The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has announced a Rs. 1 billion welfare package for journalists, alongside a significant increase in the Journalists’ Endowment Fund from Rs. 200 million to Rs. 500 million. The initiative aims to improve the financial well-being of media professionals and provide greater support for their healthcare and welfare needs.
The announcement was made by Provincial Information Minister Shafi Jan during visits to the Haripur and Abbottabad Press Clubs as part of the provincial government’s public outreach campaign.
According to the minister, the welfare package includes financial assistance for journalists requiring medical treatment, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting media professionals who often work under challenging conditions.
Shafi Jan said the package has been introduced on the directives of Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi, who has instructed provincial ministers to engage directly with the public, listen to local concerns, and ensure timely solutions to pressing issues.
The minister explained that the outreach campaign is designed to strengthen communication between the provincial government and citizens by allowing cabinet members to visit every district and assess local challenges firsthand.
During his interactions with journalists, Shafi Jan highlighted the government’s efforts to improve governance and accelerate development across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He said all cabinet members have been directed to regularly visit different districts, hear public grievances, and coordinate with the relevant departments to resolve issues without unnecessary delays.
He added that the provincial government remains committed to improving public service delivery while ensuring greater accountability and responsiveness at the grassroots level.
Speaking about the welfare package, the information minister emphasized that journalism plays a vital role in strengthening democracy and ensuring transparency. He described journalism as a sacred profession, acknowledging the sacrifices made by media workers, particularly those who lost their lives while covering the country’s fight against terrorism.
Shafi Jan paid tribute to journalists who were killed during years of conflict and praised the media’s contribution to informing the public despite security risks and professional challenges.
The minister also highlighted the KP government’s broader development agenda, stating that the province is witnessing unprecedented progress under the leadership of Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi.
He noted that the provincial government’s latest budget includes the highest-ever allocation for the education sector, reflecting its commitment to improving educational facilities, expanding access to quality learning, and investing in human capital.
According to the minister, education remains one of the provincial government’s top priorities, alongside healthcare, infrastructure development, and public welfare.
The increase in the Journalists’ Endowment Fund from Rs. 200 million to Rs. 500 million is expected to provide additional financial security for journalists and their families. The expanded fund will support welfare initiatives and help provide assistance to media professionals facing financial hardships or medical emergencies.
Media organizations and journalist associations have frequently called for stronger welfare measures, citing the financial challenges, workplace risks, and healthcare needs faced by journalists across Pakistan.
The newly announced package is expected to benefit a large number of journalists working throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while strengthening institutional support for the profession.
The provincial government says it will continue engaging with journalist bodies and press clubs to ensure welfare initiatives address the needs of media workers effectively. Officials believe the enhanced financial support will contribute to improving the overall welfare of journalists while recognizing their important role in promoting public awareness and democratic values.
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