Md. Abdur Rahman
Secretary General
SAARC Journalists Forum (Central Committee)
Kathmandu, Nepal.
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a regional alliance of South Asian states Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Increasing inter-regional cooperation It is very urgent at this moment to reorganize or speed up the South Asian Regional Cooperation Organization (SAARC), which was formed for the economic and social development of the countries in the region.
In the late 70s, the South Asian nations of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka agreed to create a trade bloc and provide a platform for the people of the region.
It should be noted that the former president of Bangladesh, Shahid Ziaur Rahman, was the dreamer of the establishment of SAARC.
In 1979, the then president of Bangladesh, Shahid Ziaur Rahman, took the initiative to form a regional cooperation organization in the South Asian region. In May 1980, he presented a formal proposal of Bangladesh to the governments and heads of state of 7 South Asian countries.
The heads of state and government of seven South Asian countries responded to this proposal after overcoming initial hesitation. At the First Conference of Foreign Secretaries of South Asian States held in Colombo from 21 to 23 April 1981, some necessary steps were taken to form the desired organization. Then in August 1983, the foreign ministers of the seven countries of the region met in Delhi for their first formal meeting.
In this meeting, the cabinet adopted a program called Integrated Program of Action (IPA). Under this programme, nine areas have been identified for carrying out various tasks as a means of cooperation among the SAARC countries. Then on 7-8 December 1985, the official organizational structure of SAARC (SAARC- South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation) or South Asian Regional Cooperation Organization was approved and its journey began.
Revival of the stagnant SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) regional alliance is essential for the development and dynamism of South Asia. Despite South Asia being one of the most populous and economically promising regions in the world, SAARC’s ineffectiveness and political conflicts are hampering the region’s prospects.
Now is the time to reactivate this alliance so that South Asian countries can work together in mutual trade, communication, education, health, technology and other important areas. Through this, it will be possible to make an important contribution not only to regional stability, but also to the global economy.
Recently Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor Prof. Dr. Yunus has called for SAARC’s restructuring or dynamism.
The head of the Interim Government of Bangladesh and the Nobel Peace Prize laureate said that the spirit of the South Asian Regional Cooperation Organization (SAARC) needs to be revived. Muhammad Yunus. He said in a press release, this alliance of eight nations can solve many regional problems. Although SAARC was established with a noble purpose, it is now limited to paper and is not functioning now.
Despite South Asia’s diverse culture, large population and growing economic potential, SAARC has not effectively achieved its goals.
Reasons for SAARC stagnation:
Political conflict:
The long-term conflict between India and Pakistan, in particular, has hampered SAARC operations the most. Complete development of SAARC is not possible without solving the problem between these two countries.
Internal Challenges: Every country in South Asia faces internal political, social, and economic challenges. Due to this, it was not possible for them to give full attention to the activities of SAARC.
Economic and Trade Barriers:
One of SAARC’s main goals is to increase trade, but there are many barriers to cross-border trade and communication between member countries. Trade barriers remain due to the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) not being fully implemented.
Circumstances of Rejuvenation:
Regional Stability and Prosperity: South Asian countries working together will enhance regional prosperity and stability. By eliminating military and political conflicts, member countries can achieve regional security, peace and progress.
Increase in trade and investment:
If trade barriers within SAARC can be removed and free trade opportunities are created among member countries, the regional economy will improve greatly. Besides, it is possible to increase connectivity between countries by improving infrastructure and transportation systems.
Social Development:
Through SAARC, member countries can develop through mutual cooperation in various social sectors including education, health, technology, environment and climate change. A large part of the population of South Asia is still poor, and it is necessary to work together to solve these problems.
Global Introduction:
If SAARC is strengthened, it will be able to represent South Asia more effectively on the international stage. It will help enhance global trade and diplomatic relations among member countries.
Next steps:
Peaceful dialogue between India and Pakistan: To make SAARC dynamic, political issues between India and Pakistan need to be resolved first. Cooperation between these two countries is the key to the progress of SAARC.
