Merit to decide appointments as Punjab govt pledges ‘Right Person for Right Post’: Azma

• Info Minister tells Punjab Assembly fully digital and state-of-the-art building will be constructed to replace existing DGPR headquarters

• Says all Information Department offices to be consolidated under one roof, with dedicated Punjabi language wing, merit-driven reforms

• Says Punjab CM increased Artist Support Fund from Rs80m to Rs300m, doubled monthly financial assistance

 LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari informed the Punjab Assembly on Tuesday that a modern, fully digital and state-of-the-art building will be constructed to replace the existing headquarters of the Directorate General Public Relations (DGPR).

She said the project aims to bring all currently rented offices of the Information Department under one roof, enhancing administrative efficiency and ensuring optimal utilization of resources. The scheme, she added, is being incorporated into the upcoming Annual Development Programme (ADP).

Clarifying budgetary matters, the minister stated that funds allocated for souvenirs and gifts presented to visiting journalists and delegations from other provinces and countries are minimal and purely symbolic. She emphasized that these expenditures are made under duly approved heads by the Finance Department and are incurred with complete transparency. Grants to press clubs, she noted, fall under a separate budgetary head.

Azma Bokhari said that media coverage of the Punjab Chief Minister’s visits to districts, flood-affected areas, inauguration ceremonies and other official engagements falls within the mandate of the Information Department. For this purpose, the department has arranged its own DSNG and OB vans to ensure timely and professional coverage, while travel allowances and related expenses are paid strictly in accordance with the prescribed rules.

Responding to questions, she informed the House that a dedicated wing is actively working under the department for the promotion of the Punjabi language and is implementing various initiatives in this regard.

The minister further clarified that land for journalists’ colonies is provided free of cost, with only development charges collected from journalists, which are utilized entirely for infrastructure development. No government offices are constructed on such land, she said, adding that revenue generated this year from the commercialization of plots will be used for the construction of the foundation’s own building.

Highlighting ongoing reforms, Azma Bokhari said that while political appointments were common in the past, the present government has made merit its foremost priority. A comprehensive overhaul of the Information and Culture Departments is underway, under which redundant and inactive posts will be abolished, while the creation of new positions aligned with modern requirements—particularly digital media—is under consideration. She added that all new recruitments would be made with the approval of the Chief Minister and the Cabinet.

Regarding certain appointments in the Punjab Arts Council, the minister said the matter is sub judice and it would be inappropriate to comment at this stage. However, she assured that following the court’s decision, indiscriminate action would be taken against those found responsible.

She also informed the House that in fiscal year 2025-26, substantial funds have been released for the renovation and upgradation of the Okara Arts Council, including improvements to IT systems, sound systems, furniture and the installation of a hybrid solar system. All projects are expected to be completed within the current year.

Announcing a major relief initiative, Azma Bokhari said the Punjab Chief Minister has increased the Artist Support Fund from Rs80 million to Rs300 million, while monthly financial assistance for artists has also been doubled to better support deserving beneficiaries.

She emphasized that the government’s vision is not limited to financial assistance alone but also includes creating dignified employment opportunities for artists through initiatives such as the Film Fund and the revival of theatre.

The minister reiterated that the Punjab government remains committed to transparency, merit and reforms in line with modern requirements, with the objective of transforming the Information and Culture Department into a dynamic, efficient and public-friendly institution.