ISLAMABAD: A Senate committee meeting, led by Senator Naseema Ehsan, was convened at Parliament House to evaluate the development of rules under the National Archives Act, 1993, and the Archival Material (Preservation and Export Control) Act, 1975. The committee also assessed its recommendations on the Balochistan Child Protection Commission.
According to Senate of Pakistan, the meeting focused on the draft National Archives (Research and Reference) Rules, 2026, which formalize existing mechanisms in line with the committee’s previous suggestions. Additions to the draft aim to enhance clarity and implementation. The committee directed the Cabinet Division to finalize these rules with input from provincial governments and present them for review within two to three weeks.
The committee was briefed on the draft Acquisition of Archival Material Rules, 2025, designed to protect documents of national importance. It was highlighted that documents over 25 years old would gain legal protection against smuggling. The committee stressed the significance of preserving historical records and promoting their importance to younger generations.
An invitation was extended to the committee to visit the National Archives of Pakistan to view ongoing preservation efforts. A modernization project, valued at Rs. 285 million, is underway, but officials noted a shortage of skilled archivists. The chairperson suggested engaging academia to introduce specialized courses and improve career prospects in archival preservation.
Approximately nine million archival documents have been digitized, with plans for public access through an online e-library. The chairperson emphasized incorporating cybersecurity measures to protect the country’s documentary heritage.
The committee reviewed the draft Preservation and Export Control Rules, 2025, which regulate the preservation and export of archival material. Concerns were raised over collections in provincial custody, and the need for coordinated digitization efforts was stressed. The chairperson called for stricter penalties for smuggling and disaster risk management measures for archives.
On child protection, the committee was informed that the Balochistan Cabinet had approved the Child Protection Rules, 2026, and consultations continue on the Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2026. The Ministry of Human Rights noted the absence of rehabilitation facilities for drug-dependent children and support centres for girls affected by social media misuse. The committee urged for awareness campaigns on responsible social media use and parental involvement in monitoring online activities.
Senator Naseema Ehsan concluded by commending the Balochistan Child Protection Commission’s efforts and stressing the need for ongoing measures to bolster child protection and safeguard children’s rights in the province.