PM, Belarus President discuss bilateral ties; regional, int’l issues
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday had a bilateral meeting with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko here on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of State meeting. The two leaders discussed regional and global challenges as well as a thorough examination of their bilateral relationship. The prime minister thanked President Lukashenko for his sympathy and regrets over the destruction wrought and emphasised the significant material and human losses brought on by Pakistan's historic floods. He emphasised the need for global cooperation to fight the problem, highlighting the growing danger that climate change poses to nations like Pakistan. The prime minister acknowledged the extensive framework of cooperation and processes in place and pledged to accelerate bilateral cooperation in all areas, including political, trade, investment, and economic cooperation between Pakistan and Belarus. The next meeting of the Pakistan-Belarus Joint Economic Commission (JEC) would be held as soon as possible, as the two sides agreed, and this might help to increase trade and collaboration between the two countries in many different sectors. The prime minister emphasised Pakistan's support for Belarus' full SCO membership and his belief that it would enhance the group even further. While accepting President Lukashenko's invitation to visit Belarus, he also invited the Belarusian leader to visit Pakistan.
Army chief meets Hungarian FM & defence officials
WEB DESK
BUDAPEST: Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Thursday called on the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, Mr. Peter Szijjarto. He is visiting Budapest on invitation of the Hungarian Government, the Pakistani embassy said. Mr. Szijjarto announced an increase in the number of scholarships for Pakistani students under the Stipendium Hungaricum Program from 200 to 400 as a sign of his profound solidarity with the nation and government of Pakistan, which is currently dealing with unprecedented floods brought on by climate change. The COAS appreciated the Hungarian government for their assistance and cordial gesture. He pleaded with the developed nations and the global community to recognise the destruction brought on by climate change. Additionally, he asked Hungary to assist bilateral trade growth more actively and to share its knowledge and technology in the area of water resource management with the agricultural sector. This, he continued, will aid Pakistan in reducing climate change and bolstering the agricultural sector's contribution to the country's economy. There was a thorough exchange of opinions on a number of regional problems of shared interest, particularly the challenges the Ukraine crisis has brought to the developing world. General Bajwa was briefed by FM Szijjarto on Hungary's stand on the matter. Both parties acknowledged that fighting only causes greater destruction and anarchy, and that a peaceful resolution to the situation could avert dire worldwide repercussions in the future. In addition, LTG Romulusz Ruszin-Szendi, Commander of the Hungarian Defence Forces (COM HDF), and the COAS had a thorough discussion during the visit.
Pak-Iran 'Pishin Border Market' to open in coming month: Naveed
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Commerce Syed Naveed Qamar On Thursday said that the opening of Pakistan-Iran 'Pishin Border Market' is expected in the coming month, which will increase the trend of free trade between the two countries. He stated that work would soon begin on the other three markets, including Gabd, Rimdan, and Kohak. He also stated that the Pishin border market had been finished and that its inauguration was planned. Syed Naveed Qamar, the federal minister of commerce, made this statement during a meeting with the Iranian parliamentary delegation, which also included Majid Naseri Nejad and Dr. Mohsen Fathi, and was led by Malek Fazeli. According to the minister, a total of 12 border markets have been suggested by both sides to boost the amount of trade between the two nations, of which 9 have received unanimous approval. According to him, the barter system will allow for trade across these border markets. The minister stated that there was an urgent need to boost gas and oil trade, which would contribute in boosting both countries' trade volumes.
NPMC examines the cost of commodities
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Thursday directed the concerned stakeholders to ensure the smooth supply of essential commodities in local markets and there should be no speculations to disturb the market. While presiding over a meeting of the National Price Monitoring Committee, the minister gave these instructions (NPMC). Following recent flash floods in the nation, the group assessed the status of the supply of various essential commodities. The Chief Economist, the Chief Secretary of Punjab, and representatives from the FBR, PBS, and the Ministry of Food Security and Industries all attended the conference. It should be mentioned that the Ministry of Planning Commission took the initiative last week when activating the NPMC in order to guarantee the supply of edible commodities and to maintain their pricing following the country's floods. The NPMC reviews the pricing of necessary goods on a weekly basis to ensure that there should be no market speculation over price increases and that the distribution of vital commodities should not be slowed down. The minister authorised the involved parties to impose severe punishment on anyone who engaged in market hoarding.
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Law and Justice, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar chaired a meeting of Cabinet sub Committee to deliberate a policy relating to enforced disappearances at Ministry of Law.
Any attempts to undermine Pakistan will not be accepted: FO
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Foreign Office Spokesperson Asim Iftikhar has rejected media reports regarding any stoppage of work or abandonment of the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower project. During his weekly news briefing this afternoon in Islamabad, he responded to a question by saying that India is once again spreading untrue and unsupported rumours about the Neelum-Jhelum hydropower project. He said that a flaw in the project had been found and that the Gezhouba Group of China, the responsible party, had been contacted to begin remedial work. He said that the team had already completed full mobilisation at the job site and that for now, the work was moving along without any setbacks, with completion anticipated for 2023. Any reports of a labour stoppage or purported abandonment, the spokesperson claimed, are untrue.
Imran will be held responsible by state institutions for deceiving the public: Javed Latif
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister Mian Javed Latif on Thursday said that the state institutions would hold Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chief Imran Khan accountable for spreading mischief and misleading the people to serve his interests. In a statement to the media, he stated Imran should only add Islamic elements to his remarks after consulting learned Ulma and Islamic scholars. He said that non-Muslims have perfect religious freedom in the nation. He asserted that Imran's 2014 sit-in was funded by foreign powers. Imran's incorrect interpretation of Islam was unacceptable, he added, adding that Imran should refrain from discussing delicate topics because he lacked expertise and offended people's sensibilities. He continued by saying that the PML-N opposed violence in the nation and disapproved of the use of religion as a political tool.
