PM announces special fund for journalists

Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Tuesday announced the establishment of a special fund for journalists under which the workers losing their lives during the line of duty will each be paid 04 million rupees.

Under the health insurance scheme, the media workers and artists will be able to get world class health facilities free of charge in 1200 hospitals across the country with annual corporate health insurance worth 1.5 million rupees.

Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister said: “It is the first time that a health insurance scheme has been initiated for the working journalists and the artists”.

Shehbaz Sharif also termed the health insurance card scheme as a revolutionary initiative in the field of journalism while addressing the launching ceremony of the scheme for working journalists and artists in Islamabad.

A decision to this effect was taken after consultations with the Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb, he added.

The premier also said it is just the beginning and the amount will be further enhanced with increase in the resources.

He continued to state that he has never complained against any media criticism directed towards him. However stressed that criticism is beneficial when it is based on facts.

On the occasion, the Prime Minister also launched Pakistan Code and Digital Repository of Federal Laws Mobile App and website.

The Prime Minister said this will help the public easily access all types of federal laws.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb said: “The launch of health insurance scheme for the working journalists and artists is realization of the vision of the Prime Minister”.