Karnataka’s Labour Minister Santosh S Lad has called for enhanced social security provisions for photojournalists and other workers in the unorganized media sector. Speaking at the opening of the “Focus on News” photo exhibition and press photography workshop in Dharwad. He has assured attendees that the Labour Department is committed to rolling out special schemes to support photographers and videographers in the field of journalism.
He explained that the photographers and videographers, who often work in precarious conditions are now being registered under welfare schemes. They might receive smart cards issued to facilitate their access to social security. He further outlined plans for financial aid, skill training, and equipment assistance to enhance their professional capabilities.
In addition to the welfare schemes, the Minister proposed a series of meetings with media professionals to better understand their needs and develop effective support structures. Karnataka has already registered over 30 lakh workers under the Ambedkar Labour Welfare Scheme and similar efforts will be extended to media employees soon.
The event also featured an insightful keynote address by National Award-winning photojournalist Shipra Das with Ayesha Khanam, Chairperson of the Media Academy, stressing the importance of skill-building for journalists as part of the government’s budgetary initiatives.