Dengue poses threat
By Sardar Khan Niazi
Dengue fever continues to be a public health menace and a threat. Dengue is one of the most rapidly spreading mosquito-borne viral diseases. Presently, the situation appears far more critical in the country. A fresh wave of panic has gripped Pakistan. Less than a month after Rawalpindi had issued a public health red alert in the wake of 60 dengue cases surfacing overnight, deadly mosquitos are busy making rounds in all corners of the country. Dengue is not only surging in flooded areas, it is making its presence felt in other cities and towns too. Over 100 dengue patients landed in three government-run hospitals in Rawalpindi alone on Sept 12. Most of them belong to this district but some have also come from other nearby districts such as Abbottabad, Attock, Haripur, and Mansehra. Dengue virus cases are surging across the country amid reports of deaths due to the virus. Dengue fever is already claiming lives and cases are increasing by the day. The first confirmed outbreak of dengue fever in Pakistan was in 1994, but a sudden rise in cases and the annual epidemic trend first occurred in Karachi in November 2005. Since 2010, Pakistan has been experiencing an epidemic of dengue fever that has caused 16 580 confirmed cases and 257 deaths in Lahore and nearly 5000 cases and 60 deaths reported in the rest of the country. The three provinces facing the epidemic are Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Sindh. Dengue fever is a year-round and nationwide risk in Pakistan. Authorities reported 3,442 dengue fever cases in Pakistan in 2017, more than 3,200 in 2018, almost 24,547 in 2019, and 3,442 cases in 2020. It is worth mentioning here that a major outbreak of dengue occurred in 2019 after weeks of heavy and nonstop rainfall. With similar conditions in 2022, the threat of another major outbreak is on the way. The most severe outbreak, though, seems to be in flood-hit areas as dengue is a vector-borne viral disease that thrives on stagnant water. Thousands of patients are reporting daily as the disease is tightening its grip on the country. Though deaths from dengue are low, its effect on families and patients themselves is damaging. It starts with flu-like symbols and then develops as a much more risky attack. Dengue controlling itself should be the main concern of the health department and relief agencies. The disease is controllable but it gets worse when people are unable or reluctant to drink and eat sufficiently. Timely medical intervention is of vital significance so that things do not go out of control. A worst case of dengue may also require a blood transfusion, which is barely possible in flood-hit areas. The federal and provincial governments must make sure that all required medicines are available in the market in adequate quantities. Unfortunately, our health infrastructure's planned fumigation drive to eliminate mosquito populations is weak. Transmission of dengue fever occurs through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated in a timely manner. If previously infected with dengue fever, consult your physician regarding vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas.
Mehmood to review NHA’s affected roads infrastructure
By staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Communications Maulana Asad Mehmood, along with Federal Secretary and Chairman National Highway Authority and JamiatUlema-e-Islam (F) Karachi Provincial Leader Allama Rashid MehmoodSoomro, was on a visit to Karachi to review the affected road infrastructure of the National Highway Authority (NHA) in Sindh due to recent monsoon rains and high level of floods. On the occasion, they were briefed about the latest situation of Indus Highway, Mehran Highway and National Highway by Secretary Communications Captain (R) Muhammad Khurram Agha and Member South Zone Ahmed Memon in the zonal office of National Highway Karachi said a press release. They informed that the Indus Highway was still affected due to floods where there is 11 feet stagnant water on the Sehwan to Mehar Highway. Meanwhile heavy traffic can also not pass through the Mehran highway due to single track. There was also a slow flow of light traffic on the Mehran highway due to the presence of flood water. Therefore, the traffic of Indus Highway was shifted to National Highway, where there were already potholes due to floods and the 70% of the National Highway was already affected. Due to traffic load and potholes, the work of restoring the highway was facing difficulties, but the NHA staff is busy day and night in restoring the National Highway and other highways.
In August, 12,000 Lahore children were leftward polio vaccine coverage
By Staff Reporter
LAHORE: Over 12,000 children remained unvaccinated in Lahore during the recent inoculation campaign, owing to what appears to be gross negligence on the part of polio programme managers—the highest number of “missed children” reported in the provincial capital so far. The Synergy Evaluation System (SES) has reported the data of the missing children who were unable to be reached during the National Immunization Days (NIDs) campaign, which began on August 22 in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad. Two days of the seven-day campaign were dedicated to reaching “unavailable children”. The SES is a PEI-EPI Synergy Punjab initiative to collect real-time data on coverage evaluation for the 6-23 month target age group, based on unvaccinated children, based on age immunisation, fully immunised children, and IPV vaccination (given as a shot in the arm or leg, depending on a child's age) coverage to identify potential gaps in a union council for rectification and EI improvement. The World Health Organization (WHO) has already stated in its standard guidelines that polio primarily affects children under the age of five. Anyone of any age who is not immunised can contract the disease. "There is no cure for polio," the WHO says, adding that unvaccinated children may put other children their age at risk through virus transmission. According to the report, endemic transmission of wild poliovirus is still occurring in parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan. “As long as a single child remains infected, children in all countries are at risk of contracting polio”, it says. Failure to eradicate polio from these last remaining strongholds, according to the WHO, could result in a global resurgence of the disease. Despite these hard facts, the polio programme managers in Punjab appear to be neglectful of the initiatives and targets set by the WHO, other global health bodies, and donors. According to the SES report, which exposed the poor performance of the health and district authorities, a total of 12,213 children were not given polio vaccine in August NIDs in Lahore, a city that has been plagued by polio for years. According to the SES, 10,949 of the total unvaccinated children are under the age of two months; 755 are between the ages of three and six months; 423 are between the ages of seven and one year; and 86 are over the age of one year. The report also compares data on unvaccinated children to figures reported in May and March of this year. According to the report, 11,065 children of the aforementioned age groups went unvaccinated during the NID campaign launched in May and 10,582 during the NID drive in March this year, bringing the total number of unvaccinated children in Lahore to 33,860. According to the report, health officials have consistently failed to include children in each polio vaccination drive. Similarly, the number of missed children in NID campaigns is increasing because the number of unvaccinated children reported in August 2022 was higher than in May and March.
