Allama Khadim Hussain Rizvi passes away in Lahore

Prime Minister Imran Khan’s stance on Kashmir at international fora to highlight gruesome human rights violations by India

Indian media’s fake “civil war” in Pakistan, falls flat on face

By

Shafek Koreshe

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5th Gen War – Twitterati bust RAW’s #Fake letter attributed to COAS

By Shafek Koreshe

In an abortive attempt to create diversion from Narendra Modi’s human rights abuses in Kashmir, the Indian media went berserk by propagating fake news about a “civil war” like situation in Karachi, triggering a hilarious response from the twitterati in Pakistan, who enjoyed every bit of the ridiculous reports.

#CivilWarInPakistan and #KarachiCivilWar were in no time the top trends, with the young twitter users going crazy by posting video clips from action movies, comics, images of the Indian MiG pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, shot down by Pakistan Air Force inside Pakistan’s territory, as scenes from the Civil War, getting an equally enthusiastic response with numerous retweets and likes.

The arrest of PML-N leader Captain (Retd) Safdar on charges of political sloganeering at Quaid’s Mausoleum and leave applications by senior police officers was exploited by the top Indian news channels, who portrayed an administrative issue as a “civil war” and went to the extent of even reporting casualties, and armed clashes.

Indian Media ditches professionalism to dip at to its lowest

The news reports were part of a persistent barrage of fake news from Indian mainstream media and its RAW controlled assets on social media over the past few months. The trend has witnessed a sharp spike as part of India’s fifth generation war (5GW) against Pakistan.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office on the “malicious and fabricated propaganda” by Indian mainstream and social media claiming civil unrest in Pakistan, said planting such baseless stories were reflective of the “Pakistan-obsessed BJP-RSS” mindset.

“Needless to say that Indian media continues to hit new lows,” he said, when asked to respond over the series of fake news flashed as breaking news across the Indian media about a “civil war in Pakistan”.

“Indian media continues to hit new lows”: FO

The Spokesperson said through “peddling fake news and running propaganda machinery”, India could not wash away the truth about its own gross and systematic human rights violations in Indian Ilelgally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

“Rather than reporting on humanitarian crisis in IIOJK, the Indian media chooses to spread fake and sensational news about Pakistan to detract from core issues,” he said.

#FakeNews - Yet another figment of imagination of Indian Media — #FakeNews – Yet another figment of imagination of Indian Media

The Indian media tried hard to appease its own consumers and to create a diversion from its human rights abuses in occupied Kashmir. However in its abortive attempt it created history by churning out fake news overpowered by the anti-Pakistan hysteria, undermining its professional ethics and credibility.

#FakeNews - India Today with its concocted news story — #FakeNews – India Today with its concocted news story

The unleashing of the Indian media did not go unnoticed, as Michael Kugelman, deputy director at the @AsiaProgram and South Asia senior associate @TheWilsonCenter in a tweet pointed that the Indian disinformation accounts were exploiting Pakistan’s current political crisis, and “falsely claiming that the country is no experiencing urban warfare.”

He described the trend as “dangerous and disturbing”, as several of these accounts were verified and had huge followings.

Indian disinformation accounts are exploiting Pakistan’s current political crisis and falsely claiming that the country is now experiencing urban warfare and other serious instability. Dangerous and disturbing; several of these accounts are verified, with large followings. Ugh.

— Michael Kugelman (@MichaelKugelman) October 21, 2020

Minister for Human Rights Dr Shireen Mazari said the Indian media was in “hyper drive with fake news on Pakistan” and regretted that it was “unfortunate that Twitter is [deliberately ignoring it].”

All major media outlets in so-called world’s biggest democracy decimated all journalistic norms as none bothered to fact-check such a huge gaffe. India’s News18, India Today, Zee News, India.com and several others quoted the International Herald which showed old videos of bomb explosions in Pakistan and portrayed it as the ongoing civil war.

#FakeNews - Indian International Herald tweet — #FakeNews – Indian International Herald tweet

The Institute of Policy Research in a report said their data indicates a pattern of Indian propaganda against Pakistan on digital media that grew exponentially after 2018 General Elections in #Pakistan. The propaganda hovers around largely 4 key themes.

Minister for Ports and Shipping pointed that the Indian propaganda was at its peak and “sadly fueled by the PDM Circus.” He said the food inflation was artificially manufactured, but was being brought under control.

