During the reign of Akbar-e-Azam, a Central Asian ruler once said, “I am not as afraid of Akbar’s sword as I am of Abul Fazl’s pen.” Similarly, the famous Greek philosopher Socrates would say, “Give me a bed and a good book, that’s all I want.” Reading, teaching, writing, and journalism are fascinating hobbies. Reading newspapers is crucial for every member of society, as their importance and utility are undeniable. Newspapers keep us informed about current events and provide valuable information. Reading them offers mental and spiritual training, thereby enhancing our knowledge. Commentary on current affairs, profiles of notable personalities, and scientific and literary articles in newspapers hold great significance. A newspaper is not just a collection of pages; it would not be wrong to call it a “jam-jahan-nama” (a comprehensive world guide).
In the modern era, the importance of newspapers is undeniable, and they continue to play a vital role. I recall that during our college days, a specific time was dedicated to reading newspapers in the library. Various types of newspapers were available, and every student would choose the one they preferred. However, time has flown by, and with the advent of mobile phones and the internet, the role of print newspapers has diminished. Nowadays, e-papers are readily accessible on mobile devices, but I believe that reading the news on a phone cannot replace the experience of reading a physical newspaper.
Today’s youth are largely unaware of the value of newspapers. While news is available on social media and YouTube, it is often unauthentic, and social media can never replace the credibility of newspapers. The history of daily newspapers in Azad Kashmir spans just two decades, and these dailies have only recently matured. In today’s era, it’s concerning that government and private institutions seem more focused on ending newspaper production rather than promoting it.
Where once thousands of newspapers were sold, now they are only sold in hundreds. The current generation does not realize the hard work involved in collecting and preparing news. Digitization has drastically altered the life of a journalist, and it’s become difficult to even find a newspaper of one’s choice in the market. Where there were once numerous newspaper vendors, now there are barely any. It seems that selling newspapers has become more of a compulsion than a livelihood. Journalism, once a noble profession, is now being neglected, and the price of newspapers has remained stagnant at 10 to 20 rupees for the past decade or more.
The government must take steps to revive journalism, especially newspapers, which play a crucial role in the dissemination of authentic information. It should be mandatory for both government and private organizations to purchase and promote newspapers. The importance of regional newspapers is recognized globally for the positive role they play in society. Apart from domestic and foreign news, they provide students with essential information on modern inventions, research, and government policies.
Azad Jammu Kashmir’s newspapers are playing a historic role in highlighting the Kashmir freedom movement, representing the aspirations of both the government and the people. Recently, at a swearing-in ceremony held at Jammu and Kashmir House, Islamabad, Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar Haq emphasized the eternal bond between Pakistan and Kashmir. He urged the protection of this bond and assured that no one would be allowed to jeopardize it. He further stated that the government would provide all necessary resources for the welfare of journalists and called for a disciplinary committee within the All Kashmir Newspapers Society (AKNS) to ensure journalistic integrity.
The Prime Minister announced several developmental projects and emphasized merit-based appointments in Azad Kashmir. He also assured the timely payment of arrears to newspapers and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the Kashmir freedom movement. State newspapers are playing a leading role in exposing Indian atrocities in Occupied Kashmir and highlighting the welfare measures of the independent government.
The newly elected president of AKNS, Amjad Chaudhry, expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for increasing the budget allocation for print media. However, the state’s media industry is still grappling with financial challenges due to rising costs. The collapse of state newspapers would have far-reaching consequences for the hundreds of people associated with the industry, including journalists, publishers, vendors, and delivery workers.
It is vital that the government and the Information Department of Azad Kashmir take immediate action to support the state’s newspapers. Ensuring fair distribution of government advertisements and timely payments would strengthen the media industry, which is essential for presenting Pakistan’s narrative to the world, especially regarding the Kashmir issue. The survival of Azad Kashmir’s young but vital newspaper industry depends on immediate governmental intervention.