PRESS AND GOVERNMENT

Working journalists and local editors in Kashmir valley are not enjoying a good relationship with UT administration especially after August 5, 2019. Journalists have accused police and administration of not giving them required information to file their stories while as the administration has been accusing some journalists of planting fake news. Amid such hostile atmosphere, recently UT administration has drafted a new media policy 2020.

The policy includes establishment of a media academy/institute/chair in reputable national institutes in Jammu and Kashmir such as IIMC, IIM that will promote the highest standard of journalism, and coordinate study and research in the field, the official statement about the new policy said. It includes the institution of media awards to be given each year to two outstanding media or communication professionals.

The statement said, “For the first time, the Media Policy lays down the guidelines for empanelment of audio-visual and electronic media such as FM, radio, satellite and cable TV channels so as to streamline their interface with DIPR.”

The policy envisages that all department will nominate a nodal officer to liaise with DIPR. To ensure healthy interaction with the public online and on social media, the policy lays down setting up of a Social Media Cell in the department.

The director, Information and Public Relations, has been designated chairperson of the Empanelment Committee and the administrative head of Information Department will chair the Review Committee constituted under the policy.