SRINAGAR: The Regional News Unit (RNU) of Akashvani Srinagar held a felicitation ceremony at its headquarters today to honour its staff for their dedication and professionalism. The event celebrated the contributions of Casual News Editors, News Reader-cum-Translators for languages including Urdu, Kashmiri, Gojri, Pahari, and Balti, District Correspondents, data entry operators, and contractual staff.
Dr (Prof) Mushtaq Ahmad Siddiqui, former Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST), was the chief guest. He emphasised the transformative power of news in shaping socio-economic and political landscapes. He shared his personal attachment to Akashvani Srinagar, ” Even in countries like the USA or Canada, I ensure I tune in to Sheherbeen and evening news via an app.”
Mohammad Rafi, former Director and Mission Advisor, School Education, J&K Government, highlighted the enduring relevance of Akashvani and Doordarshan as cultural assets despite technological advancements. “Plurality and inclusivity are the pillars of Akashvani and Doordarshan’s news delivery,” he stated.
Author and columnist Dr Mohammad Maroof Shah described the felicitation as a testament to the staff’s capabilities, which are vital for building community within institutions.
Qazi Mohammad Salman, Joint Director of PIB Srinagar and Head of News, RNU DDK Srinagar, reaffirmed the importance of media neutrality in news production and delivery. “Authenticity and balance are the hallmarks of every news item produced by the RNUs of Radio and Doordarshan,” he said.
Other dignitaries, including Dr Muslim Jan, former Assistant Professor at Kashmir University, and Ahsan-ul-Haq Chisti, Deputy Director, DIPR J&K, lauded the historical significance of Akashvani Srinagar and its commitment to credible news delivery amidst evolving technology.
Ghulam Rasool Akhoon, Programme Head, Akashvani Srinagar, praised the efforts of the RNU team, stating that the event would inspire further excellence. Deputy Director and Head of News, RNU Akashvani Srinagar, Tariq Rather, credited the unit’s success since 1948 to its professional and dedicated staff.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from News Editor Ishfaq Ahmad Shah, while Syed Mubashir Rufai, a Contractual News Reader, conducted the proceedings. Certificates of appreciation were presented to the staff, and the event was attended by senior officials, including Sunil Koul, Assistant Director, PIB Srinagar, and Shabir Ahmad Dar, Assistant Director, RNU DDK Srinagar.