Indian media propaganda at its peak & sadly fueled by the PDM circus.
Both social & economic indicators of Pakistan are showing positive signs.
The artificially manufactured food inflation is being brought under control as well.
Pakistan on the rise under PM @ImranKhanPTI

— Ali Haider Zaidi (@AliHZaidiPTI) October 22, 2020

Minister for Kashmir Affairs also lambasted the “fake, fabricated and malicious propaganda campaign to malign State institutions of Pakistan. He urged @Twitter to take action against Indian accounts for #FakeNews against Paksitan.

#Indian media is deeply involved in a fake, fabricated and malicious propaganda campaign to malign state institutions of #Pakistan.@Twitter needs to take action against Indian Social Media accounts who are involved in nefarious attacks of fake news against Pakistan.

— Shehryar Afridi (@ShehryarAfridi1) October 21, 2020

However, this idiocy of Indian media gave the Twitterati a perfect chance to enjoy as the microblogging site was flooded with messages to ridicule the Indian media’s insanity.

“Karachi civil war has gotten so bad that my food panda delivery boy had to crawl through mine fields carrying his AK47, RPG & 9mm along with my nihari and Biryani. This thing is getting so serious. Multiple cows have been killed & people are dying of over eating. #IndianMedia,” commented renowned singer Fakhr-e-Alam.

Karachi civil war has gotten so bad that my food panda delivery boy had to crawl through mine fields carrying his AK47, RPG & 9mm along with my nihari and Biryani. This thing is getting so serious. Multiple cows have been killed & people are dying of over eating. #IndianMedia 😂

— Fakhr-e-Alam (@falamb3) October 21, 2020

Besides numerous other fake photos, the Indian media also used an image of a building collapsed following a gas leakage blast in Karachi earlier in the day to substantiate its fake news of civil war.

“A little investigation would have informed Zee News that it wasn’t a bomb blast in ‘civil war’ in Pakistan but the result of a gas leak in Karachi. Whither truth, objectivity, balance and fairness in reporting?,” said Farhatullah Babr, former senator of Pakistan Peoples Party which rules Sindh province.

A little investigation would have informed @ZeeNewsEnglish that it wasn’t a bomb blast in ‘civil war’ in Pakistan but gas leak in Karachi. Whither truth, objectivity, balance and fairness in reporting? https://t.co/RaZ81Tx96C

— Farhatullah Babar (@FarhatullahB) October 21, 2020

“An Aircraft shot during civil war in Karachi… and the pilot captured…,” commented another Twitter user Fasihuddin while sharing the images of Indian aircraft MiG-21 and captured injured pilot Abhinandan following an aerial dogfight during India-Pakistan standoff in 2019.

An Aircraft shot during civil war in Karachi… and the pilot captured…

#Karachicivilwar #IndianMedia pic.twitter.com/Al5iWx6jOe

Some of the selected tweets

Indian media propaganda at its peak & sadly fueled by the PDM circus.
Both social & economic indicators of Pakistan are showing positive signs.
The artificially manufactured food inflation is being brought under control as well.
Pakistan on the rise under PM @ImranKhanPTI

— Ali Haider Zaidi (@AliHZaidiPTI) October 22, 2020

— Fasih Uddin (@Fasih_Uddin) October 21, 2020

Captain Amir Liaquat Hussain leading the #CivilWarinPakistan, targeted Sindh Police positions with 2 grenades at a time from a single RPG. 👏 pic.twitter.com/VVDeI8y4Rh

— Kashif Ali (@KaschifAli) October 21, 2020

Live scene from #CivilWarInPakistan

This is civil war at its peak. pic.twitter.com/EOBXWjJMZv

— Mustafa T. Wynne (@mustafa_wynne) October 21, 2020

Pak-India match live screening arranged in 44 prisons

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LAHORE, Feb 23 (APP):In a commendable initiative by the Punjab government, special arrangements were made to broadcast the highly anticipated Pakistan-India Champions Trophy match live in 44 prisons across the province.

Home Department’s spokesperson told media on Sunday that the decision was implemented on the directives of Punjab’s Home Secretary Noor-ul-Amin Mengal, who instructed the IG Prisons to ensure necessary arrangements for the inmates.

Live screening of the match was also arranged in juvenile detention centers, where young inmates dressed in Pakistan cricket team uniforms thoroughly enjoyed the match, celebrating with traditional drumbeats and energetic dances.

Senior prison officials, including jail superintendents and regional officers, watched the match alongside the inmates, creating an atmosphere of engagement and enthusiasm.

The spokesperson added that this initiative aligns with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s Prison Reforms Policy, which aims to promote positive activities among prisoners to help them reintegrate into society as responsible citizens. The spokesperson stated that under the prison reforms, industrial units and libraries have been established in Punjab jails to enhance education and vocational training opportunities for inmates.

