(a) whether the Government proposes to launch any welfare scheme for the benefit of
workers including editors employed in small newspapers and other media persons in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof, media-wise and scheme-wise; and
(c) if not, the reasons therefor alongwith the other measures taken/proposed to be
taken by the Government for the welfare of such media persons?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF INFORMATION & BROADCASTING (SHRI C.M. JATUA)
(a) & (b): Yes, Sir.The Government has launched welfare schemes for media persons,
including those from small newspapers who are accredited by the Press Information Bureau (PIB). The main provisions of such welfare schemes are : -
# Medical treatment facilities upto dispensary level and nursing homes at Government
hospitals through the Central Government Health Services {CGHS}.
# Assistance under Journalists Welfare Fund to provide one time ex-gratia relief on
urgent basis to journalists and to their families on account of death, permanent disability,
cost of treatement of major ailments and also in case of accidents causing serious
injuries necessitating hospitalization.
# Allotment of Government accommodation under Press Pool.
# Concession on rail fares, given by the Indian Railways.
# Custom duty concession in the import of professional equipments.
(c) Does not arise.