Pakistan: Kaira declares 2010 as 'Year of Radio'

'The present democratic government is committed to media freedom and its promotion. In view of its vast coverage, the government would adopt measures for the medium of radio to flourish,' Information Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira assured. –APP (File photo)

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira has declared 2010 as the 'Year of Radio' due to its vast outreach and cheap source of information for the masses.

The medium of radio has become the most popular means of mass communication across the world, but in Pakistan it has not been given the attention it deserved.

'The present democratic government is committed to media freedom and its promotion. In view of its vast coverage, the government would adopt measures for the medium of radio to flourish,' assured the minister in a statement on Saturday.

Kaira said that the print and electronic media in Pakistan have witnessed a tremendous growth in the past, and the government now hopes to see radio on the same path as well.

'Today, improved broadcasting quality, innovative content, and new technological developments have made radio a resurgent medium, making it extremely popular in the field of education, advertising and entertainment,' said the minister, assuring complete support to this upcoming medium as a source of information.

Meanwhile, Director General Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation Murtaza Solangi appreciated the announcement, saying that Radio Pakistan has been actively contributing towards the goal of peace and national harmony.

Solangi added that Radio Pakistan is gradually moving towards community broadcasts to cater to the needs of local communities. He also informed that Radio Pakistan Islamabad has aleady been converted into a model station in this regard. –APP

Source:http://www.dawn.com/wps/wcm/connect/dawn-content-library/dawn/news/art-culture/18-kaira-declares-2010-as-year-of-radio-am-02

Via Yimber Gaviria, Colombia