Cases of dengue fever continue rise in KP
By Staff Reporter
PESHAWAR: The province's efforts to prevent dengue fever outbreaks have been hampered by a lack of female health workers, a lack of public awareness, and faulty coordination among line departments as the mosquito-borne ailment caused by the recent floods continues to surge. Health experts attribute the risk of water-borne illness in the displaced population to a lack of female staff in newly merged districts for door-to-door activities and a lack of people's ownership of anti-dengue efforts for their own safety. Health officials in the newly-merged districts told Dawn that a lack of female health workers was hampering the campaign to check houses for larva and raise women's awareness of the dangers of storing water in uncovered pots, the primary source of mosquito production. They stated that one of the primary reasons for the fear of an increase in dengue cases in the aftermath of the floods was a lack of coordination among 19 line departments to the desired level to ensure dengue outbreak prevention. Because of unsanitary conditions and haphazard urbanisation, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is known for outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases. Because of the favourable environment for mosquito breeding, the number of cases of the disease continues to rise. According to officials, the province had 24,938 dengue cases and 70 deaths in 2017, with a 0.28 percent case fatality rate. With 94.3 percent of patients registered, Peshawar remained the epicentre of the epidemic. The infection resurfaced in 2019, infecting 7,083 people but resulting in no deaths. The mosquito-borne disease was detected in 10,617 patients last year, with 10 of them dying. According to a health department report on dengue fever, the virus had affected 3,520 people as of September 14, with seven districts, including Charsadda, Lower Dir, Haripur, Khyber, Mardan, Nowshera, and Peshawar, recording more than 100 positive cases each. "Of the total number of infected people, 2,775 have recovered," it said.
Punjab Assembly passed Local Government Bill 2021
By Staff Reporter
LAHORE: Before even giving the previous one, which was enacted less than three months ago, a chance, the law governing the (non-existent for more than two years) local governments was changed once more. Despite the opposition PML-N and PPP boycotting the proceedings and ignoring the lack of quorum in the house, the Punjab Assembly passed the Local Government Bill of 2021 on Wednesday, repealing the Local Government Act of 2022. On June 24, 2022, the Hamza government passed the latter. The bill eliminated the middle tier of the local government system, which had been in place since 2002 and was also retained in the 2022 Act: tehsil councils in rural areas and town councils in urban areas. It also reduces the number of seats in a union council: general councillor seats are reduced from six to five, women's reserved seats are reduced from three to two, and youth seats are reduced from two to one. while three seats reserved for technocrats and two for disabled people are eliminated. Local government terms have also been reduced from the five years proposed in the 2022 Act to four years.
CHANGE NAME
My name before marriage was lubna shahzadi after marriage i changed the name lubna shahzadi to lubna wahid.Now i want to change name in all pension documents as well as Army Card. i am to be addresses both orally and writing by my new name.
Court Notice
In the Court of Nasir Javed Sahib Civil Judge Sarai Alamgir,Suit for Application for contempt of court. Marwat Khan VS Muhammad Arif But, notice to Muhammad Arif But son of Pola Khan resident of Sadwal.Rafiq Ahmad But son of Ghulam Mustafa resident of Mohalla Sattarpura Kharian City Tehsil Khariyan District Gujarat, Whereas respondent cannot be served in ordinary manner, It is proclaimed in this court on 19-09-2022at 8 am ex-party proceeding will be taken against you.
CM Fixes property Transfer Fee at One Percent
By Staff Reporter
LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Chaudhry Parvez Elahi has fixed property transfer at one percent across the province. In a statement, he said that the revenue of the Punjab government will increase a lot adding that this decision has been taken in the best public interest. There will be an increase in registries across the province and our initiative aims to give relief to the people. This initiative will also promote the construction industry while creating immense employment opportunities, he stated.
Property tax challan forms have been sent to property owners in Attock and all tehsils, saya Zafar Ishaq
By Tahir Nakash
Attock: According to Attock District Excise and Taxation Officer Zafar Ishaq, property tax challan forms have been sent to property owners in Attock and all tehsils.And last date for submission of property tax with exemption is 30 September 2022. Tax payers can avail additional 5% discount even from home through E-PAY mobile application. As part of a special public awareness campaign, banners have also been displayed at prominent places in the city and all the tehsils. Apart from this, a special message about taxes is being given to the public by making announcements on the official vehicle of the department in all the neighborhoods. ETO Attock has appealed to all taxpayers to take advantage of this special discount as a responsible citizen till September 30, 2022. After the grace period, property tax will be collected through penalty and action will be taken against them as per law. In case the challan form is not received, a new challan form can be obtained by contacting the office.
CHANGE IN FATHER'S NAME
I Usama Ali Khan have passed secondary school certificate annual examination 2016 under role number 232389 and intermediate annual examination 2018 under role number 414304 from B.I.S.E., Sargodha. My father’s name is Mushtaq Ahmed whereas on certificates has been mentioned as Mushtaq Ahmed Khan which is incorrect. I want to get changed my father’s name from Mushtaq Ahmed Khan to Mushtaq Ahmad. If any person/organization /agency have any objection, than the same may be intimated in writing to the secretary, Board of intermediate & Secondary Education, near 49-tail Faisalabad road, Sargodha within 15 days.