Reducing trade barriers:
Member countries should work together to facilitate cross-border trade and implement free trade agreements. Through this it will be possible to increase economic coordination.
Internal Reinforcement:
Member countries should strive to solve their internal social and economic problems so that they can participate fully in regional cooperation.
SAARC must be reactivated to ensure economic development and regional peace in South Asia. In this regard, the political deadlock between the member states should be removed and effective measures should be taken in trade, communication, and other economic and social areas through mutual cooperation. This will make South Asia more dynamic, which will help SAARC achieve its core goals.
Need to revive SAARC:
The following steps can be taken to reactivate and reactivate the CIRC:
Breaking the political deadlock: Diplomatic initiatives should be taken to resolve the long-standing issues between India and Pakistan. Implementation of SAARC will be difficult without resolution of these conflicts.
Trade Enhancing Initiatives:
SAARC should be developed into an effective trading alliance by removing trade barriers among member countries. Initiatives should be taken to facilitate infrastructure, logistics, and tariffs to expand trade.
Increased Interconnection:
Regional trade and cooperation should be enhanced by increasing rail, road and sea connectivity between member countries. Along with this, cooperation in the field of electricity and energy should also be increased.
Technology and Innovation:
South Asian member countries need to invest in technological cooperation and innovative projects, which can give a new dimension to the economy of the region.
Cooperation with other regional alliances: SAARC should enhance cooperation with other regional alliances such as BIMSTEC and ASEAN, so that development work can be coordinated.
The revival and activation of SAARC is important not only in terms of regional trade and economy, but also in maintaining political stability and security.
Conclusion:
The revival of SAARC is important not only from a regional but also from a global perspective. The collective progress of South Asian countries can lead the people of the region to new horizons of development. Now is the time to harness SAARC with renewed vigor to transform South Asia into a united, peaceful and prosperous region.
SAARC journalist forum
Kathmandu-Nepal.
www.sarcjournalistforum.org
Email: circularlistforum@gmail.com
Last Updated: January 9, 2026 by admin_raju Leave a Comment
International Conference on Mother Language & Award 2026 was held in Nalanda
Nalanda. The international conference was jointly organized by Nalanda Open University and SAARC Journalists Forum (SJF) in Rajgir, a traditional tourist destination in Bihar.
The two-day international conference titled ‘International Conference on International Mother Language & International Award-2026’ was held on January 4 and 5 at the International Conference Hall of Nalanda Open University.
Former Vice-Chancellor of Nalanda University Professor K. C. Sinha, eminent writer and cultural activist of Mauritius Dr. Sarita Budhu participated as the chief guests of the event. Former Governor of Sikkim Hon. Shri Ganga Prasad inaugurated the conference.
Special guests were present, President of the Central Committee of SAARC Journalists Forum Raju Lama and Secretary General Md. Abdur Rahman. Along with SJF leaders Nripendra Lal Shrestha, Rudra Subedi, Raju Napit, Dependra Prajapati, Saddab Malik from Nepal were also present in conference.
Representatives from five South Asian countries, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan, Thailand, America and Mauritius, participated in this international conference, and about two hundred prominent journalists, academicians, human rights activists and cultural figures participated.
The first session of the program: “Journalism and Human Rights: A Global Challenge” was discussed. Sri Lanka’s Rahul Samantha joined it through video conference.
The second session: Renowned writer Professor Pratiyo Das and others spoke on “Educational Importance of Nalanda University”.
The third session: Former Vice Chancellor of Patna and Nalanda University, Professor K. C. Sinha, discussed “Culture and Mother Tongue of Bihar”.
The international conference mainly discussed in detail and exchanged experiences on the importance of mother tongue in the world, protection of human rights, practice of democracy and freedom of the press.
The second session of this international conference was presided over by Dr. Shashi Bhushan Kumar, President of SAARC Journalists Forum Bihar Chapter, and ‘News Human Rights Media House’ was the special supporter of the event.
