ISLAMABAD: January 22 –
A man carrying a tree trunk on his head to be used as firewood on the way to his destination.
ISLAMABAD: January 22 –
Two arrested for online gambling
RAWALPINDI, Jan 22 (APP):The Bani Police of Rawalpindi on Tuesday arrested two accused playing online gambling with stake money.
According to a police spokesman, the accused Sajid and Naeem were playing online gambling through Bet Pro app.,
Besides the stake amount of Rs 6,500, two mobile phones were also recovered from the accused.
Car thief killed in shooting with Taxila Police, stolen vehicle recovered
RAWALPINDI, Jan 22 (APP):A car thief was killed in shooting with a Taxila Police team and his two accomplices managed to escape Tuesday night while the car stolen by them was recovered.
A Rawalpindi Police spokesman, in a statement on Wednesday, said the deceased accused Musa Khan along with his companions lifted a Suzuki Mehran car from an area of Taxila.
The accused were driving in the stolen car, when they were signalled by the police to stop during snap checking. Instead of stopping the vehicle, they drove away. The police chased the fleeing car, but the accused started firing on the police.
In the retaliatory fire by the police, accused Musa Khan was killed while his accomplices made their escape leaving behind the stolen car. Weapons were also recovered from the car.
Senior police officers reached the spot on information about the incident. A search was conducted to arrest the fleeing suspects.
The deceased Musa Khan had been involved and convicted in dozens of car theft cases in Lahore and Rawalpindi, the spokesman said.
Minister Salik, Turkish envoy discuss religious harmony, job opportunities for Pakistanis in Turkiye
By Rehan Khan
ISLAMABAD, Jan 22 (APP):Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Chaudhry Salik Hussain on Wednesday held a meeting with the Turkish Ambassador, Dr. Irfan Nazir Oglu and discussed various proposals regarding religious harmony, respect for humanity, and providing more job opportunities for Pakistani workers in Turkiye.
Minister Salik said Pakistan and Turkiye are like one soul in two bodies, bound by the eternal ties of religion, history, and culture. Both brotherly countries share a similar stance on regional and global issues and have always supported each other’s positions on regional and international forums, he added.
Dr. Irfan Nazir Oglu expressed sorrow over the deaths of Pakistanis in the Morocco boat incident and reaffirmed the commitment to providing more job opportunities for skilled Pakistanis in Turkiye.
He also said Turkiye is working on increasing the supply of machinery to Pakistani industries and expanding technical training and educational projects in Pakistan.
Several Turkish companies are successfully operating in Pakistan; however, there remains significant potential to increase joint investment and trade volume, he said adding that there are sincere fraternal relations between Pakistan and Turkiye, and both countries can achieve many milestones in the economic field.
Minister Salik mentioned that the Government of Pakistan is taking more effective steps to prevent human trafficking.
In the past year, 600,000 Pakistanis went abroad for employment, and by December 2024, overseas Pakistanis sent a record remittance of 3.1 billion dollars to Pakistan, he added.
He said the establishment of better banking channels between Turkiye and Pakistan is also essential for promoting mutual trade.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to enhance cooperation towards eliminating extremism and terrorism, promoting interfaith harmony, and providing skilled Pakistanis with modern technical education.
Girls students participating in the race during the sports gala in County School & Collage at Wapda Ground.
HYDERABAD: January 22-
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HYDERABAD: January 22- Boys students participating in mini hurdle race during the sports gala in
County School & Collage at Wapda Ground. APP/AKS/MAF/TZD/SSH
HYDERABAD: January 22- Girls students are participating in tug of war competition during the sports gala in County School & Collage at Wapda Ground. APP/AKS/MAF/TZD/SSH
HYDERABAD:January 22- Students perform folk dance during the sports gala at County School & College, Wapda Ground. APP/AKS/MAF/TZD/SSH
HYDERABAD:January 22- Students perform an energetic aerobics exercise during the sports gala at County School & College, Wapda Ground. APP/AKS/MAF/TZD/SSH
HYDERABAD:January 22- Students perform an energetic aerobics exercise during the sports gala at County School & College, Wapda Ground. APP/AKS/MAF/TZD/SSH
Governor Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider Khan addresses the inauguration ceremony of the Dialysis Centre in Renal Care Foundation Hospital, Iqbal Town.
