The decision was discussed during a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture, chaired by Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar, where key cultural and heritage projects were reviewed in detail.

Briefing the committee, the Secretary for National Heritage said the project was launched on the Prime Minister’s instructions. The aim is to present the lives, struggles, and vision of national heroes in a way that connects with the younger generation and brings history to life on screen.

The Director of the Allama Iqbal Academy informed the committee that interviews with Allama Iqbal’s grandchildren and great grandchildren are already underway and are expected to be completed by the end of February. The committee also decided to meet members of Iqbal’s family to ensure historical accuracy and depth.

Ertugrul, a Turkish historical drama based on Islamic history, gained massive popularity in Pakistan and other countries. The series highlighted courage, sacrifice, and leadership, and played a strong role in renewing young people’s interest in Muslim history. Pakistani officials hope to achieve a similar impact through this new production.

During the meeting, other heritage-related matters were also discussed. It was shared that the governments of Sindh, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan are actively working on cultural projects. A World Sculpture Exhibition is scheduled to take place on February 6.

The committee directed that students should be taken on regular educational visits to the Pakistan National Council of Arts, so that the youth can build a closer bond with national culture and heritage.

Progress on the construction of a new National Museum near Shakarparian was also reviewed. Officials stated that land has been acquired, but the project has been delayed until next year due to the withdrawal of funds. Currently, the department has only 190 million rupees available. The committee decided to write a letter to the Prime Minister to seek immediate funding.

The meeting also approved the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Amendment) Bill 2025, which transfers rule-making authority from the Prime Minister to the institution’s board, following legal requirements after the Mustafa Impex case.

Additionally, officials briefed the committee on the restoration of a Gurdwara in Daska. Due to access issues faced by the Sikh community, fencing has begun, and the boundary wall and gates are expected to be completed within two weeks.

The Chairman of the Evacuee Trust Property Board highlighted severe financial challenges, stating that the board is under heavy financial strain.

He revealed that many properties are rented at extremely low rates, while two properties in Islamabad generate 90 percent of the board’s revenue. It was also disclosed that the FBR collected two billion rupees from the board in a single day, calling the matter sensitive.

Taking serious notice, the committee decided to summon FBR officials for an in-camera briefing in the next meeting. Members stressed that resolving financial issues is essential to protect national heritage and religious sites and to ensure these institutions can perform their duties effectively.