Go there, see that

In sharp contrast, Indian viewers draw a virtual blank. PTV hardly produces programmes which could sustain viewers’ interest. It’s unifocal coverage of Jammu and Kashmir and soporific discussions on the Kashmir issue remain unpalatable to Indian viewers. The quality of their films and television serials is also poor, with the result that most Indians remain ignorant about social life and issues in Pakistan. This has predictably created several myths about Pakistani society.

Years of animosity and hostility had raised huge walls of misinformation and false propaganda between the two countries. Before the advent of satellite TV, there was little flow of information from India as Doordarshan was denied access, AIR was not regarded credible and Indian newspapers were banned in Pakistan. There is now a hunger for news and information about India and Indian visitors are quizzed on the way of life here and social and political developments.

In interactions with a cross-section of Pakistanis, one gets the feeling that enough is enough and it is high time the two countries come together as good neighbours. While in the past the ‘K’ word marked the beginning and end of all conversations, there is a perceptible change now, with discussions delving into the possibility of trade and mutual benefits for both countries. Of course, Kashmir remains an important issue for Pakistanis, but there is a growing realisation that use of force is no solution to the problem.

The increased flow of information and the recent decision to relax visa restrictions for certain categories of visitors by the two countries are being heartily welcomed by Indians and Pakistanis. There is a simmering desire either side to visit the other country. Closer contact and more interaction among the people of India and Pakistan could lead to better understanding and can serve as effective confidence building measures.