The first Christian newspaper in Oriya language launched

Bubhaneswar: Udaya, the first Oriya Christian monthly newspaper was launched on May 17, 2004 at the function held at the Bishop's House in Sambalpur, Orissa. The four–page tabloid–sized paper was realeased by Bishop Lukas Kerketta of Sambalpur, the Regional Chairman for Social Communications.

Speaking on the occasion, Bishop Lukas hoped tht the newspaper will help cultivate a fine sense of journalistic skill and serve the Christian Community in Orissa and has faith that the paper will let prevail the truth.

Father Mathew Poovan, Rector of Orissa's Regional Seminary, Khristo Jyoti Mahavidyaloyo, said it was rather easy to start a newspaper than continue its publication. He urged the Catholic reporters to be responsible and adhere to truth and objectivity in their writing.

Udaya Newspaper is a joint effort of the Catholic journalists from the five dioceses of Orissa. It is edited by the laity and published on behalf of Orissa
Khristio Juba Sambadika Sangha, the association of young Catholic journalists.

It is believed that Udaya will be a very useful tool to highlight Christians related news in Orissa to portray the truth.

Orissa had lately been under intense media attention due to its Christian persecution and anti–conversion bill which has been alledgely misused in several cases and Udaya will have a very significant role to play.

By our correspondent.