Describing journalists as the vigilant conscience of democracy, Haryana Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday said journalism derives its true strength not merely from the written word but from truth, credibility, public trust and an unwavering sense of responsibility towards society and the nation. He said journalists do far more than report events, they give words to the present and shape the history of the future.
Interacting with the senior journalists of the Senior Journalists Forum, Chandigarh, at Sant Kabir Kutir, the Chief Minister said every news report becomes a document of its time and every photograph reflects the collective conscience of society. Journalism, he said, is not confined to reporting facts; it plays a defining role in shaping public opinion, preserving history and strengthening democratic institutions.
Welcoming the senior journalists, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said democracy flourishes only when dialogue within society remains continuous, meaningful and vibrant. Such dialogue, he said, is sustained by a free, responsible and credible media that serves as a bridge between the government and the people. Journalists, therefore, have an indispensable role in deepening democratic values and strengthening public confidence in institutions.
Journalism is not driven merely by pen and ink. It is guided by public trust, informed opinion and a deep sense of responsibility towards democracy, the Chief Minister said, adding that journalists shoulder the responsibility of presenting facts with fairness, balance and integrity.
Highlighting India's rich journalistic tradition, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the roots of Indian journalism are deeply embedded in the country's timeless civilisational heritage. Referring to Maharishi Narad as the world's first messenger, he said Narad's mission was not merely to disseminate information but to uphold truth, maintain balance and work for the larger welfare of society.
He said the essence of responsible communication has always been an integral part of India's cultural ethos.The Chief Minister also recalled the contributions of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Mahatma Gandhi and Shaheed Bhagat Singh, whose writings became powerful instruments of social awakening and inspired the spirit of nationalism during India's freedom struggle.
Their journalism, he said, demonstrated that the written word has the power to unite society, challenge injustice and inspire transformational change.Referring to the rapidly evolving media landscape, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the age of artificial intelligence and social media has fundamentally transformed the dissemination of information, enabling news to reach every corner of the world within moments.
However, he observed that the greatest challenge before society today is not the speed of information but its authenticity and credibility.In this changing environment, the Chief Minister said experienced and responsible journalists have a greater role than ever before.
At a time when misinformation and unverified content can spread rapidly, he said, society looks towards credible journalism to distinguish fact from falsehood. He urged journalists to continue upholding the highest professional standards so that truth prevails over misinformation.
Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said criticism remains one of the greatest strengths of democracy, provided it is rooted in facts and guided by objectivity. Constructive criticism, he observed, strengthens governance, improves public institutions and ultimately serves the larger public interest.
The Chief Minister further said society today requires much more than breaking news. It also needs constructive thinking, meaningful solutions and inspiring examples capable of creating positive social change. Journalism, he said, becomes a powerful instrument of nation-building when it is guided by truth, sensitivity, objectivity and accountability.
Reaffirming the Haryana Government's commitment to transparency, accountability and continuous dialogue with the media, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the State Government remains equally committed to safeguarding the dignity, security and welfare of journalists.
He said the Haryana Government has implemented a Pension Scheme for senior journalists. In addition, the entire premium under the Group Insurance Scheme for journalists is borne by the State Government. Financial assistance is also provided through the Journalists' Welfare Fund to journalists and their families in cases of serious illness, accidents or untimely death.
The Chief Minister said the welfare of journalists remains an important priority for the government, as a vibrant democracy requires a secure, independent and empowered media. He expressed confidence that journalists would continue to discharge their responsibilities with impartiality, credibility and dedication while further strengthening the democratic fabric of the nation.
The Chief Minister said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, India is moving ahead with renewed confidence and unprecedented momentum, while Haryana is setting new benchmarks in inclusive and sustainable development through transparent, accountable and citizen-centric governance.
Referring to the Ayushman Bharat and Chirayu Haryana health insurance schemes, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said these initiatives have enabled lakhs of families to receive quality medical treatment free of cost, significantly reducing the financial burden on economically weaker sections and ensuring access to affordable healthcare.
Highlighting the government's focus on education, the Chief Minister said transformative initiatives such as Mission Buniyaad and Super-100 have created new opportunities for talented students from economically weaker families.
He said the remarkable success of students from the Super-100 programme, who have recently secured admission to prestigious institutions after qualifying examinations such as IIT, NIT and NEET, reflects the State Government's commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring quality education for every child, irrespective of socio-economic background.
Speaking about the expansion of healthcare infrastructure, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said Haryana had only a limited number of medical colleges before 2014. Today, medical colleges have been established in most districts, while work on the remaining institutions is progressing rapidly.
He added that the State Government is also committed to upgrading district hospitals by providing facilities comparable to those available in private hospitals, thereby ensuring quality healthcare closer to people's homes.The Chief Minister said the State Government remains committed not only to accelerating the pace of development but also to strengthening public trust through transparent governance, responsive administration and continuous engagement with citizens.
He said the government's objective is to create an environment where development is accompanied by social harmony, public participation and confidence in democratic institutions.Expressing confidence in the media fraternity, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said journalists have always played a pivotal role in shaping public discourse and strengthening democratic values.
He said he was confident that the media would continue to discharge its responsibilities with impartiality, professionalism and a constructive outlook, thereby making an enduring contribution to nation-building and the strengthening of democracy.
Earlier, representatives of the Senior Journalists Forum, Chandigarh, shared their views with the Chief Minister on issues relating to journalism, media and public communication. The Chief Minister appreciated their suggestions and reaffirmed the State Government's commitment to maintaining an open, constructive and meaningful dialogue with the media fraternity.
Director General, Information, Public Relations, Languages and Culture Department, Sh. K. Makrand Pandurang, Chairman, Senior Journalists Forum, Chandigarh, Sh. A.R. Parashar, President Sh. Jagtar Singh Sandhu, General Secretary, Sh. Keval Bharti, OSD to the Chief Minister, Sh. B.B. Bharti, Media Secretary to the Chief Minister, Sh. Parveen Attrey and several senior journalists also remained present on this occasion.