Court Notice
In the Court of Mr Imtiaz Ahmed Gondal Additional District and Sessions Judge Sarai Alamgir, Civil appeal, Syed Javed Aslam vs Rifat Begum notice to Rifat Begum daughter of Abdul Aziz Zaat Jat. Muhammad Ilyas son of Shah Muhammad zat Jat. Asia Begum, daughter of Noor Fatima deceased through heirs, Zahida Nasreen. Shahida Begum daughters. Noor Fatimah, daughter of Hayat Shah, deceased through her heirs. Syed Zulqarnain Ahmed Rizvi, s/o Rashida Begum, daughter of Noor Fatima, Azez Begum, daughter of Noor Fatima. Ghulam Fatima, daughter of Hayat Shah, deceased, by her heirs, Kulsoom Bibi, widow of Safdar Shah, s/o Ghulam Fatima, Farooq Shah Imtiaz Shah Sajjad Shah Amjad Shah Pasran, Safdar Shah Pasran Ghulam Fatima, Shaheen Akhtar,Taslim Akhtar, Shazia Javed, Yasmeen bb, Nazia Bibi,Noreen Akhtar, daughters Safdar Shah, son Ghulam Fatima, Sarwar Shah, son Ghulam Fatima, deceased through heirs. Aamir Shah Zaheer Shah Hamid Shah Nasir Shah, Hammad Shah s/o Sarwar Shah s/o Ghulam Fatima. Rukhsana Begum, Rizwana Begum Daughters Sarwar Shah Pasar Ghulam Fatima deceased, Shabir Shah deceased s/o Ghulam Fatima deceased through heirs, Ansar Begum widow of Shabir Shah, Zahir Shah, s/o Azir Shah, son of Shabir Shah, son of Ghulam Fatima, deceased. Sajda Begum, daughter of Shabir Shah deceased, son of Ghulam Fatima deceased. Naseem Begum Maqsood Begum Dukhtar Ghulam Fatima deceased,Rizwana Begum Daughters Sarwar Shah Pasar Ghulam Fatima deceased. Shabir Shah deceased son of Ghulam Fatima deceased through heirs. Ansar Begum widow of Shabir Shah. Zahir Shah, s/o Azir Shah, s/o Shabir Shah, s/o Ghulam Fatima, deceased. Sajda Begum, daughter of Shabir Shah deceased, son of Ghulam Fatima deceased. Naseem Begum Maqsood Begum Dukhtar Ghulam Fatima deceased, Hasnain Shah Hasnat Shah Sabatin Shah Zakaullah Shah Pasran Zafar Shah deceased Pasar Sakina Bibi deceased. Amber Bibi Sidra Bibi Maryam Bibi Daughters Zafar Shah deceased son Sakina Bibi deceased. Idris Shah deceased son of Sakina Bibi deceased through heirs Imran Shah, Rizwan Shah Irfan Shah s/o Idris Shah deceased son Sakina Bibi. Nuzhat Bibi daughter of Idris Shah deceased deceased son Sakina Bibi deceased Zaat Syed Aqwam Syed Saknai Kot Syedan Tehsil Sarai Alamgir District Gujarat Masaul Alaihim. Manwar Shah son of Muhammad Aslam son of Hayat Shah. Sayeda Salma Aslam. Sayeda Zahra Bibi. Saida Zara Bibi. Saima Aslam, daughters of Muhammad Aslam, son of Hayat Shah Aqwam Syed, resident of Kot Syedan, tehsil of Sarai Alamgir, district of Gujarat, Respondents,Whereas respondents cannot be served in ordinary manner, It is proclaimed in this court on 20-09-2022at 8 am ex-party proceeding will be taken against you.
Price hike electricity bill and flood, revolution is knocking at the door
By District Reporter
CHAKWAL: Senior journalist Khawaja Babar Saleem Mahmood said on Thursday that the current situation when half of the country is submerged in water, every citizen of the country is worried about the electricity bills and inflation, in such a situation, the ruling and opposition parties are busy playing a game of back and forth. which is very shameful and the economic situation of the country does not seem to be under control yet, inflation is not only constant but is increasing with each passing day, the prices of electricity are also being continuously increased and now fuel adjustment orders are being abolished. There is talk of postponing instead of which the demand is that in the coming months this money will be added to the electricity bills, then there will definitely be an outcry from the public. However, keeping in view the economic condition of the country, the declaration of state of emergency has become necessary. He was speaking live from Chakwal Press Club Studio. Zulfiqar Mir, the host of the program, said that rally is going to be held in Chakwal on September 19 and the district administration has also come forward regarding this rally, however, there is still apathy among the political parties locally, except for a few social organizations affected by the floods. Regarding, no party is appearing in front except Raja Rizwan Dandut of People's Party. Senior journalist Muhammad Shafiq Malik said that now the announcement of Talagang district is being delayed rally and the impression is being given that the notification of Talagang district is a matter of few days, but the inside story is familiar. It is said that she does not show much enthusiasm. He said that if the rulers did not make any serious effort to give relief to the people, then if seen in the context of history, the revolution has started knocking lightly.
