Kashmir issue resolution key to regional peace
By Sardar Khan Niazi
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has rightly said that there can be no durable peace in South Asia until the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is resolved based on justice and international legitimacy. He was addressing a meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Contact Group on Jammu and Kashmir on the sidelines of the 77th session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The Contact Group comprises Azerbaijan, Niger, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye. OIC Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha chaired the meeting with the participation of Ministers and high-level representatives from members of the Contact Group. The meeting reviewed the political and security environment and the deteriorating humanitarian and human rights situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Participating Foreign Ministers emphasized the importance of the Jammu and Kashmir issue on the agenda of the OIC and expressed support for the Kashmiri people and their fundamental rights. The Kashmir dispute has remained unresolved primarily due to India’s refusal to implement the resolutions of the UN Security Council (UNSC). Kashmir is one of the longstanding issues on the agendas of the United Nations and its most effective arm UN Security Council over the past seven decades. The Kashmir issue was brought initially to the UN by the Indian government in early 1948, while Indian leadership accepted the multiple resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council for the resolution of the issue. Initially, the Indian government took some steps in this direction by introducing Article 370 and Section 35 in the Indian Constitution to avert global pressure and buy some time. However, the successive Indian governments did not uphold their commitments made to the global community and the Kashmiri people. Indian forces have intensified atrocities, and human rights violations, while Indian security agencies have ramped up extra-judicial killings of freedom activists to curb the ever-rising Kashmir Freedom Movement. While Pakistani leaders have expressed willingness for a constructive engagement with India and asked New Delhi to create a conducive environment for a positive dialogue but India is unwilling. Meanwhile, the OIC Contact Group on Jammu and Kashmir reaffirmed its support for the legitimate struggle of the Kashmiri people for the realization of their inalienable right to self-determination. Besides, it rejected the illegal and unilateral actions taken by India on August 5, 2019, and subsequent steps to change the internationally recognized disputed status of the Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. One cannot forget the statement issued by the UN Secretary-General on August 8, 2019, which affirmed that, the position of ‘the United Nations on the Jammu & Kashmir region is governed by the UN Charter and applicable UN Security Council Resolutions. Condemning the Indian action to alter the demographic structure of the occupied territory it also asked to stop the issuance of fake domicile certificates to non-Kashmiris granting them voting rights, and amendments to land ownership laws. Furthermore, it termed these actions in contravention of the existing UNSC resolutions and in violation of international humanitarian law including the 4th Geneva Convention. The Contact Group members condemned as well the continued detention of the entire Hurriyat leadership, the true representatives of Kashmiri political aspirations, with most having been subjected to brutal and inhumane treatment at the hands of Indian occupation forces. Moreover, it denounced the sham trial and conviction of Yasin Malik on concocted charges, which is the most recent example of India’s attempts to punish Kashmiri leaders seeking freedom even by peaceful means. To end with, the Contact Group also denounced India’s continued refusal to allow the OIC Special Envoy, the OIC- Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission, the UN Special Mandate Holders, and international civil society organizations to visit IIOJK.
FM Bilawal reiterates Pakistan's noteable & deeprooted ties with US
Web Desk
NEW YORK: Foreign Minister Bilawal Zardari addressed the Council on Foreign Relations. He underlined that the devastating floods in Pakistan were a direct result of extreme weather patterns due to climate change that had cost Pakistan punitively both in terms of human and material losses. Pakistan, the eighth most vulnerable country to climate change, was already experiencing its catastrophic effects despite making a negligible contribution to the world's greenhouse gas emissions. He mentioned that early projections indicated losses of more than $30 billion USD. Unmistakably stating that climate change was a widespread and dangerous threat to humanity, the foreign minister underscored the need for global cooperation to lessen its negative effects. The extent and complexity of the flood losses in Pakistan, according to Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, were too great, and assistance from the international community was necessary to help ongoing rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts. He stressed that Pakistan required a Green Plan and climate justice more than financial aid in order to rebuild its economy and infrastructure. He emphasised the government's persistent and forceful actions in addressing this catastrophe, despite obstacles. The Foreign Minister reiterated the significance Pakistan attached to its historic and long-standing ties with the U.S. and its commitment to strengthen this bilateral relationship while expressing gratitude for the solidarity and support extended by the U.S. to those affected by the floods and to Pakistan.
Muslim League (N)'s Irfan Siddiqui & Afnanullah submitted attention notice to Senate
By Irfan Siddiqui
ISLAMABAD: The issue of exempting MPs from toll tax while traveling on motorways and highways has reached the Upper House. Two senators of the Pakistan Muslim League (N), Irfan Siddiqui and Dr. Afnan Ullah Khan submitted notices to the senate secretariat on Friday. It was said in the notice that we want to draw the attention of the Federal Minister of Communications to the toll tax exemption given to MPs on motorways and highways. In our opinion, this immunity should not be enjoyed by any Member of Parliament or civil and military bureaucracy.
