Balochistan Government’s Funding for Digital Media Welcomed, Call for Full Support

Quetta : The Balochistan Digital Publishers Forum has welcomed the provincial government’s decision to allocate funds for digital media advertising, calling it a positive step towards the growth of journalism and digital media.
This was discussed in a meeting chaired by the president, Syed Ali Shah, which was attended by Balach Sajdi (Daily Intikhab), Zafar Achakzai (Daily Qudrat), and Sadiq Baloch (Daily Azadi). While the decision was appreciated, concerns were raised over the failure of the Balochistan Information Department to utilize the allocated funds during the previous fiscal year, which resulted in a severe financial crisis for digital media in the province.
The meeting emphasized that without the provincial government’s support, the promotion of digital media would be difficult, and Pakistan’s true image could not be effectively portrayed on national and international platforms. In light of the changing media landscape, the Forum urged Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti to personally intervene and ensure the transparent and equitable use of these funds.
The meeting also highlighted the need for supporting local digital platforms and publishers in Balochistan to ensure their financial and editorial stability. A call was made for immediate action to ensure the effective use of the funds, as no funds had been utilized in the current fiscal year either.
The meeting expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, Balochistan Government Spokesperson Shahid Rand, Chief Secretary Shakil Qadir Khan, Secretary Information Imran Khan, and Director General of Public Relations Noor Khetran for their continued support.
Furthermore, the meeting also discussed the approval of new membership applications for the Forum and several were accepted.