First 24x7 satellite news channel launched in Arunachal

, Oct 1: In a "giant leap" for the land-locked state, the first 24x7 satellite

channel has been launched in

by Chief Minister Nabam Tuki.

'North East Live', a sister channel of Guwahati-based Pride East Entertainment Private Limited running three other channels, was launched by Tuki in the presence of Development of North East Region (DoNER) Minister Paban Singh Ghatowar here yesterday.

"This is a giant leap forward for journalism and mass media in the land-locked state of Arunachal Pradesh - a late starter - which boasts of just seven dailies being published from the capital and few other tabloids from other parts," Tuki said. The growth of media houses is a welcome trend.

The state has just seven dailies, published from the capital.

As all are aware that media is considered as the fourth pillar of democracy, it is of utmost importance that this pillar is strong and vibrant for democracy to thrive and prosper. I believe with the addition of another member today, the fourth pillar of democracy in our state has grown stronger," he said.

Reiterating that the geographically large state has immense potential in all respects, he appealed to the media "to showcase and promote the rich cultural, religious, adventure and natural potentials of the state along with its unique identity of unity in diversity".

Ghatowar said that with the launch of 'North East Live', people of the country and abroad will be able to know more about North East India. "It's a happy opening for all of us in the NE region. The information on North East India missed by the mainstream channels will be fed to the rest of country and the world from now on through this satellite channel," the DoNER Minister said.

PTI