Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has emphasized to promote quality entertainment to foster positive approaches.

He was speaking at the Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting, which met in Islamabad on Wednesday with Senator Syed Ali Zafar in the chair.

Discussing the "The Motion Picture (Amendment) Bill 2024," the Minister said the draft proposes that the authority to approve the Film Certification Board be given to the relevant minister to avoid delays in decision-making. He added that all essential factors related to the certification of any film are included.

Attaullah Tarar further said if the cabinet forms a new censor board each time and lengthy debates follow, it will cause delay in matters relating to the film industry. He said after the 18th Amendment, issues have arisen regarding film import and certification. He said the entire country should be on the same page regarding the film certification.

The Minister said Federal Government's role is only limited to film import, while provinces conduct certification under their own legislation and there is a need of an enhanced coordination with the provinces in this regard. He highlighted that Pakistani films have done record business in several countries, including Canada. He said his ministry encourages such films and believes that there should be no obstacles in their path.

The committee approved the agenda concerning the censor board.

Regarding the Pakistan Television Corporation, the Minister said PTV's screen quality has improved. He said PTV Sports has secured broadcasting rights for the Asia Cup for the next two years, while efforts are being made to further enhance the performance of PTV Sports.

Attaullah Tarar further informed the committee that PTV Home is being considered for outsourcing, while PTV World is being revamped to align with modern standards. He said merit-based initiatives are being undertaken at PTV.

Talking about the Shalimar Recording and Broadcasting Company, the Minister said a business plan for SRBC has also been developed.

Cases registered under the PECA Act were also discussed during the committee meeting.

Highlighting his longstanding relationship with journalists, Attaullah Tarar apprised the committee of his discussions with Afzal Butt of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists on these matters.