Imphal, November 16: As in other parts of the country, National Press Day was observed here today with a seminar under the theme �Legislature and Media� at Manipur Press Club.

The function was jointly organized under the auspices of Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) and All Manipur Working Journalists' Union (AMWJU).

Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh and Minister of Information & LDA W Leima Devi graced the occasion as chief guest and president respectively while Works Minister Gaikhangam and AMWJU president Shyamjai Wangkhemcha attended the function as guests of honour.

Deputy Speaker of the State Assembly L Lala also occupied the dais at the occasion.

In his address, Chief Minister Ibobi said that there is close relationship between media and legislature and one cannot do without the other.

He described the press media as the right hand of the Government and highlighted the important role being played by newspapers in giving suggestions in the developmental works taken up by the Government.

He also assured of every possible help from the side of the Government for development of the media in the State.

Slightly digressing from the main theme of the function, the Chief Minister took the opportunity of clarifying the allegation of financial mismanagement levelled against the Government by JAC of AMTUC and AMGEO and said that there is no question of misusing or diverting the normal entitlement amount that the State is getting from the Centre.

Sticking to his oft repeated statement that the present financial position of the State has a direct bearing to the implementation of the 5th Pay Commission, Ibobi said that over Rs 70 crores are spent on the salaries of the State Government employees numbering around 90,000.Over Rs 600 crores used on payment of pension and salaries under the 5th Pay Commission could not be reflected in the 11th Finance Commission, he asserted.

Giving the presidential address, W Leima noted that the true essence of Democracy depend on the cordial relationship between Legislature and Media.

So every effort should be made to keep a rapport between the two, she said.

The Information Minister further informed that efforts are being made to expand the activities of DIPR and set up an Institute of Journalism for the whole North East at Imphal.

In his address, AMWJU president Shyamjai Wangkhemcha said that National Press Day is an important day for the journalists.

He also hoped that organizing such a seminar would highlight the problems of the journalists.

Telegraph Correspondent Khelen Thokchom, giving the key note address, stressed on the need to analyze whether the mediapersons in the State are enjoying Freedom of Press and they in turn are observing professional ethics while carrying out their duties.

The National Press Day function which was commenced with welcome address given by DIPR Director S Sunderlal winded up with vote of thanks given by AMWJU general secretary Ratan Luwangcha.

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