The Photo Journalists’ Association Goa (PJAG) held its Annual General Body Meeting on May 29, 2020 in Panaji, and Tulsidas Raul, photojournalist currently employed with the Dainik Tarun Bharat, was unanimously elected as the president of the PJAG) for 2020-2021.
Other members elected include Vice-President (North) Nandesh Kambli (Navhind Times), Vice-President (South) Vipul Rege (Navhind Times), General Secretary Kailas Naik (Dainik Herald), Treasurer Atish Naik (Gomantak Times), Joint Treasurer Ganadeep Sheldekar (Navhind Times), Organising Secretary Ganesh Shetkar (Lokmat), Observer Sandeep Desai (Dainik Gomantak), Executive Member Rajtilak Naik (Times Of India), Sameer Narvekar (Pudhari) and Hemant Parab (Navhind Times)
The AGM meeting saw serious concern and anguish expressed by members over the suspension of publications, sacking of journalists in the state and cuts from in salaries by media companies. The Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns are a common excuse for laying off journalists/employees. A decision was taken by PJAG to give financial assistance of `10,000 to members. The Photo Journalists’ Association, Goa, is represented by all working photo journalists/photographers from newspapers in the state. Since 2007 the PJAG has organized various programs in the field of photography, including the All Goa Photography Competition for school students and general public, Antique Camera Exhibition; photography workshops; interactive sessions etc. Over 35 photojournalists and photographers have been felicitated for their dedicated service and contributions in the field of photography.
PJAG is the only association actively engaged in fighting for the rights of photojournalists in the state.