PAF keeps up its steadfast aid to flood-affected areas
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) on Friday continued its vigorous medical support, relief and rehabilitation activities in flood affected areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Sindh, Balochistan and South Punjab. According to a PAF news release, the PAF was offering desperately needed medical help to flood victims through medical camps and mobile medical teams. For the purpose of diagnosing water-borne infections among flood victims, the PAF Medical Lab Collection Points were also heavily involved. Locals trapped inside flooded homes have been evacuated by Pakistan Air Force troops and sent to safer areas using the transport fleet, helicopters, and boats. The army provided the affected population with dry rations, cooked food, clean drinking water, and other home necessities. PAF has given away 1,472 ration packs, 650 water bottles, and 18,310 cooked food packs to needy families over the past 24 hours.
PM Shehbaz urges world to combat climate change
Emphasises the flood situation in Pakistan and calls leaders to "act soon"
Web Desk
NEW YORK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasised Pakistan's suffering as a result of the flooding catastrophe brought on by climate change in his address to the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Friday in New York. He urged world leaders to come together and "act now" before it’s too late. The prime minister stated at the beginning of his address that the aim of his was to describe the scale and severity of the climate crisis that has left a third of Pakistan in a position that "no one had seen in living memory." We experienced a biblical flood for 40 days and 40 nights. Huge portions of the nation are still under water today. There is a high risk of health problems for 33 million people, especially women and children. 400 children and more than 1,500 other members of my people have died. There are many more at risk. He said that Pakistan had never experienced a global warming disaster of this magnitude. "Life in Pakistan has altered drastically." The country's citizens, according to the premier, were seeking reasons for the harm done. The catastrophe has not been brought on by anything we have done, is the indisputable truth, he declared. "It is time to inquire as to why and what has to be done. Our forests are on fire. More heat waves are on the way. We experienced a huge monsoon. As the UN secretary-general put it, it was the monsoon on steroids. Less than 1% of greenhouse gas emissions are produced in Pakistan. The impact on Pakistan's health and wealth, according to the prime minister, is currently incalculable. "So the next phase of this issue is where I'm really concerned. My issue is, will we be left alone to deal with a crisis we did not cause when the cameras stop rolling and the focus just switches to conflicts like the Ukraine?
JI calls for amendment in the transgender protection act
By Staff Reporter
LAHORE: Jamaat-e-Islami Emir Sirajul Haq has called for amendment in the transgender protection act, saying the so-called law is attack on the norms of Pakistani society. A person, he said while addressing a press conference at Mansoorah on Friday, should not be authorized to determine sex by own. The JI, he said, had proposed amendments bill in the senate, seeking creation of medical board to determine the gender if anyone applied for change in it in Nadra. The parliament, he said, must adopt the JI proposed amendment to block the promotion of liberal agenda. He made it clear the JI fully backed the rights of the transgender community but it would resist attack on the Islamic society. He expressed concerns over reports that politicians were seeking relief in corruption cases under NAB amendment laws, saying no institution has the right to provide relief to those who looted public money. He said millions of people became homeless in floods but the nation was getting reports regarding extension of prime minister cabinet on daily basis. He said landlords and waderas had no right to enjoy official protocols and luxuries at cost of a poor nation’s money. The JI chief said the PDM government proved a nightmare for the people, breaking all records of inflation in only four months. He said the JI had postponed the protest movement against unfair taxes and increase in electricity tariff due to flood situation. The JI, he said, would resume it after the competition of rehabilitation process in flood-hit areas. To a question, he replied the JI already called for devising a mechanism through parliament for army chief appointment like the appointment of chief justice of Pakistan, ending the prime minister prerogative for COAS appointment. To another question, he said the JI wanted election reforms before the elections.
Launch of 30 Alkhidmat Mobile Medical Units in flood affected areas under
Alkhidmat Foundation Alkhidmat Mobile Medical Units aim to provide immediate medical assistance to flood victims
By Staff Reporter
Islamabad: Alkhidmat Foundation has delivered 30 mobile health units to the affected areas to provide treatment facilities in remote areas of Sindh and Balochistan. Services Professor Dr. Hafeez ur Rehman, In-charge Alkhidmat Field Hospital Dr. Aziz Memon and other central and local leadership participated. Giving details in this regard, Prof. Dr. Hafeez ur Rehman said that Alkhidmat Foundation is carrying out relief activities for the flood victims. Food, shelters and medical camps are being set up in the affected areas. In view of the increasing cases of measles, malaria and other diseases in the flood affected areas; Alkhidmat Foundation has launched 30 Alkhidmat Mobile Health Units to provide immediate medical response. which will provide basic health facilities and medicines near the homes of the victims in 10 districts of Sindh and 45 districts of Balochistan from morning to evening. The medical van will have 1 doctor and 1 dispenser who will provide free medicines after examination. A field hospital has been established in Sukkur which will act as a control room; this control room will coordinate with the medical teams. The victims will be provided with medical facility at their doorstep while if necessary the patients will be shifted to Sukkur for treatment by ambulance.
