Pakistan’s information minister says the government is preparing reforms to strengthen the media industry, improve journalists’ skills, and address long-standing financial and housing challenges.
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has emphasized that digital content creation has become an essential requirement for Pakistan’s evolving media landscape, announcing that the government is preparing initiatives to strengthen journalists’ professional skills and improve the financial health of the media industry.
Speaking at a public event, Tarar said the government plans to introduce short professional training courses aimed at enhancing journalists’ capabilities, particularly in digital media and modern content production.
The minister also addressed the long-standing issue of journalists’ housing, saying consultations are underway and that future decisions will be made in coordination with the journalist community to develop practical solutions.
Highlighting the challenges facing Pakistan’s media sector, Tarar criticized the media policy introduced in 2019, saying it contributed to severe financial difficulties for television channels and newspapers. According to the minister, the reduction in government advertising rates during that period negatively affected media organizations and resulted in job losses across the industry.
He further claimed that, under the current government, no television channels or newspapers have had their official advertisements suspended. Tarar added that a new policy is being prepared to ease the financial difficulties faced by media organizations and journalists while supporting the sector’s long-term sustainability.
The minister said the government remains committed to working with media stakeholders to create a healthier environment for journalism, strengthen digital media skills, and ensure the industry can adapt to rapidly changing communication trends.
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