Federal Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, revealed on Tuesday that the salary disbursements of the National Pakistan Television (PTV) station were delayed due to substantial payments made to acquire transmission rights for the ICC champions trophy.
During an informative session in the Information Committee of the National Assembly, Tarar justified the measure, stating that the Government prioritized the accessibility of Crick for the public, particularly in remote areas where the PTV terrestrial network is the only transmission option.
“Our goal was to ensure that all citizens, even in towns and remote areas, could see the ICC champions trophy,” he said.
“PTV antenna transmissions allow people without internet access or cable to enjoy these games.”
The minister recognized the reaction caused by the salary delay of 21 days, contrasting it with private channels where such delays cover months.
He also criticized private media owners for not paying employees in time despite the substantial income of sectors as real estate.
Tarar detailed the current reforms within PTV, including efforts to rationalize their workforce and improve financial management.
He highlighted the elimination of 12 rental retirees that extract excessive wages and declared that the degree of employees will be completed before January 31.
“PTV previously operated in a ‘Never-Gome’ policy, where retired personnel were hired with high wages,” he said.
“Such inefficiencies caused significant financial tension, but we are taking corrective measures.”
The minister also discussed the plans to boost PTV income by bringing anchors from the private sector and encouraging them to generate advertising income.
He pointed out that PTV Sports, in particular, has seen greater income under the new government strategy.
The committee also deliberated on an amendment proposed to the regulations of Pemra, which includes establishing a censorship board for dramas and ads transmitted in entertainment channels.
The summer senator Sehar Kamran suggested stricter supervision to guarantee family content.
A subcommittee formed to consult the interested parties in the television industry.
Tarar expressed optimism about the role of PTV in the organization of international events, emphasizing the preparations for the Champions ICC Trophy and other sports companies.
He revealed plans to involve Cricket Legends as Shoaib Akhtar and Shoaib Malik in the PTV comments panel to improve the audience’s commitment.
“Our goal is to strengthen the PTV Sports profile and offer first level coverage to viewers throughout Pakistan,” he said.
The minister also highlighted broader improvements in state media institutions, including the elimination of ghost employees and the rationalization of pension systems in Pakistan radio.
Despite the challenges, Tarar said that the government’s approach in acquiring the rights of the ICC was a step to guarantee generalized access to sports.
“For the first time in years, important sporting events are organized in Pakistan,” he said.
“This initiative will help unite the nation and promote Cricket in every corner of the country.”
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 tickets now for sale
Tickets for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which takes place in Pakistan with Indian matches in the EAU, have now returned to the sale as of today.
Fans can now ensure seats for group stage and second semifinal in Pakistan.
ICC family members get early access through a two -hour priority window. The general tickets will begin from RS 1,000, with premium options of 1,500 in the matches in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi. Physical tickets will be available from February 3 at the TCS Express centers designated in Pakistan.
Soon the details of the ticket will be announced for the parties of India in the EAU (February 20, 23 and March 2). Fans can also register for updates.
Tickets for the final match, scheduled for March 9, will be available after the first semifinal in Dubai.
The commercial director of the ICC, Anurag Dahiya, stressed the importance of the Pakistan tournament, since it organizes its first global Crickt All ages.
The tournament director, Sumair Ahmad Syed, emphasized that the competition would offer an unforgettable experience, with each game with high bets.
The marketing campaign
