CM Sohail Afridi Unveils Major Relief Package for KP Journalists, Approves Separate Endowment Fund
Rs1 billion earmarked for interest-free loans; new Peshawar Press Club building, media colonies and district press club upgrades also announced
PESHAWAR — Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sohail Afridi has given his in-principle approval for a dedicated endowment fund for Peshawar’s journalist community, alongside a wide-ranging set of welfare initiatives for media workers across the province.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister announced that the foundation stone for the upcoming Peshawar Press Club building would be laid shortly, calling it a reflection of his government’s resolve to nurture a free, accountable and independent media, backed by a secure working environment for journalists.
Outlining the financial commitments in the upcoming fiscal year, Afridi revealed that the KP budget for 2026-27 sets aside Rs1 billion exclusively for interest-free loans to working journalists. A further Rs500 million has been reserved for feasibility studies, planning and design work related to upcoming media colonies.
Other budgetary allocations include Rs150 million for construction of the new Peshawar Press Club, Rs300 million toward rehabilitating district press clubs province-wide, and Rs100 million dedicated to upgrading and modernizing the information sector.
In a major boost to journalist welfare, the Chief Minister confirmed that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Journalists’ Welfare Endowment Fund has been more than doubled — rising from Rs200 million to Rs500 million. He also issued directives that pending government advertising payments to media houses will now only be released once those organizations clear journalists’ salaries, dues, and minimum wage obligations.
“Journalist welfare and better working conditions remain a top priority for this government, alongside the broader growth of media institutions,” Afridi stated.
The Chief Minister also directed relevant departments to take journalists into confidence on the proposed New Peshawar Valley City Media Enclave, ensuring the project moves forward transparently and within regulatory frameworks. Additionally, he instructed officials to arrange professional study tours for journalists to strengthen their skills and industry knowledge.
