Rashid urges private TV channels to work hard

Federal Minister for Information Sheikh Rashid Ahmed said on Saturday evening the government was ready to give licences to more private TV channels.
However, he emphasised seriousness and hard work by private channels for their survival and growth.
"If 100 channels apply, I would give the permission, but only those channels shall find space in the market, which are smart in delivering standard information and other productions," the minister said, while speaking at the launching of seven PTV plays here at Marina Club, DHA.
These are joint productions of Pakistan Television and private sector, which would be telecast simultaneously after Eidul Fitr on PTVs Prime Time Channel. The productions are Sassi, Neela Aasman, Ajnabi Rastey-Ajnabi Manzilain, Hum Sey Juda Na Hona, Baatain Dil Ki, Kaantey and Mah-e-Neem Shab.
The minister said next year would be the year of revolution in electronic channels. "A lot of talent is available in the country and with its proper utilisation these channels would occupy a front position in the region," he said.
He offered private producers to use PTV studios to bring low-cost quality productions.
"This year, I have given Rs 840 million to PTV for furnishing studios and purchasing sophisticated line equipment," he said.
He suggested the setting up of a bank in private sector for providing soft-term loans to private producers so that they can make a significant contribution in this field.
He underlined the need for increased competition among private and government TV channels to get the best results. Sheikh Rashid said permission to 34 private channels was given because it was the need of the hour to bring the maximum private channels to move with the social, political and economic changes in the world.
He advised the private sector people getting licences to launch their TV channels before their licences are cancelled at the expiry of one-year sanctioned period.
Shaikh Rashid called upon the private producers that their productions should represent the actual life instead of factious stories. These should also give courage and new spirit to those who are depressed and feel themselves hapless, "Your main objective should be promotion of national integrity and welfare of the country," he said.
He acknowledged that Karachi is a centre of talent and the people of this city should also take lead in the electronic media. The minister asked for making PTV productions more effective to enhance its image not only in Pakistan but the world over.