Indian Journalists Union reconstituted during the Silver Jubilee celebration of the Chandigarh-Punjab Union of Journalists of IJU."

Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema Honours Journalists at the Silver Jubilee of Punjab Union of Journalists' 25th Annual Meeting

KalimNews, Chandigarh, November 19, 2025 :  The 25th Annual Meeting and Silver Jubilee Function of the Chandigarh-Punjab Union of Journalists (CPUJ) of Indian Journalists Union took place on Tuesday at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration (MGSIPA) in Chandigarh. The event was attended by journalists from 21 states across India, marking a significant milestone in the union's journey. The gathering also witnessed the formation of a new National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Indian Journalists Union (IJU).

The newly constituted Ad-hoc Working Committee of the IJU elected Geetartha Pathak as President, Vinod Kohli as Secretary General, and S. Sabanayakan and Sabina Inderjit as Advisors. Other members representing various states across the country were also inducted. It was announced that the IJU plenary session would take place in six months, with elections to follow. B.R. Prajapati was appointed as the Chief Returning Officer to oversee the elections, which will include representatives from the 21 states and union territories, including Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Before the formation of the NEC, the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Chandigarh-Punjab Union of Journalists took place. Punjab's Finance Minister, Harpal Singh Cheema, attended as the chief guest and praised the work of journalists. He acknowledged their vital role in shaping society, noting that journalists work tirelessly, often under challenging circumstances, to bring important issues to the forefront. "The pen of journalists sometimes moves hearts, and at times, it even moves governments," he said, emphasising the respect and dignity that journalists deserve.

Cheema went on to highlight the essential contributions of journalists in the political landscape and in social service, underscoring that their work is integral to public discourse and the welfare of society. "Journalists are constantly engaged in publicising the problems of the people, and they play a crucial role in the politics of the country and society," he added.

In recognition of the union’s work, Minister Cheema announced financial assistance of Rs. 5 lakh to the CPUJ, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting the journalistic community. A souvenir commemorating the CPUJ's Silver Jubilee was also released during the event.

Chandigarh's Mayor, Harpreet Kaur Babla, inaugurated the function by lighting the ceremonial lamp. In her address, Mayor Babla spoke about the growing challenges journalists face in the modern era, acknowledging the increased responsibility they carry. She commended the journalists for their hard work and congratulated the CPUJ on completing 25 years of service to the journalistic community.

Vinod Kohli, also the President of CPUJ, took the opportunity to reflect on the union’s achievements and its efforts to raise the voice of journalists at both the state and national levels. He highlighted the union's participation in the recent UNESCO workshop held in Bangalore, where CPUJ representatives contributed to global media discussions. During the event, children from the Prachin Kala Kendra performed "Vande Mataram," adding a cultural element to the celebrations.

The event concluded with the honouring of journalists from across the country, who were presented with mementoes in recognition of their dedication to the profession. Among the distinguished attendees was former Mayor Arun Sood. The entire gathering celebrated not only the achievements of the CPUJ but also the ongoing commitment of journalists to serve society through their reporting.