Credible and responsible media is backbone of democracy: Deputy CM

SHIMLA 15th December, 2025

· Presides over valedictory session of All India Meet of Confederation of Newspaper and News Agency Employees’ Organizations

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri today said that credible and responsible media forms the very foundation of a strong democracy. He was presiding over the valedictory session of the two-day All India Meet of the Confederation of Newspaper and News Agency Employees’ Organizations, held in Chandigarh. The meet was organised by The Tribune Employees’ Union.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister said that print media continues to be synonymous with credibility even in the present times. He said that news impacts every section of society, the administration and the government and since independence, print media has played the role of a vigilant watchdog, guiding society and strengthening democratic values. He said that even today print media serves as a strong source of constructive feedback.

Shri Agnihotri said that the state government accords the top priority to feedback received through the media. Even negative news is viewed positively, with efforts made to identify and remove the causes of shortcomings for public welfare. He said that media feedback has consistently motivated the state government to bring positive changes in its welfare-oriented policies.

The Deputy Chief Minister said that in Himachal, politics of development, welfare and service to the poor is being given priority. Despite severe financial constraints, the present state government has restored the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for its employees. He further said that Himachal is the first state in the country to declare around 6,000 destitute children as “Children of the State” under the Mukhya Mantri Sukh-Aashray Scheme and is working in a planned manner to secure their future.