Punjab announces new summer timings for public schools

The Punjab government has announced the new summer timings for its public schools. As per a revised notification issued by the School Education Department Punjab, the new school timings will be in effect from April 7 to October 15. According to the new schedule, single-shift schools will operate from 7:30 am to 1:00 pm. On Fridays, these schools will close early at 11:30 am. For double-shift schools, the first shift will run from 7:30 am to 12:00 pm, while the second shift will begin at 12:00 pm and continue until 4:30 pm. On Fridays, the second shift schools will start at 2:30 pm.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/109KD3e

People set aside law, order worries on 'Chand Raat'

The residents of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa kept their worries about the law and order situation aside on Sunday, as they rushed to markets for 'Chaand Raat' shopping, particularly thronging to the bangles and henna stalls on the eve of Eidul Fitr celebrations. A vibrant and bustling scene unfolded across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, especially Peshawar, as girls, accompanied by their families, rushed to the shops, adorned with colourful buntings and lights. The peak of shopping activity kicked off after Iftar. Girls flocked to the stalls to buy shiny bangles, vibrant clothes, perfumes, and matching footwear, all in preparation for the joyous occasion. On 'Chand Raat', it was clear that the spirit of celebration had gripped the city. In the heart of Peshawar, particularly in the Cantonment and bustling markets of Jinnah Market, a sea of women and girls created a colourful tapestry, making it impossible to ignore the high demand for traditional Eid accessories. The henna and bangle stalls, now a permanent fixture in many markets, were brimming with excitement as shoppers eagerly explored a dazzling array of bangles in every colour imaginable. "Shopping for bangles and henna always doubles the joy of Eid," said Malaika Bibi, a 12-year-old customer. For Bibi and many others girls, the tradition of spending the entire night of Chand Raat visiting markets with friends, buying accessories, and decorating hands with intricate henna designs is a cherished ritual.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/GTneCqx

President Zardari, PM Shehbaz wish 'Eid Mubarak' to nation

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended their heartfelt greetings to the nation on the eve of Eid ul Fitr. In their messages, they emphasized the importance of gratitude, brotherhood, and compassion, urging people to remember those facing economic hardships. President Zardari highlighted the significance of Zakat, charity, and Fitrana, stressing that true happiness comes from sharing with the less fortunate. He reminded the nation that Eid is a reward after a month of patience and devotion in Ramadan. "Eid teaches us unity and solidarity. We must strengthen these bonds and contribute to Pakistan’s progress," he said, adding prayers for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir to celebrate Eid in peace. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, underscored the challenges facing Pakistan from both internal and external threats. He called for national unity to counter extremism, hatred, and sectarianism, ensuring the country's stability and security. He praised the sacrifices of the armed forces in the fight against terrorism and extended solidarity to the families of martyrs, including those affected by the Jaffar Express train incident. Shehbaz also reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Palestine and Kashmir, urging the international community to act against human rights violations. As Pakistan celebrates Eid, both leaders urged citizens to embrace the spirit of the occasion by fostering love, unity, and compassion.      

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/zn4YFo7

PMDC solicits MDCAT curriculum draft observations

Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has prepared the draft of the MDCAT 2025 curriculum for medical and dental college and invited stakeholders to share their feedback. Committed to implementing a uniform curriculum and standardized documents nationwide, the PMDC has uploaded the draft on its website. All stakeholders, including students, teachers and educational institutions, have been urged to review the draft and submit their observations by April 10. The consultation process will help finalise national education standards and enhance the transparency of the MDCAT examination process.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/dSoF3nM

FIA arrests four more human smugglers

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested four more human smugglers during raids carried out in various areas of Gujranwala and Gujrat. The suspects, identified as Muhammad Idress, Umar Farooq, Mirza Naeem Baig and Allah Ditta, are accused of fleecing common people and receiving millions of rupees from them for smuggling them to foreign countries. According to an FIA spokesperson, accused Mirza Naeem Baig received Rs7.2 million from a citizen for taking him to Italy but later left that person stranded in Libya. Accused Allah Ditta also minted millions of rupees through this illegal business. The accused failed to smuggle people to Europe and went into hiding after receiving large sums of money from them. The FIA launched a massive crackdown against human smugglers and traffickers after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took notice of boat capsizing incidents near Greece in November last year in which illegal Pakistani immigrants were among the people who lost their lives.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/0L1Gos2

FO sets up crisis cell to assist Pakistanis in Myanmar, Thailand after deadly quake

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday established a crisis management cell to assist Pakistani nationals affected by the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar and parts of Thailand, killing over 150 people and injuring hundreds more. In an official statement, the Foreign Office expressed solidarity with the people of Myanmar and Thailand in the aftermath of what it described as an “unprecedented natural calamity.” The ministry has instructed Pakistani embassies in Yangon and Bangkok to provide all necessary support and emergency assistance to nationals in the affected regions. A dedicated Crisis Management Unit (CMU) at the Foreign Ministry in Islamabad has also been activated to monitor the situation and coordinate efforts to support Pakistanis in need. Emergency contact numbers provided The Foreign Office shared emergency contact details for Pakistani nationals currently in Myanmar and Thailand: Embassy of Pakistan in Yangon Mr. Anwar Zeb (Charge d’Affaires): +959880922880 Mr. Muhammad Shoaib (Counsellor): +959448999967 Mr. Ali Sher (Consular Assistant): +959457099977 Embassy of Pakistan in Bangkok Mr. Fahad (First Secretary): +66 95 968 1506 Mr. Yaseen (Consular Assistant): +66 91 697 7702 Crisis Management Unit, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Islamabad Phone: 051-9207887 Email: cmu1@mofa.gov.pk Earthquake details and aftermath The powerful earthquake struck near Myanmar’s ancient capital, Mandalay, around midday on Friday, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). It was followed by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock minutes later. State broadcaster MRTV reported at least 144 fatalities and 732 injuries in Myanmar, with Mandalay — a city of 1.5 million and the country's former royal capital — suffering the brunt of the damage. Buildings, bridges, and roads were extensively damaged, while rescue operations were ongoing in several areas. In neighboring Thailand, at least nine people were killed in Bangkok, where a 33-storey under-construction building collapsed. Rescuers were continuing to search for survivors trapped under the rubble. The Foreign Office reiterated Pakistan’s support for the affected countries and assured Pakistani citizens that consular teams were on standby to provide immediate relief where needed.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/TL6z4SP

NAP panel reviews counterterror measures

Federal Minister for Law Azam Nazeer Tarar on Thursday chaired the inaugural meeting of a committee formed under a revised National Action Plan (NAP) amid a recent surge in terrorism in the country on the directive of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The committee has been established to assess counterterrorism measures, address violent extremism, and fill legal gaps. The meeting was attended by provincial law ministers and the federal secretary for law, who appreciated the federal government's criminal justice reforms. It was collectively decided to work on legal reforms on an urgent basis to ensure swift justice.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/IkYe58W

Commission on minorities to have 19 members

The Senate Sub-Committee on Human Rights on Wednesday vetted the National Commission for Minorities Bill 2025. The sub-committee's meeting was held under the chair of Senator Ali Zafar. During a briefing on the bill, Human Rights secretary said that the commission's chairperson would be appointed from the minority communities while the Prime Minister will have the authority to appoint the commission's head. The National Commission for Minorities will consist of 19 members with a background in human rights services. The commission will include three members each from the Hindu and Christian communities, and one each from the Sikh, Parsi and Kalash communities. Two members of the commission will be Muslim. One member each will be taken from the Islamic Ideology Council and the Evacuee Trust Property Board. One member each will be appointed from all provinces and the federation. The maximum age for commission members will be 40 years. The commission is being established to protect the rights of minorities and will be responsible for formulating a National Action Plan. It will be vested with the powers of a civil court. It could seek reports from government or any other department, according to the Human Rights secretary. Minister of State for Religious Affairs Khael Das Kohistani supported the bill, saying it is good to approve the bill as early as possible.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/hVb1ixv

Kharif set to begin with 43% water shortage

The Indus River System Authority (Irsa) on Wednesday projected 43% water shortage for April, as it recorded less than normal inflows into the rim-station rivers, following a 31% less snowfall in the catchment areas of Indus and Jhelum this winter. The Irsa Advisory Committee (IAC) met on Wednesday to discuss the water availability situation for the Kharif 2025 season. However, because of unclear climactical parameters and weather outlook for the summer, it approved water availability for the month of April only, with 43% system shortfall. The IAC meeting was held, with Irsa Chairman and Member Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Sahibzada Muhammad Shabir in the chair. According to a handout issued after the meeting, the IAC would meet again in the first week of May 2025 to review the water availability. The meeting was expected to approve the anticipated water availability criteria for the whole of Kharif season (April 1-Sepember 30). It also reviewed the Rabi 2024-25 (October 1-March 31) system operations and showed satisfaction with the season's close at 18% shortage against an anticipated 16%. The meeting was attended by all IRSA members, relevant engineers, secretaries concerned, senior officials of the provincial irrigation departments, senior technical advisers of the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda), and others. During the meeting, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) highlighted that according to the local and global climate models for the months of April, May and June, below normal rainfall and above normal temperatures especially across northern and southern tips of the country were forecast. The PMD further noted that winter snowfall in the catchments of Indus and Jhelum was recorded at 26.8 inches against the normal of 49.7 inches, ie, 31% less while the inflows into the rim-station rivers would also be less than normal. After detailed discussion, the IAC approved the water availability only for the month of April 2025 with 43% system shortfall, the handout stated. The water situation will be reviewed again in the first week of May 2025, it added. Separately, PMD Chief Meteorologist Muhammad Afzal said that the country was facing an unusual weather pattern, leading to severe drought conditions, warning that an alarming decline in winter rainfall pushed dams and water reservoirs to dead levels. Speaking at a press conference, Afzal said that winter rainfall was 42% below normal, with Sindh receiving 63% less rain, Balochistan 53%, and Punjab 41%. He added that falling water levels in dams and other reservoirs raised concerns over water availability for agriculture and domestic use. Afzal cautioned that below-normal rainfall was expected in the northern regions, exacerbating the water crisis. The shortage could lead to crop failures, spread of diseases, and a negative impact on wildlife. He urged the public to use water wisely to mitigate the crisis. "Pakistan is expected to face significant temperature increases in the coming months, with forecasts indicating that temperatures may rise by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius above normal levels. This will increase the likelihood of heatwaves, especially in the southern half of the country," he said. (WITH INPUTS FROM APP)

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/3c4HG5j

PM's aide alarmed over rising polio cases

Prime Minister's Focal Person on Polio Eradication, Ms Ayesha Raza Farooq on Wednesday called for strengthening the polio programme and making more efforts aimed at disease eradication due to rising cases in the country. "The ongoing outbreak is alarming, with six children already paralyzed in 2025," she said while chairing a meeting of the National Polio Management Team (NPMT) to assess progress, address emerging challenges, and refine strategies for the upcoming nationwide immunisation campaigns scheduled to take place in April and May. "We must remain vigilant, proactive, and committed to refining our approaches to stay ahead of the virus," she added while emphasizing the urgency of the moment. The meeting brought together national and provincial coordinators, core group members, and key stakeholders. The meeting reinforced the importance of gender-inclusive workforce participation, the synergy between Essential Immunization and Polio Eradication efforts, and adherence to the latest Technical Advisory Group (TAG) recommendations.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/p83IZxQ