Punjab CM Message on International Democracy Day
By Staff Reporter
LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Chaudhry Parvez Elahi has said that the nation celebrates democracy day by remembering the slaying of Quaid-e-Azam that no one in the world is more democratic in their religion than Muslims. In his message, the CM reiterated that democracy means the government of the people, by the people and for the people. Democracy is the most sustainable means of promoting peace, prosperity and security; he stated and added that we best protect human rights, fundamental freedoms and societal equality through a democratic system. Parvaiz Elahi remarked that the real spirit of democracy is to fulfill the needs of the people. The primary responsibility of democratic institutions is to ensure the establishment of a free, fair and impartial society, he declared. Democracy is strengthened only by involving all stakeholders in the democratic process; he further commented and concluded that democracy is the only acceptable form of government and a guarantor of equal rights.
Chinese Cultural Counsellor holds meeting with new PNCA chief, discuss cultural cooperation
By Staff Reporter
Islamabad: Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Pakistan H.E Mr. Zhang Heqing has held a meeting with Mr. Ayub Jamali, the newly appointed Director General (DG) of the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA). The senior Chinese diplomat congratulated Jamali on his appointment and appreciated the PNCA’s role in promoting local and regional arts. They discussed cultural cooperation in different fields. Zhang Heqing expressed the confidence that under Jamali, the PNCA will prosper and take the positive agenda further. He mentioned that the diplomatic and friendly relationship between China and Pakistan were becoming even stronger. The PNCA is a National level premier institute that aims to promote artistic activity and focuses on all forms of art, like visual and performing arts. It is an autonomous body that was established in 1973. Earlier PNCA was under the Ministry of Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage but in August of 2019, it came under the National Heritage and Culture Division and this Division was shifted to the Ministry of Education. Recently the name of the Division has been changed to National Heritage and Culture Division, which encompasses all the institutions that come under the Division. The PNCA has been promoting the Chinese culture among other works as part of its goals. The PNCA regularly hosts Chinese cultural events.
03 suspects held during search and combing operations
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Islamabad Capital police conducted a search and combing operation in the jurisdiction of Ramana police station, a police public relations officer said. He said that, following the special directives of IGP Islamabad Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan, search and combing operations are being conducted in different areas of the city, to ensure the safety and security of the Islamabad citizens. Following these orders, a search and combing operation was conducted in the PS Ramana areas by local police, CTD and Quick reaction teams under the supervision of SP CTD. During the search operation 03 suspects and 04 vehicles were shifted to the police station for verification, 30 houses and 180 suspects were checked. While one 30 bore pistol, one 12 bore gun along with ammunition and 03 Knives were also recovered. IGP Islamabad Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan said that the purpose of the search and combing operations was to heighten the security in the Federal capital. All zonal officers were directed to continue these operations in their respective areas. Citizens are also requested to cooperate with police during checking.
NPMC reviews prices of essential commodities
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Thursday directed the concerned stakeholders to ensure the smooth supply of essential commodities in local markets and there should be no speculations to disturb the market. The minister issued these directions while chairing a meeting of National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC). The meeting reviewed the progress on supply of different essential commodities after recent flash floods in the country. The meeting was attended by the Chief Economist, Chief Secretary Punjab, representatives from FBR, PBS and Ministry of Food Security and Industries. It is noted that in order to ensure the supply of edibles commodities and to maintain their prices after the floods in the country, the Ministry of Planning Commission took a lead while activating the NPMC last week. On a weekly basis, the NPMC reviews prices of essential items and ensuring that there should be no speculation over the hike of prices in the market and distribution of essential commodities should not be delayed. The minister directed the concerned stakeholders to take stern action against the responsible who are involved in hoarding in the market. The minister also directed the chief secretaries of all provinces to ensure that there should be no hoarding of essential items particularly wheat. The minister was informed that after the import of tomatoes and onions the prices have decreased in the market. It was further informed that from next week the prices will further decrease in order to facilitate the masses. The minister also directed the Ministry of National Food Security and Industries to immediately take the steps to reduce the prices of Palm Oil. “The results are not seen on the ground after the decrease of Palm Oil prices results should be seen,” he remarked. The minister directed the Ministry of National Food Security and Industries to engage Palm Oil manufactures and take immediate steps to reduce the prices so relief could be ensured to the common man.
Action taken on 5,000 harassment complaints in four years: ombudsperson
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: When it comes to dealing with harassment cases, Pakistan is at the forefront. Over the last four years, 5,000 cases have been resolved, and high officials, including an ambassador posted in Europe and a police officer, have been suspended. Furthermore, Pakistan was the first country to begin women's representation on reserved seats in Parliament, with women now constituting 30% of the legislature. This was highlighted by Kashmala Khan, the Federal Ombudsperson for Harassment, while speaking to participants at a session titled "Women at the Center of the Development Agenda." Syeda Nausheen Iftikhar, Parliamentary Secretary for Human Rights, presided over the session, which was held in conjunction with the third regional seminar for Asia-Pacific Region Parliaments on Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Dr Fehmida Mirza, Dr Nafisa Shah, Kishwer Zehra, Dr Aisha Ghaus Pasha, Parliamentary Caucus representatives Shahida Rehmani and Kashmala Khan took part in the discussion.
Imran's squad's burnt vehicle examined by forensic team
By Staff Reporter
RAWALPINDI: On Tuesday, a team from the Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA) visited the Rawat police station and examined Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf chairman Imran Khan's squad vehicle, which caught fire on the way back to Islamabad following a public rally in Gujrat on September 3, 2022. The PFSA team arrived at the police station, accompanied by Saddar Division SP Ahmad Zunair Cheema and DSP, to determine the cause of the fire. The experts took samples from the damaged vehicles, which were otherwise undamaged on the inside. After completing some paperwork, they left the police station. The police and the emergency service Rescue 1122 have not determined the true cause of the fire. However, the police initially assumed that the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit. According to a senior police official, the true cause of the fire will be determined once the forensic report is received. "It does not appear to be an act of sabotage," he added, "but the true cause of the fire will become clear following the PFSA report." On September 3, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan's squad car caught fire while returning to Islamabad from a public rally in Gujrat near Rawat police station, apparently due to an electric short circuit.
