APNS Expresses Gratitude to Balochistan CM Sarfraz Bugti for Media-Friendly Initiatives

KARACHI – The All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) has warmly welcomed the significant increase in the advertising budget of the Balochistan Information Department for the fiscal year 2025–26, approved by Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti.
In a statement, APNS expressed appreciation for CM Bugti’s efforts to address the longstanding financial crisis faced by Balochistan’s print media industry. The organization noted that previous administrations had failed to take serious action despite the industry’s struggles over several years.
Highlighting the Chief Minister’s commitment, APNS stated that in his very first year in office, CM Bugti increased the print media budget from Rs 270 million to Rs 400 million. Building on this initiative, the government has now approved a further increase to Rs 700 million for FY 2025–26.
APNS termed the decision as highly encouraging and one that will have long-term positive impacts on the media industry. The society also welcomed the increases in budgets for electronic media, social media, and special supplements, describing these as progressive steps.
According to APNS, the Balochistan government’s proactive approach will not only boost media development in the province but will also create new employment opportunities for youth in the media sector.
The society extended heartfelt appreciation to CM Sarfraz Bugti, Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir Khan, Principal Secretary to CM Babar Khan, and government spokesperson Shahid Rind for their contributions. It also lauded the efforts of Information Secretary Imran Khan, Finance Secretary Imran Zarkoon, DGPR Muhammad Noor Khetran, and their teams, acknowledging their commitment to the cause.
APNS expressed hope that the Balochistan government would also address the longstanding demand of abolishing B-PEPRA rules, which are seen as a hurdle to the newspaper industry’s growth.
The society concluded by expressing confidence that the provincial government would continue to play a vital role in the development and stability of the print media and the welfare of media workers, thereby strengthening the fourth pillar of the state and promoting democratic values.