Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Saturday said the government is working to introduce a retirement allowance aimed at ensuring financial security for senior journalists.
He made the remarks while visiting ailing journalist Ismail Hossain Negaban at the Bangladesh Medical University.
“The issue of financial insecurity among senior journalists has long been overlooked. The current government has taken initiatives to introduce retirement benefits so that journalists can live with dignity in their later years,” the minister said.
He added that although the media is considered the fourth pillar of a modern democratic state, many journalists continue to work without adequate institutional protection, leaving them in vulnerable conditions.
“Journalism is a highly important and respected profession. Unfortunately, many senior journalists face financial hardship in the final stage of their lives. The government is working to address this so they can live with dignity,” he said.
The minister further noted that the government is formulating policies to safeguard media freedom and responsibility while also strengthening the activities of the Journalists Welfare Trust.
He stressed that state support is essential to retaining talented professionals in society, adding that ensuring a safe and dignified working environment for journalists remains a priority.
During the visit, he also handed over a cheque of Tk 100,000 as financial assistance to the ailing journalist on behalf of the Journalists Welfare Trust.
