Itanagar, Aug 6 (PTI) Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu Tuesday reiterated his government's commitment to the welfare of the working journalists in the state.

During the day, Khandu convened a meeting with the members of the Arunachal Press Club (APC) and Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) along with Information and Public Relations Minister Nyato Dukam, to discuss the welfare and concerns of working journalists in the state, officials at the CMO said.

Also Read | Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Attacks Sukhbir Singh Badal Over 2015 Sacrilege Incidents, Says ‘Apology is for Mistakes, Not for Crimes’.

"Today, I sat down with my journalist friends from the Arunachal Press Club (APC) and Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ), along with Hon IPR Minister Shri @NyatoDukam Ji, to discuss the welfare and concerns of working journalists in our state," Khandu posted on X after the meeting.

As the fourth pillar of democracy, journalists play a vital role in ensuring that our democracy functions effectively and that those in power are held accountable, he said.

Also Read | Hiroshima, Nagasaki Atomic Bombings: Lok Sabha Pays Tributes to Victims of Nuclear Bomb Attack in Japanese Cities in August 1945.

"Our government is committed to supporting journalists and has taken several initiatives to improve their working conditions and quality of life," the chief minister said in another social media post.

These include providing proper office infrastructure, government-sponsored medical insurance, pension schemes, housing benefits, and other welfare measures, he added. Khandu also suggested that the media fraternity organise an annual conclave to discuss pressing issues affecting the northeastern state.

"I am dedicated to ensuring the well-being of journalists and suggested that the APC and APUWJ could organize an annual conclave," the chief minister said.

"Such an event will bring together renowned experts and thought leaders to engage in debates and discussions on pressing issues affecting Arunachal Pradesh, thereby enhancing public understanding and awareness," he added.

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)