LAHORE: January 22 –
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LAHORE: January 22 – Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan along with Chairman Renal Care Foundation, Dr. Qaiser Rafique presenting flowers and gifts to patients undergoing treatment at Renal Care Foundation Hospital, Iqbal Town Center. APP/MHA/MAF/TZD/ABB
LAHORE: January 22 – Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan along with Chairman Renal Care Foundation, Dr. Qaiser Rafique cutting ribbon to inaugurate the Dialysis Centre in Renal Care Foundation Hospital, Iqbal Town. APP/MHA/MAF/TZD/ABB
LAHORE: January 22 – Chairman Renal Care Foundation, Dr. Qaiser Rafique presenting souvenir to Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan on the occasion of Renal Care Foundation Center Iqbal Town. APP/MHA/MAF/TZD/ABB
SECP issues Consultation Paper, RTP for public unlisted Companies at PSX
ISLAMABAD, Jan 22 (APP):The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has issued a consultation paper proposing launch of a Registration and Trading Platform (RTP) for public unlisted companies at Pakistan Stock Exchange Limited (PSX).
Registration of eligible unlisted public companies at PSX coupled with public dissemination of financial results will significantly increase visibility of Pakistan’s corporate sector, said a press release issued here on Wednesday.
This measure is expected to motivate companies to adopt improved corporate governance practices, disclosures and documentation; and embrace a culture of increased transparency and public accountability.
A phased implementation approach has been suggested in the consultation paper, companies with paid-up capital of Rs. 200 million or more will be required to register in first phase, following which, companies with paid-up capital between Rs. 25 million and Rs. 200 million will be registered on RTP.
RTP provides unlisted companies a unique opportunity to reach a much wider investor base, given the local penetration and international visibility of PSX amongst global investors and media outlets.
On gaining familiarity with the fully automated and digital capital market infrastructure, unlisted companies will find it easier to pursue listings on the PSX Main board or GEM board in future.
The concept paper provides proposes mandatory registration of unlisted public limited companies on the RTP.
This registration would enable existing shareholders and sophisticated investors, such as high net-worth individuals, financial institutions and corporates to trade in shares of RTP registered companies.
It is important to note that RTP registration does not equate to formal PSX listing.
RTP-registered companies will not enjoy the benefits of being listed on PSX, nor can they raise funds from the stock market without going through the SECP and PSX approval process.
The paper finalized after input from the market infrastructure institutions placed on the SECP website.
Stakeholders have been requested to submit feedback to SECP by February 06, 2025.
Governor Kundi promises to address Mohmand Tribe issues
PESHAWAR, Jan 22 (APP):Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi on Wednesday assured Mohmand Political Alliance that he would raise the issues before concerning departments such as Nadra, passport services, Wapda, and Mohmand Dam with the federal government.
The Governor said this in a meeting with the delegation from the Mohmand Political Alliance, led by Malik Jangriz Khan, here at Governor House.
The delegation included leaders from various political parties affiliated with the Mohmand district.
They briefed the Governor about the issues facing the Mohmand tribe, including problems related to electricity, water, communications, and other sectors.
The delegation also commended Governor Faisal Karim Kundi for organizing an All Parties Conference and forming political and technical committees to raise the rights of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the merged districts. They particularly appreciated the decision to include the Mohmand tribe in these committees.
In response, Governor Kundi emphasized that the Governor’s House would act as a lawyer for all the provinces in advocating their issues with the federal authorities.
He also assured the delegation that they could submit their concerns in writing, and he would ensure positive progress.
Governor Kundi acknowledged the frustration expressed by the delegation, recognizing that the provincial government had failed to properly utilize the funds received from the federal government following the merger of FATA and the NFC Award.
He highlighted the mismanagement of these funds, the lack of resources for police, and the failure to allocate funds for the merged districts, which has led to growing discontent among the tribal communities regarding the merger.
Governor Kundi further praised the Mohmand Political Alliance for setting an example in the province by putting aside political differences for the greater regional interest.
He stressed the need for a similar approach across the province to address broader issues related to the rights of all districts.
He assured the delegation that he would work to ensure they have access to relevant high-ranking officials in the federal government.
