STAFF REPORTER
PESHAWAR : Chairman of the Pakistan Culture, Tourism and Arts Organization (PCTO), Javed Aziz Khalji, has urged the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to introduce special grants and welfare programs for artists, actors, singers, musicians, folk performers, and other cultural workers, saying many are facing serious financial difficulties due to a lack of opportunities in the arts sector.
He praised the Punjab government’s initiatives to support film, drama, and cultural activities through grants and financial assistance, noting that such measures have helped create employment and improve the livelihoods of artists and creative professionals.
Khalji said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa possesses immense artistic and cultural talent, including actors, singers, musicians, directors, writers, and custodians of cultural heritage. However, many of them are struggling to make ends meet as cultural productions and activities continue to decline.
He called on the provincial government to establish dedicated funds, grants, and employment-generating projects aimed at strengthening the arts and cultural sectors while preserving the province’s rich cultural identity.
“Art and culture are the hallmark of any society’s identity, and supporting artists is a vital responsibility of the government,” he said, expressing hope that the provincial authorities would take practical steps to improve the welfare of artists and cultural workers across the province.