Chinese delegation presents donation cheque to PRCS for flood relief operation
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: A delegation of Chinese Construction Company called on Chairman Pakistan Red Crescent Society Sardar Shahid Ahmed Laghari here today and presented the donation cheque of PKR 4.5 million to PRCS for the relief and rehabilitation of the flood affected families. Company Director Li-Ping and Deputy Director Chen Zhihang of Yunnan Sunny Road and Bridge Company Limited of China, handed over the donation cheque to PRCS Chairman in a simple ceremony held at National Headquarters. In another event, a MoU was signed between Metro Pakistan (Pvt) Limited and Red Crescent for providing food items to the flood victims. According to the initiative, the flood-affected households will be provided with food and household items on a humanitarian basis. MetroCash & Carry will supply goods worth Rs 11 million to Red Crescent till 31 December 2022. Speaking on the occasion Sardar Shahid Ahmed Laghari thanked the Chinese company and Metro Pakistan Pvt. Limited for their generous support and hoped that the donation would help in alleviating the sufferings of the flood affectees. He said that Red Crescent relief operations are ongoing in the flood-affected areas and recent floods have caused a lot of destruction in Sindh and Balochistan where infrastructure has been destroyed. He said our relief teams are on the ground and working round the clock, providing relief and rescue services to the distressed people in the flood-hit areas. He said rescue and relief work by Pakistan Army, Pakistan Navy along with Red Crescent was highly commendable.
Court Notice
In the Court of Judge, Banking Court No. 5 Lahore. Suit No. 346/2022. ZTBL Plaintiff Jahan khan Jamat (defendants). Summons U/S 9(5) of the Financial Institutions (Recovery of Finances) Ordinance, 2001. (Ordinance No: SL VI of 2001). Summons to Jahan khan jamat s/o Daryam Saqin Tabbi hebod Post office Syed wala nankana sahab. 2- Chak no. 544 kaaf be taandliya nawala Faisalabad. Whereas the aforesaid plaintiff has instituted a suit against you and others for the recovery of 256,548. Summons U/S 9(5) of Ordinance No XL VI of 2001 referred to above is hereby issued requiring you to make within 30 days of the service of this summon an application for leave to defend the suit U/S 10 ibid. Take notice that on your failure to file such application within time specified above the Banking Court shall pass a decree as prayed for in the plaint, in favour of the plaintiff Banking Company. Next date for the further proceedings, in the case has been fixed on 13-10-22. Given under my hand and seal of the court this 20-9-2022. Judge Banking 0Court no.5, Lahore
Court Notice
In the Court of Judge, Banking Court No. 5 Lahore. Suit No. 347/2022. ZTBL Plaintiff Adal Iqbal Rana (defendants). Summons U/S 9(5) of the Financial Institutions (Recovery of Finances) Ordinance, 2001. (Ordinance No: SL VI of 2001). Summons to Adal Iqbal Rana s/o Muhammad Iqbal r/o ghuman ky post office bhaagiyan kalan Tehsil Patoki District Kasoor. Whereas the aforesaid plaintiff has instituted a suit against you and others for the recovery of 1,276,895/. Summons U/S 9(5) of Ordinance No XL VI of 2001 referred to above is hereby issued requiring you to make within 30 days of the service of this summon an application for leave to defend the suit U/S 10 ibid. Take notice that on your failure to file such application within time specified above the Banking Court shall pass a decree as prayed for in the plaint, in favour of the plaintiff Banking Company. Next date for the further proceedings, in the case has been fixed on 12-10-22. Given under my hand and seal of the court this 21-9-2022. Judge Banking Court no.5, Lahore
Court Notice
In the Court of Mehwish Shahzadi Civil Judge Jhelum Application for Certificate Guardian, Case Title Nargas BiBi vs Public at Large To, Public at Large, Asima BiBi Daughter of Fazal Hussain R/o Dinga Dist Gujrat, Waseem Sajjad son of Sajjad Ahmed R/o Dadu Wall Tehsil Dina Dist Jhelum. As there is not possible to call the Public at Large/Defendants through Summons in the instant Application so through proclamation in Newspaper, You are directed to appear in the court on 04.10.2022 at 8:00AM, otherwise ex-parte proceedings will be initiated.
Imran Khan to visit on a day long trip to Lahore
By Staff Reporter
LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan will visit Lahore on a day-long trip on September 26 (Monday). During his visit, the prime minister would meet with Chief Minister Punjab Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, sources said. The PTI Chief, on his Lahore, visit, would also meet with the cabinet members and party leaders. He has also issued important tasks to party leaders, say sources. It is worth mentioning here that this would be his second visit to the provincial capital within a week.
