Information and Broadcasting Minister Barrister Andaleeve Rahman today said ethical education is essential to developing quality media professionals, as journalists' standards cannot be improved merely by formulating policies.

"Journalists must remember that their writings should serve the welfare of the people and that no one should be harmed by their reports," he said while addressing a view-exchange meeting with journalists at Bhola Press Club.

He also called upon journalists to stand beside the government in its development activities and play a responsible role in ensuring the proper use of public funds.

Andaleeve urged journalists to monitor whether government allocations for public development are being properly distributed and utilised to ensure sustainable development.

"It is essential to remain careful and attentive in all forms of writing," he said.

On the issue of drug abuse, the minister said collective efforts are needed to protect the young generation from the devastating grip of drugs.

"Drugs must be eliminated collectively by saying no to them," he said, stressing the need for community-based initiatives to combat the menace.

He suggested forming committees under community policing with the participation of prominent people from local communities and society to work against drug abuse. "Otherwise, we cannot protect the next generation," he added.

Referring to his family ideals, Andaleeve said his late father Naziur Rahman Manju was regarded as the architect of Bhola's development and pledged to work for the district's progress with everyone.

"I am his son. I will work for Bhola's development with everyone," he said.

The minister said there would be no party or political distinction in development activities, adding that everyone was his own when it came to the development of Bhola.

He said the Bhola-Barishal bridge, a medical college, road development and other projects would be implemented in the district, InshaAllah, but through a systematic process.

Bhola Press Club General Secretary Nasir Liton moderated the meeting, while its President Advocate Nazrul Haque Anu presided over it.

Deputy Commissioner Dr Shamim Rahman, Police Superintendent Shahidullah Kawsar, District BNP Member Secretary Raisul Alam and Daily Ajker Bhola Editor Shawkat Hossain, among others, delivered welcome addresses.

More than 100 print, electronic and online media professionals from Bhola attended the meeting.