Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha on Wednesday emphasized the importance of freedom for journalists, as they serve as a mirror of society by highlighting the mistakes of both the people and the government.

During the inauguration of a three-day media workshop cum orientation programme at Agartala Press Club on Wednesday organized by ICA department in association with Agartala press club, the Chief Minister stated that journalists should maintain impartiality and neutrality, which is a challenging task.

"When I was not in politics, my relationship with journalists was good. However, now that I am in a position, I still maintain the same relationship. Training is important for us; without it, nothing is possible. In every field, training is necessary and would help you in overall development. Sometimes we feel like we know everything and whatever comes to our mind, we write it on paper. Reporters may think that they know everything, but there is no end to gathering knowledge. We have to work while maintaining equality with the journalists at the national level. Fortunately, our government is also helping the journalists," said the Chief Minister.

He further said that the state government is a media and journalist-friendly government.

“We don't believe in just talking; we believe in taking action, as everyone knows the kind of work this government is doing for the benefit of the journalists. Journalists are our fourth pillar of democracy, and their freedom is very necessary. If we don't give them freedom, people will not be able to get proper information. Journalists are the mirror of society, and they show us if we have made any mistakes. They are like referees; they should not take anyone's side and should be impartial and neutral, which is a very difficult task,' said CM.

Dr Saha further assured that all the problems of journalists will be solved gradually as the government is actively working to solve all kinds of issues.

During the media workshop, media persons of print, electronic and web media from across the state will be attending this workshop.

Addressing the gathering the secretary of ICA Department Dr. P.K. Chakraborty said, in the age of technological advancement this kind of workshop is the need of the hour. This will prove helpful in preparing news, features etc. Media also has a role to play in disseminating information on the policy, guidelines of the government to the public. The state government expects the media to present constructive news. Referring to the earlier media workshops he also said that the state government has taken initiative to implement various welfare measures like increase of pension amount, introduction of insurance scheme, modified advertisement policy etc. for the welfare of media fraternity.

On behalf of the Agartala Press Club, its secretary Ramakanta Dey said, the state government is sincere enough towards the welfare of media persons. Introduction of insurance scheme for them is one such reflection. Welcome address was given by the director of ICA department Bimbisar Bhattacharjee. About 300 media persons of print, electronic and web media will take part in the workshop. Eight resource persons will be there to give their best inputs during the workshop.

Among others, president of Agartala Press Club Jayanta Bhattacharjee and editor of PTI (Eastern region) also spoke on the occasion.