PMD chief warns temperatures could soar up to 5°C above normal

The chief meteorologist of the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned of significant temperature rise in the coming months in the country, saying forecasts indicate temperatures may rise by 3°C to 5°C above normal levels. Speaking at a press conference, Chief Meteorologist Muhammad Afzal revealed that winter rainfall was recorded 42% below normal, with Sindh receiving 63% less rain, Balochistan 53%, and Punjab 41%. The alarming decline in rainfall has pushed dams and water reservoirs to dead levels, raising concerns over water availability for agriculture and domestic use. Afzal further cautioned that below-normal rainfall is expected in the northern regions, exacerbating the water crisis. The shortage could lead to crop failures, the spread of diseases, and a negative impact on wildlife. He urged the public to use water wisely to mitigate the crisis. Major metropolitan areas will experience heatwave conditions due to the urban heat island effect, accelerating drought conditions. The intense heat may also accelerate the melting of glaciers, increasing river flows temporarily but raising the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and flash floods in northern areas. Pakistan typically receives 19.4% of its annual rainfall between April and June, but below-average rainfall is expected this year, which could contribute to groundwater depletion, particularly in rain-fed regions. Additionally, cyclone formation over the Arabian Sea cannot be ruled out in May due to the rising sea surface temperatures. During the Eidul Fitr holidays, most parts of the country will experience hot and dry weather, with temperatures likely to remain 2 to 3°C above normal. In Karachi, daytime temperatures may rise by 3°C to 4°C above normal levels, adding to the discomfort for citizens. A wet spell with rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall over mountains is expected in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and northern Punjab on March 26-27. Areas such as Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, and Mansehra may receive moderate to heavy rainfall, while dust storms and thunderstorms are also likely over the plains of Punjab. Heavy rainfall in northern areas could lead to flash floods in some regions, while windstorms, hailstorms, and lightning pose a risk to electric poles, trees, vehicles, solar panels, and standing crops. Landslides and slippery conditions may also affect mountainous areas. The authorities and relevant stakeholders have been advised to implement precautionary measures to address the impacts of rising temperatures, heat waves, and water shortages. Public awareness campaigns should be launched to inform communities about heatwave preparedness and water conservation strategies. The Met Office has urged the public to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure, and conserve water to reduce the impact of the looming crisis.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/1LeGEqP

Govt accepts Bilawal's mediation offer to reopen dialogue with PTI

As opposition parties gear up for a fresh wave of countrywide protests after Eidul Fitr, the government on Tuesday accepted Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s offer to mediate with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and initiate dialogue to resolve ongoing political tensions. The development came a day after Bilawal, during a speech at the Governor House in Lahore, proposed his party’s role as a neutral facilitator between rival political forces. “I have informed the prime minister that the PPP is willing to act as a bridge between political forces to foster dialogue and cooperation,” Bilawal had said. He also reiterated his party’s openness to dialogue with the government to encourage constructive discussions. Confirming the move, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political and Public Affairs Rana Sanaullah said during an appearance on local media, “The government has accepted Bilawal’s mediation offer and assigned him the responsibility of holding talks with the PTI.” He added, “If Bilawal gets assurance from the PTI to attend the meeting, there is no problem in re-convening the National Security Committee meeting.” In his Lahore address, Bilawal urged the federal government to engage all political stakeholders, including those who boycotted the last high-level meeting on national security, in a renewed effort to counter terrorism. "Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif should convene another meeting, even if after a month… We hope to build a national consensus to combat terrorism," he asserted. Sanaullah acknowledged PPP’s role in the ruling coalition and said that bringing PTI to the negotiation table would be a collective achievement. “It would be their joint success if Bilawal succeeds in bringing PTI to the negotiation table,” he remarked.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/d1oxJ47

Govt inaugurates first 120KW EV charging station in Islamabad

Energy Minister Awais Leghari On Tuesday inaugurated Pakistan's first 120KW fast-charging station, developed by GoGreen Avenue, according to a statement by the Power Division.​ At the inauguration in Islamabad, Leghari reaffirmed the government's dedication to clean energy and sustainable transportation, stating that such initiatives are pivotal in transforming the nation's energy and transportation sectors. He noted that the fast-charging station launch signifies Pakistan's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption. The minister announced a reduction in electric charging unit prices from Rs71 to Rs39, aiming to make EV adoption more accessible and affordable. He praised the public-private partnership that brought this project to fruition, highlighting the essential role of private investment in achieving Pakistan's sustainability objectives. Leghari concluded that the government remains committed to supporting green energy projects that offer long-term environmental and economic benefits.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/pcnjMge

Two govt employees accused of extorting money from citizens

Separate cases have been registered against the superintendent of a government hospital and a sanitary patrol official of the health department for extorting money from two citizens, including a widow, on the pretext of getting them recruited in the health department. In the case registered with the Anti-Corruption Department, Abdul Jabbar Shah, a resident of 246 GB Gojra, has alleged that Muhammad Tayyab Saleem, a sanitary patrol posted at the Rural Health Center Landianwala, received a bribe of Rs900,000 and threatened to kill the complainant in case the bribe was not paid. However, the complainant alleged that despite receiving the bribe Muhammad Tayyab Saleem failed to recruit his family members as workers in the government health unit. Additionally, a widow, Muqaddas Parveen, paid Rs380,000 to Zia Al-Mustafa, resident of 203 Rabmananwala, posted at the Kharianwala Government Hospital to get a job in the Health Department. But the Superintendent of the Government Hospital, Zia Al-Mustafa, did not recruit her. The victim Muqaddas Parveen, she was working as a private polio worker for the Health Department. In order to make her permanent, the accused Zia Mustafa first took a bribe of Rs200,000 and later Rs180,000 and did not get her hired. The anti-corruption police registered cases against both government employees and started searching for them. Separately, a case has been registered against 90 people for raising slogans while blocking the road in Aminpur Bazaar. SHO Kotwali, Sub-Inspector Muhammad Umar Chheena took the stand in the case filed that he was present in Aminpur Bazaar, when the accused, Muhammad Usman Abdul Azim, Muhammad Bilal, Ramzan Rashid, Qari Faizan and their accomplices were carrying sticks and banners, blocked the road, raised slogans and incited the emotions of the people, creating a serious law and order problem. The police have registered a case against the accused who blocked the road and have started searching for them.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/7SPGthL

Couple held for 50 robberies across city

Police arrested a couple involved in over 50 robberies across the city. According to officials, the suspects, identified as Iftikhar and Amina, tracked office-goers early in the morning and robbed them. The couple were apprehended by the police operations wing's IT team, which tracked their movements and criminal activities. The police revealed that the duo had been active in areas such as Township and Green Town, executing robberies. Investigations revealed that the suspects belong to Sheikhupura and had been previously arrested six years ago.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/8CApmtf

Bugti orders action against 'rogue servants'

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has ordered strict action against government employees and officers involved in anti-state activities. Chairing a high-level meeting the other day, the chief minister ordered divisional and deputy commissioners to identify and act against the officials engaged in activities that go against the state's interests. He made it clear that no government employee would be allowed to undermine state policies, warning that violators would be dealt with accordingly. During the meeting, officials provided a detailed briefing on the law and order situation and service delivery across the province. The chief minister reiterated that maintaining security and upholding the state's authority were top priorities. He emphasised that no road would be allowed to be blocked, and every district officer was responsible for ensuring law enforcement in his jurisdiction. Addressing corruption within law enforcement agencies, he stated that extortion at security checkpoints would not be tolerated. Any officer found involved in such activities would be removed from their post immediately. He also stressed that individual opinions must not take precedence over state policies, urging officers to either comply with government directives or step down voluntarily. The chief minister issued directives to ensure the national anthem is sung and the Pakistani flag is hoisted in all educational institutions. He warned that heads of institutions who fail to enforce this practice should resign. He further highlighted the need to engage Baloch youth in positive activities, stating that misleading them into unnecessary conflicts serves no purpose. With the youth policy already approved, local officers have been instructed to promote educational and employment opportunities to strengthen their connection with the state. "The government stays firm in its stance against elements challenging the state authority," he said, emphasising that adherence to official policies is a fundamental duty of all public servants. Meanwhile, an FIR has been registered against Dr Mahrang Baloch, leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), along with several other leaders and activists, in connection with the killing of three people during a protest in Quetta. The case includes multiple sections of the anti-terrorism act and other legal provisions, police sources said. So far, three cases have been filed against the BYC in Quetta. Meanwhile, protests continue across Balochistan against the arrests of Dr Mahrang Baloch and other BYC leaders. On Sunday, a shutter-down strike was observed for the second consecutive day in several cities, including Turbat, Mastung, Kalat, Kharan, Chagai, and Panjgur. Protesters in Turbat have been staging a sit-in for two days, while demonstrators blocked the Turbat-Karachi highway.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/E64AxsO

Seven IPPs request revision of tariff

Seven independent power producers (IPPs) and the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) have requested the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) for revision in their tariff. NEPRA, the country's power regulator, will hold a hearing on the IPPs' request today. The petition has been submitted by Nishat Chunian Power, Nishat Power, Narowal Energy Limited, Liberty Power Tech Limited, Engro Powergen Qadirpur Limited, Sapphire Electric Power Limited and Saif Power Limited. The hearing will review the mechanism for adjusting the exchange rate difference between the rupee and the dollar.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/Im5QFdi

Dry weather expected in country

Mainly dry weather is expected in most parts of the country during the next 24 hours. However, hot weather is expected in the plains during the daytime. The temperatures recorded in major cities during morning were Islamabad 11°C, Lahore: 20°C, Karachi: 24°C, Peshawar 14°C, Quetta: 6°C, Gilgit 2°C, Murree 7°C and Muzaffarabad 12°C. According to the weather forecast for Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, dry weather is expected in Srinagar, Jammu, Leh, Pulwama, Anantnag, Shopian, and Baramulla. The temperatures recorded during morning were Srinagar and Anantnag 2°C, Jammu 12°C, Leh -6°C, Pulwama, Shopian and Baramulla 1°C.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/WD7rCgZ

Punjab urged to fix RTI law

Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) has called for reforms to address gaps in the implementation of the Punjab Transparency and Right to Information Act (PTRIA) 2013. In a policy brief titled "Strengthening the RTI Framework in Punjab", FAFEN urges close collaboration among the Punjab Assembly, Punjab Information Commission and civil society to transform the PTRIA's promise into practice. The policy brief is part of FAFEN's "Countering Disinformation through Information" campaign. As Pakistan grapples with growing disinformation that often fuels political polarisation, strengthening RTI frameworks is vital to restoring public trust and ensuring equitable access to information. Hailed as a progressive law, the PTRIA faces implementation challenges rooted in the legal ambiguities and institutional weakness. FAFEN's assessments of its implementation reveals that around 80 per cent of government departments were unclear about their obligation to publish annual compliance reports under PTRIA while a majority of the public bodies failed to respond FAFEN's information requests within legally-stipulated response time. The policy brief highlights critical legal and operational challenges, including discretionary controls of the provincial government over the appointment and removal of information commissioners and the budgetary allocation for the PIC. Moreover, vague or missing definition of key terms like "working days" and "public body," risk the arbitrary interpretation that may undermine the spirit of the law. Additionally, the absence of standardised record-keeping formats, underdeveloped digital complaint handling mechanisms, and inadequate privacy protections for applicants further weaken the law's enforcement. To address these issues, FAFEN proposes amendments to the PTRIA, including clearer definitions to cover private entities receiving public funds and government contracts, safeguards for whistleblowers, and provisions for anonymous RTI applications. The brief urges the Punjab Assembly to establish a bipartisan committee for appointing information commissioners and create an independent fund to ensure the commission's financial autonomy. It also recommends empowering the commission to issue binding directives on record management, conduct inspections, and adopt a five-year strategic plan to institutionalise transparency. Emphasising the role of technology, FAFEN also recommends a functional online complaint system and standardised digital disclosures to improve accessibility. Sustained public awareness campaigns via media and community engagement are proposed to educate citizens and officials about RTI rights and obligations.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/a832Eyp