Tarar highlights need to check disinformation

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LAHORE, Feb 23 (APP):Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar said on Sunday that youths had played a significant role in the creation of Pakistan and there was no doubt that they were future of the country.

Addressing an interactive session at the 9th Annual Youth General Assembly conference at Aiwan-i-Iqbal, he said, “It is very important for nations to learn from their past. There are two types of history, one is glorious history which makes you feel proud and another history highlights mistakes.”

He said that the two nation theory was most relevant in today’s world and added that just look across the border and see what is happening in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He said he had attended few conferences in Turkey, Saudi Arabia and other places and what was the reason that when we talk about Gaza, atrocities on Palestinians and brave Burhan Wani, then silence was seen on social media. He said what was the reason that artificial intelligence-based algorithms or under new technology, likes decrease, visibility goes down and outreach reduces. “Are artificial intelligence-based systems or algorithms fair and the answer to this question is no,” the minister added.

He said that just look across the border and see what hardships Muslims were facing, adding that it was a great blessing of Allah Almighty that we are living in an independent country. He said that youths not only contributed to the creation of Pakistan but also played their role in post-management efforts after Pakistan came into being.

“We have a very glorious past which should always be remembered,” he added.

He said that Pakistan had received 7 billion dollars remittances in the first quarter of the current financial year and foreign exchange reserves were increasing and it was just because of youths who were earning a good amount of forex from abroad and sending it to Pakistan. “The country’s 60 percent population is based on youths and the future is linked with them. It should be admitted that no political party in the country has done justice to youths and it is essential to accept mistakes for making corrections,” he added.

The minister said that the laptop initiative had been launched to empower students and there was no example of the initiative all over the world. “Laptops were given to students purely on merit and the credit goes to this initiative that during the COVID pandemic the country’s economy remained stable as laptops helped ensure online working. People would have faced a lot of problems in online classes, work from home, if laptops had not been distributed under the initiative,” he maintained.

He said that Punjab Educational Endowment Fund scholarships had not been started for political mileage. “Construction of motorways was opposed but imagine if there would have been no motorway in the country, then what type of traffic load would have been on the GT Road. It is a job of the leadership to conceive a project by foreseeing future requirements. Unfortunately, the Danish School project was opposed by the elite segment of society because it was against the existing status quo. Criticism could be on individuals but projects should not be criticised. The Metro bus was termed a ‘Jangla Bus’ and later it was replicated in Peshawar by those who criticized it,” he added.

He said that political slogans should be followed if they really bring about revolution of development, adding that hollow slogans result in nothing. “In the last twelve and a half years, not a single hospital has been built in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while in Lahore Pakistan Kidney Liver Institute is working in an efficient manner and doing hundreds and thousands of kidney and liver transplants,” he said.

He said that practical measures were more important than making hollow slogans. “Now youths have to decide what type of system they want in the country. It was asked at the World Economic Forum that what was the biggest threat in the world and world leaders said it was not climate change, nuclear wars but misinformation as it promotes negativity resulting in depression,” Attaullah Tarar added.

To a question, he said that the mentorship programme should be started as it was very important and asked Youth General Assembly President Fahad Shahbaz to work in this regard. Responding to another question, he said it was very unfortunate that a good and bad Taliban debate had started in the country, adding that terrorists have no religion.

He said, “Yesterday, Australia and England played a match in the Gaddafi Stadium and it was a very happy moment for me.” He said that terrorism would be completely eliminated and they deserve no leniency.

Responding to another query regarding organ transplant, the minister said that the Human Organ Transplant Authority (HOTA) was fully functional, adding that he would talk to the HOTA chairman and the health minister so that a system could be made to get organs from those who wanted to donate them.

He said he had given a proposal in Turkey that all nation states of the UN get together and form a body on disinformation and he also talked about it in China and Saudi Arabia. He said, “Every media house has its own fact check, based on their system.” Regarding the 26th amendment, he said that all political parties had a consensus on it. He said that development was not possible without a local government system, adding there was a need to develop a political consensus that whichever party comes to power it would not disturb the existing local body system.

Later, he distributed laptops and Youth General Assembly President Fahad Shahbaz presented a souvenir to the federal minister.

CM extends best wishes to cricket team

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LAHORE, Feb 23 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has extended her best wishes to the Pakistan cricket team for their crucial match against their traditional rival in the ICC Champions Trophy.

