Srinagar: In a significant move towards recognizing the hard work and dedication of its staff, Akashvani Srinagar’s Regional News Unit (RNU) held its first-ever felicitation function on Saturday at its headquarters here.
The event recognized the contributions of Casual News Editors, News Reader-cum-Translators in languages such as Urdu, Kashmiri, Gojri, Pahari, and Balti, as well as District Correspondents, Data Entry Operators, and contractual staff, all of whom play vital roles in ensuring the station’s successful news delivery.
The event underscored the essential role of these staff members in maintaining the station’s standards of professionalism, accuracy, and inclusivity in news dissemination.
Several distinguished dignitaries graced the event, including Dr. (Prof.) Mushtaq Ahmad Siddiqui, former Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science & Technology, who served as the chief guest. Dr. Siddiqui highlighted the transformative power of news in shaping socio-political and economic landscapes globally.
Praising the news delivery of Akashvani Srinagar, Siddiqui said, “I am so fond of Sheherbeen and the evening news on Akashvani Srinagar that, even while abroad in the USA or Canada, I make sure to listen to it regularly via an app.”
Mohammad Rafi, former Director of the School Education Department, J&K, also spoke at the event, praising Akashvani Srinagar and Doordarshan as cultural pillars. “Despite the challenges posed by rapidly evolving technology, these institutions continue to hold a unique place in society, ensuring the authenticity of news and maintaining their cultural significance,” he said.
Dr. Mohammad Maroof Shah, author and columnist, praised the felicitation as a meaningful acknowledgment of the staff’s commitment. He emphasized the importance of such recognition in fostering community spirit within institutions. “Such events should be organized regularly across all industries, as they provide staff with a sense of satisfaction and recognition, ultimately helping to build community spirit,” he said.
Qazi Mohammad Salman, Joint Director, PIB Srinagar, and Head of News at RNU, DDK Srinagar, stressed the importance of media neutrality in news reporting. “Behind every news item lies professionalism, ensuring that the news is both authentic and balanced,” he said, commending the RNU staff for their high journalistic standards.
Dr. Muslim Jan, former Assistant Professor at the Media Education Research Centre (MERC) of Kashmir University, praised Akashvani Srinagar for nurturing young talent. “It is encouraging that students from MERC are excelling in media and other prominent fields, which is a source of pride,” she said.
Ahsan-ul-Haq Chisti, Deputy Director at DIPR J&K, reflected on Akashvani Srinagar’s historical significance, stating that despite the rise of digital media, radio continues to hold a unique place in the media landscape. “Akashvani Srinagar has maintained its relevance by staying true to its core values of authenticity and trustworthiness,” he added.
Gh. Rasool Akhoon, Program Head at Akashvani Srinagar, lauded the staff for their unwavering dedication. “This felicitation is a well-deserved recognition of the professionalism and hard work that drive Akashvani Srinagar’s success,” he said.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Tariq Rather, Deputy Director and Head of News at RNU Akashvani Srinagar, highlighted the station’s long-standing commitment to providing timely and accurate news since its inception in 1948. “The success of Akashvani Srinagar is a direct result of the dedication and professionalism of our staff, who contribute daily to ensure reliable news delivery,” he said.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Ishfaq Ahmad Shah, News Editor at Akashvani Srinagar. Senior officials from various departments, including Sunil Koul, Assistant Director, PIB Srinagar, Shabir Ahmad Dar, Assistant Director, RNU DDK Srinagar, Sheikh Mudasir Amin, Editor News DDK Srinagar, and others, were also present.
