Punjab Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu today appealed the entire journalistic community of the state to come forward and present a beautiful picture of Punjab, so that it helps in development and good future for all of us. He said this while inaugurating the two-day photo exhibition organised by Ludhiana Photojournalist Association at Dr Mahinder Singh Randhawa Art Gallery at Punjabi Bhawan, here today.While addressing the gathering on the occasion, Mr Bharat Bhushan Ashu stated that there is no place in the world like Punjab, that is a true picture of not only cultural and literary diversity, but also showcases communal harmony, peace and development. Taking an aim at the 10 year long government rule of Shiromani Akali Dal-Bharatiya Janta Party in the state, Mr Ashu said that it was due to their poor governance that Punjab suffered to a great extent and that is why, the real picture of true Punjab has been distorted.While appealing the journalistic community to promote positivity through their writings and photographs because they have appeal amongst masses, and it would lead to development of our state. He also spoke about the welfare schemes started by the government for the benefit of journalists.
He also announced a grant of Rs 5 lakh from his discretionary quota for the Ludhiana Photojournalist Association. On this occasion, social activist and leading businessman Mr SP Singh Oberoi also announced Rs 50,000 for the association.Ludhiana MP Mr Ravneet Singh Bittu congratulated to photojournalists to find positivity through their photographs despite their busy schedule. He appealed to the photojournalists to prepare a library of these photos so that the future generations and future journalists can learn from them. He also said that a good photograph is equal to a thousand words and that is why, sometimes, a photographs gives a bigger message than the news item itself.Association office bearer Mr Gurmeet Singh welcomed the gathering and veteran journalist Mr Varinder Parmod thanked everyone. They also announced that the association would get RO systems installed in government schools.Prominent among those present on the occasion included MLA Mr Kuldeep Singh Vaid, District Congress Committee (Urban) President Mr Ashwani Sharma, Col HS Kahlon, Chairman Mr Amarjit Singh Tikka, Mr Ranjodh Singh from Ramgarhia Education Council, Prof Gurbhajan Gill, former president, Punjabi Sahit Akademi, Councillor Mrs Mamta Ashu, District Youth Congress president Mr Rajiv Raja, besides several others.