In her message on Sunday, the CM said “The entire nation’s prayers are with the cricket team. Play with full determination.” She emphasized that every player is a star who will shine today.

The CM emphasized that the match against India is the true essence of the Champions Trophy, highlighting the intense rivalry between the two nations. Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed confidence in the talent of the Pakistani players, stating that the team has individuals capable of turning the game around single-handedly. “I am certain that today, Pakistan will create history in batting, bowling, and fielding,” she said.

Sports Minister attends Ghotki sports festival

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SUKKUR, Feb 23 (APP):The second day of the three-day Ghotki Sports Festival, organized by the Sindh Government’s Department of Sports, was attended by Sindh Sports Minister Sardar Muhammad Bakhsh Khan Mahar as the guest of honor on Sunday.

The event was held at the Sports Complex in Ghotki, where Secretary Sports Abdul Aleem Lashari, Deputy Director Mir Muhammad Kalhoro, and District Sports Officers were also present.

The Sports Minister watched competitions between rural women in cricket, futsal, volleyball, hockey, and throwball, as well as between boys in kodiko and futsal. The festival’s closing ceremony will be held tomorrow evening in Khanpur.

The Sindh government has pledged to provide sports facilities and funding to female athletes in rural areas. This initiative aims to encourage more women to participate in sports, promoting positive impacts on their lives. The government is also working to provide sports fields and other necessary facilities in rural areas.

The Sports Minister praised the impressive performances of girls and boys in various sports, noting that women’s cricket and other sports are rapidly progressing globally, with female athletes showcasing their talents worldwide.

3rd Pakistan Labour Academy (PLA) concludes successfully

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KARACHI, Feb 23 (APP):The closing ceremony of the 3rd Pakistan Labour Academy (PLA-3) was held in Karachi, bringing together key stakeholders, policymakers and labour rights advocates, union leaders and government officials.

The event was jointly organized by the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Pakistan, Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), and the National Institute of Labour Administration and Training (NILAT).

According to press release issued here by SHRC, over 30 participants from across Pakistan participated in this one-week residential course held from February 16 to February 21.

Dr. Rudiger Lotz, German Consul General in Karachi, graced the event as the chief guest. He emphasized that labour rights are fundamental human rights and stressed the need for young labour unions to be well-versed in both employee and employer rights.

He highlighted Germany’s extensive experience with labour unions and their role in strengthening the economy, noting that Germany heavily relies on supply chain due diligence law which makes Pakistan to comply with the labour and human rights in industrial sector.

Dr. Lotz also pointed out that 85% of Pakistan’s exports to Germany come from the textile sector. He discussed the importance of women’s participation in the workforce, climate change, and improving the work environment through training and workshops.

SHRC Chairperson Iqbal Detho commended FES for its support in empowering workers and urged the leadership of Sindh Labour Department to demonstrate a similar commitment.

He congratulated the participants on successfully completing the course and advocated for a dedicated budget for NILAT’s training programs.

He also proposed the establishment of a Sindh Labour Academy to provide specialized education for labour activists and enhance NILAT’s role in collaboration with the Labour and Human Resources Department.

He further urged the implementation of Sindh’s minimum wage of Rs 37,000 per month and called for a structured dispute resolution system within the labour department.

Muhammad Ali Shaikh, Director General of NILAT, appreciated the efforts of FES-Pakistan and SHRC in organizing a valuable training program for young labour union leaders.

Abdullah Dayo from FES provided an overview of the Academy and added that it is Pakistan’s first ever labour academy whose aim is to build the capacity of young workers on induatrial relations and the protection of labour rights and sustainable economic growth.

The event concluded with the distribution of certificates to participants in recognition of their successful completion of PLA-3 in Karachi.

Vintage car show held

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LAHORE, Feb 23 (APP):In celebration of the Horse and Cattle Show 2025, the Vintage Classic Car Club of Pakistan, in collaboration with PHA, organized a Vintage Car Show at the Polo Ground, GOR-1, here on Sunday.

Over 100 unique cars, scooters, luxury, and expensive vehicles were displayed at the event. Among the notable entries were rare cars like the 1928 Rolls Royce (used by the Nawab of Bahawalpur), 1930 Packard (USA), and 1930 Cadillac (USA). Car enthusiasts from all over participated in the event, capturing memorable photos with these rare and luxury vehicles. International experts, including Olivia Farnse (France), Mrs. Aini Sofi (France), and Fatimi Nasir, along with Kh. Babar Salman from Pakistan, took on the judging duties for the competition.