Meanwhile, a certificate distribution ceremony was held at the Governor House for students of the Enlighten School System and Training Center led by .
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi awarded certificates to both male and female students in recognition of their outstanding performance.
Special persons who completed skill development training at the institution, as well as teachers who showed exceptional performance, were also presented with certificates.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including Zobia Amir, Vice President of the Women Chamber of Commerce, officials from the NAVTTC, as well as teachers and students.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi congratulated the students who received certificates and emphasized the importance of skill development for youth in the current circumstances.
He said that trained youth have better job prospects both within the country and abroad.
The Governor also highlighted that the federal government has allocated a significant budget for skill development programs across various sectors to equip young people with necessary competencies.
He further reiterated the need for more skill development training to empower the youth of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for future employment opportunities.
Similarly, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi handed over the medicine sent by the Balochistan government for the victims in Kurram Districtt to the Pakistan Red Crescent Society for the merged districts.
Chairman of the Pakistan Red Crescent Society for Merged Districts, Imran Wazir, received the medicines from Governor Kundi at the Governor House.
The Pakistan Red Crescent Society will distribute the medicines among the affected people in Kurram District.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister of Balochistan and the provincial government for their timely assistance.
He praised the people and government of Balochistan for their humanitarian gesture and solidarity with the people of Kurram.
Governor Kundi further said that this gesture of the Balochistan government and its people is a shining example of love and brotherhood between the provinces.
He thanked the Balochistan government for their continued support and compassion toward the victims of Kurram District.
HEC nominates Prof. Dr M. Kamran as VC NTC
ISLAMABAD, Jan 22 (APP):The Higher Education Commission(HEC) has nominated Professor Dr. Muhammad Kamran, Vice Chancellor, MNS University of Engineering and Technology, Multan, as the Vice Chairperson of the National Technology Council(NTC).
The notification in that regard has been issued by HEC, said a press release on Wednesday.
Experts, teachers, and students associated with the field of engineering from across the country have congratulated Professor Dr. Muhammad Kamran on his nomination as Vice Chairperson of the National Technology Council, terming it a recognition of his professional competence and leadership at the national and global levels.
Azerbaijan’s envoy stresses for deep Pak-Azerbaijan bilateral historical, cultural, fraternal ties
ISLAMABAD, Jan 22 (APP):Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Khazar Farhadov, has emphasized the need to further strengthen the deep historical, cultural, and fraternal ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
He stated that new initiatives and projects must be undertaken to promote trade cooperation between the two countries.
He expressed these views during a meeting with the Secretary General of the Federation Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) UBG, Zafar Bakhtawari, at his office, said a press release issued here on Wednesday.
Also present at the meeting were Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, a member of the UBG Central Core Committee, and Waqar Zafar Bakhtawari, an Executive Member of FPCCI.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on enhancing trade between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. Khazar Farhadov revealed that the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, is scheduled to visit Azerbaijan next month, a visit expected to play a vital role in strengthening bilateral relations.
He expressed his desire for prominent Pakistani business personalities to be part of this visit so that opportunities for mutual trade and investment could be explored. The ambassador shared that the Azerbaijani government is interested in investing $2 billion in Pakistan and is evaluating various projects in this regard.
He further stated that Pakistan is an important partner, and such investments would prove mutually beneficial for both nations.
Ambassador Khazar Farhadov highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between the two countries and expressed his wish to expand trade relations further.
He stressed the urgent need for immediate steps to increase the trade volume and strengthen economic relations.
Zafar Bakhtawari noted that Azerbaijan and Turkey are among Pakistan’s great allies.
He emphasized the need for these three countries to take further steps to enhance trade and economic ties.
He stated that these three nations are like one family and should work on joint ventures to deliver the benefits of trade cooperation to their people.
Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari announced that he would visit Azerbaijan in February and meet with business personalities there to take steps toward promoting mutual trade.
KMU hosts seminar on Self-Accountability
PESHAWAR, Jan 22 (APP):Khyber Medical University (KMU) Peshawar hosted a seminar on self-accountability with Advisor to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Accountability, Brigadier (R) Muhammad Musaddiq Abbasi as the chief guest.
The event was attended by KMU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zia ul Haq, faculty members, administrative officers, and staff.
