The Senior Journalists’ Federation of India (SJFI), a newly established national body representing senior journalists across the country, is set to meet Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, to present a charter of demands like: A national pension scheme for senior journalists, Comprehensive healthcare and insurance coverage, and Formation of a National Media Commission to address structural issues in journalism

The SJFI’s National Committee, led by President Sandeep Dikshit, held an online meeting from Delhi, earlier this week to discuss upcoming plans and organizational development. Secretary General N. P. Chekkutty presented the report, which included major resolutions:

Meeting with Union Ministers during the January 2026 Budget Session to submit memorandums based on the Federation’s first national conference held in Thiruvananthapuram.

First National Council Meeting scheduled for January 2026 in New Delhi, where the Federation’s Constitution will be finalized and adopted.

A Constitution Sub-Committee has been tasked with reviewing and amending the draft constitution. The committee is chaired by C. Gouridasan Nair and includes regional representatives.

Headquarters to be established in New Delhi. Shri K. P. Vijayakumar will oversee registration and coordination. A fundraising campaign has been launched, with executive members committing to contribute a minimum of Rs 1,000 each.

The meeting paid rich tributes to Sangharshan Thakur, the late editor of The Telegraph. It applauded the successful hosting of the inaugural national conference by the Kerala unit.

Sandeep Dikshit stressed the importance of securing social security and emotional well-being for senior journalists, proposing community-driven initiatives like group tours and senior living facilities.  N. P. Chekkutty laid out a six-point agenda for the Federation’s immediate goals, including finalizing its constitution, expanding membership, and strengthening infrastructure.

Members advocated for a dedicated SJFI website for coordination, clarification of age criteria for membership, Broader representation from remote and underrepresented regions. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks by Treasurer  K. P. Vijayakumar.