ISLAMABAD, Oct 29 (APP): Federal Secretary Information and Broadcasting Ashfaq Ahmed Khalil has announced that the Prime Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme for journalists and media workers will be launched soon in an improved and more comprehensive form, assuring that his doors are always open for the journalist community.
He made the announcement while addressing as chief guest at the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected office bearers of the All Pakistan Newspapers and Electronic Media Employees Confederation (APNEC) Gilgit-Baltistan Chapter, held at the National Press Club Islamabad.
Secretary Information stressed that journalism is a vital bridge between government and people, and media workers play a fundamental role in highlighting public issues.He said recognizing the services of media industry workers and taking effective steps to resolve their problems is essential.He emphasized the need for collaboration between stakeholders to provide a better working environment for professional duties, adding that collective efforts are needed for the development of the media industry.
Chairman Senate Defence Committee Senator Talha Mahmood said journalists play a crucial role in promoting truth, highlighting public issues and strengthening democratic values.He stressed the need for serious steps for the welfare of media workers and congratulated the new office bearers.
Principal Information Officer Raeesa Adil said professional services of journalists and media workers are of great importance and continuous liaison between press organizations and relevant institutions is necessary to resolve their issues.
APNEC Chairman Muhammad Siddiq Anzar, who hosted the ceremony, said protecting rights and welfare of journalists is a core responsibility of journalistic bodies. He thanked guests and stressed unity among press organizations.
NPC President Abdul Razzaq Sial, Secretary Dr. Furqan Rao, APNEC GB Chairperson Mahwish Mumtaz Baig, Media Workers Organization President Kaleem Shamim, Tariq Usmani, Dr. Sadia Kamal, Farooq Mirza and others also spoke.
Mahwish Mumtaz Baig thanked participants and said APNEC GB is working for rights and welfare of journalists of the region. Speakers called for job security, economic protection and effective liaison with government institutions for welfare of media workers.
A large number of journalists and media workers attended the ceremony.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