CM meets with the Pakistan auto mobile spare parts importers and dealers association delegation
Announces to resolve the problems of the traders community on priority basis, also to establish parking plazas at various places including Badami Bagh and Anarkali
By Staff Reporter
LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi met with the Pakistan Auto Mobile Spare Parts Importers and Dealers Association delegation. The delegation was headed by the Association Chairman Muhammad Nasir Hameed Khan and Patron In-Chief Muhammad Abid Hameed Khan. CM announced to resolve the problems of the traders community on priority basis and disclosed that parking plazas will be established in different areas including Badami Bagh and Anarkali in Lahore. CM revealed that the biggest auto market on Asia will be made a modern market with regard to facilities. CM ordered to appoint traffic wardens forthwith to resolve the traffic problems of Badami Bagh and directed Commissioner Lahore to visit the auto market along with LDA, WASA and other specialists. CM stated that the long overdue problem of the traders will be resolved by improving the sewerage system of the auto market adding that road will be reconstructed in order to improve the traffic flow in Badami Bagh. The proposal to shift leather market out of city was also being reviewed during the meeting. The delegation of Auto Mobile Spare Parts Importers and Dealers Associations announced to reconstruct the villages of the flood affectees. CM welcomed the announcement of the Auto Mobile Spare Parts Importers and Dealers Association delegation. The delegation submitted their proposals, recommendations and demands on which CM Pervaiz Elahi issued on the spot orders on their proposals. The delegation comprised Aftab Rasheed, Sheikh Abdul Jabbar, Waqar Hussain, Yameen Latif, Adeel Naseer, Sanaullah Mughal, Shahid Hussain Khan, Tahir Baseer Khan, Zafar Abbas Khawaja, Muhammad Ahmed Qasim Khan, Ahmed Faraz Arshad, Azhar Fareed, Iftikhar Ijaz, Yasir Mahmood, Mudassir Manzoor, Naseem Iqbal Khawaja, Atif Ikram, Sarfraz Ahmed, Mudassir Masood, Muhammad Abu Bakar and Ali Afzal. Secretary Industries, Commissioner Lahore Division, Deputy Commissioner Lahore and DG LDA were also present on the occasion.
Action taken on unhygienic supply of food by food branch rawalpindi
By Fahad Altaf Raja
RAWALPINDI: The staff of Food Control Cell of Rawalpindi Cantt Board on the special instructions of Cantonment Executive Officer Imran Gulzar under the leadership of Haroon Zafar Chaudhry, in-charge of Food Control Cell in Saddar and surrounding areas of Cantt, under the leadership of substandard sanitation 118c, private bakery factory, restaurants, Fish shops and various food outlets were sealed and 25 samples of food and drinks were taken from the spot which were sent to the Public Analyst Laboratory for laboratory tests. Apart from this, 35 show cause notices were given in the areas of Peshawar Road, Westridge, Tench Bhata, and Masriyal Road. In addition, 145 food outlet cases which did not enter the office, the cases were sent to the court of the Special Judicial Magistrate of cant, which was later investigated. Summons will be issued.The staff of Food Control Cell conducts daily operations in all areas of cant to provide hygienic food to the residents of Rawalpindi cantt.
Cameras at commercial areas to be connected with safe city project
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Chief Commissioner Islamabad Captain (Retd) Muhammad Usman on Thursday said that cameras installed at commercial areas would be connected with safe city project to ensure high vigilance in the city. During his visit to the safe city project, he said that cameras of markets and commercial centers would be connected with a safe city which would ensure better monitoring and high vigilance in the city. He said that such cameras would also help to control crime in the city while cameras on Blue, Orange and Green Lines will also be installed and activated on priority basis. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Dr Akbar Nasir Khan said that a total of 2530 new cameras will be installed in the Safe City (Phase-2) project. He said that the coverage of key locations would be 100 percent after completion of the second phase and to help in curbing crime in the city. IGP Islamabad and senior officers gave a briefing to the Chief Commissioner during his maiden visit to the safe city project.
WB, British HC representatives briefed about flood-affected areas rehab
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Representatives of World Bank and British High Commissioner visited NFRCC where they were given detailed briefing about ongoing relief and rehabilitation efforts in flood-affected areas. The delegation was appraised on devastating outcome of floods on the lives and infrastructure of people living in worst hit areas by floods in the country. The Delegation was apprised about the massive devastation which affected 1/3rd area of Pakistan and the aftermaths of calamity in the form of various health issues. Both delegations endorsed the reality of climatic changes which has resulted in current havoc situation faced by recent floods in the country and gave assurance for their support to overcome the current challenging situation face by the country.
