The interaction was arranged by District Information Centre Bandipora. Joint Director, Planning,Imtiyaz Ahmad, District Information Officer, Showkat Hussain Ganie and other officials of DIC were present on the occasion. During the interaction the representatives of various print and electronic media organizations interacted with the Deputy Commissioner and discussed several issues of public interest. They also briefed the DC about the difficulties they face while covering events at ground level and put forth several demands including provision of press club and media facilitation centre at district headquarter Bandipora and Sumbal.

 

 Dr Owais said that the media is a significant pillar of democracy for deliverance of transparent and accountable governance to the people and added that the district administration will always be available for coordination with the people who are engaged directly or indirectly in promoting development and wellbeing of the society. He asked the media persons to act as a bridge between the public and the government by highlighting the issues of the public so that the government can act swiftly to provide relief to the people.

 

 While appreciating the role played by the journalists during the COVID19 pandemic, The DC said that media’s cooperation and regular feedback helped the administration in improving the system for containment of the Covid-19 besides helped in informing the people about guidelines and SOPs issued from time to time by the government.

  Later, District Information officer, emphasied upon for the observance of journalistic standards and principles while making the quality content. 

Media persons also participated in interactions and put forth suggestions for better coordination with the district administration for the larger interests of highlighting public issues for redressal.(KNS)