The event was graced by the presence of Mohsin Ikram, the President of Vintage Classic Car Club of Pakistan, along with families and car lovers from across the country. Owners of the showcased vehicles were awarded trophies and certificates for their meticulous care and maintenance.

The stunning collection of rare vehicles captured the attention of attendees, while the combination of classic and modern cars added to the charm of the event. Organizers highlighted that this car show is a remarkable opportunity for car enthusiasts to view world-famous vintage and classic vehicles up close.

PM leaves for two-day official visit to Azerbaijan

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LAHORE, Feb 23 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif departed for an official visit to Azerbaijan on Sunday.

On the invitation of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will undertake a two-day official visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan from February 24 to 25.

This marks Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s second visit to Azerbaijan since assuming office in March 2024. He will be accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar and federal ministers Jam Kamal Khan, Abdul Aleem Khan, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi.

During the visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will hold bilateral meetings with the Azerbaijani President and address a business forum. Discussions will cover areas of mutual interest, including energy, trade, defence, education, and climate cooperation. Multiple memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and agreements will be signed to strengthen collaboration between the two countries.

The Prime Minister’s visit reflects Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening ties with Azerbaijan, fostering broader economic cooperation, and exploring new avenues of partnership for mutual growth and development.

Punjab Air Ambulance rescues 70 patients from far-flung districts

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LAHORE, Feb 23 (APP):The Air Ambulance Service of the Punjab government successfully shifts 70 critical patients from far-flung areas to specialized hospitals for better treatment.

Among them, 38 patients were shifted from Bahawalnagar, 25 from Mianwali, two from Rahim Yar Khan, and one each from Bahawalpur, Parachinar, Karachi, Lahore, and Sialkot. The patients shifted on the Air Ambulance included 54 cardiology, 8 spinal injury, 2 head injury and 6 other ailments.

The spokesperson for Punjab Emergency Services Department said that launching the Air Ambulance Service in Punjab was a challenging task. “It was essential to find a reliable air service capable of providing an air ambulance on just 30 minutes’ notice, ensuring the swift transfer of critically ill and injured patients to specialized hospitals equipped with modern medical facilities. Initially, some air agencies failed to meet the essential emergency response requirements for immediate patient transfers despite several opportunities, making the search for a suitable service provider a challenge,” he added.

However, Punjab now has a fully operational Air Ambulance Service that has so far successfully shifted 70 patients and emerged as a beacon of hope for critical patients of far-flung areas, providing them with the access to specialized treatment especially patients from districts of Bahawalnagar and Mianwali, he maintained.

Three cattle market contractors held for extortion

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MULTAN, Feb 23 (APP):The district administration launched a crackdown at the model cattle market in Jaswant Nagar and arrested three contractors involved in extortion and illegal collection of fees.

On the directions of Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Ali Bukhari, Assistant Commissioner (AC) City Abdul Sami Sheikh raided the cattle market. During the operation, three contractors involved in extortion and illegal collection of fees were arrested. Multiple unauthorized fee counters at the market’s entry gate were also sealed.

The crackdown was conducted in collaboration with Coordinator to the Chief Minister Punjab Complaint Cell, Umar Farooq Bhatti, and local police officials. The authorities also demolished illegal commission camps and extortion points that had been set up on the market premises.

AC City Abdul Sami Sheikh revealed that several complaints had been received regarding the collection of double fees for bringing livestock into the market. He emphasized that only the official government fees would be applicable and directed the contractors to ensure proper facilities for traders and buyers in exchange for the fees. Commissioner Aamir Karim Khan had earlier assigned the task of addressing complaints related to extortion and corruption. In response, the AC City assured that government fee banners and charts would be prominently displayed across the cattle market to ensure transparency.

“We will ensure that all livestock trading takes place strictly within the designated market boundaries,” said AC City Abdul Sami Sheikh. “The contractors have been warned to adhere to official regulations and provide necessary services accordingly,” he added.

Pak delegation off to China to explore food sector

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LAHORE, Feb 23 (APP):A high-level delegation from South Punjab, led by Shahid Imran, Convener of the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Regional Committee on Food, left for China on Sunday to explore collaborative avenues in the food sector.

Prior to departure, he told reporters that China, being a global leader in food technology and a major importer of agricultural goods, offers significant potential for Pakistani exporters. The delegation would engage in meetings and site visits to understand China’s advanced practices and identify areas for mutual growth.

This initiative, he said, aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy to boost its food exports and tap into international markets. The trip is expected to pave the way for long-term collaborations, benefiting both the countries and strengthening their strategic partnership in the food industry.

