Public Relations and Energy Minister Rajendra Shukla has said society had recognised the power of the media by describing it as the 4th pillar of democracy. In it, photographers had played a significant role. The Minister said from this year Regional Photography Awards will also be given away along with State-level awards.
The Minister was addressing Mahendra Choudhary Memorial State-level Photo Journalism Award function at Samanvay Bhavan here on Friday.
Shukla felicitated seven press photographers selected for the awards from year 2008 to 2014. Shukla also announced to implement journalists’ health and accident insurance schemes from August 15, 2015. Shukla also garlanded a photograph of late Mahendra Choudhary and felicitated his son Sanjeev Choudhary.
The Minister said that photo journalists were inseparable part of journalism without whom news appears to be incomplete. He said that on a number of occasions a photograph snapped by a press photographer depicts the reality more eloquently.
Referring to Madhya Pradesh’s development and natural beauty, Shukla said that due to these factors Madhya Pradesh has earned fame at national and international levels. National and international level awards have been conferred to Madhya Pradesh on account of its rapid growth in agriculture, power and infrastructure sectors as well as social welfare schemes. He urged media to promote positive journalism.
Principal Secretary Public Relations SK Mishra said in the welcome address that the way late Mahendra Choudhary did photography with expertise and simplicity will continue to inspire young photographers. He referred to history of photography and fast growth in the sphere. The PS said that from 2015, photographers will also be felicitated division-wise.
Shukla conferred photo journalism award to Akhil Hardia of Indore for year 2008, Rajesh Malviya of Jabalpur for 2009, Sandeep Jadiya of Rewa for 2010, Bhopal’s AM Farooqui for 2011, Praveen Vajpayee for 2012 and Prakash Hathvalne for 2013 and Ravi Upadhyay of Gwalior for year 2014. Rs 1.50 lakh each, letters of citation, shawls and coconuts were given away as part of award.
Commissioner Public Relations Anupam Rajan proposed a vote of thanks.