Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Home Blog Page 10129

Pakistan not to surrender its water rights

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 23 (APP): Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar firmly stated before the National Assembly on Tuesday that the government remained resolute in not relinquishing its water rights, emphasizing that any alteration to the Indus Water Treaty necessitated mutual consent from both Pakistan and India.
Addressing a Calling Attention Notice in the House, he underscored India’s attempts to violate the agreement, highlighting the World Bank’s role as a signatory committed to upholding its integrity.
He reiterated that the Indus Water Treaty stood immutable unless both Pakistan and India reach a consensus for modification.
 Azam Nazeer reaffirmed Pakistan’s consistent stance against Indian transgressions, asserting that the Pakistan vigorously contests any violations through appropriate channels, assuring that Pakistan would take necessary means to safeguard its rights.
Elaborating on the treaty’s framework established by the World Bank in 1960, Azam Nazeer clarified that India held water rights over the Ravi, Sutlej, and Bias rivers, while Pakistan retained control over the Chenab, Sindh, and Jhelum rivers.

PILDAT delegation visits KPCVE

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
PESHAWAR, Apr 23 (APP): Ahmad Bilal Mahboob, President Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT), led a representative delegation on a visit to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Center of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism (KPCVE).
The delegation met with Dr Ayaz, Chief Coordinator of the Center and Director General Dr Qasim. At the meeting, there was an exchange of views on bilateral matters. Director-General of the Center of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism, Dr Qasim, CVE Manager Dr Irfan, and other officials were also present. An introductory session was held with the delegation, during which discussions on bilateral matters took place.
The purpose of the meeting was to understand the background of the establishment of the Center of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism in the province and to prepare for homework guidance on the establishment of such centers in other provinces.
Dr Ayaz and Dr Qasim briefed the delegation on the establishment, functions and current performance of the institution. The CCO informed the delegation that in 2021, the Federal Government had revised the National Action Plan recommending the establishment of such centers in the provinces, and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government had taken the lead by establishing this center of excellence.
It is a research-based institution that conducts research on the causes, consequences, and other issues related to violent extremism and advises the government with recommendations.
President PILDAT expressed satisfaction with the establishment of the institution. The delegation praised the performance of the institution and affirmed the establishment of such institutions in other provinces.
During the meeting, President PILDAT presented a compilation of research publications for the institution, while the delegation head was also presented with an appreciation shield by the Center’s administration

WHO delegation calls on Chairman FBR

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 23 (APP): A delegation of World Health Organization (WHO) comprising Roberto Iglesias, Consultant, and Santiago Carrillo expert on Track and Trace on Tuesday called on Chairman Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Malik Amjed Zubair Tiwana at FBR Headquarters.
Member IR (Operations) Mir Badshah Khan Wazir was also present on the occasion, said a news release. During the meeting, matters pertaining to tobacco taxation were discussed.
They also deliberated upon operational challenges in implementation and enforcement of track and trace system on tobacco sector in order to eliminate the menace of illicit trade of tobacco.

Over Rs 335 million disbursed among 2000 students: VC Sukkur IBA

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
SUKKUR, Apr 23 (APP): Sukkur IBA University, Vice Chancellor (VC), Professor Dr Asif Ahmed Shaikh has said that his institute supports higher education accessibility by awarding a large number of scholarships to deserving students hailing from underprivileged areas of the country.
In a statement issued here on Tuesday, he said that in connection with the university’s mission to serve the community, the university has been striving to support thousands of meritorious students from underprivileged areas of Pakistan, especially Sindh. This has been made possible with the support of a vast donor base ranging from Government, Non-governmental organizations, Corporate Entities, and Individual Philanthropists, Vice Chancellor added.
He said that in the current year, the university has disbursed a larger amount than before, around PKR 335 million, to approximately 2000 students. Among the total intake for the 2023-24 academic year, scholarships have been awarded to approximately 450 out of 770 students, constituting around 60% of the total intake, he added.
The VC said that the prominent donors include the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), Continental Biscuits Limited, Mari Petroleum Company Limited (MPCL), Uch Power Company Limited, British Council, USAID, Sindhi Association of North America (SANA), Hidayat Jumani Welfare Fund by Khairpur Sugar Mills, Punjab Educational Endowment Fund (PEEF), Baluchistan Educational Endowment Fund (BEEF), Sindh Educational Endowment Fund (SEEF), and many individual philanthropists, including the university alumni.
They annually provide scholarships to 200 deserving and meritorious students, said Shaikh, adding that with our efforts, they have pledged to enhance this number to 280 in the 2023-24 session, with an additional 60 slots to be awarded 20 each to three sub-campuses of Sukkur IBA University located in Khairpur, Kandhkot, and Dadu districts.
The VC also mentioned that Sukkur IBA University started National Talent Hunt Program (NTHP) with the support of OGDCL back in 2016, in which 300 students were selected from all provinces.
Now again, he said the Management of OGDCL has promised us to relaunch this program in 2024 and OGDCL has pledged to support 350 students from Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan, KP, GB, and AJK,’ he added.
VC IBA Sukkur University said that we have increased the scholarships and taken efforts. I am hopeful to bring more scholarships as enrollment from the government of Sindh for the students, he said.
He emphasized that through these scholarships, Sukkur IBA University not only provides financial assistance but also opens doors of opportunity for bright minds from humble beginnings, empowering them to pursue their academic dreams and contribute meaningfully to society.

Agriculture, IT sectors hold potential to contribute significantly to country’s economic growth: Minister

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Apr 23 (APP): Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb on Tuesday said that the agriculture and information technology sectors held the potential to contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth.

