Jammu : Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh, today released the reprint and e-book edition of “Fifty Years as a Journalist”, the autobiography of veteran journalist, Lala Mulk Raj Saraf, described by some as the Father of Journalism in Jammu & Kashmir.
The book has been published by Jamna Devi Gian Devi Saraf Trust. The programme was held at the initiative of Ms Rachna Vinod, a veteran radio broadcaster and granddaughter of Mulk Raj Saraf.
Speaking to media on the occasion, Dr Jitendra Singh acknowledged Saraf’s seminal role in introducing and institutionalising journalism in Jammu & Kashmir, and shaping public discourse during a crucial phase of the region’s history. He observed that Saraf’s rich legacy has been meaningfully carried forward by his children and subsequent generations, who have continued to serve society
The Minister described the book as a landmark chronicle of public life and the evolution of journalism in the region, noting that it documents not only a personal journey but also the institutional foundations of a free and responsible press. He recalled that the launch of Ranbir, Jammu & Kashmir’s first newspaper, on 24 June, 1924, marked a defining moment that helped shape informed public discourse and democratic engagement.
