PMDC exempts current MBBS, BDS students from new passing, attendance rules

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council has clarified that there will be no enforcement of revised attendance and passing mark requirements for MBBS and BDS students enrolled up to the 2024–25 academic session. The decision, made during the council's meeting on October 21, follows feedback from universities, medical and dental colleges, and petitions from students and parents regarding the impact of changes to the requirements during the ongoing academic year. Earlier in February, the PMDC increased the passing marks for MBBS and BDS examinations from 50% to 70% and raised the attendance requirement from 75% to 90%. "The Council resolved that there shall be no enforcement of revised attendance or passing mark requirements," the PMDC announced. "Students already enrolled up to and including the academic session 2024–25 shall continue under the previously applicable criteria of 50% minimum passing marks and 75% minimum attendance, as stipulated at the time of their admission or enrolment in MBBS or BDS programmes." For future cohorts, the council proposed a gradual increase of 5% in both attendance and passing mark requirements. The change will be subject to further review in consultation with universities, medical educators, and other relevant stakeholders. "The finalised criteria will be communicated in due course of time," it stated.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/GHZcbq4

Siraj wants major parties eliminated

Former Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Sirajul Haq has said Pakistan can only progress once the PPP, the PML-N, and the PTI are eliminated from the political scene. "We want to see Kashmir liberated and Dr Aafia Siddiqui released. This will only be possible when Pakistan is free from the PPP, the PML-N, and PTI," Haq said on Sunday while addressing the Azm-e-Nau Youth Convention in Lahore "All the three parties have given the nation nothing except corruption and hollow slogans," he added. The PPP, the PML-N, and the PTI have all ruled the country — the first two multiple times, and the latter once. The PPP currently has governments in Sindh and Balochistan provinces, the PML-N in the Centre and Punjab and the PTI has been ruling over Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) since 2013. Haq added the PML-N has long ruled Punjab and the PPP has governed Sindh for years, yet the people's condition remains unchanged. "All three parties are currently in power, and they have collectively brought the country to this point," he said. The former JI chief said his party seeks a revolution in the country — a revolution based on obedience to Allah, so that the system runs according to divine guidance rather than human desires.

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

Hidden Mughal chambers rediscovered after centuries under Lahore Fort

A centuries-old secret beneath the Lahore Fort has been rediscovered. The long-forgotten Khilwat Khana chambers, hidden below the fort’s Khilwat Khana and Shah Burj Quadrangle, have been meticulously restored under a major conservation initiative led by the Aga Khan Cultural Service–Pakistan. The restoration, undertaken as part of the Heritage and Urban Regeneration: Tourism Development in Lahore Fort and its Buffer Zone project, was executed in collaboration with the Walled City of Lahore Authority, with financial support from the Agence Française de Développement and the Government of Punjab. Once used for royal privacy and palace operations, the underground chambers comprise an intricate network of rooms, stairways, and corridors. Over the centuries, these subterranean spaces fell into neglect and disrepair, buried under layers of time and history. Now, through scientific restoration and traditional craftsmanship, they have been revived as one of the fort’s most fascinating and least-explored attractions. The conservation work focused on structural strengthening, drainage and ventilation improvements, and safe visitor access, while preserving the authentic Mughal architecture. Experts describe the project as a model of heritage preservation that blends ancient building methods with modern conservation techniques to ensure long-term stability and public engagement. Locally known as Teh Khanay, the chambers span three levels and cover nearly 816 square metres. Historical records suggest that the lower levels were once used for storing perishables and royal documents. Some accounts also indicate that one section functioned as a detention area for prisoners during later periods of the fort’s history. According to Aga Khan Cultural Service–Pakistan (AKCS-P) officials, the chambers will soon open to the public through guided tours, offering visitors a rare glimpse into Mughal life. The space has been enhanced with soft lighting, interpretive displays, and ambient sounds designed to provide an immersive experience while maintaining the sanctity of the heritage site. “This conservation effort has turned unknowns into knowns,” said Wajahat Ali, Director of Conservation & Design at AKCS-P. “Through structural repairs, we’ve redistributed the load of the monuments above, consolidating and strengthening the fort’s northern section. We’ve also rectified water damage caused by later interventions during the Sikh and British eras.” Ali noted that the project’s impact goes beyond architectural revival — it has also revitalised traditional craftsmanship by involving local artisans and craftspeople at every stage of the process. “We see it as heritage brought back to life,” he added. The Khilwat Khana restoration represents not just a technical achievement but a reconnection with Lahore’s layered past. It reveals an overlooked dimension of the Lahore Fort — a site where architectural mastery, history, and culture converge. Dating back to the 11th century, the Lahore Fort, or Shahi Qila, is one of South Asia’s most magnificent Mughal monuments. Rebuilt by Emperor Akbar (1556–1605) and later expanded by Emperors Jahangir and Shah Jahan, the fort is home to landmarks such as the Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas, and Naulakha Pavilion. Despite later modifications during Sikh and British rule, its Mughal essence has endured through time.

