RAWALPINDI: The Punjab government on Friday gave Artist Khidmat Card to 51 senior artists in Rawalpindi City in recognition of their services in the field of art and culture.

The cards were distributed among the artists by the PML-N MPA Raja Mohammad Hanif Advocate. Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC) Resident Director Waqar Ahmed, Drama Writer Naheed Manzoor were also present on the occasion.

Under the card scheme, the provincial government will give monthly honorarium to senior artists with more than 50 year’s age and have served more than 25 years in their respective fields.

Initially, Rs20,000 had been distributed through cheques among 51 artists in the field of music, fine arts and drama. But, from July, they will get the monthly honorarium from the banks through their cards.

Speaking on the occasion, MPA Raja Mohammad Hanif advocate said that Punjab Chief Minister attributed artistic policy and follow the idea of welfare state.

He said that the senior artist needed help of the government and in this regard, the Punjab government introduced this scheme.

Waqar Ahmed, Resident Director RAC, said that all the artists were precious assets of the region and financial assistance would encourage working more with dedication.

He said that it became possible because of sincere efforts of Secretary Information and Culture Raja Jahangir Anwar and Additional Secretary Culture Saman Rai.

Published in Dawn, June 24th, 2017