“Sarsabz Paagh” award recognizes top-performing dealers
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: In our region, a turban or "paagh" is considered a symbol of honor. Accordingly, Fatima Fertilizer invited 180 of its top performing dealers from all over Pakistan to attend a special awards ceremony held in recognition of their outstanding performance and support to the company. The awards were associated with the title of "Sarsabz Paagh" with the objective of recognizing and encouraging those Sarsabz dealers who attributed their success to the success of Fatima Fertilizer. More than 40 high-profile farmers who achieved top yields in their districts were also invited to the event along with the dealers. The company honored them and expressed its commitment to creating a deeper bond with the end user of their fertilizers i.e. the farmers. These farmers are key recommenders of the latest technology, nitrate-based Sarsabz Fertilizers and high-end farm services provided by Fatima Fertilizers. The invited dealers expressed their full confidence in Fatima Fertilizer who has always promoted their important role in ensuring the country-wide availability of fertilizer to help the farmers. The event was attended by senior officials of Fatima Fertilizer, including Rabel Sadozai, Director of Sales and Marketing at Fatima Fertilizer. While expressing her views, Rabel Sadozai said, "Dealers play a pivotal role in ensuring country-wide availability of fertilizer to support the farmers. The main purpose of introducing the Sarsabz Paagh program is to honor and recognize the important role of Sarsabz dealers in enabling the agriculture sector to contribute toward economic prosperity and achieve food security at the national level. While the havoc caused by recent floods has inflicted serious damage to the agriculture sector, it also indicates that we need to work together with unity and mutual recognition to recover from this crisis." Sarsabz Fertilizer has long been a strong advocate of giving due importance and recognition to Pakistan's underserved farmers in order to curb national food security challenges in the face of constantly increasing population and food demand.
MQM-P warns withdrawing support if missing workers not recovered
By Staff Repoter
ISLAMABAD: Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) deputy convener and former Karachi Mayor Waseem Akhtar has warned that the party might withdraw support to the federal government if their missing workers are not recovered. He was talking to the media in Karachi after attending the funeral of missing MQM worker Abid Abbasi. On Wednesday, three missing MQM workers’ bodies – including Abbasi – were found in different cities of Sindh. “We entered into agreement with three big political parties but we are still finding the bodies of our missing workers,” he said. The former mayor said that MQM-P did not support Shehbaz Sharif to become the prime minister so they could collect the bodies [of its workers].
US Embassy and US-Pakistan Women's Council have launched Pakistan Future of Women and Work Initiative
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The US Embassy in Islamabad and the US-Pakistan Women's Council (USPWC) launched the Pakistan Future of Women and Work Initiative yesterday in Islamabad, in collaboration with Texas A&M University, S&P Global, and the US Chamber of Commerce's US-Pakistan Business Council. The event highlighted a study on the impact of COVID-19 on women's workforce participation in Pakistan, as well as efforts to catalyse research, public discourse, and private sector commitments to address gender gaps in the midst of the pandemic. "Through the US-Pakistan Women's Council, the US has been working for a decade to build bridges between the people of our two countries to support Pakistan's development," said Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Elizabeth Horst at the launch event, Sustained prosperity benefits thousands of Pakistani women Today’s initiative lays the groundwork for greater collaboration and exchange between our two countries on economic advancement for women. Everyone benefits when women are included. US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome highlighted the US provision of $53.1 million in humanitarian assistance and resilience programming to support Pakistan in the aftermath of devastating floods, saying that just as the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the disproportionate impact on women's labour force participation, the catastrophic flooding in Pakistan reminds us that women and girls are among the most vulnerable groups during a humanitarian crisis. "As the United States works to provide direct assistance to affected communities in Pakistan and to help mitigate the effects of future floods," he added, "we will carefully consider the unique impacts of the current flooding and other natural disasters on women and girls." Dr. Raymond Robertson, the study's lead author and Director of the Mosbacher Institute for Trade, Economics, and Public Policy at Texas A&M University's Bush School, stated, "Women all over the world bore a greater burden during the COVID-19 crisis than they usually do during economic recessions." Pakistan was no different. We hope that our findings will spark a discussion and shape investments to help women thrive in the economy." Mujeeb Zahur, Managing Director of S&P Global in Pakistan, announced that S&P Global will use the data by collaborating with USPWC to host workshops in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad to encourage increased investments in women's workforce participation.
Any efforts to destabilise Pakistan won't be tolerated: FO
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Foreign Office Spokesperson Asim Iftikhar has rejected media reports regarding any stoppage of work or abandonment of the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower project. Responding to a question during his weekly news briefing in Islamabad this afternoon, he said India is once again churning out false and baseless reports regarding the Neelum-Jhelum hydropower project. He said a fault was detected in the project and is currently undergoing remedial works for which the concerned entity, Gezhouba Group of China, has been contacted. He said the group has already attained full mobilization at the site and at present, the work is proceeding smoothly without any interruption with completion expected in 2023. The Spokesperson said that there is no truth in any report of work stoppage or so-called abandonment. He said these reports are aimed at misleading the public as well as part of malicious propaganda efforts to fuel controversy around Pakistan-China relations. He said such efforts will not succeed as all-weather strategic cooperative partners are fully committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation for the benefit of both countries and people. Regarding another question about presence of a UN designated individual in Afghanistan, Asim Iftikhar said that the person is a proclaimed offender and wanted in numerous terrorism-related cases in Pakistan. He said Pakistani authorities have formally raised this issue with the relevant Afghan interlocutors on multiple occasions. He said Pakistan as well as the international community have sufficient reasons to believe that there are still pockets of ungoverned spaces in Afghanistan that have been used by terrorist groups as safe havens. The Spokesperson said that multiple deadly cross border terrorist attacks from Afghanistan only increase these legitimate concerns. He urged the Afghan interim authorities to take concert and verifiable actions to deliver on the assurances they have given to the international community that they will not allow anyone to use Afghan soil against any country.