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

Vegetable, fruit prices soar across Lahore amid border tensions

Trade disruptions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border continue to impact the prices of fruits imported from the neighbouring country, while poultry rates have remained largely stable as exports from Pakistan remain halted. Although official price lists for vegetables reflect a downward revision, consumers report little to no relief in actual market rates. Vendors continue to overcharge despite government notifications, while enforcement remains minimal, with authorities appearing more focused on photo-ops for digital media than ensuring compliance on the ground. Read: Punjab revises school timings as smog crisis worsens This week, the price of live chicken was reduced to between Rs284 and Rs298 per kilogram — a drop of Rs5 — yet the product was not available at these rates in local markets. Similarly, chicken meat was officially priced at Rs432 per kilogram, down Rs7, but continued to be sold between Rs485 and Rs560 per kilogram. Vegetable prices defy official listings The price of potatoes rose by Rs5 per kilogram, and although rates were fixed between Rs90 and Rs95, they continued to retail between Rs130 and Rs150. Sugar-free potatoes, listed at Rs60 to Rs65, were being sold for Rs100 to Rs120, while sweet potatoes sold between Rs120 and Rs160 instead of the official Rs90 to Rs95. Tomatoes dropped by Rs20 in the official list, coming to Rs150 and Rs165 per kilogram, but markets continued pricing them between Rs300 and Rs350. Local garlic declined by Rs10, coming to Rs190–Rs200 per kilogram, yet retailed around Rs300. Harani garlic and the Chinese variety were also being sold significantly above their fixed prices, at Rs400 and Rs600 respectively. Also Read: Pakistan reopens Afghan border as ceasefire holds Thai ginger dropped by Rs90, listed at Rs520 to Rs550 per kilogram, while Chinese ginger rose by Rs5, listed at Rs520 to Rs540 — but both varieties continued to retail between Rs700 and Rs800. Spinach, lemon, pumpkin, and ladyfinger also saw reductions on paper but remained inflated in markets. Fruits see price hikes Fruits continued to register higher prices due to supply chain disruptions. Apple prices increased by Rs5 per kilogram, now selling up to Rs600. Guava dropped by Rs10 on the official list, to Rs225–Rs235, but was being sold between Rs280 and Rs350. Banana prices remained listed at Rs135 to Rs150 per dozen but were being sold for up to Rs180 due to widespread overcharging. Sharp increases were recorded in grapes, pomegranates, and papaya. The Gola grape variety rose by Rs155 per kilogram on the list to Rs567–Rs595, but retailed near Rs1,000. Kandhari and Danedar pomegranates gained Rs160 per kilogram, sold between Rs600 and Rs1,000, while papaya was listed at Rs255–Rs265 but sold between Rs350 and Rs500. Meanwhile, dates were priced at Rs440 to Rs515 per kilogram on the list but retailing for up to Rs2,000. Read: Newborn ‘sold’ to Punjab recovered; Karachi clinic sealed Despite official claims of price control, consumers continue to pay significantly higher rates, underscoring the growing gap between government notifications and ground reality. “Prices change almost every other day, and we’re the ones customers blame,” said vegetable vendor Rehman Butt. “When wholesale rates rise due to transport costs or border issues, we have no choice but to increase prices too.” Sara Khan, a shopper in Model Town, said daily price lists have become meaningless. “You can’t find a single item being sold at the official price — not even basic vegetables like onions or tomatoes,” she said.  

