ITANAGAR, Nov 2: United News of India (UNI) reporter Partha Bhowmick, who retired after serving in Arunachal Pradesh for 26 years, was given a heart-touching farewell by the media fraternity of the state.
In a farewell meeting held at Arunachal Press Club (APC) here on Friday, APC Chief Adviser Pradeep Kumar described Bhowmick as a “technician-turned-journalist,” and said Bhowmick’s love for the people prompted him to file stories for the rest of India to know about this hidden land.
“His contributions for the state when no facilities were available are immeasurable. He might leave the state but with indelible memory of the state,” Kumar added.
Bhowmick had joined the UNI on 20 October, 1985, in Kolkata as attendant, was posted to Itanagar as junior technician, and later worked as reporter.
Former APC president Taba Ajum described his contributions as unparalleled, and said Bhowmick would always remain in the hearts of the state’s journalists as a source of inspiration.
“If anyone, including any Arunachalee, has hurt you in any manner, please forget and maintain the same cordial relations,” he said.
Arunachal Electronic Media Association president Mukul Pathak wished Bhowmick a peaceful life in his second innings, and urged him to be always in touch with his old media friends.
APC President Chopa Cheda felicitated Bhowmick to the thunderous applause of the gathering.
The citation handed over by Cheda read: “Shri Partha Bhowmick contributed a lot in the field of journalism, particularly to Arunachal Pradesh. His humble nature and unwavering dedication towards his work have earned him respect from his colleagues while inspiring many young scribes, who fondly calls him Bhowmick da.
“On the eve of his retirement, the three media bodies wish him good health and contentment in the next chapter of his life.”
Tears rolling down his cheeks, Bhowmick said his Arunachal tenure, “after serving for four years at Shillong,” would be a memory to spend the rest of his life with.
Though the UNI wanted him to continue for two more years, family compulsion forced him to return to Kolkata, he said.
APCC President Takam Sanjoy extended gratitude to Bhowmick for his long service to the state, and wished him a happy retired life.
A large number of media persons representing the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalist, the Arunachal Press Club and the Arunachal Electronic Media Association were present.
