ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting convened at PTV Headquarters under the chairmanship of MNA Pullain Baloch to discuss issues related to Pakistan Television (PTV).
The committee was informed that PTV earned Rs7.5 billion in advertising revenue for the fiscal year 2023-24, exceeding its target of Rs6.2 billion. The revenue target for the current year is also expected to be achieved.
Despite these gains, PTV faces financial challenges. A large part of the Rs10 billion collected through the TV licence fee included in electricity bills is reportedly allocated to salaries and pensions. Delays in salary payments were attributed to diverted funds for international financial obligations and purchases of international media rights.
The committee heard about increased viewership driven by programming improvements and new on-screen talent, as well as efforts to upgrade pension management in collaboration with the Punjab Information Technology Board.
Details were shared regarding the laying off of non-performing and politically appointed employees as part of ongoing restructuring.
The committee also addressed delays in allotting plots to journalists in Islamabad’s sectors F-14, F-15, and Bhara Kahu, directing the ministry to complete application scrutiny and resolve grievances within two months.
Regarding the PEMRA (Amendment) Bill 2025, the committee reviewed a sub-committee report and directed PEMRA to provide feedback on the recommendations.
PTV, Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation, and Shalimar Recording and Broadcasting Company were instructed to ensure all employee salaries and pensions are paid before the upcoming Eid.
The session concluded with a unanimous resolution praising the professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces in defending national sovereignty against Indian aggression.
