Assam govt announces Rs 50 lakh insurance cover for journalists reporting on COVID-19

Guwahati, Apr 27 () The Assam government on Mondayannounced Rs 50 lakh insurance cover for journalists reportingon the COVID-19 pandemic in the state.

Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said journalists arereporting on the outbreak without caring about their lives andcreating awareness among people.

"As a mark of recognition to the selfless endeavour ofthe scribes, the state government is announcing this insurancecoverage," he said.

Wishing the media persons good health, Sonowal urgedthem to "continue their noble venture in the days to come forthe good of the society".

The Journalists' Association of Assam (JAA) and theNational Union of Journalists India (NUJI) welcomed thedecision of the state government to provide insurance coverageto journalists who are working in high-risk environment amidthe outbreak.

They expressed gratitude to Sonowal and FinanceMinister Himanta Biswa Sarma for taking the timely stepkeeping in view the health hazard faced by the journalists onthe line of duty.

The Guwahati Press Club also welcomed the decision. Ina statement, its president Manoj Kumar Nath and generalsecretary Sanjoy Ray expressed gratitude to Sonowal for takingthe timely step. ESBSOM SOM