Capital Police conducted search operation in PS Bhara Kahu Jurisdiction
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Islamabad Capital police conducted a search and combing operation in the jurisdiction of Bhara Kahu 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 Bhara kahu area by local police, CTD and Quick reaction teams under the supervision of SP CTD. During the search operation 03 suspects and one bike were shifted to the police station for verification, While 80 houses, 120 suspects and 40 bikes were checked. During the search operation weapons with ammunition were 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 as well. Citizens are also requested to cooperate with police during checking.
Students from flood-hit areas to get 2-semester fee deferral: HEC
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Higher Education Commission (HEC) Chairman Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed on Friday said the students from flood-affected areas, enrolled at public and private universities, would get fee deferral for two semesters to mitigate their problems. In a state-run official media interview, he said all public and private universities were working to facilitate people of the flood-hit areas, adding that veterinary universities had also been directed to support livestock in these devastated areas. “We are also working out a proper plan for compensating the universities in the flood-hit areas.” The HEC chairman said: “Since technology and education are interlinked, we have to opt for policy to promote technology in the education sector of the country. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the idea of smart classrooms and technology did help in continuing the educational process sans any pause. “In the coming years, due to revolution in the IT sector, we will not have a formal need of buildings, and rather phones will be sufficient for acquiring and disseminating education. The future education will be online and there would be lab practices through virtual simulations. “We will adopt optimum world practices to ensure quality education through online and latest technology, and around 10 to 15 percent budget allocation is mandatory for each university for the distance education system, which will be increased to 50% after some time with a proper plan and consultation of all private and public universities.” Dr. Ahmed said the HEC had also launched programs related to artificial intelligence and cyber security in many universities, including the Air University, NUST, and the UET, while other universities would also get these programs soon. He underlined the need for promoting skills education across the country, terming it more valued than simple educational degrees. He further added that skills education was playing important role in the development of the country. Underscoring the biggest problem of awarding affiliation to colleges, Dr. Ahmed pointed out that universities had awarded affiliation to around 5,000 colleges so far across the country. “A such number of affiliations means compromising the quality of education,” he added.
OGDCL announced financial results for the year ended june 30, 2022
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The Board of Directors of Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) in its meeting held on 22nd September, 2022 at Islamabad announced the financial results for the year ended June, 30, 2022 of fiscal year 2021-22. Net sales revenue clocked at Rs.335.463 billion translating to profit after tax of Rs. 133.783 billion, showing an increase of 56 percent compared to a profit of Rs. 91.534 billion in the same period of last year and earnings per share of the company clocked at Rs. 31.11 from Rs. 21.28. The Board of Directors announced final cash dividend for the year 2021-2022 on the basis of accounts for the period ended June 30, 2022 @ 2.50 per share i.e. 25 percent. This is an addition to interim dividends already paid @ Rs.4.75 per share i.e. 47.50 percent to its shareholders. The dividend will be paid to the shareholders whose names will appear in the Register of Members on Monday, October 17, 2022. The share transfer books of the company will be closed from Tuesday, October 18, 2022 to Tuesday, October 25, 2022. During the period under review, the Company paid Rs. 98.737 billion on account of Taxation.
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: A Seminar under the series of Grand National Dialogue (GND) on the topical issue of “Healthcare Interventions during Flood Emergency in Pakistan,” was held on Friday at the Health Services Academy (HSA) in collaboration with Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI). The Health Population Think Tank (HPTT) and the Ministry of National Health Services were the other stakeholders of the seminar which discussed at length over the existing healthcare exigency in the country in the wake of monsoon floods and its ensuing destruction, said a news release. Vice Chancellor HSA Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan, President IPRI Ambassador (retd) Raza Muhammad, Dr Yusuf, Emergency Cell Head Balochistan, Health Ministry Dr Ahmed Hussen Tareq, Technical Lead, HPTT MoNHSRC, Health Services Academy, Islamabad, and Prof. Dr Mubashir Hanif, Director RIC, Health Services Academy, Islamabad highlighted the situation faced in the case of floods, and underlined the need for proper synchronization of material and human resources to address this calamity.
Students urged to play their role in developing a national behavior towards energy conservation
By Staff Reporter
Islamabad: At a seminar organized by the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA) at Fazaia Education System School E-9 Islamabad Campus, speakers urged the children to adopt best practices in Energy Conservation and play their role in making Pakistan an energy-efficient country. The title of the seminar was “Children’s Role in Energy Efficiency and Conservation” and its purpose was to raise awareness among school students regarding energy efficiency and conservation in the country. The seminar was addressed by eminent speakers from the energy sector including representatives from the Fazaia Education System School. They highlighted the importance of energy efficiency and conservation and its relation with innovation and climate change mitigation. NEECA team briefed the students with help of animated series built on the character ‘Captain National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA)’ about building interest amongst the children and Pakistan’s youth, to conserve energy in their houses and convince their families to do the same. Representative FEES suggested that there is a strong need to change people’s behaviors toward energy consumption and its effect on our environment in the shape of Climate Change. In addition, it was suggested that we should reduce the unnecessary consumption of energy in everyday use. The NEECA team distributed participation certificates among the students and the seminar ended with the pledge from students to save energy in the future. National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA) presented the commemorative shield to the principal of the school.
