Islamabad (GNP): Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has said that the true impact of sports on society would go largely unnoticed without dedicated sports journalists bringing events to life for the public through their reporting and storytelling.
Speaking at a ceremony organized to celebrate World Sports Journalists Day 2026, the Minister pledged government backing for the welfare of sports journalists and encouraged the community to put forward formal recommendations on how to strengthen and grow the field of sports journalism in Pakistan.
Tarar described sports as a deeply personal passion, and spoke of sports journalism as a crucial force in nurturing healthy competition, sportsmanship, and a positive spirit within society. He said properly acknowledging the work of sports journalists was essential to inspiring younger generations to enter a field that requires extensive on-ground reporting, consistent hard work, and sharp attention to the world of sport.
The Minister referenced the recent conferral of the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz on veteran sports journalist Mohi Shah during his tenure in office, saying the recognition was not just a personal honor for the recipient but a tribute to the entire sports journalism community in Pakistan for helping create an environment where sports can flourish.
Tarar called on sports journalists to form a dedicated committee to draft practical proposals covering their professional welfare, skill development, and concrete steps to elevate sports journalism as a profession. “We will do whatever is possible at the government level,” he said, adding that he personally viewed the advancement of sports journalism as a matter of significant importance.
The Minister also highlighted that PTV Sports is currently the only Pakistani television channel airing the FIFA World Cup 2026, stressing that the government has worked to ensure nationwide broadcast access to inspire youth participation and promote a culture of healthy competition.
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Wrapping up his address, Tarar thanked the organizers for the invitation and assured sports journalists that he would personally follow up on any recommendations they submitted, reaffirming his commitment to supporting every meaningful effort to advance sports journalism in the country.
The event concluded with the Minister administering the oath of office to the newly elected executive body of the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Sports Journalists Association (RISJA) and joining attendees in cutting a cake to mark the occasion.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
