KP govt taking measures for journalists’ welfare: Shafi Jan
ABBOTTABAD: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Minister Shafi Jan has said that the provincial government was taking pragmatic steps for the welfare of the journalist community. He expressed these views while addressing journalists at Haripur and Abbottabad Press Clubs, the minister said the provincial government had allocated Rs1 billion in the current budget for journalists’ welfare. He said the Journalists Endowment Fund had been increased from Rs200 million to Rs500 million, while facilities would be provided for medical treatment, marriages, children’s education and overseas training. He said retired journalists would receive pension support and financial assistance in case of illness, while journalists would also be eligible for interest-free loans of up to Rs5 million. He added that Rs500 million had been allocated for media colonies and Rs400 million for clearance of outstanding media payments. Shafi Jan announced that the government would bear expenses for Haripur Media Colony, provide Rs10 million grant to Haripur Press Club and release funds for Abbottabad Media Colony in two phases. He said district press clubs would also be provided grants, solar systems, laptops and other facilities. Speaking about the provincial government’s performance, the minister said development projects in KP were progressing rapidly and the province had allocated the largest-ever education budget. DLP Report
He said the government was committed to resolving public issues by ensuring regular visits of cabinet members to districts.
The minister praised journalists for their sacrifices during the war against terrorism and said press clubs played an important role in strengthening journalism.
On the political situation, Shafi Jan said the KP government believed in democratic traditions and would provide permissions for opposition rallies as well. He also criticised the federal government over inflation and economic challenges, while demanding payment of KP’s outstanding dues under the NFC Award.
He said PTI would return to the public with its political message and claimed that a rally would be held in Peshawar on Aug 5 regarding Imran Khan’s release campaign.