President Zardari grants military awards on Pakistan Day

President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday granted military awards to more than 750 officers and soldiers of the Army, Navy and Air Force. According to a news release from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the president granted two Sitara-i-Basalat, 227 Tamgha-i-Basalat, 82 Imtiazi Sanad; 185 COAS Commendation Cards, 23 Hilal-i-Imtiaz (Military), 112 Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Military) and 133 Tamgha-i-Imtiaz (Military).  The press release stated that Sitara-i-Basalat was awarded to Lt Col Muhammad Ali Shaukat (Shaheed), FF; Sep Soban Majeed Baloch (Shaheed), AK, while Lt Col Syed Kashif Ali (Shaheed), AD; Lt Col Muhammad Hassan Haider (Shaheed), was awarded Tamgha-i-Basalat. Tamgha-i-Basalat Lt Col Syed Kashif Ali (Shaheed), AD; Lt Col Muhammad Hassan Haider (Shaheed), Sigs; Maj Babar Khan (Shaheed), Punjab; Maj Amir Aziz (Shaheed), Punjab; Maj Rameez Imtiaz, FF; Maj Syed Ali Raza Shah (Shaheed), Punjab; Capt Hussain Jahangir (Shaheed), Punjab; Capt Muhammad Ahmed Badar (Shaheed), AD; Capt Muhammad Osama Bin Arshad (Shaheed), NLI; Sub Qaiser Reheem (Shaheed), Sindh; Sub Abid Ullah (Shaheed), NLI; Sub Shahab Ahmad (Shaheed), FC KP (N); N/Sub Muhammad Farooq (Shaheed), AD; N/Sub Qadeer Hassan (Shaheed), Baloch; N/Sub Yasir Shakeel (Shaheed), FF; N/Sub Shah Bahram Khan (Shaheed), FF; N/Sub Muhammad Shahzad (Shaheed), AK; N/Sub Zahid Noor (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Hav Sikandar Hayat (Shaheed), AD; Hav Aqeel Ahmed (Shaheed), Engrs; Hav Shafiq Ullah (Shaheed), Punjab; Hav Muhammad Sajjad (Shaheed), Punjab; Hav Muhammad Zahir (Shaheed), FF; Hav Shahzad Ahmed (Shaheed), AK; Hav Zil Husnain (Shaheed), AK; Hav Khalid Fiaz (Shaheed), AK; Hav Shahid Iqbal (Shaheed), Sindh; Hav Shah Din (Shaheed), NLI; Hav Fida Hussain (Shaheed), NLI; Hav Nisar Ahmed (Shaheed), SSG; Hav Khalid Iqbal (Shaheed), CMI; Hav Abdul Sattar (Shaheed), FC BIn (N); Hav Ahmad Hussain (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Hav Abid Ullah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Hav Hayat Ullah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Hav Muhammad Waheed (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Hav Shaal Akbar (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Hav Rauf Shah (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Hav Shahzad Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Hav Saeed Shah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Hav Sabir Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Hav Muhammad Hashim Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Hav Roshan Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Hav Muntazir Shah (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Hav Abdul Bari (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/Hav Madasar Mahmood (Shaheed), Arty; L/Hav Aftikhar Hussain (Shaheed), Punjab; L/Hav Basit Imran (Shaheed), NLI; LD Zubair Hussain (Shaheed), AC; LD Asif Ali (Shaheed), AC; NK Muhammad Imran (Shaheed), ASC; NK/VM Shah Nawaz (Shaheed), EME; NK Imran Ullah (Shaheed), Ord; NK Muhammad Majid (Shaheed), Punjab; NK/Clk Ifran Abbas (Shaheed), Baloch; NK Muhammad Mafrood (Shaheed), Baloch; NK Ghulam Ali (Shaheed), Sindh; NK Abdul Rauf (Shaheed), Sindh; NK Mubasher Sahbeer (Shaheed), AK; NK Muhammad Ishfaq Butt (Shaheed), AK; NK Muhammad Sijad (Shaheed), NLI; NK Shahzad Qamar (Shaheed), NLI; NK Zafar Iqbal (Shaheed), NLI; NK Khan Abbas (Shaheed), FC KP (S); NK Sher Khan (Shaheed), FC BIn (S); NK Farooq Sadique (Shaheed), FC KP (S); NK Khushdil Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (N); NK Muhammad Khurshid Anwar (Shaheed), FC KP (S); NK Walid Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (S); NK Gul Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (N); NK Asif Nawaz (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Haseeb Javed (Shaheed), Arty; L/NK Muhammad Tafeer (Shaheed), Engrs; L/NK Ameer Humza (Shaheed), Punjab; L/NK Abdul Qadir (Shaheed), Punjab; L/NK Waheed Suleman (Shaheed), Baloch; L/NK Wali Khan (Shaheed), FF; L/NK Tahir Naveed (Shaheed), FF; L/NK Afzal Hussain (Shaheed), Sindh; L/NK Syed Danish Afkar (Shaheed), AK; L/NK Purdum Wali (Shaheed), NLI; L/NK Zaman Ali (Shaheed), NLI; L/NK Muhammad Ijaz Khan (Shaheed), SSG; L/NK Mohsan Munir (Shaheed), AMC; L/NK Syed Muhammad Shahenshah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Inayat Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Tahir Abbas (Shaheed), FC Bln (S); L/NK Tariq Ali (Shaheed), FC BIn (S); L/NK Zulfiqar Ali (Shaheed), FC BIn (N); L/NK Muhammad Adnan (Shaheed), FC Bln (N), L/NK Sher Azam Khan (Shaheed), FC Bln (N); L/NK Rehmat Ullah (Shaheed), FC Bln (N); L/NK Jamshid Ali (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Ihsan Ullah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Ghairat Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Shakir Ullah (Shaheed), FC KP (N); L/NK Sher Nawaz Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (N); L/NK Zulfiqar Ali (Shaheed), FC KP (N); L/NK Saghir Shah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Muhammad Ayaz (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Oumar Hayat (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Rafeeq Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (N); L/NK Abdur Rehman (Shaheed), FC KP (N); L/NK Tabassum Ul Haq (Shaheed), AK; L/NK Sohail Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Abdul Haleem (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Sajid Hussain (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Ihsan Bad Shah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Wazid Ullah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); L/NK Muhammad Waris Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Swr Aijaz Gul (Shaheed), AC; Swr Mudassar Hayat (Shaheed), AC; Sep Muhammad Javed Iqbal (Shaheed), AD; Spr Muhammad Azam Khan (Shaheed), Engrs; Spr Haroon William (Shaheed), Engrs; Spr Anosh Rufun (Shaheed), Engrs; Spr Hassan Bilal (Shaheed), Engrs; Sep Abdul Hakeem (Shaheed), Punjab; Sep Ali Raza (Shaheed), Punjab; Sep Muhammad Arif (Shaheed), Punjab; Sep Asad Ullah (Shaheed), Punjab; Sep Muhammad Umer Farooq (Shaheed), Punjab; Sep Zahoor Uddin (Shaheed), Punjab; Sep Altaf Ali (Shaheed), Punjab; Sep Sajjad Hussain (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Muhammad Idress (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Badam Gul (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Sheryar Ahmed (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Tahir Abbas (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Waqar Ahmed (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Muhammad Waseem Abbas (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Sijawal Ali (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Jiand Ali (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Muhammad Sohail (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Ausaf Ur Rehman (Shaheed), FF; Sep Azam Khan (Shaheed), FF; Sep Asif Ali (Shaheed), FF; Sep Muhammad Gulfam Maqsood (Shaheed), FF; Sep Abdullah (Shaheed), FF; Sep Shakeel Shafqat (Shaheed), FF; Sep Naheem Akhtar (Shaheed), AK; Sep Qismat Khan (Shaheed), AK; Sep Tamoor Malik (Shaheed), AK; Sep Muhammad Afzal (Shaheed), AK; Sep Abrar Hussain (Shaheed), AK; Sep Ashfaq Hussain Khan (Shaheed), AK; Sep Abdul Hameed (Shaheed), AK; Sep Shahzeb (Shaheed), AK; Sep Abdullah Shah (Shaheed), AK; Sep Kamil Rabbani (Shaheed), AK; Sep Nadir Sagheer (Shaheed), AK; Sep Arsalan Aslam (Shaheed), AK; Sep Toseef Rafique (Shaheed), AK; Sep Jalal Ud Din (Shaheed), AK; Sep Muhammad Yaseen (Shaheed), AK; Sep Mirza Hussain (Shaheed), AK; Sep Bahar Khan (Shaheed), Sindh; Sep Muhammad Nawaz (Shaheed), Sindh; Sep Muhammad Akram (Shaheed), Sindh; Sep Muhammad Tarique (Shaheed), Sindh; Sep Farman Ali (Shaheed), Sindh; Sep Abdul Saqib (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Shahbaz (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Haji Jan (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Khalid Nasir (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Faiz Ur Rehman (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Muhammad Safdar (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Fida Ali (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Zahid Hussain (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Muhammad Ameen (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Hamza Zaheer (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Syed Mubarak Shah (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Shabbar Hussain (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Muhammad Ahad Zafar (Shaheed), SSG; Sep Sajid Azam (Shaheed), SSG; Cfn Jahan Zaib (Shaheed), EME; Cfn Muhammad Faisal (Shaheed), EME; Sep Saddam Qamar (Shaheed), ASC; Sep Imtiaz Khan (Shaheed), ASC; Sep Imran Ali (Shaheed), DSF; Sep Muhammad ArshAD; DSF; Sep Minhal Hussain (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Raja (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Muhammad Sajjad (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep/Ck Nasir Ali (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Syed Dildar Shah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Syed Shahab Hussain (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Mati Ullah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Saif Ullah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Sharafat Hussain (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Ihsan