Haldwani: In a major step towards strengthening media infrastructure in Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday laid the foundation stone of the Kumaon Media Centre building in Haldwani. The modern facility, built at a cost of ₹6 crore 75 lakh 88 thousand, is aimed at empowering journalists and improving the state’s information and communication system.
The project is being seen as a landmark initiative for journalist welfare and administrative efficiency in the Kumaon region.
Modern Media Hub for Journalism in Kumaon Region
The Chief Minister said the upcoming media centre will not just be a building, but a dedicated platform for journalism—considered the “fourth pillar of democracy”.
The centre will serve as a hub for dialogue, research, coordination, and modern media operations for journalists across the Kumaon division.
He also noted that earlier journalists had to depend on Dehradun for several official and administrative tasks, but after the centre becomes operational, most work will be completed in Haldwani itself.
High-Tech Facilities Including Digital Studio and Press Hall
The Kumaon Media Centre will be equipped with several modern facilities designed to meet current and future media needs. These include:
- Modern press conference hall
- High-speed internet connectivity
- Fully equipped digital studio
- Well-stocked media library
- Cafeteria and basic amenities
The facility will also include residential guest rooms for journalists coming from remote and mountainous districts such as Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Champawat, Almora, and Munsyari.
Relief for Remote Journalists and Improved Working Conditions
Special accommodation arrangements will help journalists from remote regions avoid travel difficulties and stay during official work visits.
The Chief Minister also announced that newspaper inspection and related administrative work will now be conducted from this media centre, improving transparency and efficiency.
Journalist Welfare Schemes Announced by CM Dhami
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to media welfare, CM Dhami highlighted several initiatives:
- Journalist Welfare Fund increased to ₹5 crore
- ₹5 lakh cashless health insurance for accredited journalists and families
- ₹8,000 monthly pension for journalists above 60 years of age
These measures aim to strengthen financial and social security for media professionals in the state.
Guest House in Tanakpur for Border Region Journalists
The Chief Minister also informed that a media centre guest house is under construction in Tanakpur, Champawat district. This facility will further support journalists working in remote and border areas of Uttarakhand.
Prominent Dignitaries Present at the Event
The foundation stone ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Member of Parliament Ajay Bhatt, cabinet ministers, MLAs, district officials, and senior administrative officers. A large number of journalists from the Kumaon region also participated in the event.
Boost to Media Infrastructure in Uttarakhand
The Kumaon Media Centre is expected to significantly improve media infrastructure in the region, reduce dependence on the state capital, and provide modern facilities for journalists to work more efficiently in a digital environment.
