Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi announced a series of major initiatives aimed at strengthening journalist welfare, improving media infrastructure, and promoting independent journalism across the province.
Peshawar — In a significant move for the media community, Muhammad Sohail Afridi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting journalists during a meeting with a delegation from Peshawar Press Club, including its cabinet and governing body members.
The delegation praised the provincial government’s journalist-friendly policies and welfare initiatives. During the meeting, the chief minister agreed in principle to lay the foundation stone for the new Peshawar Press Club building at the earliest and supported the creation of a separate endowment fund for journalists in Peshawar.
Afridi said the government is taking practical steps to promote independent, responsible, and autonomous journalism while ensuring a safe working environment for media professionals. Under the 2026-27 provincial budget, PKR 1 billion has been allocated for interest-free loans for working journalists, while PKR 500 million has been earmarked for the feasibility studies and design of media colonies.
The government has also allocated PKR 150 million for the construction of the new Peshawar Press Club building, PKR 300 million for the rehabilitation of district press clubs, and PKR 100 million for modernization and innovation in the information sector.
Additionally, the value of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Journalists Welfare Endowment Fund has been increased from PKR 200 million to PKR 500 million. The chief minister directed that payments of outstanding government advertisement dues to media organizations should be linked to the clearance of journalists’ salaries and compliance with minimum wage requirements.
Afridi emphasized that improving journalists’ working conditions remains a priority alongside the growth of media organizations. He also instructed officials to engage journalists regarding the New Peshawar Valley City Media Enclave project and ensure progress in accordance with established rules and regulations. The chief minister further directed the organization of study tours for journalists.
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