The international conference was held on the topics of peace, stability, importance of mother tongue, human rights and freedom of the press in the geopolitical context of South Asia.
The conference discussed the role of SAARC or South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation in order to increase peace, stability and mutual cooperation in the geopolitical context of South Asia.
Regional peace in South Asia has largely stalled due to various political and bilateral problems.
The discussions of journalists at this international conference revealed that a strong foundation should be created to increase harmony and brotherhood among the 8 countries of South Asia.
The spirit of the language movement and its international context :
The language movement of Bangladesh in 1952 is no longer just the history of a country, it is a symbol of global recognition as the International Mother Language Day. The meaning of highlighting it at the conference is to remind the world that the fight to protect one’s own culture and identity is a fundamental right of any nation.
The role of journalists in the context of human rights and press freedom is currently very challenging. This issue came up in the discussion. Journalists should maintain objective journalism even in adverse environments. Ensuring the safety of journalists and removing obstacles to freedom of expression Strengthening the media as the ‘fourth pillar’ in protecting human rights was called upon the governments of South Asia. After the program, a special cultural program was held in the evening with artists from SAARC countries.
At the program, distinguished individuals were awarded for their outstanding contributions in various fields:
Life Time Award 2025: Dr. Sarita Budhu, Padma Shri Dr. J. K. Singh, Dr. Brajanandan Kumar Sinha and Dr. Sushmita Pandey were awarded this award.
Nalanda International Achievers Award:
A total of 21 distinguished personalities, including four journalists from Bangladesh, were awarded this award.
Bihar Gaurab Award: 51 individuals were awarded this award, including the ‘Gold Man of India’ Prem Singh.
On the second day of the event, representatives of SAARC countries visited the ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, a thousand-year-old monument.
Five senior journalists from Bangladesh participated in this important international conference, Mustaq Ahmed Mubaraki: Editor, Dainik Bangabani and former Director, Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), Mohammad Moniruzzaman: Editor, Dainik Bank Bima Economise, Kazi Habib Ullah: Chief Reporter, The Morning News.
Posted: June 19, 2025 by admin_raju Leave a Comment
Declaration : SAARC Nations Urged to Back Journalism in Mother Tongues
Kathmandu. SAARC countries have been urged to formulate inclusive media policies to protect and promote journalism in mother tongues. The call came through a seven-point resolution adopted in the Kathmandu Declaration at the closing of a two-day International Conference on Mother Tongue Journalism.
The declaration stressed the need for state support and policy-level commitment from SAARC heads of government. It recommended allocating increased budgetary support to develop and sustain media outlets operating in local and indigenous languages.
The resolutions also called for recognising tribal and indigenous language journalism as a tool for cultural preservation and social justice. It emphasised ensuring these communities have access to platforms to voice their concerns and receive relevant information.
Organised by the National Forum of Newar Journalists in collaboration with the SAARC Journalist Forum (SJF) and the Federation of Nepal Indigenous Journalists (FONIJ), the conference brought together journalists from across the region.
The event was inaugurated by Nepalese Speaker Devraj Ghimire on Friday and concluded by Madhyapur Thimi Municipality Mayor Surendra Shrestha on Saturday.
The declaration also recommended regular training programmes, workshops, and fellowships for mother tongue journalists. It appealed to UN agencies and development partners to prioritise support for mother tongue journalism in terms of funding, technical assistance, and capacity building.
Speaking the function, SJF President Raju Lama urged all stakeholders to take immediate steps to implement the resolutions and called on SAARC governments to support future initiatives.
FONIJ President Lucky Chaudhary, SJF Secretary General Md Abdur Rahman (Bangladesh), SJF Bihar Chapter President Dr Shashi Bhushan Kumar, conference coordinator Sunil Maharjan, and NFNJ Secretary General KK Manandhar also highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting native language journalism.