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

Hidden Mughal chambers rediscovered after centuries under Lahore Fort

A centuries-old secret beneath the Lahore Fort has been rediscovered. The long-forgotten Khilwat Khana chambers, hidden below the fort’s Khilwat Khana and Shah Burj Quadrangle, have been meticulously restored under a major conservation initiative led by the Aga Khan Cultural Service–Pakistan. The restoration, undertaken as part of the Heritage and Urban Regeneration: Tourism Development in Lahore Fort and its Buffer Zone project, was executed in collaboration with the Walled City of Lahore Authority, with financial support from the Agence Française de Développement and the Government of Punjab. Once used for royal privacy and palace operations, the underground chambers comprise an intricate network of rooms, stairways, and corridors. Over the centuries, these subterranean spaces fell into neglect and disrepair, buried under layers of time and history. Now, through scientific restoration and traditional craftsmanship, they have been revived as one of the fort’s most fascinating and least-explored attractions. The conservation work focused on structural strengthening, drainage and ventilation improvements, and safe visitor access, while preserving the authentic Mughal architecture. Experts describe the project as a model of heritage preservation that blends ancient building methods with modern conservation techniques to ensure long-term stability and public engagement. Locally known as Teh Khanay, the chambers span three levels and cover nearly 816 square metres. Historical records suggest that the lower levels were once used for storing perishables and royal documents. Some accounts also indicate that one section functioned as a detention area for prisoners during later periods of the fort’s history. According to Aga Khan Cultural Service–Pakistan (AKCS-P) officials, the chambers will soon open to the public through guided tours, offering visitors a rare glimpse into Mughal life. The space has been enhanced with soft lighting, interpretive displays, and ambient sounds designed to provide an immersive experience while maintaining the sanctity of the heritage site. “This conservation effort has turned unknowns into knowns,” said Wajahat Ali, Director of Conservation & Design at AKCS-P. “Through structural repairs, we’ve redistributed the load of the monuments above, consolidating and strengthening the fort’s northern section. We’ve also rectified water damage caused by later interventions during the Sikh and British eras.” Ali noted that the project’s impact goes beyond architectural revival — it has also revitalised traditional craftsmanship by involving local artisans and craftspeople at every stage of the process. “We see it as heritage brought back to life,” he added. The Khilwat Khana restoration represents not just a technical achievement but a reconnection with Lahore’s layered past. It reveals an overlooked dimension of the Lahore Fort — a site where architectural mastery, history, and culture converge. Dating back to the 11th century, the Lahore Fort, or Shahi Qila, is one of South Asia’s most magnificent Mughal monuments. Rebuilt by Emperor Akbar (1556–1605) and later expanded by Emperors Jahangir and Shah Jahan, the fort is home to landmarks such as the Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas, and Naulakha Pavilion. Despite later modifications during Sikh and British rule, its Mughal essence has endured through time.

