Patna: The Bihar unit of the Web Journalists Association of India (WJAI) has outlined a series of organisational initiatives aimed at expanding its presence across the state, including the formation of district-level committees and a state-level programme proposed for August.
The decisions were taken during the first meeting of the WJAI Bihar Committee, held on Saturday at the organisation’s office near Dakbungalow Crossing in Patna.
The meeting was chaired by Akshay Anand and conducted by General Secretary Sagar Kumar.
State-Level Event Planned
Members unanimously resolved to organise a major event in the first week of August, during which the association plans to formally announce its district presidents and district secretaries from across Bihar.
According to the committee, the Speaker of the Bihar Legislative Assembly and Chairman of the Bihar Legislative Council, along with the state’s Information and Public Relations Minister, will be invited to attend the event.
District Committees To Be Finalised
The committee also resolved to complete the appointment process for district presidents and secretaries before the proposed August programme so that the newly constituted district units can be officially introduced at the event.
The move forms part of the association’s strategy to strengthen its organisational network across Bihar.
Focus On Digital Media Sustainability
During the meeting, members also discussed measures aimed at strengthening the financial sustainability of digital news platforms that are not affiliated with the organisation.
Karuna Kumari, Co-founder of PatnaPress and Secretary of Bihar Executive Committee of WJAI, stressed that ensuring the financial sustainability of independent digital news organisations is essential to protecting media plurality and preserving independent journalism.
“Independent web journalists often work with limited resources and in relative isolation. For many, sustaining quality journalism itself is a constant challenge. If the independent voices of the fourth pillar of democracy are to survive and continue serving the public interest, there must be sustained efforts to strengthen the financial viability of digital news organisations. A financially resilient independent media is essential for preserving editorial independence, promoting credible journalism, and safeguarding democratic discourse,” she said.
Weekly Meetings Planned
As part of the resolutions, WJAI Bihar decided to hold regular meetings every Saturday to review weekly activities and discuss upcoming programmes and organisational initiatives.
National General Secretary Madhup Mani “Pikku”, National Treasurer Manjesh Kumar, and state committee members Akshay Anand, Sagar Kumar, Karuna Kumari, Anjani Pandey, Rohit Mehta, and Amar Sinha attended the meeting.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the organisation’s presence in Bihar, safeguarding the interests of journalists and strengthening WJAI’s activities across the state.