Ayaz Amir's son Shahnawaz Amir murders his wife Sara Inam in Islamabad
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Senior journalist and former member national assembly Chaudhry Ayaz Amir’s daughter-in-law, Sara Inam, was allegedly murdered in Islamabad's Chak Shehzad suburb, police said on Friday. The 37-year-old was living at a farmhouse in the area where she was found dead on Friday morning. Reportedly, she was murdered with a dumbbell and her husband, Shahnawaz Amir, is the prime suspect in the case. The incident of murder occurred at Farmhouse #46 at Chak Shahzad. Police and investigation teams reached the crime scene and the journalist's son Shahnawaz Amir was arrested after earlier fleeing from the crime scene. However, the police have said that the FIR will be registered after an investigation has been conducted. “The incident is being investigated,” a police spokesperson said while reserving further comments. The dead body of Sara Bibi has been shifted at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for postmortem. The police said that the forensic of the crime site has been completed. Ayaz Amir, talking to the media outside the Shahzad Town Farmhouse, expressed his shock and pain over the news.
Three day International conference concluded in AIOU
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: A 3-day international conference on "Emerging Trends in English Language Teaching: Challenges and Opportunities" concluded here at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) yesterday. The conference was jointly organized by the Department of English, AIOU, Pakistan ELT Forum, and the Regional English Language Office (RELO) of the US Embassy. Vice Chancellor, Government Sadiq College University Bahawalpur, Professor Dr. Saima Imtiaz Asif was the chief guest of the closing ceremony. Other speakers included Jackeline Dilly of the American Embassy, Dr. Malik Ajmal Gulzar, Dr. Akifah Imtiaz, Dr. Saira Maqbool, Dr. Rashida Imran, and Dr. Muhammad Kamal Khan. Addressing the closing ceremony, Jacqueline Dilley of the US Embassy said that this is her first visit to a Pakistani university which she will always remember. She described in detail the educational support and services of America in Pakistan. She said that the Regional English Language Office of the US Embassy is trying to promote the English language in Pakistan. She further said that the US Embassy is also playing a key role in improving the skills of Pakistani youth under the English Access Micro Scholarship Program. She appreciated Allama Iqbal Open University for their cooperation and support in organizing the conference. She added that Vice Chancellor of Allama Iqbal Open University, Professor Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum, Registrar, Raja Umar Younis, Chairman, English Department, Dr. Ajmal Gulzar, Dr. Kamal Khan, and Dr. Rashida deserve congratulations for the successful organization of the conference. Vice Chancellor, Government Sadiq College University Bahawalpur, Professor Dr. Saima Imtiaz Asif termed this conference as the promotion of English language and said that the English language is a modern need. He said that the VC, AIOU, Professor Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum is the most active vice chancellor; during his time the university has made exemplary progress at all levels. Chairman of the English Department, Dr. Ajmal Gulzar, and Project Director of ELT Forum, Dr. Muhammad Kamal Khan thanked academicians, the US embassy, the ELT Forum, and other departments of the University for providing support in the conference. At the end of the conference, certificates and souvenirs were distributed among the participants.
Arif Alvi applauds private bank for avoiding unnecessary litigation cases
Urges national private institutions to give victims of bank fraud prompt assistance
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: While disposing of five separate representations of a private bank against the decisions of the Banking Mohtasib (BM), President Dr. Arif Alvi has appreciated its policy of settling the grievances of its customers and implementing BM’s decisions, thus, saving the public’s time and expenditure, and avoiding undue litigation. Additionally, he asked the nation's private banks to comply with State Bank of Pakistan laws, offer victims of bank fraud prompt relief, and spare the time of government agencies and other venues of justice by avoiding needless litigation while also conserving their own time and resources. In five different decisions, President Dr. Arif Alvi praised Habib Bank Ltd. (HBL) for resolving issues of contested banking transactions through mutually agreed-upon settlements and compensating its clients their lost sums in accordance with its favourable pro-people banking policy. In his determinations, the President noted that because HBL had already paid the disputed amounts to its clients and the issues had been settled amicably, the statements HBL had made in opposition to BM's rulings had become infructuous. According to the information, fraud, unauthorised financial transfers, ATM errors, or online purchases of digital content caused five distinct complainants to lose money from their bank accounts ranging from Rs 32,000 to Rs 150,000. The complainants had independently sought the banks to request a return of their lost sums, but they had no luck. In order to get their money back, the complainants went to Banking Mohtasib, who instructed HBL to credit the complainants' accounts with the money they had lost.
