Netrakona  Correspondent

State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Chowdhury, MP, has reiterated the government's firm commitment to ensuring full press freedom, stating that an environment has been established where journalists can carry out their professional duties without fear or intimidation.

He made the remarks as the chief guest at an orientation session for the "Rafiq Hilali English Excellence Program-2026" and a reception for meritorious SSC and Dakhil students at the Kendua Upazila Public Hall on Friday afternoon.

Addressing journalists' professional welfare, the State Minister announced that initiatives are underway to increase the budgetary allocation for the Journalists' Welfare Trust from Tk 6 crore to Tk 25 crore, with a formal proposal sent to the Finance Ministry. He added that alongside safeguarding press freedom, measures are being taken through the Press Council to curb yellow journalism and enforce professional standards.

Responding to queries regarding educational challenges in haor regions, the Minister described it as a matter of national importance. He assured that the government is actively assessing travel and study difficulties faced by students in haor areas to formulate a tailored academic framework, with a positive decision expected soon.

Encouraging the students, Yaser Khan Chowdhury emphasized that academic excellence alone is insufficient, urging young people to embody moral values, respect family and teachers, and grow into ideal citizens. He also highlighted government initiatives to modernize local sports grounds and launch specialized online and televised Chinese and Arabic language programs for youth at the grassroots level.

Presided over by Dr. Rafiqul Islam Hilali, MP for Netrokona-3 (Kendua-Atpara), the event was addressed by Mymensingh-8 MP Lutfullahel Majed Babu, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Education & ICT) Mun Mun Jahan Liza, Kendua UNO  Sanjida Chowdhury, and Netrokona District Press Club Secretary Mahbubul Kibria Chowdhury Helim as special guests. Local BNP leaders, administration officials, teachers, students, and guardians were present.