The declaration noted that the resolutions would be officially submitted to the heads of SAARC nations, with a strong appeal to increase national budget allocations and promote awareness through sustained dialogue with stakeholders.
At the closing ceremony, Mayor Shrestha said the conference had significantly contributed to the promotion of mother tongue journalism.
Posted: April 28, 2025 by admin_raju Leave a Comment
Urgent SAARC dialogue needed to ensure stability in South Asia : SJF
Jaipur, Indian state Rajasthan, Apr 26 (UNB): A renewed dialogue among SAARC leaders must begin immediately to foster peace, stability, and mutual cooperation across South Asia, speakers urged at an international conference held at Apex University in Jaipur, Rajasthan, on Saturday.
They emphasised that the SAARC Journalists Forum – an organisation comprising journalists from the SAARC nations – can play a crucial role in facilitating this process.
The two-day conference, titled “The Role of Journalism for Peace and Stability in South Asia”, was jointly organised by the SAARC Journalists Forum, India Chapter, and Apex University.
Raju Lama, President of the Forum’s Central Committee based in Nepal, warned that South Asia is steadily drifting towards instability, raising fears of potential conflict.
“The situation could worsen if urgent steps are not taken,” he cautioned. Recalling a rare moment of diplomatic warmth at the 2016 SAARC summit, when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif shook hands, Lama said Nepal has consistently worked for peace and remains committed to promoting dialogue among SAARC leaders.
Addressing the conference, Apex University Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr Khemraj Chowdhury stressed that the urgency for cross-border dialogue among South Asian nations has never been greater.
“It is no longer possible to establish peace through arms. We must awaken people’s conscience and foster values that promote harmony,” he said.
Dr Chowdhury added that journalists have a significant responsibility to build public pressure through accurate and ethical reporting, reminding attendees that many wars throughout history have ended through dialogue.
In a session focused on the challenges and prospects of journalism in South Asia, Prof Rakesh Goswami of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) highlighted the growing threat of misinformation. “Today, social media spreads information rapidly, often without verification or responsibility, shaping public opinion before the truth emerges,” he said.
He cautioned that widespread misinformation and disinformation on social platforms have become major challenges for traditional media. Raising awareness about the dangers of false information is now more important than ever, he added.
Representing Bangladesh, Rafiqul Islam Azad, former President of the Dhaka Reporters Unity, observed that freedom of expression and the health of the media are closely tied to the strength of democracy in each country across the region.
“When democracy is weakened, freedom of the media and freedom of speech suffer alongside it,” he said.
The conference drew journalists, academics, communication experts, and journalism students from across SAARC member countries, all of whom shared a common belief: journalism can and must play a pivotal role in promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation in South Asia.
Last Updated: October 15, 2024 by admin_raju Leave a Comment
In solving regional complexities in South Asia Now is the time to mobilize the SAARC regional alliance
Secretary General
SAARC Journalists Forum (Central Committee)
Kathmandu, Nepal.
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a regional alliance of South Asian states Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Increasing inter-regional cooperation It is very urgent at this moment to reorganize or speed up the South Asian Regional Cooperation Organization (SAARC), which was formed for the economic and social development of the countries in the region.
In the late 70s, the South Asian nations of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka agreed to create a trade bloc and provide a platform for the people of the region.
It should be noted that the former president of Bangladesh, Shahid Ziaur Rahman, was the dreamer of the establishment of SAARC.
In 1979, the then president of Bangladesh, Shahid Ziaur Rahman, took the initiative to form a regional cooperation organization in the South Asian region. In May 1980, he presented a formal proposal of Bangladesh to the governments and heads of state of 7 South Asian countries.
The heads of state and government of seven South Asian countries responded to this proposal after overcoming initial hesitation. At the First Conference of Foreign Secretaries of South Asian States held in Colombo from 21 to 23 April 1981, some necessary steps were taken to form the desired organization. Then in August 1983, the foreign ministers of the seven countries of the region met in Delhi for their first formal meeting.
