The Tripura government has approved the second amendment to the Tripura Advertisement Policy 2021 to strengthen the media sector, improve categorisation of media houses and promote the effective dissemination of public-interest information.
Information and Cultural Affairs Department Secretary Kiran Gitte announced this at a press conference held at the Press Conference Hall of the Civil Secretariat on Thursday.
Gitte said the state government recognises the importance of the media and remains committed to improving the sector at every level while ensuring the professional security and welfare of journalists.
The amendment was formulated following recommendations and suggestions from an advertisement subcommittee constituted to examine necessary changes and address issues related to advertisements. The subcommittee was formed in accordance with decisions taken by the Media Advisory Committee, headed by the Chief Minister and comprising senior personalities associated with the state's media sector.
Under the revised policy, the existing Empowered Advertisement Committee will be replaced by an advertisement subcommittee comprising media representatives to advise the government on various advertisement-related matters.
The amendment also introduces changes to the categorisation of enlisted print, television and web media. Instead of the existing A-1, A, B and C categories, media houses will now be classified into three categories—Large, Medium and Small. A new category, ‘Tabloid’, has also been introduced for small-sized daily and weekly newspapers.
According to Gitte, the revised policy incorporates necessary changes in the criteria, procedures and eligibility requirements for media categorisation. Factors such as circulation and reach, duration of publication, the number of journalists and other employees, infrastructure and overall quality will be taken into consideration.
He further stated that priority in the allocation of advertisements would be given to media houses under the Large category with the highest circulation or coverage among print, television and web media outlets.
The Secretary said the amended policy would facilitate the dissemination of public-interest information through both new and established media organisations. The revised policy has also been published on the department's official website for the information of all concerned.
Highlighting other welfare initiatives undertaken by the state government for media professionals, Gitte referred to the accreditation policy, pension policy and workshops aimed at improving journalists' professional skills and expertise.
He also announced plans to introduce new press jackets and press stickers for journalists in the near future.
Director of the Information and Cultural Affairs Department Bimbisar Bhattacharya was also present at the press conference.
