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Islamabad: In a sweeping crackdown on corruption, APP Managing Director Muhammad Asim Khichi revealed over Rs1.24 billion embezzled within the national news agency, drawing unanimous praise from the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting.
Whistleblower Commended: Chairperson Pauline Baloch and Federal Secretary Ambreen Jan lauded Khichi’s integrity and urged swift recovery of looted public funds.
FIA Action: 16 officials, including former executives, face legal action for financial irregularities, fake recruitments, and provident fund mismanagement.
Digital Growth: APP recorded 85 million website impressions and millions of social media followers across Facebook, TikTok, X, Instagram, and YouTube. Local server shift saves $9,000 annually.
Revenue Targets: APP aims for Rs200 million in annual revenue; cabinet approval pending for MoUs with 11 foreign news agencies.
PTV Reforms: Rs11 billion approved to clear arrears; all salaries paid by June 25.
Press Complaints: 5,435 of 6,340 complaints resolved in the past eight years.
Independence Day Controversy: Omission of Quaid-e-Azam’s portrait in official ad deemed unacceptable by the committee.
The session was attended by MNAs Sehar Kamran, Aminul Haque, Asia Naz Tanoli, Rana Ansar, Kiran Dar, Shaheen, Salahuddin Junejo, and Mehtab Akbar Rashdi (online).
