PM announces package for revival of film industry, welfare of artists

Film Finance Fund, Artist Welfare Fund part of the recommendations by information ministry

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has announced a special package for artists and people with related skills in a bid to revive the country's film industry.

In a statement on Wednesday, the premiere announced establishing Prime Minister's Film Finance Fund to support poets, writers, fine arts, film and broadcasting industry with creation of the National Film and Broadcasting Commission, and National Film Institute and Academy, promising to build studios with modern technology in line with international standards.

A Prime Minister’s Artist Welfare Fund to protect the "dignity and self-respect of these talented individuals" has also been formed as part of the package.

Meanwhile, the statement said, special concession will be given on the import of equipment related to the film industry.

“Reviving the film industry was our top most obligation. It gives me immense pleasure to announce the biggest ever special package in the history of Pakistan for artists and workers associated with this industry,” the statement quoted the PM as saying.

The package is based on recommendations by the Ministry of  nformation, Broadcasting and National Heritage, and the PM has directed the ministry to present a draft in consultation with the Ministry of Finance and other relevant departments to the government for approval.