Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Thursday reaffirmed the government's commitment to the welfare of sports journalists, inviting the community to submit recommendations for the promotion and development of sports journalism.
Sports Journalism as a Vital Pillar
Addressing a ceremony held to mark World Sports Journalists Day 2026, the minister described sports journalism as a vital pillar in promoting healthy competition, sportsmanship and positivity in society. He said sports journalists played an indispensable role in bringing sporting events to the public and helping foster a vibrant sports culture.
Recognizing Contributions
Tarar said recognising the services of sports journalists was essential to encourage young professionals to join a field that required extensive reporting, dedication and continuous coverage of sporting events. Referring to the conferment of the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz on senior sports journalist Mohi Shah during his tenure, the minister said the honour reflected the contributions of the entire sports journalism fraternity in creating an environment conducive to the promotion of sports in Pakistan.
Call for Recommendations
He urged sports journalists to form a committee and submit proposals focusing on their welfare, professional development and measures to strengthen sports journalism. "We will do whatever is possible at the government level," Tarar said, adding that he personally attached great importance to the promotion of sports journalism.
PTV Sports and FIFA World Cup
The minister also noted that PTV Sports was Pakistan's only television channel broadcasting the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying the government had ensured nationwide telecast of the tournament to inspire young people and promote healthy competition. Thanking the organisers for inviting him, Tarar assured participants that he would make every effort to implement the recommendations submitted by sports journalists and pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at strengthening sports journalism.
Oath-Taking Ceremony
Later, the minister administered the oath to the newly elected office-bearers of the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Sports Journalists Association and cut a cake to mark World Sports Journalists Day 2026.
