Govt plans full digitisation of PTV, Radio Pakistan network in FY27

The government has announced plans to fully digitise the broadcasting networks of Pakistan Television (PTV) and Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) during FY2026-27, alongside new initiatives aimed at strengthening national branding and promoting Pakistan’s creative industries.

According to the Annual Plan 2026-27, the government intends to complete the transition from analogue to digital terrestrial broadcasting across state-owned media institutions.

The move follows limited progress made during FY2025-26, when three PTV stations and several PBC transmission facilities were upgraded to digital systems. However, a large portion of the broadcasting network continues to operate on analogue infrastructure.

The Annual Plan identifies digitisation of the remaining PTV and PBC stations as a key target for the coming fiscal year. However, the document does not specify implementation timelines, project costs, procurement plans or technical partnerships required to complete the transition.

As part of its broader media and branding strategy, the government has also proposed establishing a National Centre for Brands Development (NCBD).

According to the plan, the centre will serve as a platform to strengthen Pakistan’s national and international image and support export-oriented growth. No details have been provided regarding its governance structure, funding model or operational framework.

The government has also proposed formulating a Creative and Culture Industry strategy aimed at promoting Pakistan’s cultural, media and digital content sectors internationally.

The initiative is intended to support cultural diplomacy and expand Pakistan’s global media presence. However, the policy documents do not outline financing mechanisms, regulatory incentives or institutional arrangements for the proposed strategy.

The initiatives form part of the government’s wider effort to modernise state media institutions and strengthen Pakistan’s cultural and economic outreach.

While the Annual Plan sets out broad objectives for digitisation, national branding and creative industry development, detailed implementation frameworks have yet to be released.