AnyTime News 
Power of Information Director Highlighted: Veterans Recall Role in Shaping Government Image
(Anytime News Network | Pooja Srivastava)
Lucknow witnessed a remarkable celebration of the legacy of the Information and Public Relations Department, as the Retired Information Journalist Welfare Association hosted its first felicitation ceremony at the Suchna Bhawan Auditorium. The event brought together eminent former officials, including veteran IAS officer Rohit Nandan and former Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey, who shared insights into the department’s pivotal role in governance.
Speaking at the event, Rohit Nandan highlighted that Lucknow’s first mobile phone connection, introduced in July 1996, was registered in the name of the Information Director. Similarly, the city’s first internet connection was also taken by the department, underscoring its early adoption of technological advancements. He described the department as the “eyes and ears of the government,” emphasizing its continued relevance in the digital era.
Having served as Information Director three times, Rohit Nandan elaborated on the stature and influence of the position, noting that the department plays a crucial role in shaping the government’s public image. He stressed that building a positive perception among citizens is both challenging and essential.
Anup Chandra Pandey also reflected on his tenure, stating that despite holding prestigious roles such as Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh and Election Commissioner, his time as Information Director remained the most memorable. He recalled a notable incident where a press release issued by the department during a budget session became the basis of legislative debate, ultimately being accepted by the government—demonstrating the department’s influence.
Chief guest Justice Raghvendra Kumar praised the department’s efforts in promoting awareness about judicial functioning, which helped strengthen public trust in the judiciary.
During the ceremony, the association’s magazine “Rizwa” was unveiled. Rohit Nandan was honored with the Ashok Priyadarshi Memorial Award, while Anup Chandra Pandey received the Umesh Kumar Singh Chauhan Memorial Award. .On this occasion, eleven people including former Information Director, Sudhesh Ojha, Ajay Upadhyay and former Additional Director Dr. Anil Pathak, former officers Vijay Rai, Rajgopal Singh Verma, Hamid Ali Khan, Gyanvati, Dinesh Sehgal, Ashok Kumar Sharma, Ashok Banerjee, Amjad Hussain were also honored.
