CHANDIGARH: Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema and Information and Public Relations Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains, on Friday, inaugurated state-of-the-art Press Lounge, designed to provide journalists with a modern and conducive working environment. Located at 2nd Floor, in Punjab Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh, the facility has been renovated after two decades with the concerted efforts of Punjab Vidhan Sabha Press Gallery Committee.
OSD (Media) to Chief Minister, Punjab Mr. Adil Azmi, Secretary IPR Mr. Malwinder Singh Jaggi, Director IPR Mr. Vimal Setia, Additional Director IPR (Admin) Mr. Sundeep Singh Garha, Joint Director (Press) Mr. Harjit Singh Grewal, President of Punjab Vidhan Sabha Press Gallery Committee Mr. Ashwani Chawla, Vice President Mr. Amit Panday, Secretary Deepak Sharma and other senior journalists were also present on the occasion.
The newly inaugurated Press Lounge is equipped with cutting-edge technology and essential amenities, reflecting the Punjab Government’s commitment to fostering a robust and independent media ecosystem.
The facility features high-speed internet, desktops, printers, and comfortable seating arrangements, ensuring journalists have the tools and resources they needed to effectively carry out their vital role in dissemination informing to the public.
While reiterating the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government's commitment to welfare of journalists and support the journalism, S. Harjot Singh Bains highlighted the importance of the press lounge, emphasising the importance of a free and independent press in a democratic society,
The Press Lounge is expected to serve as a hub for journalists covering various government departments, state government activities and functions. It is anticipated to facilitate greater access to information, enhance communication, and foster a collaborative environment for media professionals.