WEB DESK: Pakistan is cracking down on excessive foreign content, especially the broadcast of Indian programmes, on its television channels. Islamabad's regulatory body said the country's television networks can air Indian content with less than 6% of total air time.

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) warned that the violators would be slapped with hefty fines and urged them to adhere to rules. Authorities said they were ramping up their measures after complaints from public and channels' proprietors.

Pakistan's Electronic Media Regulatory Authority or PEMRA said the decision was prompted by complaints from different television owners and "concerned citizens."

"Only TV channels having permission and license can telecast foreign content. Pakistani TV channels can utilize less than 6 per cent of air time to telecast Indian TV content from October 15," said PEMRA chief Absar Alam.

He also warned that strict action will be taken against those TV channels which continue to violate the code of conduct beyond the given 45 day deadline.