Federal Minister of Information Attaullah Tarar on Tuesday revealed that the National Broadcaster Pakistan Television’s (PTV) salary payments were delayed due to significant payments made to acquire TV rights for the ICC Champions Trophy.

During a briefing at the National Assembly’s Information Committee, Tarar justified the move and said the government prioritized cricket accessibility to the public, especially in remote areas where PTV’s land -based network is the only broadcast option.

“Our goal was to ensure that every citizen, even in villages and remote areas, could see the ICC Champions Trophy,” he said.

“PTV’s antenna-based broadcasts allow people without internet or cable access to enjoy these matches.”

The Minister recognized setbacks caused by the 21-day wage delay and contrasted it with private channels where such delays span months.

He also criticized private media owners for not paying employees on time despite significant revenue from sectors as real estate.

Tarar detailed ongoing PTV reforms, including efforts to streamline its workforce and improve financial management.

He highlighted the removal of 12 careirled retirees who draw for large wages and stated that the degree verification of the employees would be completed on January 31.

“PTV previously operated on a” never-go-home “policy, where retired staff were restored with high wages,” he said.

“Such inefficiencies caused considerable financial load, but we take corrective measures.”

The minister also discussed plans to increase PTV’s revenue by bringing the private sector anchor and incentive them to generate advertising revenue.

He noted that PTV sports in particular have seen increased revenue under the government’s new strategy.

The committee also considered a proposed amendment to the PEMRA rules, which include the establishment of a censorship board for dramas and ads sent on entertainment channels.

Convener Senator Sehar Kamran suggested stricter supervision to ensure family -friendly content.

A subcommittee was formed to consult stakeholders in the TV industry.

Tarar expressed optimism about PTV’s role in hosting international events and emphasized the organization’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy and other sports events.

He revealed plans to involve cricket legends such as Shoaib Akhtar and Shoaib Malik in PTV’s comment panel to improve audience commitment.

“Our goal is to strengthen PTV Sports’ profile and deliver first -class coverage to viewers throughout Pakistan,” he said.

The minister also highlighted wider improvements in state media institutions, including removing ghost employees and streamlining pension systems in Radio Pakistan.

Despite challenges, Tarar maintained that the government’s focus on acquiring ICC rights was a step towards ensuring widespread access to sports.

“For the first time this year, there are major sporting events in Pakistan,” he said.

“This initiative will help bring the nation together and promote cricket in every corner of the country.”

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Tickets Now For Sale

Tickets for ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, taking place in Pakistan with India’s matches in UAE, have now gone on sale from today.

Fans can now secure seats for group phase matches and other semi-finals in Pakistan.

ICC family members gain early access through a two-hour priority window. General tickets start from RS 1,000 with Premium Settings from RS 1,500 across matches in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi. Physical tickets will be available from February 3 at designated TCS Express centers in Pakistan.

Ticket information for India’s matches in UAE (20, 23 February and March 2) will soon be announced. Fans can also sign up for updates.

Tickets for the last match scheduled for March 9 will be available after the first semi -final in Dubai.

ICC Chief Commercial Officer, Anurag Dahiya, highlighted the importance of the Tournament for Pakistan as it hosts its first global cricket event since 1996. With recently upgraded stadiums and affordable tickets, the event promises exciting cricket, available to fans of all ages.

Tournament Director, Sumair Ahmad Syed, emphasized that the competition would offer an unforgettable experience where each match carries high efforts.

Marketing campaign ‘All on the Line’, which contains cricket stars such as Hardik Pandya, Mohammad Nabi, Phil Salt, Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi, burns further the tension.