DADU: President Dr. Arif Alvi talking to the flood affectees at relief camp.
Arif Alvi affirms Pakistan's resolve to fostering & bolstering democracy
President for unity among leadership to cope with challenges in view of floods
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: President Dr. Arif Alvi has reiterated Pakistan's resolve to nurture and strengthen democracy in accordance with Islamic tenets and the vision of founding father Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. President Dr. Arif Alvi stated in his message on the occasion of the International Day of Democracy commemorated on Thursday that Pakistan's constitution is based on democratic ideals and uses a parliamentary system of government. According to the President, Pakistan remains steadfast in its belief that genuine democracy is the only option moving forward for inclusive policymaking and decision-making, particularly for minorities and disadvantaged groups in society. True representation of the people, fairness, equality, social justice, and the rule of law, according to President Dr. Arif Alvi, are at the core of any democratic country. Pakistan works to uphold these ideals through its constitution. He stated that Pakistan supports all oppressed people throughout the world who lack a voice and are unable to exercise their democratic right to self-determination, especially those living in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). "Muslims who view all people as completely equal and who believe in fraternity, equality, and liberty have democracy in their blood." The Quaid-i-Azam. In the meantime, President Dr. Arif Alvi has emphasised the necessity of political leadership unanimity in order to address the issues the nation is currently facing in light of recent floods. In an interview with a private news channel, he claimed that given the economic climate and the harm brought on by the most recent terrible floods, Pakistan could no longer afford any political unrest. "My doors are open to all political parties to find an agreement as the leader of the country according to constitutional law." The president proposed that holding the upcoming elections as agreed upon by all political parties could be a solution to the nation's current economic problems.
Ashrafi urges Muslim world help flood victims
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister’s Special Representative for Interfaith Harmony and Middle East Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi, emphasizing the need to accelerate the relief activities, Thursday urged the Muslim world’s aid agencies to help the flood victims in Pakistan. Speaking to APP, Ashrafi who is also the chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council promised the development charities that they would receive every assistance necessary to carry out relief and recovery efforts in the areas of the nation affected by the floods. He continued, "His august office and state institutions are always available to those organisations and persons wish to support the people experiencing critical situations because of monsoon rains and flash floods in the country.
Nobody in Pakistan or abroad has faith in this govt: Imran Khan
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Former prime minister and PTI chief Imran Khan on Thursday said that the incumbent government has lost its credibility inside and outside Pakistan and they have no plan to deal with a crippling economy. In a speech to his supporters, Imran Khan stated that the government had promised that the economy would stabilise once the IMF released its loan tranche, but that the economy had not yet stabilised despite receiving money and tight conditions being put in place. "Political stability is a prerequisite for economic stability. Whatever justification they employ, the ultimate loser in this situation is the entire country, he added. He bemoaned that despite an IMF bailout, Pakistan has never experienced this level of inflation as the rupee continues to depreciate."I can easily assert that PTI is the most well-liked party in the country, and that the opposition as a whole just cares about clearing their names rather than looking out for their fellow citizens. They don't know how to handle the economic issue, he remarked. He reminded the opposition that although they had portrayed Shehbaz Sharif as the one who could resolve all problems prior to assuming office, he had fallen short once in office. “We got the biggest current account deficit of US$20 Billion as compared to the incumbent government that only inherited a deficit of $16 billion,” he shared a comparison, adding that PTI inherited $9.5b in foreign reserves as compared to $16 billion in reserves when no-trust move was tabled against him.
Govt provide all possible support to marble sector: Minister
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Syed Murtaza Mahmood, Federal Minister for Industries and Production said that the government would go all out to provide all possible support to the marble sector so that it could grow better and play a more effective role in the economic development of the country. He emphasised the need to increase exports of marble to at least USD 370 million, claiming that the sector's current exports of USD 37 million were far below its true potential. He underlined that in order to boost trade and exports, the marble industry needs put more effort into properly promoting its goods. He made this statement while serving as the keynote speaker at an awareness seminar on the growth of the marble and granite industries, which was put on by the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry in association with Pakistan Stones Development Company. Iftikhar Ali Shallwani, Federal Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Works, Khazar Farhadov, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Azerbaijan, H.E. Mohammed Karmoune, Dean of the African Corps and Ambassador of Morocco, Ambassador of Indonesia Adam M. Tugio, Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan, Ambassador of Kazakhstan, Deputy Head of Mission of Kazakhstanakashan, and representatives of the Turkish and UAE embassies were also present. According to Iftikhar Ali Shallwani, Federal Minister for Housing & Works, Pakistan primarily exports raw marble. He emphasised that the marble industry should concentrate on value addition and product branding to increase exports. In order to compete in the global market, he claimed that brand promotion was crucial. Muhammad Shakeel Munir, President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry said that Pakistan has huge potential to promote the exports of marble and granite products, but the government was not providing any support to this sector.