Shahid Imran said that the delegation comprising industry leaders and agricultural experts, aims to strengthen bilateral ties and foster partnerships with Chinese counterparts. The visit will focuses on enhancing trade, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing in areas such as food processing, agricultural innovation, and value-added products, especially snacks.

Several PEDO projects in final stages of completion: Zubair Khan

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PESHAWAR, Feb 23 (APP):Secretary Energy and Power Muhammad Zubair Khan has said that several ongoing energy projects are in the final stages of completion, which will be helpful for the stability of the economy of province and the development of industrial sector in future.

High-level forums will be contacted soon to solve the problems faced by the energy projects with the federal institutions.

The timely completion of energy projects is in the interest of the province and the people, so the ongoing projects should be completed as soon as possible and the production of electricity should be started.

The most important institution like Pakhtunkhwa Energy Development Organization (PEDO) will be made developed as well as most income generated institution of the province with the support of experts under team work.

He expressed these views in progress review meeting held in PEDO House regarding the pace of work in ongoing energy projects here.

Chief Executive PEDO, Engr. Riaz Ahmed Jan while giving a briefing informed that under the supervision of PEDO, work is currently underway on several energy projects including hydro, solar power and transmission line.

Meanwhile, PEDO has successfully completed 7 hydropower projects, with total 161 megawatts of electricity is being generated, that are earning more than Rs. 4 billion annually, while 12 projects including 300 MW Balakot Mansehra, 157 MW Madyen Swat, 88 MW Gabral Kalam, 84 MW Matiltan Swat, 69 MW Lawi Chitral, 40.8 MW Koto Dir, 11.8 MW Krora Shangla, 10.5 MW Chapri Charkhel Kuram and 6.9 MW Mujahideen Power Project Torghar

.

He said working is going on rapidly in these projects which will generate a total of 778 MW of electricity and the province will have an annual income of more than 45 billion rupees. Most of these projects are in the final stages of completion, CEO Riaz Jan concluded.

Later on, Project Director Solar Engr. Asfandyar gave a briefing and explained that the provincial government has completed plans to transfer 8 thousand schools, 5762 mosques, 6650 houses, 187 primary health units and government buildings including the Chief Minister Secretariat/House and some offices in the Civil Secretariat to solar energy in different districts of province.

He further added that due to solarization system, people and the government are saving millions of rupees in terms of monthly electricity bills. The Chief Minister KP has recently inaugurated 2 big flagship projects costing 55 billion rupees, in which 13,000 government buildings will be converted to solar energy at a cost of 20 billion rupees and 130,000 households at a cost of 35 billion rupees in the next 2 years.

Under the free solar scheme, more than 1 million applications have been received through online system, he concluded.

At the end of the meeting, Secretary E&P expressed his satisfaction with the overall performance of PEDO and strongly warned the concerned authorities that the ongoing energy projects should be completed within the stipulated period.

ITP Issues traffic plan to ensure smooth flow in Islamabad

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Captain Zeeshan Haider of Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has advised citizens to plan an additional 20 minutes for their commute to avoid inconvenience due to designated traffic routes.

A public relations officer told APP on Sunday that CTO Zeeshan stated that traffic on Srinagar Highway is expected to slow down due to the special route.

To ensure smoother travel within the city, CTO Zeeshan Haider urged citizens to use various underpasses and connected service roads. He assured that ITP personnel would be stationed at multiple locations to guide commuters.

Traffic from the Red Zone to Faizabad should use Convention Centre Road and Club Road.

Islam Chowk Bridge will remain open for commuters.

IJP Road will also remain open to facilitate traffic flow.

Traffic coming from B-17 towards Blue Area or F-6 is advised to take Margalla Road.

Commuters from B-15 heading towards Blue Area or F-6 should also use Margalla Road.

Those traveling from H-13 towards Blue Area or F-6 are advised to opt for Margalla Road.

Traffic from G-13 and G-14 towards Blue Area or F-6 should follow the same route via Margalla Road.

For commuters heading to Blue Area from other parts of the city, Ninth Avenue is recommended.

The H-8 underpass is also a suggested route for those traveling towards Blue Area.

Residents of Bhara Kahu traveling to F-6 and Blue Area should take the Convention Centre route via Radio Pakistan checkpoint and NADRA.

For Bhara Kahu residents traveling towards other areas, Margalla Road via NADRA, Marriott, and Express Chowk is advised to reach Convention Centre Road.

Traffic from Zero Point to Park Road should use Shakarparian Road to avoid congestion.

