Veteran Hill Journalist Osman Gani Honored with Jugratna Journalism Award

Professor Md. Osman Gani, Editor and Publisher of Dainik Sachitra Maitree, has been honored with the prestigious Jugratna Journalism Award for his over three decades of dedication to journalism in the hill regions and his commitment to reporting for the welfare of the public. The award was conferred by the Bangladesh Local Journalists Forum (BMSF).

The award ceremony took place on Sunday evening (December 22) at the Cox’s Bazar Cultural Center during the first day of BMSF’s two-day-long 8th National Victory Parade and Reunion 2024. Distinguished guests, including Cox's Bazar Superintendent of Police Rahmat Ullah and Chairman of the organization’s Trustee Board Abu Zafar, were present at the event.

Professor Md. Osman Gani began his journalism career in the 1980s, serving as a correspondent for reputed national newspapers in the Bandarban district. In the 1990s, he founded and became the editor of the Sachitra Maitree, initially a weekly publication, which later became Bandarban’s only daily newspaper. Currently, the newspaper operates both in print and online, covering key topics such as hill region developments, technology, and automobiles. Gani has also served as the elected president of the Bandarban Press Club five times.

In addition to Osman Gani, 11 other journalists were awarded the Jugratna Journalism Award during the event. Furthermore, 13 journalists from across the country were posthumously honored with the Ratan Sarker Memorial Award, while 10 others received the “Best National Journalist Award.” Three journalists who were killed in the line of duty were posthumously recognized for their professional contributions.

Trustee Board Chairman Abu Zafar stated, “BMSF has always been vocal about protecting the rights of local journalists. In the future, we plan to expand our scope of work further. These awards aim to enrich local journalism. The government must take proactive measures to address the challenges faced by local journalists. At the same time, media organizations should recognize their contributions while distinguishing genuine journalists from impostors. Local journalists are the lifeblood of news. It is essential for all stakeholders to work together to advance this vital sector.”