In this meeting, the cabinet adopted a program called Integrated Program of Action (IPA). Under this programme, nine areas have been identified for carrying out various tasks as a means of cooperation among the SAARC countries. Then on 7-8 December 1985, the official organizational structure of SAARC (SAARC- South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation) or South Asian Regional Cooperation Organization was approved and its journey began.
Revival of the stagnant SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) regional alliance is essential for the development and dynamism of South Asia. Despite South Asia being one of the most populous and economically promising regions in the world, SAARC’s ineffectiveness and political conflicts are hampering the region’s prospects.
Now is the time to reactivate this alliance so that South Asian countries can work together in mutual trade, communication, education, health, technology and other important areas. Through this, it will be possible to make an important contribution not only to regional stability, but also to the global economy.
Recently Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor Prof. Dr. Yunus has called for SAARC’s restructuring or dynamism.
The head of the Interim Government of Bangladesh and the Nobel Peace Prize laureate said that the spirit of the South Asian Regional Cooperation Organization (SAARC) needs to be revived. Muhammad Yunus. He said in a press release, this alliance of eight nations can solve many regional problems. Although SAARC was established with a noble purpose, it is now limited to paper and is not functioning now.
Despite South Asia’s diverse culture, large population and growing economic potential, SAARC has not effectively achieved its goals.
Reasons for SAARC stagnation:
Political conflict:
The long-term conflict between India and Pakistan, in particular, has hampered SAARC operations the most. Complete development of SAARC is not possible without solving the problem between these two countries.
Internal Challenges: Every country in South Asia faces internal political, social, and economic challenges. Due to this, it was not possible for them to give full attention to the activities of SAARC.
Economic and Trade Barriers:
One of SAARC’s main goals is to increase trade, but there are many barriers to cross-border trade and communication between member countries. Trade barriers remain due to the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) not being fully implemented.
Circumstances of Rejuvenation:
Regional Stability and Prosperity: South Asian countries working together will enhance regional prosperity and stability. By eliminating military and political conflicts, member countries can achieve regional security, peace and progress.
Increase in trade and investment:
If trade barriers within SAARC can be removed and free trade opportunities are created among member countries, the regional economy will improve greatly. Besides, it is possible to increase connectivity between countries by improving infrastructure and transportation systems.
Social Development:
Through SAARC, member countries can develop through mutual cooperation in various social sectors including education, health, technology, environment and climate change. A large part of the population of South Asia is still poor, and it is necessary to work together to solve these problems.
Global Introduction:
If SAARC is strengthened, it will be able to represent South Asia more effectively on the international stage. It will help enhance global trade and diplomatic relations among member countries.
Next steps:
Peaceful dialogue between India and Pakistan: To make SAARC dynamic, political issues between India and Pakistan need to be resolved first. Cooperation between these two countries is the key to the progress of SAARC.
Reducing trade barriers:
Member countries should work together to facilitate cross-border trade and implement free trade agreements. Through this it will be possible to increase economic coordination.
Internal Reinforcement:
Member countries should strive to solve their internal social and economic problems so that they can participate fully in regional cooperation.
SAARC must be reactivated to ensure economic development and regional peace in South Asia. In this regard, the political deadlock between the member states should be removed and effective measures should be taken in trade, communication, and other economic and social areas through mutual cooperation. This will make South Asia more dynamic, which will help SAARC achieve its core goals.
Need to revive SAARC:
The following steps can be taken to reactivate and reactivate the CIRC:
Breaking the political deadlock: Diplomatic initiatives should be taken to resolve the long-standing issues between India and Pakistan. Implementation of SAARC will be difficult without resolution of these conflicts.
Trade Enhancing Initiatives:
SAARC should be developed into an effective trading alliance by removing trade barriers among member countries. Initiatives should be taken to facilitate infrastructure, logistics, and tariffs to expand trade.
