Government committed to free electronic media: Sarwar
ISLAMABAD- Secretary Information Kbwaja Ijaz Sarwar, while holding out government’s commitment to free the electronic media, assured that Pakistan Television and Radio Pakistan will not suffer with the introduction of new channels.
“Both Pakistan Television and Radio Pakistan are national institutions nurtured over the years and the introduction of new channels will not hurt them since the Government is for allowing them freedom,” he stated at a function organised by the National Electronic Media Club.
Ijaz Sarwar, however, asked Pakistan Television (PTV) and the Pakistan Broad casting Corporation (PBC) to embrace innovation achieve higher professional standards presentation as the Government ‘would like them to have freedom like the print media. “The Government has not put any curbs on the electronic media as with print media there is no advice for them. The print media is both professionally and financially sound and independent of the Government. We would like TV and Radio to enjoy the same freedom. “The two electronic institutions, he said have the services of experienced news people.
“They are seasoned and responsible people, aware of the national interests we do not advise them and we believe that their news reporting and presentation should of a high quality so that people prefer them over foreign channels.” The Secretary Information urged PTV and PBC to innovate their news and current affairs programmes particularly.
“Bring in fresh talent from universities and change the style, the Ministry will extend you all-out help in the face of problems that may arise.”
Earlier, Director General, Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation, Syed Anwar Mahmood, said, the Radio is modernising itself to stay competitive. “We are determined to improve our presentation and through hardwork and innovation Radio will continue to play the, role of a prime national institution.”
Managing Director PTV, Yousaf Beg Mirza, said, the channel will take on the challenge of private channels if a level-playing field is ensured for it. “We welcome the introduction of private channels, it will create a competitive atmosphere”. we are confident that if we have a level playing field, PTV will not be easily beatable.”
President NEMC, M. Z. Sohail, said, the PTV can compete with the best in the new information order if the present open policy for electronic media is consolidated.
“We welcome Government’s commitment to freedom of electronic media we need to enhance our credibility for competition in the new Information Order.”
Source: The Nation
Date:2/19/2000
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