Recognizing the outstanding contribution in the field of journalism, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today honored three veteran journalists Mr NS Parwana, Mr BK Chum and Mr PD Mohindra who served the society in general and state in particular through their prolific writings spanning over a period of five decades.Accompanied by Information and Public Relations Minister Mr Bikram Singh Majithia, the Chief Minister in an impressive function held at the Punjab Bhawan here today conferred the honor on these three senior most journalists with a cash award of Rs One lakh each besides a citation and a shawl. Recalling the marvelous services rendered by these three eminent journalists, Mr Badal said that he knew them since the days when he had entered in active politics since early 1950s, as all of us were young at that time. He said that the award was a mere token of love from the Government of Punjab in due recognition of their enormous contribution in the field of journalism. The Chief Minister mentioned that these journalists worked zealously with professional commitment to uphold the freedom of Press besides discharging their duties with utmost dedication, commitment and sincerity. Mr Badal said that it was a matter of great pride and satisfaction for him that he had got the chance to honor these journalists who were renowned for their courage, impartiality and nose for the news. Congratulating all the three recipients of the award, he hoped that they would continue to be a source of inspiration for the budding journalists to perform their duty with integrity and commitment. The Chief Minister further said that the state government was committed for the overall welfare of the scribes and would make all out efforts to ensure their well being. Underlining the need for an independent press in a democratic county like India, Mr Badal said that it played a vital role not only in framing the public opinion by creating awareness amongst the people but it also helps the government in formulating the pro-people policies by giving them the much required feedback. Speaking on the occasion Information and Public Relations Minister Mr Bikram Singh Majithia said that it was the duty of the state government to honor these reputed journalists who had selflessly served the country in general and Punjab in particular by their remarkable services. He said that the state government particularly the Information and Public Relations department would continue its endeavors in the future too, so that the services rendered by such dedicated and committed scribes are duly recognized.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Mr Bikram Singh Majithia, Mr Sikander Singh Maluka and Mr Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Principal Secretary Information and Public Relations Department Mr NS Kang, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr Gaggandip Singh Brar ,Additional Secretary Information and Public Relations Department Mr Gurwaryam Singh and Additional Director Information and Public Relations Department Mrs Senu Duggal.