Ullah (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Shahzada Aurangzeb (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Sher Hayat (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Muhammad Qasim (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Mubarak Jan (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Anas Shah (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Tahseen Ullah (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Muhammad Shoaib (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Naib Hussaib (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Sajid Ur Rehman (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Ihsan Ullah (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Muhammad Ayub (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Rahmat Ullah Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Tariq Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Syed Munazim Mukhtiar Hussain Shah (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Sayed Jamshed Hussain (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Noor Muhammad (Shaheed), FC KP (N); WC Raham Zeb (Shaheed), FC KP (N); Sep Kabeer Khan (Shaheed) FC KP (N); Sep Muhammad Shahzib Aslam (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Muhammad Sufyan (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Abdul Karim (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Banaras Khan (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Syed Ibn-E-Abbas (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Ahmad Ali (Shaheed), FC KP (S); Sep Nadeem Khan (Shaheed), FC BIn (N); Sep Muhammad Bilal (Shaheed), FC BIn (N); Sep Nouman Farid (Shaheed), FC BIn (S); Sep Abdul Sattar (Shaheed), FC BIn (S); Sep Muhammad Tariq Khan (Shaheed), FC BIn (S); Sep Shafi Ullah (Shaheed), FC BIn (S); Sep Sunny Shoukat (Shaheed), FC BIn (S); Sep Tipu Razzaq (Shaheed), FC BIn (S); Sep Muhammad Waseem (Shaheed), FC BIn (S); Sep Jamshed Hussain (Shaheed), FC BIn (S); Sep Shabir Ahmed (Shaheed), FC BIn (S) and Capt Sikandar Ali Khan, TI(M). Imtiazi Sanad Lt Col Moeen Ud Din, CMI; Lt Col Ansar Jamshed, Avn; Lt Col Waqas Butt, Avn; Maj Ahmed Adnan Ur Rasheed, Punjab; Maj Junaid Jawaid, FF; Maj Sajjad Ali, FF; Maj Muhammad Haroon Tariq, FF; Maj Syed Shams Ullah, Baloch; Maj Farhan Ahmed, AK; Capt  Luqman Asghar, FF; Capt Hammad Bin Haseeb, FF; Capt Muhammad Ayaz, Punjab; Capt Muhammad Haris Dilawar, Punjab; Capt Hassan Habib, Punjab; Capt Muhammad Fraz Ilyas (Shaheed), Ord; Capt Ch Muhammad Faraz, Punjab; Lt Haseeb Sajjad; Sindh; Lt Akhlaq Ahmed, Punjab; Lt Abdullah Bin Zubair, Punjab; SM Muhammad Nazir (Shaheed), NLI; SM Muhammad Islam Khan, FC KP (S); N/Sub Sanober Ali (Shaheed), Baloch; N/Sub Intizar Shah, FC KP (S); Hav Mirza Khan, AD; Hav Aftab Ahmed (Shaheed), Baloch; Hav Muhammad Arif (Shaheed), Baloch; Hav Imran Khan (Shaheed), FF; Hav Muhammad Jamil (Shaheed), FF; Hav Muhammad Shahab (Shaheed), FF; Hav Arshad Gul (Shaheed), FF; Hav Shabir Gul (Shaheed), FF; Hav Fazal Subhan (Shaheed), FF; Hav Daud Shah (Shaheed), FF; Hav Riasat Khan (Shaheed), FF; L/Hav Muhammad Imran (Shaheed), Baloch; NK Mukhtiar Ali (Shaheed), FF; NK Muhammad Khurshid Khan, FF; NK Muhammad Hussain, Sindh; NK Salam Sher (Shaheed), FC KP (S); NK Fazal Ur Rehman, FC BIn (N); NK Khaki Jan, FC Bln (N), NK Ghulam Ishaq, FC Bln (N), L/NK Sadiq Amin (Shaheed), FF; L/NK Sagheer Ahmed (Shaheed), FF; L/NK Hussain Ali Khan (Shaheed), NLI; L/NK Muhammad Anwar (Shaheed), NLI; L/NK Muhammad Ishaque (Shaheed), FF; L/NK Muhammad Hayat (Shaheed), FF; L/NK Adil Jan, FF; Sep Aijaz Ahmed, AD; Spr Zulfiqar (Shaheed), Engrs; Sep Zeeshan Nazakat (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Abdul Rasheed (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Muhammad Haseeb Akbar (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Ahmed Ali (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Waris Ali (Shaheed), Baloch; Sep Asad Khan (Shaheed), FF; Sep Rehman Shah (Shaheed), FF; Sep Ghulam Murtaza (Shaheed), FF; Sep Muhammad Fayaz (Shaheed), FF; Sep Ameer Hussain (Shaheed), FF; Sep Syed Wali Khan, FF; Sep Adnan (Shaheed), FF; Sep Muhammad Naseer (Shaheed), FF; Sep Waqar Ullah Khan (Shaheed), FF; Sep Ishtiaq Hussain, AK; Sep Majid Hussain, AK; Sep Asad Ullah (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Rashid Mehmood (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Manzoor Hussain (Shaheed), NLI; Sep Haseeb Ur Rehman, SSG; Sep Nabeel Akhtar (Shaheed), AMC; Sep Muhammad Tariq, FC Bln (S); Sep Shakeel Ahmed, FC Bln (S); Capt Fawad Qaisar, Navy; Lt Commander Muhammad Shafique, Navy; WEA (S)-1V Abdur Rafay Bhatti, Navy; Group Captain Ali Shahnawaz Cheema, GD (P), Air Force; Wing Commander Saad Bin Riaz GD (P) , Air Force; Wing Commander Imran Mir, Engg, Air Force; Wing Commander Muhammad Imran Javed, JAG, Air Force; and Wing Commander Wajeeha AhAD; Med, Air Force.Following officers and men have been conferred with COAS Commendation Card,  Lt Col Naveed Abbas, Baloch; Lt Col Muhammad Kaleem, CMI; Lt Col Syed Atif Hussain, CMI; Lt Col Farhad Ali, CMI; Lt Col Amer Faiz Abbasi, CMI; Lt Col Muhammad Yasir Nadeem Khan, CMI; Lt Col Saqib Razzaq, CMI; Lt Col Ahsan Shafiq Kayani, Punjab; Lt Col Tasawar Hussain, T Bt, Punjab; Lt Col Syed Ali Moosa, EME; Lt Col Umair Ali Raja, Punjab; Lt Col Muhammad Talha Ansari, CMI; Maj Karim Ullah Jan, CMI; Maj Muhammad Abid Saleem, AC; Maj Hafiz Muhammad Shahbaz, CMI; Maj Muhammad Naseem Khan, FF; Maj Muhammad Shahrukh Tanveer, Baloch; Maj Nida Ul Haq Yousafzai, Baloch; Maj Muhammad Shabir, Punjab; Maj Usama Hussain, FF; Maj Muhammad Kamran, Arty; Maj Muhammad Furqan Ahmed Khan Niazi, Arty; Maj Anwar Hussain, AD; Maj Daniyal Tanveer Raja, AK; Maj Syed Azadar Hussain, Punjab; Maj Umair Nisar, Engrs; Maj Muhammad Zulfiqar, AC; Maj Raham DAD; FF; Maj Zulfiqar Khan, Sigs; Maj Muhammad Imran Mansab, AK; Maj Usman Iqba, Punjab; Maj Muhammad Mobeen Akram, Punjab; Maj Syed Bilal Maqsood, Baloch; Maj Faisal Taimur Khan, Baloch; Maj Babar Ali, AC; Maj Wahid Sultan Ahmed, AC; Maj Asad Ullah Khan, Baloch; Maj Arif Hussain, Baloch; Maj Tariq Zaman, AK; Maj Siddique Akbar, NLI; Maj Shahid Khan, Capt Zafar Iqbal, Sindh; Capt Zulkiful Zafar, FF; Capt Muhammad Zarrar Ayub, AK; Capt Muhammad Naveed Akhtar, Baloch; Capt Muhammad Omar Abdullah, AK; Capt Arslan Sarwar, AK; Capt Amjad Hussain, FF; Capt Waheed MurAD; Sindh; Capt Mushtaq Ahmad; Baloch; Capt Muhammad Fahad AmjAD; Baloch; Capt Waheed Khan, NLI; Capt Malik Waleed Ahmed, ASC; Capt Usama Javaid, Arty; Capt Shehbaz Ali, FF; Capt Numan Ali, Punjab; Capt Ayesha Pervaiz, EME; Capt Ahmed Mujtaba, Arty; Capt Liaqat Ali, AK; Capt Abdullah, Baloch; Capt Syed Abu Jandal Shah, NLI; Capt Khurram ShahzAD; Baloch; Capt Muhammad Noman Abbasi, AK; Capt Muhammad Qasim Bin Waris, AC; Capt Mustafa Aziz, AC; Capt Abu Bakar, Baloch; Capt Shahid Nawaz Khan, Punjab; Capt Muhammad Waleed Ishfaq, Sindh; Capt Shakeel Khan, Baloch; Capt Usman Anwar, AK; Capt Muhammad Abdullah Tahir, ASC; Capt Hamza Jamshaid, AMC GDMO, Capt Beenish Nazil, AFNS; Lt Anus Maqbool, AK; Lt Rassam Rashid, FF; Lt Raja Hassan Raza, Punjab; Lt Usama Ali, AK; Lt Muhammad Mustafa Malik, Punjab; Lt Muhammad Bilal, AK; Lt Abdullah Shah, AK; Lt Musheeb Nawaz Khan Babar, Punjab; Lt Bilal Faisal Janjua, FF; 2/Lt Owais Zalkifal HammAD; AK; SM Sahib Jan, Sindh; Sub Sajjad Hussain, Baloch; Sub Muhammad Ijaz Khan, FF; Sub Syed Shakir Ullah Shah, CMI; Sub Liaqat Hussain, FC KP (S); Sub Umar Bayaz Khan, FC Bln (S); N/Sub Muhammad Akram, Punjab; N/Sub Adeel Waqas, Punjab; N/Sub Muhammad Akhtar, FF; N/Sub Ahmad Gul, FF; N/Sub Shakeel Ahmed, AK; N/Sub Niaz Hussain, Sindh; N/Sub Alam Sher, SSG; N/Sub Sakhi MuhammAD; FC KP (S); N/Sub Bashir Ullah, FC KP (S); N/Sub Khan Zaman, FC KP (S); Hav Muhammad Farooq Khan, AD; Hav Shahid Ayub, Punjab; Hav Sajjad Hussain, Punjab; Hav Zaheer Abbas Khan, Punjab; Hav Damsaz Khan, Punjab; Hav Muhammad Yousaf, Baloch; Hav Haji Munir Khan, Baloch; Hav Sada Hussain Shah, FF; Hav Ajmair Younis, AK; Hav Khalid Hussain, SSG; Hav Muhammad Nadeem, SSG; Hav Muhammad Atiq, SSG; Hav Anwar Ali, CMI; Hav Gul Zaman, FC KP (S); Hav Siraj Ud Din, FC KP (S); Hav Gul Hassan, FC KP (S); Hav Munsif, FC KP (S); Hav Abdul Ghaffar, FC Bln (N), Hav Nisar Ali, FC KP (S); Hav Tawoos Khan, FC KP (S); Hav Lal Khan, FC KP (S); L/Hav Sheraz Ahmad; AK; LD Shahid Saleem, AC; Nk Munawar Hussain, Sigs; Nk Niaz Ullah, Punjab; Nk Muhammad Ikram, Punjab; Nk Muhammad Amin, FF; Nk Altaf Hussain Shah, FF; Nk Muhammad Abdullah, SSG; Nk Muhammad Fauz Khan, SSG; Nk Rashid Khan, FC KP (S); Nk Zeeshan, FC KP (S); Nk Muhammad Ilyas, FC KP (S); Nk Nek Nawaz, FC KP (S); Nk Asad Haider, FC KP (S); Nk Sawab Gul, FC KP (S); Nk Muhammad Sulaiman, FC Bln (S); L/Nk Muhammad Arif, Punjab; L/Nk Sajjad Hussain, SSG; L/Nk Eid Badshah, SSG; L/Nk Ansar Siddique, SSG; L/Nk Asad Hayat, SSG; L/Nk Syed Tahir Ali Shah, FC KP (S); L/Nk Khanzala, FC KP (S); L/Nk Arif Hussain, FC KP (N); L/Nk Syed Bilal Hussain Shah, Sindh; L/Nk Adil, FC KP (S); L/Nk Fazal Abbas, FC Bln (N); L/Nk Zahid Ullah Khan, FC KP (S); L/Nk Faizullah, FC Bln (N); L/Nk Said Azam, FC Bln (N); L/Nk Ihsan Ullah, FC KP (S); L/Nk Yasir Zaman, FC Bln (S); Sep Shakir Ullah, Punjab; Sep Muhammad Hashim, Punjab; Sep Muhammad Fayyaz Gul, Punjab; Sep Syed Haroon Badshah, Punjab; Sep Tajumal Hussain, Punjab; Sep Muhammad Abrar Ahmed, Punjab; Sep Ali Akbar, Punjab; Sep Yaqoob Elahi, Punjab; Sep Muhammad Kamran Ashraf, Punjab; Sep Abdul Waqar, Baloch; Sep Muhammad Tanveer, FF; Sep Muhammad Rashid, FF; Sep Gula Jan, FF; Sep Razmat Khan, FF; Sep Abu Huraira, FF; Sep Abid Azam, AK; Sep Hadi Hussain, AK; Sep Muhammad Bakhtawar, Sindh; Sep Muhammad Essa, NLI; Sep Muhammad Ajmal, SSG; Sep Khawar Sajjad; SSG; Sep Naheem Akhtar, SSG; Sep Atta Ullah, SSG; Sep Abid Mahmood, SSG; Sep Sana Ullah, FC KP (S); Sep Muhammad Kashif, FC KP (S); Sep Zakir Hussain, FC Bln (N); Sep Ateeq Ur Rehman, FC Bln (S); Sep Danish Sajid, FC KP (S); Sep Bahadar Khan, FC Bln (N); Sep Shams Ud Din, FC Bln (S); NCB (E) Zain Ali (Shaheed), Engrs and NYA Wireman Muhammad Raees Khan (Shaheed) FC KP (S). Hilal-i-Imtiaz (Military) Maj Gen Amer Ashfaq Kayani, AD; Maj Gen Haroon Ishaq Raja, AK; Maj Gen Omer Naseem, AC; Maj Gen Luqman Hafeez, Engrs; Maj Gen Aamer Amin, FF; Maj Gen Syed Imran Arif, Arty; Maj Gen Haroon Hameed Chaudhary, Punjab; Maj Gen Waseem Iftikhar Cheema, AK; Maj Gen Muhammad Hussain, Sindh; Maj Gen Shoaib Bin Akram, FF; Maj Gen Yasir Nawaz janjua, Arty; Maj Gen Kashif Khalil, Sindh, Maj Gen Malik Mohammad Shahzad; EME; Maj Gen Sibtain Raifque, HCA; Maj Gen Syed Adil Hussanain, HCA; Maj Gen Rizwan Sadiq, HCA; Maj Gen Ijaz Ahmad; HCA; Rear Admiral Adnan Majeed, SI(M), Navy; Rear Admiral Mazhar Mahmood Malik, SI(M), Navy; Rear Admiral Shahzad Hamid SI(M), TBt, Navy; Air Vice Marshal Shahid Mansoor Jehangiri, GD (P), Air Force; Air Vice Marshal Kashif Qamar, GD (P), Air Force; and Air Vice Marshal Tahir Mahmood, AD, Air Force. Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Military) Brig Farhan Saqib, Punjab; Brig Talha Altaf, AC; Brig Muhammad Aslam Khan Niazi, AC; Brig Mirza Muhammad Yasir Baig, Arty; Brig Haroon Rahim, Baloch; Brig Saif Ullah, AK; Brig Saqib Akram, Punjab; Brig Mohammad Kamran Saadat, FF; Brig Ghazi Kamal Kiani, Punjab; Brig Muhammad Tasharruf Alvi, NLI; Brig Hassan Farooq, Sindh; Brig Muqeem Ahmed Subhani, AD; Brig Sajjad Hussain, AK; Brig Abdul Majid, Baloch; Brig Asif Javed Raja, S Bt, Baloch; Brig Muhammad Khurrum Shehzad Niazi, FF; Brig Muhammad Saeed Akhtar, Arty; Brig Ahmad Rizwan Ghumman, AC; Brig Rana Shehzad Shafi, FF; Brig Muhammad Tanveer Ashraf, AD; Brig Mubasshar Nadeem, Punjab; Brig Muhammad Ali Asghar, AC; Brig Ahmed Nawaz, Punjab; Brig Basharat Alli Khan, AD; Brig Muhammad Najaf Abbas Awan, AK; Brig Muhammad Asad; Arty, Brig Muhammad Wasi Ud Din, Arty; Brig Faisal Ahmad Awan, Arty; Brig Sajid Nawaz Abbasi, FF; Brig Sohail Imtiaz, Arty; Brig Abdul Ghaffar, Arty; Brig Muhammad Naveed Iqbal, AK; Brig Shahid Zia, AC; Brig Haque Dad Khan, ASC; Brig Atiq Ur Rehman Khan, Ord; Brig Amir Mehmood Bhatti, Punjab; Brig Muhammad Khalid, AK; Brig Muhammad Farooq, FF; Brig Syed Shabbir Hussain Shah, Arty; Brig Ayub Haider, TBt & Bar, AK; Brig Waseem Ilyas, NLI; Brig Rouf Shahzad; Sindh; Brig Bilal Mustafa Bajwa, Engrs; Brig Zia Ur Rehman, Engrs; Brig Raja Muhammad Asghar, Sigs; Brig Adnan Danish Khan, FF; Brig Tariq Mahmood, Arty; Brig Tallat Waseem Irshad; Punjab; Brig Tanweer Hussain, Engrs; Brig Muhammad Ismail Khattak; FF; Brig Muhammad Tariq Majeed, Punjab; Brig Shahid Rehan, FF; Brig Hamid Ullah, Punjab; Brig Tariq Mehmood, Arty; Brig Syed Asim Hyder Shah, ASC; Brig Wasim Qasir, AD; Brig Anjum Rashid, Ord; Brig Rashid Nadeem, Arty; Brig Mazhar Ajaib, AD; Brig Muzafar Mehdi, ASC; Brig Akhtar Hussain, Arty; Col Taimur Hamid, AC; Col Qamran Subhani, Arty; Col Aamir Ghaffar, Arty; Col Zamir Ul Hussan, Arty; Col Abid Nazeer, AD; Col Taimur Khan Durani, Engrs; Col Mubashir Iqbal, Sigs; Col Muhammad Salman, Punjab; Col Shahid Amir Khan, Baloch; Col Shahzad Khurram, FF; Col Umair Khizer, AK; Col Waqar Ahmad Khan, AK; Col Muhammad Afzal Tahir, CMI; Col Haroon Mushtaq, CMI; Col Muhammad Usman Rafique, ASC; Col Saim Javaid, Ord; Commodore Syed Sajid Raza Rizvi, Navy; Commodore Nasir Mahmood, TI(M), Navy; Commodore Jawad Riaz, TI(M), Navy; Commodore Misbah-ul-Amin, TI(M), Navy; Commodore Muhammad Akram, Navy; Commodore Shafiq-ur-Rehman, TI(M), Navy; Commodore Muhammad Amir, Navy; Commodore Zahid Sabir, Navy; Commodore Hamid Sajjad Lillah, Navy; Commodore Imran Khalid Shafi, Navy; Commodore Bilal Ahmed Sana, Navy; Commodore Dr Syed Sajjad Haider Zaidi, Navy; Commodore M Mehtab Khan TI (M), Navy; Commodore Saleem Nasir, Navy; Air Commodore Abrar Haider Butt, GD (P), Air Force; Air Commodore Muhammad Shahid Afzaal, GD (P), Air Force; Air Commodore Mirza Sarfraz Baig, GD (P), Air Force; Air Commodore Amir Imran Cheema, GD (P), Air Force; Air Commodore Malik Noman Ashiq, GD (P), Air Force; Air Commodore Faisal Saleem, GD (P), Air Force; Air Commodore Muhammad Sheheryar, GD (P), Air Force; Air Commodore Asad Rasool, GD (P), Air Force; Air Commodore Hassan Farrukh Niaz, GD (P), Air Force; Air Commodore Usman Ghani, Engg, Air Force; Air Commodore Mansoor Ahmad Khan, Engg, Air Force; Air Commodore Faisal Siddiqui, Engg, Air Force; Air Commodore Sarmad Rashid, Engg, Air Force; Air Commodore Imran Amjad; Engg, Air Force; Air Commodore Syed Sabihuddin, AD; Air Force, Air Commodore Sher Ali, AD; Air Force, Group Captain Muhammad Salman, AD; Air Force; Air Commodore Shoukat Ali, A&SD, Air Force; Group Captain Muhammad Arif, A&SD, Air Force; Air Commodore Irfan Abbasi, Log, Air Force and Air Commodore Zulfiqar Aamir Kiani, IT, Air Force. Tamgha-i-Imtiaz (Military) Lt Col Muhammad Kamran Khan, AC; Lt Col Siyar Khan, AC; Lt Col Muhammad Rizwan, AC; Lt Col Saif Ullah, AC; Lt Col Adeel Ahmad Chaudhary, AC; Lt Col Amir Shahzad; Arty; Lt Col Qazi Ahsan Ul Haq, Arty; Lt Col Syed Abbas Ali Qazi, Arty; Lt Col Zahid Hussain, Arty; Lt Col Muhammad Ghayyur Sattar, Arty; Lt Col Malik Salah Ud Din Muhammad Ghazi, Arty; Lt Col Khurram Shahzad; Arty, Lt Col Fakhar Ud Din Khattak; Arty, Lt Col Muhammad Amin, Arty; Lt Col Shahid Mahmood Arshad; Arty, Lt Col Nayyar Hassan, Arty; Lt Col Muhammad Sharif Khan, AD; Lt Col Syed Mujtaba Shah, AD; Lt Col Muhammad Waseem, Engrs; Lt Col Muhammad Asif, Engrs; Lt Col Atteq Adnan, Engrs; Lt Col Rizwan Abid, Engrs; Lt Col Imran NIazi, Sigs; Lt Col Muhammad Asim, Sigs; Lt Col Adeel Rasheed Minhas, Sigs; Lt Col Mohammad Afzal Hassan Hotiana, Sigs; Lt Col Owais Haider Khosa, Punjab; Lt Col Muhammad Asad Awan, Punjab; Lt Col Asad Zia, Punjab; Lt Col Ishtiaq Ahmad; Baloch; Lt Col Ishtiaq Hussain, Baloch; Lt Col Muhammad Shahzad Mansoor, Baloch; Lt Col Jawad Masood, FF; Lt Col Zubair Ali Khan, FF; Lt Col Zia Ur Rehman, FF; Lt Col Muhammad Aamir Shabbir, AK; Lt Col Muhammad Rafique, AK; Lt Col Syed Hashim Naseer, Sindh; Lt Col Muhammad Suleman Tayyar, Sindh; Lt Col Muhammad Ali, Sindh; Lt Col Sajjad Akhter, Sindh; Lt Col Shahzada Bulbul Jamal Shan, NLI; Lt Col Arshad Mehmood, NLI; Lt Col Naseem Abbas, NLI; Lt Col Sajid Raza, NLI; Lt Col Rana Shehzad Usman Akhtar, Avn; Lt Col Abbas Hussain Awan, Avn; Lt Col Fazal Sattar Khan, Avn; Lt Col Muhammad Babar Hameed, CMI; Lt Col Shakaib Un Nabi Siddiqui, CMI; Lt Col Nasir Suleman, CMI; Lt Col Muhammad Suleman Munir, ASC; Lt Col Mohammad Khalid, ASC; Lt Col Muhammad Tariq Zafar, ASC; Lt Col Munaum Aziz, Ord; Lt Col Syed Adnan Shah, Ord; Lt Col Mutee Ur Rehman Pawar, Ord; Lt Col Shoaib Aziz, EME; Lt Col Owais Sarwar, EME; Lt Col Muhammad Asim, EME; Lt Col Jamil Muhammad Khan, EME; Lt Col Imran Siddique Khan, EME; Lt Col Iftikhar Ahmad; EME; Lt Col Muhammad Hammad; EME; Lt Col Hammad Tanveer Butt, TSO; Lt Col Amjad Baig, TSO; Lt Col Afshan Nazir, AFNS; Lt Col Farhat Yasmin, AFNS; Lt Col Aneela Gul, AFNS; Lt Col Lubna Latif, AFNS; Lt Col Rubina Sharif, AFNS; Lt Col Shaista Shaheen, AFNS; Lt Col Farah Deeba, AFNS; Lt Col Nargis Sultana, AFNS; Lt Col Afshan Niazi, AFNS; Lt Col Bushra Parveen, AFNS; Maj Omar Farooq, AC; Maj Omer Riffat, AC; Maj Aamir Taimur, Arty; Maj Muhammad Shehzad Anwar, Arty; Maj Amjad Ali, Arty; Maj Muhammad Imran, Arty; Maj Raja Humayun Gohar, Engrs; Maj Shahzad Younas, Engrs; Maj Junaid Arshad Butt, Sigs; Maj Muhammad Abid, Sigs; Maj Malik Muhammad Kamran Ashraf, Punjab; Maj Shafi Ullah, Sindh; Maj Naveed Taj, Sindh; Maj Rashid Jaffar, Avn; Maj Waseem Qayyum Raja, Avn; Maj Muhammad Zeeshan Ul Haq, Avn; Maj Usman Anwar Kayani, Ord, Maj Muhammad Shafqat Abbasi, Ord; Maj Asif Mehmood, EME; Maj Salman Bin Ali Malik, EME; Maj Ghazala Jabeen, AFNS; Maj Shabnum Fatima, AFNS; Maj Sameena Shafi, AFNS; Maj Firdous Bashir, AFNS; Maj Rukhsana Rafique, AFNS; Maj Fakhara Aziz, AFNS; Maj Saleema Bibi, AFNS; Maj Shamim Nazli, AFNS; Maj Shamshad Akhter Latif, AFNS; Maj Rubina Jahangir, AFNS; Commander Shoaib Ishaq, Navy; Commander M Sohail Aslam, Navy; Commander Syed Kazim H Bukhari, Navy; Commander Muzammel Hussain, Navy; Commander Kaleem Ullah, Navy; Lt Commander Majid Khan, Navy; Lt Commander Muhammad Majid Adeel, Navy; Lt Commander Khaliq ur Rehman, Navy; Lt Commander Nazir Ahmed, Navy; Wing Commander Ammar Shoaib Malik, GD (P), Air Force; Wing Commander Muhammad Bilal GD, (P), Air Force; Wing Commander Arsalan Nadeem GD, (P), Air Force; Wing Commander Affan Aslam, GD (P), Air Force; Wing Commander Nasir Latif, GD (P), Air Force; Wing Commander Asad Karim, GD (P), Air Force; Wing Commander Qasim Ismail, GD (P), Air Force; Wing Commander Muhammad Awais Riaz, GD (P), Air Force; Wing Commander Ahsan Bilal, GD (P), Air Force; Wing Commander Absar Omer, Engg, Air Force; Wing Commander Syed Muhammad Hasan, Engg, Air Force; Wing Commander Imran Sarwar Wattoo, Engg, Air Force; Wing Commander Muhammad Sulaman Salimullah, AD; Air Force, Wing Commander Saqib Akhtar, AD; Air Force, Wing Commander Zafar Iqbal Khan, A&SD, Air Force; Wing Commander Kashif Jameel, A&SD, Air Force; Wing Commander Asim Ali Shah, Edu, Air Force and Wing Commander Hafiz Muhammad Shafique, Med, Air Force.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/ROkKaz5

