Hyderabad: The Telangana Urdu Working Journalists Federation (TUWJF) is gearing up to hold its first national conference on May 28 at Khaja Mansion, Masab Tank, Hyderabad. The conference aims to shed light on the challenges faced by Urdu journalists and advocate for their demands to be incorporated into political and governmental decision-making processes.
Registration for the conference, which expects participation from Urdu journalists across cities, districts, and other states, has been open since 9 am. With over 500 online registrations already received, the conference anticipates a total of 900 participants.
The conference will be graced by the presence of several eminent personalities, including State Ministers Talasani Srinivas Yadav and Vemula Prashant Reddy, Telangana Congress President & MP A Revanth Reddy, Vice Chancellor of Maulana Azad National Urdu University Professor Ainul Hasan, former Supreme Court Judge Justice B Sudarshan Reddy, Director General of Police Telangana Anjani Kumar, Prof Padmaja Shah, and MLA Ahmed Balala.
This conference is expected to be a significant step forward in TUWJF’s continuous efforts to uplift and empower Urdu journalism in India. With distinguished attendees and engaging discussions, the Federation hopes to pave the way for more equitable opportunities for Urdu journalists.
The conference will feature speeches from academics, intellectuals, legislators, journalists, and public leaders, providing a platform to discuss the challenges faced by journalists. Various resolutions addressing these issues will be proposed and deliberated upon.
TUWJF President and Member of the Press Council of India M. A. Majid drew attention to the plight of Urdu journalists, emphasizing that their contributions and dedication are on par with journalists in English and Telugu media. However, they are grossly under-compensated and lack social recognition.
“Urdu language and journalism, having originated in India, have significantly shaped the country’s culture and civilization, providing a medium for advocating justice and equity. Despite the current challenges, including government indifference and declining public patronage, Urdu journalism remains resilient, fighting for its survival,” he said.
TUWJF General Secretary Ghouse Mohiuddin highlighted the scarcity of advertisements in Urdu papers and the bias against Urdu journalists. Despite these challenges, Urdu journalists continue to work tirelessly. The Federation has urged the government and political parties to include their demands in party manifestos without reservation.
Furthermore, the Federation has vowed to pass a resolution regarding the allotment of land by the Jawaharlal Nehru Journalists Mutually Aided Cooperative Housing Society. Despite a Supreme Court directive to the State Government to release land to journalists under this scheme, journalists are still awaiting their due.
Over the past six years, the Federation has played a significant role in uplifting Urdu journalism by organizing various programs and providing platforms for journalists focused on Urdu reporting. They have also conducted skill-enhancing training programs to help journalists stay updated with evolving challenges and technology.
The Telangana Urdu Working Journalists Federation is at the forefront of this struggle. Formed in 2016, the Federation aims to enhance the credibility of Urdu journalism, shed light on its struggles, and establish actionable plans to address these issues. It serves as a rallying point for thousands of advocates dedicated to Urdu journalism, who persevere with determination and courage despite challenging circumstances.
Over the past six years, the Federation has acted as a catalyst for Urdu journalism, hosting various programs that provide a platform for Urdu-focused journalists. As the world rapidly changes, so do the demands of journalism. To ensure Urdu journalists remain connected and equipped to face evolving challenges and technology, the Federation has organized several skill-enhancing training programs. Numerous decision-makers have shared their insights from this platform.
Numerous organizations, institutions, and individuals are commendably working to preserve and promote Urdu and its journalism, each contributing in their unique way. The Federation extends its respect and appreciation to all those who have dedicated their efforts to this cause. (INN)