Pranav Birje | Senior Correspondent
Hansraj Kanojia: Strengthening Journalist Organizations in Every District
Mumbai: A special meeting of the National Union of Journalists (India) – Maharashtra unit was held on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Raigad Military School, Oshiwara, Mumbai. The meeting was chaired by Hansraj Kanojia, President of NUJ Maharashtra.
Addressing the gathering, Shri S. Kumar, National Vice President of NUJ India, emphasized the organization’s commitment to fighting for the rights and security of journalists across the country for the past 53 years. He expressed concerns over the declining number of journalists in mainstream media organizations, leading to financial hardships for many. Due to this, journalists are being compelled to work with smaller media banners instead of larger, well-established institutions.
Reflecting on past experiences, Shri S. Kumar noted that the previous NUJ Maharashtra unit did not adequately address the challenges faced by journalists. However, he expressed confidence that the newly elected team would ensure that journalists receive the necessary support and facilities.
Commitment to Women Journalists’ Rights
Maharashtra Women Media Cell President, Mrs. Sanjana Gandhi Bharti, strongly condemned the injustices faced by women journalists. She asserted that NUJ India would take all possible steps to ensure justice and protection for women in the media industry. “We will not tolerate any atrocities against women journalists and will fight for their rights at every level,” she said.
Strengthening Journalist Welfare in Maharashtra
Hansraj Kanojia, President of NUJ Maharashtra, announced plans to expand and strengthen the journalist organization across every district of Maharashtra, including Mumbai. He stressed the need to address education and healthcare concerns for journalists and their families.
“Many journalists struggle to provide for their families and educate their children due to financial instability. While they possess the necessary skills, the lack of formal degrees often limits their job opportunities. Our goal is to secure better opportunities for them,” Kanojia stated.
Furthermore, he highlighted a proposal under the state’s new Pencil Scheme, which seeks to provide a monthly allowance of ₹20,000 to senior journalists aged 60 and above. He assured that NUJ Maharashtra would work diligently to ensure its implementation.
Key Attendees
The meeting was attended by several prominent figures, including Shri S. Kumar (National Vice President, NUJ India), Mrs. Sanjana Gandhi Bharti (President, Maharashtra Women Media Cell), Raju Gharat (Managing President, Raigad Military School), Mrs. Shravani Joshi, Baba Londhe (Vice President), Sardar Uttam Singh (Treasurer), PC Kapadia (Secretary), Raj Pandey (Secretary), Manish Seth (Secretary), Imtiaz Azmi (Media Spokesperson), and committee members Arjun Kamble, Kalpesh Mhatre, and Ramakant Munde. A large number of journalists were also present at the event.
NUJ Maharashtra remains steadfast in its mission to protect the interests of journalists and ensure their welfare across the state.