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

Seven injured in LPG shop blast on Karachi’s Abul Hassan Isphahani Road

As many as seven people were injured in an explosion caused by a short circuit and gas leakage at an LPG cylinder shop on Abul Hassan Isphahani Road in Karachi. According to police, the blast triggered a fire inside the shop, leaving seven people with burn injuries. Following the incident, personnel from Mubeena Town Police Station and Chhipa volunteers reached the scene and shifted the injured to Civil Hospital Karachi for treatment. Station House Officer (SHO) Mubeena Town, Chaudhry Nawaz, said preliminary investigations suggested that a short circuit and gas leak inside the shop caused the explosion and subsequent fire. He added that the shop workers initially tried to extinguish the blaze before rescue teams arrived. Rescue 1122 teams, accompanied by a fire tender, reached the location and brought the situation under control. The SHO clarified that no LPG cylinder had exploded during the incident. According to Chhipa officials, the fire left seven people with burn injuries. The injured were identified as Shahbaz (35), Naseerullah (35), Akbar (30), Zafar (22), Waqas (30), Saddam (35), and Hayatullah (30).

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/iyla8ut

K-P government assigns portfolios to 13-member cabinet

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has formally assigned portfolios to the newly formed 13-member cabinet, which took oath a day earlier. According to an official notification issued by the Administration Department following the chief minister’s approval, ten members of the provincial cabinet have been assigned new departmental roles. Shafi Ullah Jan from Kohat has been inducted as Special Assistant for Information, Broadcasting and Public Relations. Meena Khan Afridi of Peshawar has been given charge of the Local Government Department, a portfolio that was previously held by former CM Ali Amin Gandapur alongside Higher Education. Read: K-P governor administers oath to 13-member provincial cabinet   Arshad Ayub Khan will now head the Elementary and Secondary Education Department. He earlier served as Minister for Local Government. Fazal Shakoor Khan, who previously handled the Labour Ministry, has been assigned Public Health Engineering. Dr Amjad Ali will continue to oversee the Housing portfolio, a position he held under previous provincial administrations. Aftab Alam Afridi has been reinstated as Minister for Law, Parliamentary Affairs and Human Rights, while Syed Fakhar Jehan will now lead the Excise and Taxation Department, having earlier served as Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs.   Riaz Khan has been assigned the Irrigation portfolio. He earlier served as Minister for Communications and Works. Khaleeq-ur-Rehman, who previously headed the Excise and Taxation Department, will now oversee the Health Department. Aqib Ullah Khan, brother of former speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser, has been appointed Minister for Relief, Rehabilitation and Settlement after previously managing Irrigation. Meanwhile, Faisal Khan Tarakai, brother of former senior minister Shahram Tarakai, has taken charge of the Labour Department. He earlier served as Provincial Minister for Elementary and Secondary Education during Gandapur’s tenure. Also Read: PM vows full support to K-P govt for peace Among the advisors, Muzzammil Aslam has been reappointed as Finance advisor, while Taj Muhammad Tarand has been assigned Sports and Youth Affairs, a portfolio he previously handled as Special Assistant for Prisons during the Mahmood Khan government. After the resignation of former chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur last month, PTI had nominated Sohail Afridi as the new leader of the provincial government. Afridi was sworn in on October 15, but despite repeated speculation about potential cabinet members, no formal announcement was made at the time. During his maiden speech in the provincial assembly, CM Afridi reaffirmed his loyalty to the PTI founder, declaring, “I took votes in Imran Khan’s name, and I will govern according to his vision.” He further stated, “No cabinet appointments would be finalised until he personally consults Khan.” The absence of a cabinet had paralysed routine governance in the province. Most official matters were being handled by the bureaucracy under the supervision of the chief secretary, effectively sidelining elected representatives. Read: Pakistani fisherman ‘used in Indian covert operation’ held, says Tarar The delay in reconstituting a new cabinet had drawn criticism from the opposition. After deliberations, CM Afridi formed a 13-member cabinet on Friday, comprising 10 provincial ministers, two advisers, and one special assistant—slightly smaller than the one formed by former CM Gandapur. Afridi revealed that the cabinet would initially include 10 ministers, following instructions received from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan. During Gandapur’s tenure, K-P had a 32-member cabinet comprising 16 ministers, four advisers, and 12 special assistants.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/MLjgaZ7