC officials including its president, Alice Yhoshü, along with vice president, Asa Seyie, general secretary Vishü Rita Krocha, and treasurer, Menguzotuonuo Linyü, were present.