ISLAMABAD: A high-level meeting chaired by Minister of State for Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage Marriyum Aurangzeb was held on Wednesday to review the preparations for celebrating the 70th independence anniversary of Pakistan. The meeting decided to prepare a world-class version of the original composition of the National Anthem by Ahmed G Chagla, using a bigger, diverse and highly professional orchestra with enhanced musical rendition, which is also reflective of Pakistan’s wonderful cultural diversity. Pakistan National Council of Arts Director General Jamal Shah has been asked to submit a detailed creative proposal in this regard, according to a press release. Marriyum Aurangzeb directed the ministry to leave no stone unturned to celebrate the Independence Day in a befitting manner. She said that August 14 not only signified the value of freedom but also reminded us of unparalleled sacrifices of our forefathers that united the whole nation under one banner. “The Ministry of Information and its allied departments should make concerted efforts to make these celebrations a special and historic event,” she added. The minister said that arts, culture and heritage of every nook and cranny of the motherland should be duly highlighted during the course of the celebrations. She said that Pakistan’s historic win against India in ICC Champions Trophy final was indeed a landmark achievement, which was being celebrated with national zeal and fervour throughout the country. She directed PTV to make quality products and creative promos to project this sense of accomplishment and jubilation across the national spectrum. Marriyum said that this historic win had united the whole nation and created a rare sense of solidarity among the people of Pakistan. “Therefore, the ministry should proactively play its due role in consolidating the gains of this historic triumph and showcase its significance in an appropriate manner.” The meeting, in principle, accorded approval to the winning logo design that would be used as the official logo for the 70th Independence Day celebrations. The minister directed the officials concerned to implement the activities approved in the plan in a dedicated manner, and asked the authorities concerned to finalise a calendar of events in that regard, both within and outside the country. She said that special programmes – featuring youth vision and creating awareness about indigenous arts, culture and heritage – should be prepared and aired. The meeting was attended by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MOIB) secretary, Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation director general, External Publicity Wing director general, Internal Publicity Wing director general, principal information officer, Cyber Wing director general, PNCA director general, Associated Press of Pakistan managing director and other senior officials of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Published in Daily Times, June 22nd, 2017.