Arunachal Pradesh journalists press for pension and recognition

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 9 January 2026 |  JP Asia Desk

Arunachal journalists met CM Pema Khandu on January 8 to press for implementation of the cabinet‑approved 2019-20 Working Journalists Pension Scheme and formal recognition of five district press clubs to bolster grassroots reporting and coordination.

Summary

ITANAGAR — Journalists and media representatives from Arunachal Pradesh in India met with Chief Minister Pema Khandu on January 8 to press for the implementation of a long-delayed pension scheme and formal recognition for district press clubs. Leaders of the Arunachal Press Club and the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists presented a three-point memorandum aimed at improving institutional support for media professionals. The pension scheme, initially announced in the 2019‑20 state budget and approved by the cabinet, has faced prolonged bureaucratic delays, prompting concern among working journalists across the state.

Journalists said the stalled Arunachal Pradesh Working Journalists Pension Scheme has left many in the profession uncertain about financial security after years of service. They argued that prompt implementation would offer essential support to retired media personnel in a sector that often lacks social safety nets.

Demands emphasize grassroots media capacity

The delegation also urged formal recognition for five district press clubs in Ziro, Aalo, Raga, Pasighat, and Seppa, saying official status would strengthen grassroots journalism and improve coordination between district administrations and the media. Representatives said many district press clubs currently operate from rented spaces without permanent infrastructure.

In addition, the journalists asked that district administrations be directed to coordinate all press events, official briefings, and media interactions through recognised district press clubs, similar to the mechanism established at the state level following a government order in October 2024.

State government response and analysis

Chief Minister Khandu acknowledged the vital role of the media in communicating government programmes and bridging the gap between the administration and citizens, and he assured the delegation that the issues raised would be examined promptly. The chief minister noted the differing functions of the government and the press but said both share the goal of building a stronger society.

The journalists described the meeting as encouraging and expressed hope that the pension scheme and press club recognition would be addressed soon. Their campaign highlights broader concerns about working conditions and institutional support for journalists in India, where press freedom rankings have placed the country in a category considered to have “very serious” challenges for media independence. India was ranked 161st in the World Press Freedom Index, reflecting pressures on journalists that extend beyond welfare issues to include legal and regulatory risks.

ATTRIBUTION: Reporting by regional news outlets, including India Today NE, The Arunachal Times, and Sentinel Assam.

PHOTO: AI-generated; for illustrative purposes only.

KEY POINTS:

• Delegation from Arunachal Press Club and Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists met the chief minister with a three-point memorandum.
• Called for prompt implementation of the cabinet‑approved 2019-20 Working Journalists Pension Scheme stalled by bureaucratic delays.
• Requested formal recognition for district press clubs in Ziro, Aalo, Raga, Pasighat, and Seppa.
• Urged district administrations to coordinate press events, briefings, and media interactions through recognised press clubs.
• Highlighted lack of permanent infrastructure for district clubs and financial insecurity faced by retired journalists.