Budget 2024-25: Govt to launch health insurance scheme for 15,000 journalists

Scheme to initially cover 5,000 media professionals, with an additional 10,000 in second phase

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced a health insurance scheme for journalists and media professionals while presenting the federal budget 2024-25 in the National Assembly on Wednesday.

He disclosed that the scheme would initially cover 5,000 journalists and media workers, with an additional 10,000 individuals set to benefit in its second phase.

In his address, the finance minister commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for reinstating the health insurance scheme during his second term in office. He also extended his appreciation to Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar and his team for their efforts in reviving the initiative.

During the presentation, Aurangzeb also highlighted the government's proactive measures to combat the climate crisis. He emphasised the establishment of the Pakistan Climate Change Authority, aimed at spearheading climate mitigation and adaptation strategies.

He further revealed plans for the formulation of a National Climate Finance Strategy, slated for completion by October, 2024. This strategy aims to attract global climate finance to Pakistan, facilitating initiatives to curtail carbon emissions and address environmental challenges.