Journalists Welfare Trust Distributes Tk 2.10 Crore to 320 Journalists

The Bangladesh Journalists Welfare Trust has distributed Tk 2.10 crore as welfare grants to the families of deceased journalists and those who are ill or facing difficulties. The cheques for these grants, part of the first phase of the 2025-26 fiscal year, were formally distributed on Thursday (September 4).

The distribution ceremony took place at the auditorium of the Department of Films and Publications (DFP) at the Information Bhaban on Circuit House Road, Dhaka. The cheques were handed over by Mahbuba Farzana, Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Vice-Chairman of the Welfare Trust. During the event, cheques of Tk 3 lakh each were given to the families of recently deceased journalist-columnist Bibhuronjon Sarker and journalist Tuhin, who was killed in Gazipur.

The event was chaired by Muhammad Abdullah, Managing Director of the Journalists Welfare Trust. Speeches were delivered by Faruk Wasif, a member of the Trust’s Board and Director General of PIB, Fayzul Haque, Director General of the Department of Mass Communication, Shahin Hasnat, a member of the Trust’s Board, Md. Alauddin, Joint Editor of Dainik Kalbela, and Chiroronjon Sarker, brother of the late Bibhuronjon Sarker. In her speech as the chief guest, Information Secretary Mahbuba Farzana said, “In the new Bangladesh, during the current government’s tenure, the Journalists Welfare Trust is working for the welfare of the journalist community, irrespective of party or opinion. Now, those who truly deserve it are receiving assistance from the Welfare Trust. However, we know that what is being provided is far from sufficient compared to the needs.” She added, “The Ministry of Information is working on ensuring the safety, financial security, and quality of life for journalists. Various institutions under the ministry are tirelessly working to enhance the professional skills of journalists. The Ministry of Information will always stand by the journalist community to promote healthy and objective journalism.” Notably, over the past year, the Welfare Trust has provided financial and other benefits worth Tk 10.70 crore to 3,428 journalists. Of this, Tk 8.91 crore in welfare grants were distributed to 1,425 journalists, including the families of 58 deceased journalists and 922 journalists suffering from serious illnesses (such as cancer, heart bypass, and kidney dialysis). In July, five families of martyred journalists and 192 injured journalists received Tk 54 lakh along with crests and certificates as recognition. Additionally, Tk 55.26 lakh was provided as scholarships to the children of 305 journalists. During the last Ramadan, food items, including iftar supplies, were distributed to 1,500 journalists, with approximately Tk 70 lakh spent on this initiative.

Since its inception, the Bangladesh Journalists Welfare Trust has provided a total of Tk 54.81 crore in welfare grants and assistance.