On January 15, Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar announced that veteran broadcaster Ishrat Fatima would return to Pakistan Television (PTV) as a mentor for aspiring newscasters and broadcasters. The announcement was made during his visit to her residence in Islamabad and follows the end of her 45-year association with Radio Pakistan.

Tarar said that Fatima’s extensive professional experience would support the training of new entrants in news reading and broadcasting. He described her as a seasoned newscaster whose voice had been widely recognised across the country over several decades of national service.

The minister explained that he personally requested Fatima to join PTV after her retirement, noting that her guidance would assist the next generation and contribute to the promotion of the Urdu language. He added that her return would strengthen Pakistan Television as an institution and mentioned that preparations were under way for her formal welcome.

Speaking to the media, Fatima said that news reading had been her lifelong passion and expressed gratitude for being entrusted with the mentoring responsibility. She stated that she looked forward to teaching younger broadcasters and contributing to the improvement of the organisation. She also encouraged continued government support for competent professionals in all fields.

Tarar highlighted Fatima’s long-standing contributions to national broadcasting and her role in shaping professional journalism in Pakistan. Fatima reiterated the importance of nurturing emerging talent to maintain standards of responsible and credible reporting.