Media Workers’ Problems to be Resolved on Priority Basis: Federal Secretary for Information and Broadcasting
Introduction
The Federal Secretary for Information and Broadcasting, Sohail Ali Khan, has vowed to resolve the problems faced by media workers on a priority basis. Speaking at a dinner reception held in honour of the newly-elected office-bearers of the All Pakistan Newspaper Employees Confederation (APNEC) and senior officers of the ministry, he highlighted the government’s efforts to improve the situation for media workers in Pakistan.
Minimum Wage to be Increased
Sohail Ali Khan announced that the minimum wage for a worker would be increased in the federal budget for financial year 2023-24. This move is expected to improve the financial situation of many media workers who are struggling to make ends meet. The secretary information also acknowledged the media as a strong pillar of state and said its independence in Pakistan is being acknowledged at international level.
Health Insurance for Media Workers
In addition to increasing the minimum wage, the government has allocated one billion rupees for the health insurance of media workers and journalists in the budget for fiscal year 2023-24. This is a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of those who work in the media industry.
Support from Industry Leaders
Several industry leaders attended the dinner reception, including Internal Publicity Wing Director General Manzoor Ali Memon, Associated Press of Pakistan Managing Director Muhammad Asim Khichi, Principal Information Officer Mobashir Hassan, Joint Secretary Arshad Munir, Deputy Director General Ms. Tahira Saeeda, Director Media Shahab Khan and Director Press Malik Muqarab. Newly-elected APNEC Chairman Muhammad Siddique Ansar thanked the guests and gave them a detailed briefing regarding the issues being faced by the media.
Conclusion
The efforts being made by the government to improve the situation for media workers in Pakistan are commendable. The increase in the minimum wage and the allocation of funds for health insurance are steps in the right direction. With the support of industry leaders and the newly-elected office-bearers of APNEC, it is hoped that the situation for media workers in Pakistan will continue to improve in the coming years.
