CM promises steps to boost film industry

Highlights decisions to set up artistes’ welfare fund, hike financial aid

LAHORE:

Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi has announced that the provincial government will take steps on a priority basis for the revival of Punjabi films in addition to establishing an endowment fund worth Rs1 billion for the welfare of artistes and enhancing financial assistance from Rs5,000 to Rs25,000 for deserving performers.

He said during a meeting with senior film producers Sheikh Amjad Rasheed and Rana Khalid Manzoor on Sunday that the government would consider setting up a film production studio and take all possible steps to provide quality recreational facilities to the people. Steps would be taken for the revival of Pakistani films, especially those in Punjabi language.

The chief minister said employment opportunities would be generated with the promotion of film production, adding that Punjab is a fertile land with regard to art and culture. Sheikh Amjad thanked the chief minister over his announcement for set up the endowment fund for the artistes and increasing their financial aid.

Provincial Information Secretary Asif Bilal Lodhi and the CM’s Press Secretary Muhammad Iqbal Chaudhry were also present on the occasion. Matters relating to reviving the film industry and solving its problems also came under discussion.

In a separate meeting with Forest, Wildlife and Fisheries Task Force Chairman Badar Munir, the chief minister stated that all possible facilities would be provided for fish farming in Punjab and sought a comprehensive plan for the farming of trout fish in the province.

He revealed that a pilot project for the breeding of prawns in the province would also be initiated.

He said the government had decided to introduce online licence for wildlife hunting and fishing. The issuance of hunting licence will be incorporated into the Go Punjab App, he said, adding that all possible facilities would be provided to those who would obtain the permit.

Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi vowed to solve forthwith the problems of the lower staff members of the forest, wildlife and fisheries department.

He said facilities for the visitors in the safari zoo would be increased and it would be made a recreational place of international standard.

The chief minister stated that South Asian and African theme zones would be established in the safari zoo.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 28^th, 2022.