Dhaka, Apr 18 (V7N) — Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has said the government is taking steps to introduce retirement allowances for senior journalists to ensure their financial security in later life.

He made the remarks while visiting ailing journalist Ismail Hossain Negaban at Bangladesh Medical University on Saturday.

“Journalists need institutional protection”

The minister said that although the media is widely regarded as the fourth pillar of democracy, many journalists work without institutional safety or long-term financial protection. He noted that senior journalists, in particular, often face financial hardship after retirement.

“Journalism is a respected profession, but many journalists suffer in their later years. The government is working to ensure they can live with dignity,” he said.

Policy and welfare initiatives

Swapan said the government is preparing policy measures to strengthen media independence while ensuring accountability. He added that the activities of the Journalists Welfare Trust are being expanded to provide greater support to media professionals.

He also emphasized the need for state support to sustain skilled professionals in the media sector, calling it a government priority to ensure a safe and dignified working environment for journalists.

Financial assistance provided

During the visit, the minister handed over a cheque of Tk 100,000 on behalf of the Journalists Welfare Trust to support the treatment of the ailing journalist.

END/SMA/AJ