Rasheed chastises authorities for staying in seven-star hotels in USA
By Staff Reporter
RAWALPINDI: Former Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad said in a tweet that building a good relationship with France and sending a delegation to Israel is a question mark now. Sheikh Rasheed, a former interior minister, criticised the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), the country's current government, for establishing ties with France and sending a mission to Israel. He claimed that as a result of the coalition government of the PDM's recent acts, a countdown for the leaders has begun, and they must now choose between going down a dead end or calling early elections. Additionally, Sh Rasheed said that the surge in gasoline costs has driven 20m people into poverty. Sh Rasheed said in his tweets on Friday that while the country's rulers are taking pleasure in their trip to America while staying in seven-star hotels, the poor in this country are not receiving flour.
Rs 279.200 million allotted for HR Ministry's ongoing projects' completion: Official
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The government has allocated Rs. 279.200 million for the completion of ongoing schemes by year-end. Friday According to a Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR) official who cited the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) 21-22, out of a total of Rs. 279,200 million, Rs. 36,000 million had been set aside for the Human Rights Awareness Program, Rs. 30,000 million for each of the Implementation of Action Plans for Human Rights. Establishing the Human Rights Information System (HRIMS) will cost Rs 29,3000 million. Strengthening the Regional Directorates of Human Rights in Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta will cost Rs 26.500 million. Upgrading the National Special Education Centre for Visually Handicapped Children in Islamabad will cost Rs 20.500 million. A pilot project for inclusive education for children with disabilities in public and private schools at IC will cost Rs 20.000 million. Similar to that, Rs. 20.000 million has been been aside for the National Mechanism for Reporting and Fellow-Human Up's Rights Coordination and Monitoring Units initiative, he said. The Institutional Strengthening of MoHR project had received Rs. 20.000 million, PC-11/Feasibility Study for Establishment of Center for Persons with Disabilities in Public and Private Schools at ICT Islamabad had received Rs. 7.500 million, and the Pilot Project for Establishment of Transgender Protection Center Islamabad had received Rs. 15.800 million, he added.
Imran should refrain from long march in current situation: Ahsan
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal on Friday said that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan should avoid a long march in Islamabad in the current situation. The PTI chairman was criticised by the federal minister in a media interview for becoming "so blind" in politics. Iqbal continued to attack Imran Khan, accusing him of imprisoning political rivals when in office and now attacking the current administration's handling of the economy. Ahsan stated in response to former federal minister Sheikh Rashid that the administration is requesting the rights of a country from the western nations rather than money. Ahsan continued, "We contribute 1% to emissions because we are impacted by industrialised countries' carbon emissions." In New York, the prime minister Shehbaz Sharif, he said, is awakening everyone's conscience. Ahsan asserted that the opposition was engaging in divisive politics in the midst of the floods and that more than 1,600 people had perished as a result of the flooding. He also advised the opposition to remain silent while attempting to stop relief from reaching the flood victims if they couldn't help the victims. The federal minister claimed that the PTI's administration cost the nation $50 billion, and he (Imran) left behind a debt and deficit burden. Ahsan Iqbal claimed that the PTI chairman had made flood-related activities "contentious," adding that the country is watching to see who is doing politics and who is aiding the victims. He added that Imran and other PTI members do not understand what it truly means to be human.
KSA's National Day, Sadiq Sanjrani offers his congratulations
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani in his message, On the occasion of the 92nd National Day of Saudi Arabia, has congratulated and expressed his best wishes for the custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman. Additionally, he sent congratulations and greetings to the Saudi government and populace. Also wishing for the brotherly people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's continuing success and prosperity is Sadiq Sanjrani. He emphasised that we have great love and respect for Saudi Arabia and its people. The Senate Chairman reaffirmed his commitment to continuing all forms of support to Saudi Arabia in his statement on the occasion of the National Day of Saudi Arabia. According to him, as time goes on, the ties between the two sibling nations would only get stronger.
Nawaz Sharif wants to exonerated in NAB case under new laws
By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: Former prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif on Friday filed a petition in an accountability court in Lahore challenging the court decision to declare him proclaimed offender in the plot allotment case and seeking his acquittal. The former prime minister, who is currently residing in the UK for medical reasons, has asked the court for relief under the NAB (Amendment) Ordinance, 2022. Additionally, Nawaz Sharif's attorney, Qazi Sabah Advocate, begged the court to clear him of all charges related to the revised NAB Ordinance. The attorney also submitted a petition asking for Nawaz to be exonerated. The National Accountability Bureau could not open an inquiry into a case of corruption totaling less than Rs500 million, according to Qazi Sabah's argument, although his client was facing a reference in which he was accused of committing corruption to the tune of Rs130 million. He stated that when Nawaz was declared a "offender," the court ordered that his property be seized. In addition to requesting the return of his confiscated property and an order for his acquittal in the reference, he pleaded with the court to drop the prosecution against the Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) leader.