Three killed in Parachinar grenade blast

Three people were killed and another was injured in a grenade blast in Parachinar, Kurram district, while police successfully repulsed a terrorist attack on a police station in Lakki Marwat. Terrorists launched an assault on the Dara Pezo Police Station using heavy weapons and rocket launchers. However, the police successfully repelled the attack, forcing the assailants to flee under the cover of darkness. In a separate incident, unidentified terrorists abducted a policeman from Lakki Marwat. The officer, identified as Abdul Qadeer, son of Alamgir, was taken to an undisclosed location.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/dT08afz

Tribunal annuls 'illegal' notification

The Islamabad District Judicial Service Tribunal (IDJST) has annulled a notification of the Ministry of Law with regard to reconstitution of the tribunal — a decision that shows a growing chasm among the judges in the capital's high court. The ministry on March 18 notified a new tribunal consisting of three IHC judges nominated by Acting Chief Justice Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar. Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro was to head the IDJST while it also comprised Justice Muhammad Azam Khan and Justice Inaam Ameen Minhas. However, the existing tribunal comprising Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan and Justice Babar Sattar declared the notification illegal in an order that also allowed the appeal of senior civil judge, Muhammad Shabbir. In its order, the tribunal noted that it consists of judges nominated by the then IHC chief justice, Aamer Farooq, on January 9, 2024, and there is no need for its reconstitution as there is no difference between the tribunal chairman and the members. It said the registrar of the tribunal informed the personal secretary of the tribunal's chairman that the personal secretary of the IHC acting CJ issued verbal direction to him on March 17 to advise tribunal members not to issue any orders in pending appeals, including those reserved for judgment, as the acting CJ had decided that the tribunal be dissolved. It noted that acting CJ is vested with no administrative authority to issue such directions or otherwise interfere with the outcome of grievances of the members of the subordinate judiciary pending before the tribunal against decisions rendered by the departmental authorities that report to his office. It said the tribunal was last constituted pursuant to a notification dated January 9, 2024 on the basis of nominations made by the then chief justice, Aamer Farooq. "Once the Tribunal was duly constituted, the chief justice became "functus officio". The Hon'ble Acting Chief Justice had no role to play in the functioning of the Tribunal and could no longer withdraw earlier nominations made by the Chief Justice. "Likewise, the Federal Government and the President were vested with no authority to reconstitute the Tribunal, unless a vacancy emerged, which required to be filled in accordance with the Chief Justice's nomination," it added. The order advised the tribunal's registrar to provide a copy of this order to the IHC acting CJ and the judges nominated by him to serve on the tribunal, while purportedly seeking to reconstitute it. "We have been informed that a cause list has been issued by the Registrar's office, to fix for hearing a miscellaneous application under office objection in this appeal, which had been reserved for orders and judgment on 13.03.2025. "We would not wish to embarrass ourselves or our Hon'ble brother judges nominated by the Hon'ble Acting Chief Justice to the Tribunal, under the mistaken belief that the CJ was vested with power to reconstitute the Tribunal, with the newly nominated members assuming jurisdiction over this matter under notification dated 18.03.2025. "[This] notification is devoid of legal authority and has been issued in breach of Section 3 of the Islamabad Subordinate Judiciary Service Tribunal Act, 2016," it added.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/rywci9R

Pakistan Railways announces special discounts for Eidul Fitr

Pakistan Railways has announced a fare reduction for passengers with a 20% discount on train tickets during the holiday period for Eidul Fitr, Express News reported. According to a notification issued by Pakistan Railways, the 20% discount will apply to all mail, express, and intercity trains on the first three days of Eidul Fitr. However, the discount will be available only for these specific days and will not extend beyond that. Additionally, the fare reduction will also apply to advance bookings made during this period, offering passengers a further incentive. However, it's important to note that this discount will not be applicable to special Eid trains. Pakistan Railways has instructed all booking offices to strictly implement this discount, ensuring that passengers can take full advantage of the fare reduction during the Eid celebrations.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/Jq4ItGx

Judges not here to run govt, observes CB

The Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court observed on Thursday that gone were the days when courts would run the government, warning that now the judges were not seat to run the affairs of the government, emphasising that entire state could not be blamed for one person's negligence. A five-member constitutional bench headed by Justice Aminuddin Khan heard a case related to the rights of minorities. A minority community leader said that the main accused involved in the church burning incidents in Jaranwala had not been caught.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/lp8FaRA

Asif hints at hot pursuit in Afghanistan

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has indicated that Pakistan may conduct operations in Afghanistan to target terrorists. Speaking to a private channel, the defence minister said, "If we have to go after Pakistan's enemies in any country, we will do so." He emphasised that Pakistan can take strong action against forces that provide safe havens to hostile elements. Regarding the banned Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Asif accused the Afghan government of supporting TTP terrorists. He further claimed that during the tenure of former prime minister Imran Khan, the TTP was brought back to the region.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/TWJoYgd

Govt announces Eid holidays

The federal government has officially announced the public holidays on the occasion of Eidul Fitr, granting a three-day break. According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Wednesday, the holidays will commence from Monday, March 31, to Wednesday, April 2. Additionally, the decision has taken to enable citizens nationwide to observe the religious occasion with family. Offices and businesses will remain close from March 31 to April 2 and resuming from April 3. Meanwhile, the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee, along with zonal committees, will convene on March 30 (Sunday evening) to sight the moon of Shawwal.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/OAzJwTR

President Zardari vows to eradicate terrorism and ensure peace in Balochistan

President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday reaffirmed the government's commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring lasting peace and development in Balochistan. Chairing a high-level meeting on the province’s security situation, President Zardari highlighted the threat posed by terrorist elements aiming to destabilize the region. “The situation is clear—the state will continue to exist, and we must win the war against terrorism,” he asserted. The meeting was attended by Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Acting Governor of Balochistan Captain (retd) Abdul Khaliq Achakzai, Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir Khan, Inspector General of Police Moazzam Jah Ansari, and other senior officials. Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti provided a detailed briefing on the province’s law and order situation. In response, President Zardari stressed the need for modernizing security forces, pledging that the government would equip the anti-terrorism wing with advanced weaponry. Emphasizing Balochistan’s importance, the president reiterated the government’s focus on sustainable development and education. “Balochistan is close to our hearts. We want development and sustainable peace in the province,” he said. He also underscored the importance of education, stating that every child in Balochistan should be enrolled in school. “It is crucial to equip our children with modern technology to secure their future,” he added. The meeting reaffirmed the government’s resolve to tackle security challenges while prioritizing socio-economic development in the province.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/ergaC5F

Pak condemns Israel's Gaza airstrikes

Pakistan strongly condemned Israel's deadly airstrikes on Gaza on Tuesday, killing over 400 innocent Palestinians, mostly women and children. This horrific act of aggression, in the holy month of Ramazan, is a flagrant violation of the ceasefire agreement and marks a dangerous escalation that threatens to destabilise the entire region once again. "We urge the international community to play it's role to immediately end the violence and resume diplomatic efforts towards an immediate and lasting peace in Gaza and the Middle East," the Foreign Office spokesperson said in a statement.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/CwzZj5T

Pakistan condemns Israel's deadly airstrikes on Gaza

Pakistan strongly condemned Israel’s recent deadly airstrikes on Gaza, which resulted in the deaths of over 400 innocent Palestinians, mostly women and children. The airstrikes have shattered weeks of relative calm following stalled ceasefire talks. Foreign Office (FO) condemned the airstrike, describing it as a “horrific act of aggression” during the holy month of Ramadan. The FO emphasised that this was a flagrant violation of the ceasefire agreement, which could destabilise the entire region. FO called on the international community to intervene and end the violence, urging the resumption of diplomatic efforts for an immediate and lasting peace in Gaza and the Middle East. According to witnesses, the airstrikes targeted homes and tent encampments across Gaza, from the northern to the southern regions. Israeli tanks also shelled Gaza from across the border. Gaza’s health ministry confirmed the toll, stating that 404 people had been killed, marking one of the highest single-day death tolls since the war began. The truce between Israel and Hamas had been holding since January, providing much-needed respite for the 2 million residents of Gaza. However, both Israel and Hamas accused each other of violating the ceasefire, further escalating the violence.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/u1BLreF

Number of sanitation workers hiked

The Sargodha Waste Management Company (SWMC) is implementing a plan under the Clean Punjab initiative to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment in the tehsil. An official said, "We have deployed sanitary workers in all union councils of Sargodha tehsil. The number of workers has been significantly increased, and we are introducing modern cleaning systems in streets, markets and main roads." He elaborated that mechanical washing of roads and streets was being carried out, and door-to-door waste collection had been initiated with public cooperation. He said a helpline had been set up for residents to report sanitation issues.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/23ZnLvf