Increased Interconnection:
Regional trade and cooperation should be enhanced by increasing rail, road and sea connectivity between member countries. Along with this, cooperation in the field of electricity and energy should also be increased.
Technology and Innovation:
South Asian member countries need to invest in technological cooperation and innovative projects, which can give a new dimension to the economy of the region.
Cooperation with other regional alliances: SAARC should enhance cooperation with other regional alliances such as BIMSTEC and ASEAN, so that development work can be coordinated.
The revival and activation of SAARC is important not only in terms of regional trade and economy, but also in maintaining political stability and security.
Conclusion:
The revival of SAARC is important not only from a regional but also from a global perspective. The collective progress of South Asian countries can lead the people of the region to new horizons of development. Now is the time to harness SAARC with renewed vigor to transform South Asia into a united, peaceful and prosperous region.
SAARC journalist forum
Kathmandu-Nepal.
www.sarcjournalistforum.org
Email: circularlistforum@gmail.com
Last Updated: October 8, 2024 by admin_raju Leave a Comment
SAARC Journalist Forum President Lama participated in the Summit of Future Action Days of the United Nations
President Lama has participated in the Summit for Future Action Days which is a part of 79th General Assembly held at the United Nations headquarters in New York on September 20 and 21 and he informed about the situation of South Asian journalists, their experiences, human rights and the role they played in peacekeeping in the region.
He participated actively in the ‘Sideline Meeting’ held at that time, in the group discussion, and informed about the journalists and journalism in the SAARC region and the role played by the SAARC Journalist Forum to establish peace in the region, protect democracy and human rights.
UN Secretary General António Guterres and head of state of different countries has addressed the meeting of the General Assembly. SAARC Journalist Forum is an international organization established to protect the rights of South Asian journalists. Its headquarters is located in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Last Updated: September 10, 2024 by admin_raju Leave a Comment
Bangladesh Chapter of SAARC Journalist Forum has been formed in the leadership of Mamoon
The committee was constituted at a meeting held on Saturday afternoon at the National Press Club in Dhaka with Abdur Rahman, Central Secretary General of SAARC Journalist Forum, in the chair, said a press release.
Other office bearers are Vice-presidents Asif Hasan Nabi (Ajker Probhat) and Shariful Islam (Janakantha), Joint General Secretary Shahed Matiur Rahman (Nayadiganta), Treasurer Reza Mahmud (New Nation) and Executive Member Rafiqul Islam Azad (Daily Industry), Mohd Jahangir Alam (UNB), MA Noman (NTV), Rashed Ahmed (New Age) and Md. Mustafa Khan (Ittefaq).
The meeting decided to hold a seminar on the future of SAARC and emphasized the need for forging close communication among journalists in the region.
Last Updated: August 27, 2024 by admin_raju Leave a Comment
SAARC Journalist Forum President’s Guest Lecture on “Insights on Journalism”
Last Updated: August 24, 2024 by admin_raju Leave a Comment
SAARC Journalist Forum met Dr. Pathak Registrar of Indraprastha University
Last Updated: August 20, 2024 by admin_raju Leave a Comment
SAARC Journalist Forum condemn against attack of East West Media Group in Bangladesh
“We Strongly condemn and protest the attack by miscreants on the media office of a leading media group in Bangladesh. We are shocked and concerned about the attack on the media office of East West Media Group. Such attacks have made the journalistic community panic.The media is not anyone’s opponent, the job of the media is to publish objective news,” stated in statement.
SAARC Journalist Forum said We demand that the attackers be immediately identified and brought under the law, besides, a humble call was made to all concerned, including the interim government, to ensure the safety of journalists and workers of all levels of the media in Bangladesh. Such attacks on media offices are antithetical to independent journalism. Let the whole world be a safe place for media & journalists.
Last Updated: August 19, 2024 by admin_raju Leave a Comment
SAARC Journalist Forum held a meeting with South Asian University President Aggrawal
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