ISLAMABAD: Care­ta­ker Prime Minister An­­w­a­­arul Haq Kakar said on Thursday that protecting the rights of media representatives is the responsibility of the state.

He was talking to a delegation of Pakistan Broad­casters Association that called on him here on Thursday. They discussed the problems faced by mass media, especially electronic media, in the country.

The delegation infor­med the prime minister about the issue of non-payment of dues by the government in the context of advertisements.

The prime minister as­­s­ured the delegation of payment of advertisement dues and directed the Ministry of Information and Bro­ad­casting to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

Assures PBA of clearing ad dues

Speaking on the occasion, the PM said media is the fourth pillar of the state and is of utmost importance for the development of the society and the mental and intellectual training of people.

“Media plays a key role in good governance and accountability of government’s performance,” he said.

PM Kakar expressed hope that the media will continue to play its role in the stability of democracy through impartial reporting. He said the recent devaluation of the dollar, the prevention of smuggling and electricity theft, and other measures are benefiting the common man.

Meanwhile, the premier on Thursday described the role of teachers as significant in reforming society, insisting that their specific focus on the character-building of students could lead to the progress of the nation.

“Besides education, training of discipline among the youth is of prime significance in shaping their character. Experienced teachers can play a vital role in mentoring the youth,” he added.

He expressed these views in a meeting with his former teacher Nisar Ahmed, whom he received here at the Prime Minister’s House.

He mentioned that the Quaid-i-Azam in his golden principles also laid emphasis on discipline in addition to unity and faith.

“Only a disciplined and organised nation can contribute to the development of itself and the world,” Mr Kakar said.

Published in Dawn, November 3rd, 2023