E-buses for differently-abled kids

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has ordered free treatment of students found suffering from various ailments after the health screening of 40,000 differently-abled children across the province. She was informed in a briefing that a facial registration system had been introduced for students' attendance for the first time in the province. The CM approved the Special People Employment Programme and a plan to launch a 'Rising Star Card' and packed meal programe for special children. The Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz 'Eidi Program' has also been approved for them. The CM also approved the allocation of nine electric buses for the differently-abled children and called for a performance audit after every six months of special education centres. She directed the special assistant to chief minister (SACM) to maintain constant contact with the parents of special children. More cameras will be installed in schools and buses for children with special needs. On the direction of CM Maryam Nawaz, 'ring fencing' of the special education budget has been done for the first time. She issued directive for steps to create an external examination system for the special children.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/7WYuE3I

Man kills teenage daughter, injures niece

A man allegedly shot and killed his 15-year-old daughter and injured his niece in in village 37 EB, Burewala. The police arrived at the scene, shifting the deceased and the injured girl to a hospital while launching an investigation into the case. Police said the suspect, Muhammad Tahir, shot his daughter, Samia Tahir, on suspicion, also wounding her cousin, Amna Aslam. In a video statement, the victim's uncle, who resides in Greece, revealed that Muhammad Tahir had divorced his first wife before marrying twice more. From his first marriage, he had two daughters whom he had reportedly abandoned. Both girls were living at the home of their grandfather, Liaquat Ali, along with their uncle, who provided for them from abroad. According to the uncle's account, Samia Tahir had gone to buy pizza at Chowk Shah Junaid with her cousin Amna Aslam the previous evening. However, rumors quickly spread that the girls had run away from home, enraging Muhammad Tahir. Acting in a fit of anger, Tahir, along with his relative Liaqat Ali, allegedly opened fire on the girls, killing Samia on the spot and leaving Amna critically injured. Authorities are conducting further inquiries to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the crime. The police have launched a search for the accused, vowing to bring those responsible to justice.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/kg4h0vC

Multan admin to register, regulate pushcarts

The divisional administration has decided to register pushcarts and shift them to a designated area. The initiative is part of efforts to eliminate encroachments and improve the city infrastructure, Divisional Commissioner Aamir Kareem Khan said while addressing a meeting that all necessary facilities would be provided in model bazaars and pushcart markets. Municipal staff will be assigned duties to regulate the markets for ensuring that no registered vendor sets up a cart outside the designated zones. The commissioner also directed the officials concerned to accelerate the anti-encroachment operation, emphasising the need for wider streets and a cleaner environment for Eid shoppers. The meeting was attended by the deputy commissioners and officials from relevant departments. The participants were also informed that the distribution of pay orders among deserving families in the division under the Ramazan package is in its final stages. Meanwhile, City Police Officer (CPO) Sadiq Ali Dogar visited the under construction Safe City Authority office and asked the officials concerned to ensure the earliest possible completion of the state-of-art monitoring mechanism. The CPO said that the complete enforcement of the system equipped with modern technology would prove to be a milestone in maintaining law and order and check crimes. He said that the safe city project would soon be inaugurated. On the other hand, several hotels, sweet shops, bakeries and water were inspected, leading to heavy fines for violations of hygiene and food safety standards. Punjab Food Authority (PFA) teams conducted inspections at outlets in various areas, including Bairun Haram Gate, Chowk Shah Abbas, Sanaullah Chowk Makhdoom Rasheed and Suraj Miani Road.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/0yV3Al2

Kamal urges integrated strategy to tackle polio

Minister for Health Services Mustafa Kamal has called for a more integrated strategy to make Pakistan a polio-free country. During a visit to Emergency Operation Center for Polio in Karachi on Sunday, the minister said complete eradication of polio virus is a national priority and the federal government will provide all possible support to provinces. He also appreciated health workers and district administration for their role in the national polio eradication campaign. Kamal expressed concern over the growing number of poliovirus cases in Sindh, directing authorities to submit a detailed report on families refusing vaccinations, the health ministry said.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/JILDhkN

K-P CM criticises forced expulsion of Afghan refugees

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has criticised the federal government's policy on Afghan refugees, stating that they should not be forcibly expelled from Pakistan. "The Centre's policy on Afghan refugees is flawed... The approach taken in the past violated human rights," he said during a press conference in Peshawar on Sunday. His remarks come weeks after the federal government set a March 31 deadline for "illegal foreigners" and Afghan Citizen Card holders to leave Pakistan voluntarily. The move is part of an ongoing repatriation drive launched in 2023, primarily targeting undocumented Afghan nationals. Islamabad has blamed Afghan migrants for security concerns, citing their alleged involvement in militant activities and crime. However, Gandapur argued that those with no criminal record should be allowed to stay and granted Pakistani citizenship. "There should be no issues if Afghans with no criminal record are willing to stay in Pakistan... I have always raised my voice for Afghans who are legally compliant," he said. K-P hosts the largest Afghan refugee population in Pakistan, with Peshawar accommodating the highest number. Many refugees have been living in the province for decades, running businesses or working in various sectors. According to the United Nations, more than 800,000 Afghans have returned to Afghanistan since Pakistan began its repatriation efforts. Overall, the country is home to 2.8 million Afghan refugees, including 2.1 million documented residents. Addressing the rise in terrorism, Gandapur questioned the federal government’s handling of security, claiming the situation was better under former prime minister Imran Khan. "When the state focused on crushing one party, it neglected its own responsibilities, leading to a surge in terrorism," he said. The K-P chief minister highlighted the province’s financial constraints, blaming the Centre for not providing adequate resources. "The police have not been given new weapons in the last 10 years," he said, despite their efforts to counter terrorist threats on the province’s borders. Gandapur also criticised delays in approving terms of reference (ToRs) for negotiations with Afghanistan on cross-border terrorism. He reiterated his demand for K-P’s rightful share under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, warning of protests if funds were not allocated. "If they are out of funds, they should sit with us and find a solution," he urged, adding that increased police salaries and development projects hinge on the province receiving its due share.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/SCpyKX3

SC to hear contempt case against Imran on March 21

The Supreme Court on Saturday fixed the contempt of court petition against PTI founding chairman and former premier Imran Khan for hearing on March 21. A five-member constitutional bench, led by Justice Aminuddin Khan, will hear the case. The bench includes Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail, Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan, Justice Hashim Khan Kakar and Justice Aamer Farooq. The contempt petition was filed by the federal government regarding the PTI founder's decision to lead the May 25, 2022, long march to D-Chowk instead of the designated protest site. During the last hearing, the court had sought a reply from the government on whether it intended to pursue the case further. The PTI founder's legal counsel, Salman Akram Raja, has already submitted a response. In 2022, the Supreme Court had allocated a specific ground for the long march, and PTI's legal representatives had assured compliance with the designated route. However, the march, led by the PTI founder, reached Jinnah Avenue on May 26, 2022, where it concluded. Protesters reportedly set trees near D-Chowk on fire during the demonstration. Meanwhile, the constitutional bench which will be hearing important cases from March 17-21. These include cases related to stone crushing, sanitation workers' rights, pension and benefits for the widow of the late judge Arshad Malik, as well as a suo motu notice on deaths caused by pneumonia and hepatitis.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/SseJV4o

Sadiq chides PTI for its 'double standards'

National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has chided the opposition parties—mainly the PTI–for their alleged double standards, saying they are availing perks and privileges from the same Parliament which they call "fake". "I ask if it is justified to simultaneously withdraw salaries and hold key offices in the lower and upper houses of the Parliament while calling it bogus," Sadiq said on Friday during his media interaction at the launching ceremony of the tree plantation drive the Mughal Garden in the Parliament House. The speaker said the opposition lawmakers come into the assembly to protest and neglect the issues of public importance. Sadiq also revealed that the opposition has not yet proposed any names for the new chief election commissioner (CEC). "Despite the official correspondence from the National Assembly Secretariat on February 19, 2025, the opposition has so far not nominated names for the CEC," he said. While discussing the current happenings in the assembly, the speaker accused the opposition leader—Omar Ayub—of misleading people, saying he speaks at length on the floor of the house and then tells the media that he was not given a chance to speak. Speaker Sadiq revealed that the opposition leader delivered a speech lasting one hour and 21 minutes during the current session but after the speech, he went outside and told the media he was not given a chance to speak. "Isn't this a contradiction," he questioned.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/ypwab20

Punjab police arrest suicide bomber linked to TTP in Lahore

The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab Police has successfully arrested a suicide bomber affiliated with the banned Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) near Burki Road, while another terrorist managed to flee in a wounded state, Express News reported on Friday. According to a spokesperson for the CTD, the operation was carried out based on confidential intelligence aimed at capturing the militants. The CTD team engaged in a fierce exchange of fire with the terrorists, during which one suicide bomber was apprehended, while his injured accomplice escaped. The arrested bomber has been identified as Hafiz Shams, a resident of Balochistan, who is linked to the TTP. Authorities recovered a suicide jacket, safety fuse wire, and explosives from his possession. Upon receiving information about the terrorists, senior police officers arrived at the scene, and CTD teams immediately cordoned off the nearby areas of Burki to conduct a search operation. The CTD spokesperson also revealed that the terrorists had completed plans for a major attack on Lahore. However, thanks to the timely operation, the city was spared from a large-scale disaster. A case has been registered, and further investigations are underway.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/7IWBphc

UNSC condemns terrorist attack on Jaffar Express, calls for accountability

The members of United Nations Security Council have strongly condemned the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack on a Jaffar Express Passenger Train in Pakistan. In a press statement issued by Council President Christina Markus Lassen on Friday, the members expressed deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy and full recovery of injured. “The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack on a Jaffar Express Passenger Train travelling from Quetta to Peshawar near the city of Sibi, Balochistan province, Pakistan, on 11 March 2025 and the taking of passengers as hostages. This reprehensible act of terrorism resulted in the grievous loss of at least 25 Pakistani nationals,” said the press release. They underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice and urged all States to cooperate actively with the Government of Pakistan in this regard. This reprehensible act of terrorism resulted in the grievous loss of at least twenty-five Pakistani national and Balochistan Liberation Army claimed that the attack was carried out by its Majeed Brigade.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/xfknhFJ

Imran challenges judges' transfer in Supreme Court

PTI founder Imran Khan has challenged the notification of transfer of judges in the Supreme Court. A petition against the transfer of judges in the IHC was filed under Article 184 (3) of the Constitution. The petition argued that the notification of transfer of judges in IHC is illegal and unconstitutional; therefore, the notification be declared as void. It also prayed the court to pass an order, directing to ensure the independence of judiciary amid transfer of judges. The petition requested the court to give an order for the implementation of set principles outlined by the court in Al-Jihad Trust case.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/WvGmhc1

Pakistan rejects reports of US travel ban as 'speculative'

Foreign Office on Thursday dismissed reports of a potential US travel ban on Pakistani nationals as “speculative,” saying Islamabad had received no official indication of such measures. Foreign Office Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan addressed the issue during a weekly media briefing after a Reuters report last week suggested that the US, under President Donald Trump, could impose new travel restrictions on Pakistan and Afghanistan following a government review of security and vetting risks. “As of now, this is all speculative and hence does not warrant a response,” Khan said. “So far, we have not been given any indication of such a ban on the Pakistan nation.” The statement came amid reports that Pakistani Ambassador to Turkmenistan KK Ahsan Wagan was denied entry into the US this week. The Foreign Office clarified that Wagan was traveling for personal reasons and was not eligible for diplomatic immunity. Officials were investigating the incident. Shafqat Ali Khan added that Pakistan’s foreign ministry and its mission in Washington were in regular contact with US authorities to gather further details. On January 20, President Trump issued an executive order mandating stricter security vetting for foreigners seeking entry into the US. The order required US cabinet officials to submit a list by March 12 of countries deemed to have inadequate screening measures, which could lead to partial or full travel suspensions. The Reuters report also noted that the potential restrictions could impact tens of thousands of Afghans who had been approved for resettlement in the US, including those on Special Immigrant Visas who face risks of Taliban retribution due to their work for the US during the two-decade-long war in Afghanistan.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/VnGxCTi