For assistance and inquiries, citizens can contact the Traffic Helpline at 1915. The ITP’s social media platforms are actively providing real-time updates on traffic conditions.

PML-N Karachi urges for healthy working conditions in view of scorching heat

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KARACHI, Feb 23 (APP):Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) Karachi Division General Secretary Nasiruddin Mehmood on Saturday said that the blue-collar workers, who especially work at roadside stalls, stove establishments, tandoors, fruit-carts and other makeshift arrangements must be provided with protective and healthy environment in view of the past’s scorching heat and hot weather.

Mehmood, who is also a member of PML-N Manifesto Committee and Central Working Committee (CWC), as well Convener of Labour Committee urged the government to take steps and provide the workers with proper sheds and environment to protect them from approaching heat like situation particularly in view of upcoming holy month of Ramadan.

He said that Climate Change had negative impacts on our lives and the scorching conditions could put the human life at risk.

He said that the government should make measures for the survival of workers in the hot weather, which had also been witnessed in the past.

Mehmood said that healthy steps could pave way for human survival and the dream of a healthy society can be achieved. He said that these steps could also help put positive impact on the lives of the workers.

Dry weather, light rain forecast for Sindh

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KARACHI, Feb 23 (APP):Pakistan Meteorological Department on Sunday predicted dry weather and light rain in most districts of the Sindh province during the next 24 hours.

Partly cloudy is predicted in upper districts with chances of light rain at isolated places in Sukkur, Jacobabad, Ghotki, Kashmore and their surroundings during evening or night.

Turkiye keen to boost bilateral trade with Pakistan: Ambassador

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SIALKOT, Feb 23 (APP):Ambassador of Republic of Turkiye in Pakistan Irfan Neziroglu has said that his country is keen to boost mutual trade with Pakistan, and pledged to help remove all hurdles to it.

He stated this during an important meeting with Sialkot exporters at the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI). SCCI President Ikram-ul-Haq, Vice President (VP) Omer Khalid and Sialkot business community representatives were also present. The ambassador expressed hope that the trade volume between Pakistan and Turkiye would grow significantly in the near future. He assured his full commitment and support for further strengthening ties between the two countries and stressed that Turkiye was making efforts for enhancing and strengthening its economic ties with Pakistan. “Sialkot is the hometown of Allama Iqbal and Iqbal is our common hero,” he added.

The ambassador highlighted key potential sectors for collaboration, including education, textiles, leather and pharmaceuticals. “Entrepreneurs of both countries should know each other more and work hard to expand trade and economic relations while the embassy will fully cooperate in the efforts,” he said and stressed the importance of joint ventures, business-to-business (B2B) interactions and sector-specific meetings between both countries. He added that regular exchange of trade delegations would be crucial in exploring untapped potential. “I believe that commercial relations will make it easy for political, cultural and other relations. I will motivate the Turkiye business community to buy Sialkot-made products directly from Sialkot instead of purchasing them indirectly from other countries at high prices. The bonds between the people of Pakistan and Turkey are strong and enduring, with both nations standing by each other through thick and thin,” he maintained.

He said that Pakistan and Turkiye are two brotherly countries having centuries-old relationship. “The Turkish people have great love for Pakistani brethren.” The ambassador showed keen interest in SCCI’s documentary “Sialkot, the City of Progressive People”, which was screened during the meeting.

Speaking on the occasion, Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) President Ikram-ul-Haq said that there was a huge potential to increase the volume of bilateral trade. “Sialkot is an important economic hub and totally export-oriented city of the country. Sialkot represents an industrial setup producing specialized products that are supplied to top brands and buyers all over the world. We produce sports goods, surgical instruments, leather products, gloves of all sorts, textiles items, sports wear, martial arts uniform and accessories, musical instruments, kitchen ware & table ware, hollow ware, hunting knives, table cutlery/flatware, and military uniform badges,” he added. He said that Sialkot-made footballs, field hockey sticks, cricket gear and boxing gloves were used in international games including the Olympics and World Cups.

Earlier, the ambassador visited several leading industrial units in Sialkot. He witnessed the craftsmanship of artisans and took keen interest in the production process of spots goods and surgical instruments.

Furniture industry stakeholders to review budget proposals

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LAHORE, Feb 23 (APP):The Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) is going to convene a special meeting of all stakeholders to review and consolidate their budget proposals for submission to the federal government.

Talking to media here Sunday, the PFC Chief Executive Officer Mian Kashif Ashfaq added that the meeting aims to address key challenges and opportunities within the furniture industry, ensuring that the sector’s needs are adequately represented in the upcoming national budget. Stakeholders including manufacturers, exporters, designers, and industry experts, would assemble to discuss strategies for growth, innovation, and sustainability.

