ISLAMABAD: Minister for Information and Broadcasting Dr. Firdous
Ashiq Awan on Friday sought cooperation of media for defeating
terrorist and extremist mindset.
She was briefing the media persons
after attending the introductory meeting of Pakistan Electronic Media
Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) which had been convened following the
constitution of Authority with nomination of new members for the vacant
posts.
The Minister said that the objective of both the
government and the media was the welfare of masses and resolution of
their problems, so both should join hands against the terrorists and
extremists which were common enemy of the government and the media.
She
asked the media organisations that as being the eyes and ears of the
nation, they should play their role for resolution of masses problems,
She also assured the media that the government would welcome their
constructive criticism.
Dr Firdous Awan said that in the 21st
century scenario electronic media has become very important and its
responsibility was to provide information to the viewers. She also said
that after mushroom growth of electronic media, the importance of PEMRA
has increased.
Later, Acting Chairman PEMRA, Dr. Abdul Jabbar
briefed the Members of Authority on Role, Function, Organization, its
laws, Regulations and achievements. He apprised them that PEMRA in
short span of few years has performed remarkably in transforming
national media landscape which was previously had been a turf of state
run media.
Acting Chairman PEMRA told in his briefing that
PEMRA has issued 87 satellites TV, 147 FM radio, 26 landing right
permission to off-shore channels. Besides, 2,359 cable TV, 06 wireless
cable TV, 04 mobile TV and one IPTV licenses have been issued that has
acted as catalyst of socio-political change. Dr.
Abdul Jabbar
further told that PEMRA has temporarily halted licensing process as
criteria and regulations are being reviewed in line with best suited
international practices. Online