In his address, Brigadier (R) Musaddiq Abbasi referred to the speech of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on August 11, 1947, where he declared that corruption is poison for society.
He emphasized that corruption is like termites that destroy institutions and society from within. He shared that approximately 80-85% of corruption is driven by necessity, termed “Need-Based Corruption,” while 15-20% occurs due to greed, known as “Greed-Based Corruption.” He revealed that nearly $10 billion is transferred abroad annually by corrupt individuals.
Brigadier (R) Musaddiq Abbasi stated that as a nation, we should look up to the eagle as our role model, which avoids consuming unlawful (haram) food and believes in a simple lifestyle.
In contrast, a vulture survives on the prey of others, symbolizing greed and corruption. He emphasized that the concept of “Amr Bil Ma’ruf wa Nahi Anil Munkar” (enjoining good and forbidding evil) is the best way to eliminate corruption.
He added that, just as prevention is better than cure, precautionary measures are vital in combating corruption.
He pointed out that Pakistan ranks 29th in the world for corruption, which is a matter of serious concern and a significant challenge.
He highlighted that in countries where the rule of law prevails, corruption is almost non-existent, and these nations are prosperous and developed.
Conversely, societies where corruption is widespread are on the decline. He stressed the importance of ensuring halal (lawful) earnings in raising children, as neglecting this can have detrimental effects on future generations. He quoted the Quran, which instructs individuals to protect themselves and their families from the fire of Hell, emphasizing that the fight against corruption must begin at home.
He concluded by saying that punctuality and hard work are the keys to success, emphasizing that success requires effort in the right direction. He stressed that no nation can develop without honesty, which is the guarantee of success.
He urged everyone to read and understand the Quran, make it an integral part of their lives, and follow its teachings. The goal of the Quran is to learn, understand, spread, and act upon its guidance.
Agricultural tube wells being solarized in Balochistan: Senate body told
ISLAMABAD, Jan 22 (APP):The Senate Functional Committee on Government Assurances was told on Wednesday that the process of solarization of agricultural tube wells in Balochistan has been initiated to facilitate the farmer in boosting their production.
“The payments are being made to the farmers for the purpose,” the officials from the Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO) told the committee meeting which was presided over Senator Abdul Shakoor Khan.
The panel was met today to discuss the updated status of various assurances given by the Federal Government.
The matter related to solarization was raised by Senator Manzoor Ahmed Kakar during the meeting which was told that the federal government, in collaboration with the Balochistan government, initiated the solarization project.
The QESCO officials briefed the body that the scheme would be implemented district wise.
The committee expressed satisfaction with the details and disposed of the matter.
The assurance regarding the missing file of a house located in Sector I-10/4, Islamabad was also taken up by the committee. The matter was raised by Senator Mushtaq Ahmed.
The officials of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) stated that the matter is pending before the Civil Court. However, the CDA has initiated the inquiry against the alleged ones.
Senator Abdul Shakoor Khan remarked that the CDA failed to notice the legality of file during the earlier five transfers, and on the six transfer of file, CDA termed the file fraudulent.
It is unfortunate that the individual has to bear the burden of the malafide practices of CDA officials.
The Committee disposed of the matter, stating that the CDA has failed in implementing the assurance and providing any relief to the aggrieved party.
In attendance were Senators Zameer Hussain Ghumro,Sajid Mir,Manzoor Ahmed Kakar,Hidayatullah Khan,Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs Humaira Ahmed, Special Secretary for National Health Services Regulations & Coordination Nasiruddin Mashhood Ahmad Mirza, Special Secretary for Interior Waqas Ali Mahmood,President PMDC Dr. Rizwan Taj and other senior officials from relevant Departments.
Power shutdown notice for Jan25
FAISALABAD, Jan 22 (APP):The Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) has announced a power shutdown schedule for January 25.
According to the schedule issued here Wednesday, power will remain outage from 9a.m. to 2p.m. from Pepsi, Susan Road, Rafhan, National Silk Mills, Koh-e-Noor City, Abdullahpur feeders emanating from132KV Old Thermal Grid Station while Gulberg and Afghanabad feeders emanating from 132-KV Jhang road grid station will also remain closed on same time.