JIT summons Omar Ayub, Aleema

A JIT has summoned PTI leaders Omar Ayub and Aleema Khan for questioning in an inquiry related to alleged negative propaganda on social media, Express News reported on Wednesday citing sources. According to officials, the JIT issued summons to Ayub and Aleema as part of an investigation into digital content deemed to be in violation of Pakistan's cyber laws. Aleema Khan has been directed to appear today, 12 March, while Omar Ayub has been called in for questioning tomorrow, 13 March.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/MoAfp6X

Targeting unarmed people not part of Baloch traditions: Balochistan CM

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has strongly condemned the recent attack on the Jaffar Express and the hostage-taking of passengers by terrorists, stating that "targeting unarmed people is not part of Baloch traditions." Speaking at a session of the Balochistan Assembly on Wednesday, Bugti questioned, "Why are we afraid to name those [elements] who are carrying out killings in Balochistan?" Unknown number of militants blew up a railway track, opened fire, and hijacked the Jaffar Express near Bolan in Balochistan on Tuesday. The train, en route from Quetta to Peshawar, was carrying over 400 passengers on a 30-hour journey. Bugti further questioned: "Should we apologise to them for the killings of 500 people?" He stressed that terrorists were attempting to impose their ideology through violence, declaring that even war had its principles. He also noted the rich history of bravery and hospitality within the Baloch people. The chief minister condemned the actions of terrorists, citing incidents where innocent civilians, including hairdressers and laundrymen, were abducted and killed. He asserted that these elements were not interested in dialogue and reiterated multiple times during in-camera briefings that such groups would not succeed in seizing any land in Balochistan. Bugti pledged that anyone advocating for the breakup of the state or resorting to arms would be eliminated. He assured that the state would protect the common Baloch people, but would not tolerate those involved in the killing of innocent citizens. In response to the attack, the Balochistan Assembly passed a resolution condemning the terrorist violence, which was presented by Adviser to the Chief Minister on Sports and Youth Affairs, Meena Majeed Baloch.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/wQ9EPk1

Kundi hosts PML-N, PPP meeting in capital

K-P Governor Faisal Karim Kundi on Tuesday hosted a meeting of the PML-N and the PPP leaders at his residence in the federal capital to discuss the issues faced by the K-P including deteriorating security situation and political uncertainty. The meeting agreed on a joint strategy and efforts for sustainable peace and overall development in the K-P. It was also decided to engage like-minded political parties in the consultation process and to continue discussions regularly for the province's progress. It expressed concern over the PTI led provincial government's "criminal silence" on the deteriorating security situation in the province.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/oeRZ9Mi

Maryam Nawaz to introduce 'CM Education Card' to reward top students

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has decided to introduce the ‘CM Education Card’ in a bid to promote education across the province. The scheme aims to reward high-achieving students, with those scoring over 80% marks receiving the ‘CM Eminence Star Card.’ In addition to this, the Chief Minister announced the establishment of state-of-the-art labs for matriculation and technical education. Furthermore, a pilot project will be launched in 338 schools in Lahore to offer English language speaking classes. Addressing the state of school infrastructure, the CM set a 90-day deadline for the provision of drinking water, whitewashing, and furniture in schools. She emphasised that improving the quality of education in Punjab is the government’s top priority. “It is essential to educate students about patriotism and the importance of adhering to ethical values,” she said.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/TbuHJE3

PM condemns attack on Jaffar Express, lauds security forces' efforts

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has praised the timely action and bravery of security forces, stating that cowardly terrorists are being forced to retreat due to their efforts, Express News reported. In a strong condemnation of the cowardly attack on the Jaffar Express near Bolan Pass on Tuesday, the PM acknowledged the ongoing operations against the terrorists, highlighting that security forces are effectively countering the attackers with bravery and professionalism. Despite the difficult terrain, the PM stated that the morale of security forces involved in the operation remains high. He expressed confidence that the security personnel would soon succeed in their mission and bring the terrorists to justice. "These cowardly terrorists, who carried out this despicable attack, are not deserving of any leniency. They are enemies of Pakistan’s progress and the people of Balochistan," he added. PM Shehbaz also condemned the attack during the holy month of Ramadan, describing it as a clear indication that the terrorists have no connection to Islam, Pakistan, or Balochistan. He reiterated his government's commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring peace in the country. "We will continue the fight against terrorism until it is completely eradicated from our land. Every plot to spread unrest and chaos in Pakistan will be thwarted," he said. He also assured that the nation stands united with the security forces in this battle against terrorism, and that the nefarious plans of enemies would never succeed. The PM concluded by reaffirming the government's determination to protect Pakistan's sovereignty and peace, stressing that the entire nation is firmly behind its security forces in these challenging times.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/f8FdPo5

Road safety workshop held

The Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) organised a one-day road safety workshop at its driving school on Sunday. Citizens attended the workshop, where experts delivered detailed lectures on road safety, traffic laws and accident prevention. Participants were also briefed on safe driving principles for both professional and general circumstances. Following the session, practical driving tests were conducted.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/Q54RTEV

Prime suspect in Mustafa Amir murder case 'confesses'

The investigation report of the prime suspect, Armaghan, in the brutal murder of young Mustafa Amir, who went missing from the Defence area and was later found dead, has been obtained by Express News. According to the report, Armaghan, the arrested suspect, has allegedly confessed to the crime and explained the reasons behind Mustafa’s murder. The report reveals that Armaghan ran a call center at a bungalow in Defence’s Khayaban-e-Momin area, where 30 to 40 boys and girls worked, along with 30 to 35 security guards stationed at the premises. The bungalow also illegally housed three lion cubs. The interrogation report also sheds light on Armaghan’s involvement in business and drug use. Prior to Mustafa’s murder, Armaghan, along with his friend Shiraz, planned to burn Mustafa’s car, and had previously intended to harm him. The report revealed that in 2019, Armaghan was involved in a case regarding drug importation, but he secured bail in that matter. According to the investigation, Armaghan himself was a drug user. On New Year's Eve, Armaghan hosted a party at the bungalow, where Shiraz was also present until 3 am. However, Mustafa did not attend the party. The following day, Armaghan and Mustafa had a personal dispute, which escalated into a violent confrontation. On January 6, Armaghan invited Shiraz to the bungalow to take drugs together, and Mustafa arrived at around 9 pm. During this encounter, Armaghan assaulted Mustafa with an iron rod. Armaghan and Shiraz stripped Mustafa of his clothes, bound his hands and feet with a white sheet, and dragged him down the stairs. Mustafa’s car was parked in the bungalow's parking lot, and they placed his body in the trunk of the car, after which they took him to Hub. The report further details that Armaghan instructed two employees to clean blood stains from the room. Armaghan also took Mustafa's clothes, mobile phone, and internet device. When they could not find fuel in the car, Armaghan took a fuel can from the bungalow. The report explains that Armaghan discarded Mustafa's mobile phone and other belongings on the way. They arrived in Hub around 4:30 am, poured petrol on the car, and set it on fire. Armaghan and Shiraz then walked to a hotel for breakfast. A hotel employee noticed a weapon, and the two men fled the scene. After walking for several hours and hitching rides, they made their way back to Karachi. A few days later, when Mustafa's mother inquired about her son, Armaghan told her that Mustafa had gone to a friend, Nauman, a drug dealer, on the night of January 6. After Mustafa's mother grew suspicious, Armaghan and Shiraz fled to Islamabad. Just three days before the police raid on Armaghan’s bungalow, he had returned to Karachi. Upon seeing the police, Armaghan fired at them for some time before the police apprehended him. Following his arrest, the police discovered weapons, bullets, laptops, and other materials hidden in his house, based on his identification.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/xOkDUZI

President urges salary hikes, tax cuts in upcoming budget

President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday called on the government to increase salaries and pensions in the upcoming budget, reduce income taxes for salaried classes, and focus on creating jobs instead of downsizing. In his annual address to the joint session of Parliament marking the beginning of the new parliamentary year, Zardari highlighted the severe economic hardships faced by the common man, labourers, and salaried individuals. He pointed to inflation, high prices of essential goods, and rising energy costs as the key burdens affecting the people. The president stressed that the upcoming budget should provide real relief to the citizens. He urged the government and Parliament to take steps to increase salaries and pensions, reduce income taxes on salaried classes, and lower energy costs, which would ease the financial strain on the population. “We should avoid downsizing and job cuts. Instead, our focus should be on creating jobs and utilizing trained manpower productively,” Zardari added. As the first civilian president to address Parliament for the eighth time, Zardari also emphasized the need for inclusive and uniform development, ensuring that no province, district, or village is left behind. “The ignored and neglected areas demand urgent attention from the federal government. They also need investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities to address their sense of deprivation,” the president concluded.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/n7Rt4wo

PM Shehbaz assures Bilawal on addressing PPP's canal project concerns

In a meeting with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Monday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured that the government's commitments would be honored, and all concerns raised by PPP would be addressed accordingly, Express News reported. During the meeting, the PPP delegation expressed objections regarding the controversial canal projects and highlighted security concerns in the Kurram district. The PPP also expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of relief for flood victims in Balochistan. PM Shehbaz reassured the delegation that the government's commitment to resolving the issues related to the canals, security in Kurram, and aid for flood-affected people in Balochistan would be met. In a statement following the meeting, PM Shehbaz praised PPP leadership for its active and dynamic role in meeting the public's expectations across all provinces and collaborating with the federal government to improve the lives of ordinary citizens. The PM stressed the importance of cooperation between the federal and provincial governments, as well as all political parties, to ensure a brighter future for the country. The PPP delegation included prominent leaders such as Senate Chairman Yusuf Raza Gilani, Naveed Qamar, Raja Pervez Ashraf, and other senior party members.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/drELcqm

Govt to revise banned entities list

Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik has said the government will revise its list of proscribed organisations with assistance from US agencies, including the State Department. He added that individuals linked to these groups could face US travel restrictions. Speaking on a private news channel the other day, Aqeel said that Pakistanis would not be subjected to any travel ban. "People need not get worried that there is some visa ban on Pakistan or that they will be denied entry," he said. "We are not looking at an outright ban on Pakistanis entering the US." He noted that both Pakistan and the US must update their lists of banned organisations. "The list of proscribed groups needs to be updated, and I am sure that the State Department will update their own lists as well," Aqeel said. "We will share information with them - there is intelligence sharing - and based on our list, they will update their lists about banned Pakistani organisations as well," he stated. "If any individuals maintain links with these organisations, their entry may be denied, and their visas may be revoked." Addressing concerns, the minister reiterated that ordinary Pakistanis would not face travel restrictions.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/2Wl9XJC

'Govt ensuring better prices for crops'

Minister for National Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain has the government is working to ensure better prices for crops including wheat to benefit farmers. Talking to media in Muridke on Sunday, the minister noted that the government is determined to increase agricultural produce to maintain food security. The minister said farmers will get better price for their crops and measures are being taken to provide them relief. In reply to a question, he said that no opposition movement is taking place after Eid. He alleged that the PTI leaders are resorting to abusive language and pleas which has "become their political strategy".

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/JVwi71y