Shahbaz Gill secures bail in sedition case
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Senior PTI leader Shahbaz Gill has finally been granted bail by the Islamabad High Court (IHC) after repeatedly attempting to get released on bail in the sedition case filed against him. Gill, the chief of staff for PTI Chairman Imran Khan, has been detained since last month when he was taken into custody following the filing of a treason charge against him for allegedly inciting rebellion within the Pakistan Army through his comments during a private TV channel show. The Pakistan Penal Code Sections 124-A (sedition), 505 (statements conducing to public mischief), and have all been invoked in the case against Gill. The IHC was contacted by Gill last Friday after he made repeated attempts to obtain bail from a trial court but was unsuccessful. The politician nominated Kohsar Police Station SHO, City Magistrate Ghulam Murtaza and others as parties in the plea, stating that he was arrested by Kohsar police on August 9. After hearing arguments from all involved parties in the case, IHC Chief Justice Athar Minallah ordered the authorities to release Gill on bail. Gill was ordered by the court to provide Rs. 500,000 as guarantee for his bail.
Imran Khan was launched to create ‘anarchy and destruction’, says Maryam
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: PML-N Vice-President Maryam Nawaz has said on Thursday that PTI Chairman Imran Khan had been launched in politics to “create anarchy and destruction”. After making an appearance in court here with her husband Captain Safdar, Maryam Nawaz spoke to reporters and declared, "Imran Khan is not a stakeholder; he is destroying Pakistan." She claimed that the organisations that supported him opposed Pakistan's advancement. Imran had also broken the terms of the agreement he had made with the IMF, she continued, bringing the economy dangerously close to collapse. According to Maryam Nawaz, who referred to Imran Khan as a "fitna" (mischief-maker), the country's economy was on the verge of collapse during his more than three and a half years in power. She claimed that before leaving the office, Imran even violated the agreement the nation had with the IMF, which made the issue worse. Imran, according to Maryam, was sent into the world to undermine the moral standards of the younger generation and to taint national politics. She asserted that "these powers do not want Pakistan to advance."
President AJ&K appealed Pakistanis living abroad be the voice of Kashmiris
WEB DESK
NEW JERSEY : President Azad Jammu and Kashmir Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry has said that the issue of Kashmir needs to be aggressively raised at international forums because India has broken mountains of atrocities on the Kashmiri people since the end of the special status of Occupied Kashmir after August 5, 2019. For this, Kashmiris living abroad should raise their voices to highlight the Kashmir issue at the global level by playing their role in advancing the Kashmir issue. He expressed these views here today after arriving in New York from Abu Dhabi while addressing the various receptions given in his honor as a special guest. President Azad Jammu and Kashmir Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry emphasized that the Kashmiris living abroad have an important role in keeping the Kashmir issue alive at the international level, so the Kashmiris living in the United States are doing their best to draw the attention of the international community to the Kashmir issue. Play your role and make the world believe that India is violating human rights on a large scale in Occupied Kashmir and Kashmiri people are going through a difficult situation in Occupied Kashmir. India should know that it cannot suppress the freedom spirit of the Kashmiri people with its guns and the blood of Kashmiri martyrs will be colored soon, God willing, and occupied Kashmir will remain free from Indian rule. Therefore, I would appeal to the Kashmiris abroad to present the Kashmir issue in a lively manner before the international community and continue their struggle for the right of self-determination of the Kashmiri people as per the United Nations resolutions.
AJK govt commits to hold LB polls before November 30
By Our Correspondent
MUZAFFARABAD: Prime Minister Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan, while presiding a high level meeting, directed the concerned authorities to conduct local elections before November 30. The administration had received a letter from the Election Commission of Azad Kashmir requesting that the schedule for the local elections be made public in the second week of November, according to the facts. The conference included a thorough discussion of the election's logistical needs, as well as the requisite financial resources and security personnel. It was decided that after due consultations on these issues, the government will fix the date and would inform the Election Commission, about when LG polls would be conducted, in the next few days. On this occasion, the AJK PM pledged that the government will make sure the LG elections were held by November 30. Ministers from the AJK government, including Khawaja Farooq Ahmed, Diwan Ali Chaghtai, and Government Advisor Akbar Ibrahim, as well as Chief Secretary Usman Chachar, Additional Chief Secretary for Local Government Ehsan Khalid Kayani, Special Secretary for the Interior Abdul Hameed Mughal, DIG Headquarters Irfan Masood Kashfi, and Deputy Director for Local Government Raja Zulqarnain, attended the meeting.
Government is taking all possible steps for the progress of Bank of AJ&K, Finance Minister
By Staff Reporter
MUZAFFARABAD: Bank of Azad Jammu and Kashmir's profit in the first six months of the year 2022 has increased to the highest level of Rs. 409 million. In this regard, a function was held at the head office on Thursday, in which the chief guest was Mr. Khan Abdul Majid Khan, the Minister of Finance, Cooperatives, Inland Revenue and Chairman Bank of the Independent Government of Jammu and Kashmir. On this occasion, Divisional Heads, Regional Controller, Zonal Chief, Branch Managers and other officers were also present. In his presidential address, the Mr. Chairman said that the state-run bank is on the path of development. The bank has achieved significant business results in all sectors including profits, deposits, remittances and assets due to the dedication and hard work of the staff. He said that the government is taking all possible steps for the development and improvement of the bank. Protection of the interests of the institution, staff and provision of a professional environment has been ensured. Earlier, President and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Khawar Saeed said in a briefing that the profit of the bank was 139 million rupees in 2019, which increased to 301 million in 2020 and reached the level of 458 million rupees in 2021 with a historical increase of 229 percent. In the first half of the year 2022, the profit doubled to 409m rupees, while the profit in the first half of last year was 205m rupees. He said that the total assets of the bank reached to 27 billion rupees. The President said that the Government of Azad Kashmir under the patronage of the Board of Directors, especially Khan Abdul Majid Khan.
