MP Amar Kale to Meet Governor Over Journalists' Issues

Rural Journalists are the 'Tonic' of Society: MP Amar Kale at Journalist Day Event in Arvi

@hindostantimes.com

Wardha (Representative) – Member of Parliament Amar Kale has announced that he will personally meet the Governor of Maharashtra to advocate for the rights and protection of rural journalists. Speaking at a ceremony organized by the Journalist Protection Committee (Maharashtra State) in Arvi to mark Journalist Day (January 6, 2026), MP Kale emphasized that rural journalists are the true voice of the marginalized and live by the ideals of Sant Tukdoji Maharaj’s 'Gramgeeta.'

"Rural journalists possess deep knowledge of grassroots issues. They are the 'tonic' of our society. It is essential to have a representative for journalists in the legislature to address their grievances. I stand with you and urge you to submit a formal memorandum so I can take this matter to the Governor," MP Kale stated during his inaugural address.

The event, held to commemorate the birth anniversary of Balshashtri Jambhekar (the father of Marathi journalism), saw the felicitation of proactive journalists and social activists from the Vidarbha region. Awardees were honored with shawls, bouquets, certificates, and mementos for their dedicated service.

The program was presided over by Vinod Patre, Founder President of the Journalist Protection Committee. Other prominent guests like Dadarao Keche (MLA), Mangesh Varkad (District Information Officer),Swati Gulhane (President, Arvi Municipal Council), Shailesh Agarwal (Pioneer of Farmer Reservation),Chandrakant Dhole (SDPO), Harish Kale (Tehsildar)

The Harsh Reality of Rural Journalism

Keynote speaker Ram Khurdal, State Vice President of the Committee, delivered a poignant speech on the "Reality of Rural Journalism Today." He criticized the government’s apathy, noting that despite multiple submissions, no star questions were raised in the winter session regarding their plight. Rural journalists face stringent conditions for accreditation compared to their urban counterparts. Absence of pension schemes, personal/family insurance, and housing schemes (Gharkul) for financially weak journalists. Ineffective implementation of the Journalist Protection Act at the village level. Lack of representation in non-governmental committees and the absence of independent 'Journalist Bhavans' (Press Clubs) across the state.

Support from Leadership

MLA Dadarao Keche acknowledged the hardships of rural reporting, stating that people have high expectations from them in changing times. SDPO Chandrakant Dhole described journalists as the vital bridge between the government and the public, while farmer leader Shailesh Agarwal demanded that the state must provide basic services and financial stability to rural media persons who act as the voice of the farmers.

The program concluded with a collective resolve to continue the struggle for the dignity and rights of those wielding the pen in rural Maharashtra.