ISLAMABAD: The government has pledged to prioritize the welfare and capacity building of journalists in a series of initiatives announced by Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar. The minister highlighted these plans during the inauguration ceremony of the National Press Club’s newly launched website, underscoring the importance of digital advancement in the media sector.

According to Radio Pakistan, Attaullah Tarar emphasized the critical role of the National Press Club within Islamabad’s media landscape, describing the website’s launch as a positive step towards digitalization. In support of this initiative, the minister instructed relevant authorities to expedite the establishment of a digital lab at the press club.

The minister also addressed financial matters, stating the government’s commitment to ensuring the timely payment of outstanding dues to television channels. He urged media organizations to reciprocate by maintaining prompt salary payments to their journalists. Additionally, he announced plans to introduce health cards for journalists to bolster social welfare and indicated that housing issues would be addressed in collaboration with the media community.

Recognizing the evolving media landscape, Attaullah Tarar stated that the government would focus on enhancing journalists’ professional skills through short training courses. He revealed that a policy is being developed to tackle the financial challenges confronting journalists and media organizations, aiming to fortify the media sector. The minister concluded by affirming that the promotion of electronic and print media is a joint responsibility shared by both the government and journalists.