KARACHI, Dec 14: Sindh Excise and Taxation Minister Rauf Siddiqui has exempted the programmes to be held at the Arts Council in 2004, from entertainment duty.

Talking to an Arts Council delegation, led by its President, Ms Khushbakht Shujaat, he said the exemption notification for one year period would soon be issued, adding that this was in acknowledgement of the services rendered by the council for the promotion of literary activities in the city.

The minister also appreciated the services rendered by the council for the welfare of journalists, academics, artistes and intellectuals, adding that since assuming his portfolio, he too had attempted to play his role in restoring the literary culture of the city.

The delegation expressed its gratitude and hoped that through the patronage of government and the people, healthy entertainment would be revived in the city.—APP