Govt taking steps for welfare of journalist community: Gilani
ISLAMABAD, Nov 1 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani here on Tuesday said the government believes in freedom of press and it has taken various steps for the welfare of the journalist community. The Prime Minister was talking to Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan who called on him at Prime Minister House. The Prime Minister said today’s world has turned into a global village and media has an important role to put across the viewpoint of Pakistan and highlight its soft image in the comity of nations. The Prime Minister said the media should inform the masses about the socioeconomic development activities taking place in the society and raise awareness about the need to bring people together for positive social change.
The Prime Minister said the government is exploring all avenues to upgrade the living standard of people.
He said media is the forth pillar of the state and acts as a bridge between the government and the people and can play a meaningful role in this regard.
 Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan informed the Prime Minister about the steps being taken by her Ministry for the well-being of the journalist community including provision of financial assistance in case a journalist loses his life while performing his duty.
 The Minister said the government was keen to support journalists for education of their children and will provide financial assistance in this regard.