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SALIPUR / CUTTACK, 05/08 (Rupashree Swetapadma Mohanty): The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Bhubaneswar, organised a regional media workshop titled "Vartalap" at Salipur in Cuttack district today. The event aimed to strengthen the role of the media as a bridge between the government and citizens, while ensuring accurate dissemination of central government welfare schemes to rural communities. 
PIB Vartalap in Salipur: Regional Media Workshop Focuses on Central Govt Schemes


Accurate Information Builds Trust Between Government and Citizens Akhil Kumar Mishra, Additional Director General of PIB and Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Bhubaneswar, chaired the workshop. In his keynote address, he stated that effective communication serves as the foundation of public trust in a democratic system.
He urged journalists to deliver factual, reliable, and verified information about government programs to the public. He noted that the media does not merely carry information; it creates an informed dialogue between policymakers and citizens at the grassroots level. He explained that initiatives like Vartalap provide a direct platform for constructive interaction between government departments and regional journalists. 
PIB Vartalap in Salipur: Regional Media Workshop Focuses on Central Govt Schemes


Dr. Umakant Sahoo, Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO), outlined ongoing reforms in the primary healthcare sector under the Ayushman Bharat initiative. He shared how digital and physical health infrastructure continues to expand across rural districts.
These centers provide essential medical care, diagnostic screenings, and routine check-ups directly within village communities. Medical teams actively screen citizens for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) to ensure early detection and treatment. Through the e-Sanjeevani platform, rural patients now consult specialized doctors remotely, making healthcare more accessible and affordable.
Suryakant Sethi, Block Agriculture Officer of Salipur, detailed the central schemes designed to support farmers and promote sustainable agriculture. He explained how technology and direct support strengthen rural productivity.
Dr. Abhishek Mishra, Deputy Director at Doordarshan Kendra, Bhubaneswar, introduced the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s WAVES initiative. Operating under the slogan "Create in India, Create for the World," the initiative supports creators, startups, and innovators. He requested regional media professionals to build awareness around WAVES so that young creative talent from Odisha can access national and international markets. 
PIB Vartalap in Salipur: Regional Media Workshop Focuses on Central Govt Schemes


Jyotirmayi Behera, Additional Block Development Officer (ABDO) of Salipur, highlighted the media's vital role in achieving the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. She stated that journalists help administrators identify civic issues while ensuring that development schemes reach intended beneficiaries.
Senior journalist Akshay Kumar Das, along with literary and academic figures Dr. Purna Ojha, Prof. Sadashiv Das, and Prof. Dr. Tapan Ranjan Mohanty, addressed the gathering. They discussed the necessity of objective journalism, accountability, and factual reporting in public interest.
Pradeep Kumar Chowdhury, Assistant Director at CBC Bhubaneswar and Nodal Officer for Vartalap, delivered the welcome address and explained the workshop's core objectives. Mahendra Prasad Jena, Assistant Director at PIB Bhubaneswar, concluded the official presentations with a vote of thanks.
During the interactive session, participating journalists asked questions regarding scheme implementation, public communication strategies, and local media challenges. The panel of officials provided detailed, practical answers to clarify guidelines and improve coordination.