The power shutdown will also be observed from Marafco feeder of 66-KV old thermal grid station and Kanwan Wala, and Abdullah Shah Shaheed feeders emanating from 132-KV Lalian grid station on the date.
KIU,University of Sunderland UK to collaborate on transnational education
GIlGIT, Jan 22 (APP):Karakoram International University (KIU) and the University of Sunderland UK have agreed to collaborate on Transnational Education (TNE).
According to KIU’s Public Relations Department this decision was reached during a meeting between KIU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Attaullah Shah and Dr. James Scott, Academic Director for Transnational Education at the University of Sunderland, UK.
The meeting focused on launching student exchange programs, enhancing research collaboration and creating scholarship opportunities for KIU students.
On this occasion, Prof. Dr. Attaullah Shah emphasized the importance of academic cooperation and international partnerships to benefit students and enhance the global standing of the university.
Roots Millennium System representative Walid Mushtaq was also present and expressed interest in collaborating with KIU to promote quality education and research in Gilgit-Baltistan.
During the meeting it was decided that KIU and the University of Sunderland will soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to initiate various academic and research activities, including student exchange programs. Prof. Dr. Attaullah Shah also presented his book to the delegates during the meeting.
FESCO fixing hanging, untidy electric wires
FAISALABAD, Jan 22 (APP):The Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) is utilizing all available resources to eliminate loose and hanging electric wires in all eight bazaars of Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar) Chowk to ensure the safety of lives and property of the public.
FESCO Chief Engineer (Operation) Muhammad Saeed said this while reviewing the work of removing hanging electricity wires and maintaining transformers in Ghanta Ghar Chowk here on Wednesday.
He said that FESCO was working to install modern electricity systems in the bazaars for which funds have been sought from the Deputy Commissioner Faisalabad to ensure underground electricity supply in bazaars and markets around the chowk.
Furthermore, on the instructions of Chief Executive FESCO Muhammad Amir, the company is combing the hanging wires, replacing damaged wires and transformer de-fitting sets as well as jumpers, etc. at its own expense.
He said that eight teams of FESCO city and Civil Lines Subdivisions are working to fix the hanging and untidy electric wires in various markets and goal bazaars which will be completed within the next few days. This step will not only ensure uninterrupted supply of electricity to the consumers but it will also enhance the beauty of these markets and bazaars and help in eliminating problems like fire eruption due to short circuiting, he added.
Director Public Relations Muhammad Saeed Raza, Additional Director Operations Ghulam Nabi Memon, Xen Civil Lines Waqas Rashid, SDO Civil Lines Shahsawar, and SDO city Madam Saba Swati were also present on the occasion.
AJK President appreciates Turkey’s consistent support for Kashmir cause
MUZAFFARABAD, Jan 22 (APP):Azad Jammu and Kashmir ( AJK) President Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry, while appreciating Turkey’s consistent support to the Kashmir cause has expressed the optimism that Turkey would continue its unwavering support to Kashmiris’ legitimate struggle for their right to self-determination.
He expressed these views while talking to the Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Irfan Neziroglu who called on him at his office on Wednesday.
On this occasion, the Turkish Embassy’s Counsellor Mrs. Yaprak Ece was also present.
Speaking on the occasion, President Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry said that the Kashmir issue was not only the issue of the Kashmiri people but also of the Muslim Ummah.
Apprising the Turkish ambassador of the prevailing political and human rights situation in the Indian occupied territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the president said that the Indian government’s relentless repression of political and human rights in the region has devastating impacts on the Kashmiri society.
“Along with suppression of political rights people in occupied Kashmir have been deprived of religious rights and freedoms”, he said, adding that even Kashmiri Muslims were not allowed to offer Friday prayers.
He said that the bloodshed of innocent civilians, particularly the youth at the hands of occupation forces, was going on unabated.
Terming massive military concentration as the main cause of rights violations in the region, he said, “India’s nine lakh army is committing genocide against Kashmiris”.India, he said, was not only violating human rights in occupied Kashmir but religious minorities in India have been the worst victims of Modi government’s Hindu supremacist’s ideology.
Barrister Chaudhry also highlighted India’s involvement in transnational terrorism.
The president said the Muslim countries, especially Turkey, should play their much needed role to help stop the bloodbath of innocent civilians in the region and resolving the Kashmir issue in accordance with the resolutions of the United Nations.
Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry also sought Turkey’s role in the development of Azad Kashmir. On this occasion, Turkish Ambassador Dr. Irfan Neziroglu assured his country’s continued support to the Kashmir cause.
He said that Turkey has always supported the Kashmiris’ just cause and called for an immediate end to rights violations in the region.
Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry, invited the Turkish Ambassador Dr. Irfan Neziroglu to visit Muzaffarabad, which he delightfully accepted.
A girl selects toys for purchase from a roadside vendor in the city.
MULTAN: January 22-
Ireland defeats Pakistan in rain-hit U19 women’s T20 match
JOHOR, MALAYSIA, Jan 22 (APP):The Ireland Women’s U19 team defeated the Pakistan Women’s U19 team by 13 runs using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method at the Johor Cricket Academy Oval in Malaysia.
Ireland, having won the toss and chosen to bat, scored 69 for 5 in their allotted nine overs. Alice Walsh, the player of the match, led the way with a 31-run knock off 19 balls. Pakistan’s Memoona Khalid impressed with two wickets in her only over.
Due to rain interruptions, Pakistan’s target was revised to 73 runs in nine overs. Despite a promising start, Pakistan ended their innings at 59 for 7, with skipper Komal Khan top-scoring with 12 runs.
With this victory, Ireland, along with England and the USA, advanced to the Super Six stage of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup. Pakistan, finishing fourth in Group B, will face Samoa in the 4th place play-off on Friday, January 24th.
Match Summary:
– Ireland Women’s U19: 69-5 (9 overs) (Alice Walsh 31; Memoona Khalid 2-6)
– Pakistan Women’s U19: 59-7 (9 overs) (Komal Khan 12; Ellie McGee 2-13)
– Player of the Match: Alice Walsh (Ireland Women’s U19)
Upcoming Fixture:
– 4th Place Play-Off:Pakistan vs. Samoa on January 24th at 7:30 am PKT at JCA Oval, Johor.
A goalkeeper stops the ball during a handball match between the Faisalabad Board and the Peshawar Board at the Pakistan Inter Board Handball Championship at BISE Ground in the city.
MULTAN: January 22-
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MULTAN: January 22- A goalkeeper stops the ball during a handball match between the Faisalabad Board and the Peshawar Board at the Pakistan Inter Board Handball Championship at BISE Ground in the city. APP/SFD/MAF/TZD/SSH
Poverty alleviation is top priority, says ACS South Punjab
MULTAN, Jan 22 (APP):Additional Chief Secretary Fuad Hashim Rabbani said that poverty alleviation was the top priority of the South Punjab Secretariat.
He said this during a visit by a 14-member delegation from the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA). The delegation, led by Dr. Faiza Arooj, met with the Additional Chief Secretary to discuss the region’s progress and challenges. Secretary Services South Punjab, Engineer Amjad Shoaib Khan Tareen, was also present during the meeting.
Highlighting the Secretariat’s efforts, Fuad Hashim Rabbani stated, “We are focused on increasing literacy rates and advancing agriculture to alleviate poverty in the region.” He added that the Secretariat had played a pivotal role in the region’s development, completing dozens of mega projects over the past four years.
“The establishment of the South Punjab Secretariat has resolved many issues at the local level, significantly reducing the sense of deprivation in the region,” he remarked.
The Additional Chief Secretary also discussed key initiatives, including the successful implementation of the “No Child Left Out of School” campaign to boost literacy. He shared that recommendations on regenerative agriculture practices have been submitted to the government to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Incorporating modern technology into governance, Rabbani said, “We are actively utilizing artificial intelligence for the development of all sectors in South Punjab, and efforts are underway to establish an IT park in the region.”
Addressing a question about infrastructure, he revealed that 50 acres of land had been allocated for the South Punjab Secretariat in Bahawalpur. However, progress on the project has been delayed due to a stay order from the Court.
Secretary Services South Punjab, Engineer Amjad Shoaib Khan Tareen, briefed the delegation on the South Punjab profile, outlining the Secretariat’s achievements and ongoing efforts to tackle regional challenges.
The visit provided an opportunity for the delegation to gain insight into the Secretariat’s role in driving sustainable development and addressing key issues facing South Punjab.