He emphasized the importance of aligning the budget proposals with the government’s economic policies to foster a conducive environment for the furniture industry. Key agenda items would be tax reforms, incentives for local manufacturing, export promotion, and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The council also plans to highlight the need for infrastructure development, skill enhancement programmes, and access to affordable raw materials. This collaborative efforts underscore the PFC’s commitment to strengthen furniture industry, which plays a vital role in Pakistan’s economy, he remarked.

AIOU holds seminar on ‘Cancer Awareness’

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Allama Iqbal Open University(AIOU) has organized a national seminar on ‘Cancer Awareness’.

Dr. Muhammad Kashif, Associate Surgeon (Oncologist) at Federal Government Polyclinic Hospital was the chief guest, while it was presided over by Dr. Zaheer Ahmed, Chairman of the Department of Nutritional Sciences & Environmental Design.

During his lecture on cancer, Dr. Muhammad Kashif emphasized the importance of recognizing early symptoms to effectively combat the disease. While discussing the causes, stages, types, symptoms, and treatment strategies for cancer, he highlighted key warning signs, including lumps in any part of the body, non-healing ulcers or wounds, coughing up blood, persistent indigestion, blood in urine or stool, and unexpected vaginal bleeding. He stressed the need to consult a doctor if such symptoms appear, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Dr. Kashif further stated that the most common type of cancer among women is breast cancer, while in men, prevalent forms include prostate, lung, intestinal, stomach, and blood cancers. He added that if diagnosed in the early stages, many types of cancer can be successfully treated.

The seminar was organized by the Department of Nutritional Sciences & Environmental Design under the Faculty of Sciences, with Dr. Mehpara Jadoon serving as the event coordinator.

ADT Rumanza Open Pakistan concludes

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):The Pakistan Golf Federation (PGF) successfully concluded the ADT Rumanza Open Pakistan at Rumanza Golf and Country Club.

The prestigious championship, featuring a total prize purse of $85,000, witnessed participation from 37 international players alongside Pakistan’s professional card holders recognized by PGF, said a press release.

The four-day event, played over 72 holes, saw Ahmed Baig successfully defend his title, clinching the championship trophy once again with a remarkable performance.

Project Director Brigadier Ahmed Ghumman extended heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Pakistan, PGF sponsors, Asian Tour and the management of Rumanza Golf and Country Club for their unwavering support and contribution towards the successful conduct of the championship.

A significant highlight of this year’s championship was the inclusion of five TARS-qualified referees from Pakistan who became part of the Asian Tour officiating team. The referees included Maj Rao Muhammad Ismail, Omar Javed Rao, Col Tahir Ayub, Col Zahid Iqbal, and Malik Mohammad Kamran from PGF.

The closing ceremony was graced by Lt Gen Qazi Muhammad Ikram Ahmed, President of PGF, who attended the occasion as the Chief Guest and congratulated all participants, officials, and organizers for hosting an international event of such high standard.

Bangladesh vs New Zealand: Rawalpindi gears up for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

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RAWALPINDI, Feb 23 (APP):The First match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will be played between Bangladesh and New Zealand teams on Monday.

Besides interesting point table positions of the participating teams, the citizens of Rawalpindi are desperate to watch the match.

All arrangements by the government have been completed regarding foolproof security, traffic flow, spectators entry points at the stadium and check points.

The spokesman police informed APP that more than 5000 police officials, contingents of Dolphins and Elite Force and expert sniper squads on important rooftops, have been deployed. Moreover, the security measures are fully collaborated with Pak Army, Rangers and other security agencies to provide the best environment for cricket fans.

The spectators arriving at the stadium to watch the matches will have to strictly follow the SOPs devised by the security establishment.

Triple security check points and walk-through gates are the standard entry procedures while bringing any kind of unauthorized equipment is strictly banned.

The city will host two more important matches of the tournament; Australia vs South Africa, and Pakistan vs Bangladesh scheduled on 25th and 27th February. All the matches will be played in day-night format providing an enormous opportunity to the spectators for sporting entertainment.

Hosting Champions Trophy matches has put a new zeal among the residents of Rawalpindi, a city that has contributed various cricket heroes including Miran Bakhsh, Shoaib Akhtar, Shadab Khan, Sohail Tanvir, Yasir Arafat, Muhammad Wasim and many others.

National Cricket team must perform it’s best to defeat India today, CM Murad says

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