No early elections, according to Fazl; the govt must serve out its term
By Our Correspondent
VEHARI: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has said the government will complete its tenure and the elections will be held on time. Talking to the party activists at Vehari on Sunday, Fazlur Rehman who is also head of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) lamented that there are several religions all over the world, but only Islam is being defamed and victimized. He claimed that the federal government is making every effort to reduce inflation and offer assistance to the populace. When slamming PTI leader Imran Khan, Maulana Fazlur Rehman advised him to keep his mouth shut on religion if he didn't comprehend it. According to Fazlur Rahman, Allah Almighty has taught how to put a stop to disputes amongst people, and we should do so wisely. In response to a query, Maulana claimed that PML-N was more knowledgeable about the change in administration in Punjab.
NEW YORK: AJ&K President Barister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry is addressing a special meeting of Foreign Ministers to OIC at the United Nations.
AJK govt will be unable to pay employees' salaries and pensions next month: PM
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan has said that at present the AJK government does not have enough money to pay salary and pension to employees next month. Speaking at a dinner he hosted in honour of senior journalists from various parts of the nation, he emphasised the financial difficulties his government was experiencing. He described the federal government's refusal to release cash as an effort to force his government to the breaking point. He claimed that the government was on the verge of a severe financial crisis. He regretted that the PML-emergence N's as the administration in the Centre was causing issues for the PTI government in AJK. The federal government should work with the AJK government for the country's progress, he continued, adding that politics should be put aside. Tanveer Ilyas claimed that the PML-N previous government in the Punjab had shut down 203 companies in his home city of Mirpur. In his view, Imran Khan never caused problems for the AJK government while the PML-N was in control in the region and at the federal level. He claimed that Shehbaz Sharif, the prime minister, had not yet been able to travel to Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The smouldering situation in IOK is focus of Kashmiri delegation's urgent request to OIC-IPHRC
Web Desk
GENEVA: Kashmiri delegation headed by senior All Parties Hurriyat Conference leader Altaf Hussain Wani while briefing the members of the OIC-IPHRC about the fast deteriorating political and human rights situation in Kashmir has sought the Commission’s urgent intervention to help-stop bloodshed and human rights violations in the region. The Kashmiri delegation, which is currently in Geneva for the 51st session of the UNHRC, urged the Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to include all stakeholders in order to hold the Indian government accountable for the actions it had taken on Kashmir unilaterally. The delegates stated that the OIC IPHRC should exert pressure on India during the upcoming UPR meeting to uphold its commitments regarding the improvement of the human rights situation in the UN-recognized disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir, repeal all draconian laws, and revoke all actions it had taken on Kashmir since August 5, 2019. In order to draw attention to the Indian government's oppressive practises, the delegation informed the IPHRC members that in addition to oppressive and repressive policies, the apartheid regime in India has been using strategies from the colonial era to quell political dissent and disempower the indigenous population through political and administrative manoeuvres. Referring to the Indian government's anti-Kashmir policies, they claimed that the BJP's settler colonialism project, which aims to alter the demographic makeup of the state, has been largely driven by policies like land grab, dispossessions, forced evictions, illegal confiscation of civilians' property, and granting voting rights to non-Kashmiris. They said that the Indian government has passed a number of rules that not only let foreigners to stay in the area but also to buy land and request other privileges in order to bring about a demographic shift in the valley. The Kashmiri delegation commented on the crackdown on peaceful protest in the area, claiming that there is no room for democratic opposition there because of the merciless suppression of dissent by the Indian government. They added that the use and misuse of laws had resulted in the widespread detention of political and human rights activists. "Restrictions on civil rights advocates, confiscation of property, harassment and humiliation of civilians by the military forces have become a new norm," they stated. Regarding the abuse of "anti-terrorism laws," the delegation drew attention to the ways in which the Indian government has used the PSA and UAPA to stifle legitimate political debate and the voices of anyone who has criticised India's unfriendly treatment of Kashmiris. They claimed that the arrest of well-known human rights activist Khurum Parvez and high-ranking political figures served as a wake-up call to the rest of the world about how India was utilising secret laws to keep Kashmir's people silent. The Kashmiri delegation was given the assurance that the OIC-IPHRC, which is made up of Dr. Hac Ali Açkgül, Mahmoud Mostafa Afifi, Fahad bin Abdullah Al Ajlan, and Dr. Saqlain, will utilise its diplomatic influence to draw attention to the appalling situation in Kashmir.
KARACHI: Consul General of Oman, NDMA representatives welcoming Oman's third flight at Airport.
