By Tanveer Ahmed
GILGIT-BALTISTAN: In a first for the region, the Gilgit-Baltistan government launched an accreditation card system for journalists on Tuesday, aiming to strengthen professional recognition and support media welfare initiatives.
The cards were formally issued at a ceremony at the Central Press Club in Gilgit, organized by the regional Information Department. Caretaker Information Minister Ghulam Abbas said the interim government was aware of the challenges faced by journalists and was taking steps to address long-standing demands, including financial support and grants. He noted that discussions on these issues had already been held with the Chief Minister and expressed hope that journalists would see positive developments soon.
Abbas added that the government was working to expand an endowment fund for journalists’ welfare, calling the accreditation initiative an important step toward aligning Gilgit-Baltistan with other parts of the country in terms of media facilities and professional recognition.
Information Secretary Sanaullah said the accreditation cards would provide journalists with a formal professional identity, facilitating reporting and interactions with public institutions. He added that future welfare initiatives would be linked to the accreditation system and noted plans to establish press clubs across the region, starting with an initial endowment fund of 100 million rupees.
Spokesperson to the caretaker Chief Minister, Shabbir Mir, said promoting journalism and ensuring journalist safety were top priorities, and the accreditation cards would enhance professional standing and ease journalists’ work. He emphasized that the government would continue engagement with media representatives on welfare and protection matters.
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