Responding to a motion titled “This House may discuss the economic situation in the country,” the minister said, “The agriculture and information technology sectors are poised to become the real levers of economic growth in the country.”

He reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitating the two sectors and expressed optimism that IT exports would surpass the $3.3 billion mark during the current financial year.

Minister Aurangzeb stressed the importance of promoting agricultural growth to achieve a rate of 5 to 6 percent annually, in addition to harnessing the potential of the local livestock sector.

He highlighted the significant growth experienced in the agricultural sector due to successful bumper crop harvests, which promised a positive impact on the industrial sector.

The minister asserted that the country’s economic situation had improved compared to the previous year. He mentioned that the government assumed the office, the foreign exchange reserves were at $3.4 billion, covering only 15 days of imports. However, significant progress had been made, with reserves now exceeding $13.3 billion.

He anticipated further improvement following the disbursement of the tranche from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The minister noted the positive performance of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) in recent days, attributing it to the sentiments that were restoring market confidence.

Regarding economic indicators, he highlighted a 74 percent decrease in the current account deficit, which reached $1 billion as compared to $3.9 billion previously.

He also mentioned a 24.9 percent decrease in the trade deficit over the last nine months of the current financial year, which reduced from $22.7 billion to $17.0 billion.

The minister outlined the government’s focus on three key areas for transformation: tax, energy sectors, and reforms in the State Owned Enterprises (SoEs).

He expressed his intention to enhance the tax to GDP ratio, which currently stood at 9 percent, through tax enforcement measures and expanding the tax base.

Muhammad Aurangzeb affirmed the support of friendly countries both domestically and internationally for Pakistan’s economic growth.

He said that the government was implementing the decisions of the Federal Shariat Court to promote an interest-free economy and establish Islamic banking branches across the country.

Japanese envoy calls on law minister

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 23 (APP): Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, WADA Mitsuhiro paid a courtesy call to Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar here on Tuesday.
Both sides discussed issues of mutual interest, culture and traditions, said a press release. The minister stated that Japan is a very close friend of Pakistan and has assisted in times of need. He specifically lauded the efforts of Japan during floods of 2022.
Both sides also discussed the security situation and the measures which are being taken to ensure the security of all the foreign personnel present in the country.
Azam Nazeer Tarar underscored the government’s resolve and special focus on the security concerns. The govt was organizing a special protection unit on the direction of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, he added.
He said: “We are hopeful that situation will get better in terms of economy. The Government was keen and determined for Economic revival.”
The ongoing work on legal reforms was also discussed between the two sides. Azam Nazeer Tarar assured the ambassador of all kinds of assistance from the Pakistan’s government to facilitate the foreign dignatories present in the country.

Govt ensuring digital access as fundamental right: Ahsan Iqbal

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Apr 23 (APP): Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal on Tuesday underscored the government’s responsibilities to ensure the digital access for all, recognizing it as a fundamental necessity in the modern era.

Addressing the launch of National Human Development Report 2024, the minister said the digital revolution was reshaping societies worldwide, and Pakistan was poised to emerge as a frontrunner in that transformative journey.

He highlighted the role of digitalization in shaping Pakistan’s future, emphasizing the proactive engagement of its youth in driving digital innovation.

“Notably, Pakistan stands as the fourth-largest contributor to the global digital freelancing industry, a testament to its burgeoning digital workforce,” he added.

The minister commended the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for its National Human Development Report 2023/2024, stressing the government’s commitment to leveraging its insights for national development.

As Chairman of the Report Advisory Council, he highlighted the significant impact of its findings on the government initiatives, including the ongoing upliftment efforts in 20 of Pakistan’s most impoverished districts, guided by the multidimensional poverty index introduced in the inaugural UNDP report of 2018.

He also emphasized the value of the Youth Development Index in understanding and addressing the aspirations and concerns of Pakistani youth.

Recognizing digital access as a fundamental necessity in the modern era, akin to essential services like electricity, healthcare, and education, Ahsan Iqbal stressed the government’s responsibility to bridge the digital divide across all regions.

He underscored the transformative potential of the current year’s UNDP report, which sheds light on critical aspects of development, including digital inclusion.

“To bolster Pakistan’s readiness for the digital age, the government has established National Centers of Excellence in key universities nationwide, fostering innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, big data, and cloud computing,” he added.

Reflecting on the past milestones, the minister highlighted key initiatives that had propelled Pakistan’s digital development journey. “These include the deregulation of the telecommunications industry in 1993, paving the way for a telecommunications revolution, and the introduction of 3G/4G licenses in 2013.”

Furthermore, he underscored the significance of Pakistan’s first digital policy in 2021 as a landmark in the nation’s digital transformation.

Addressing the imperative of adapting to change, the minister outlined proactive strategies for embracing digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of anticipating and embracing change rather than succumbing to it.

Highlighting the widening gap between socioeconomic segments in the digital era, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the urgency of addressing this disparity.

He underscored the need for inclusive growth strategies to ensure that all segments of society benefit from the digital revolution.

The minister urged a forward-looking approach, setting sights on Pakistan’s future growth trajectory. He emphasized the need for sustained growth rates of 7% to 9% to propel Pakistan towards becoming a $2 trillion or $3 trillion economy by 2047, respectively. The event was attended by diplomats, policymakers, civil society representatives, students, and other stakeholders.

SNGPL fines eight consumers for illegal use of meters

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
MULTAN, Apr 23 (APP): Sui Northern Gas pipelines Limited (SNGPL) on Tuesday took action against eight citizens for illegal use of meters and also ensured recovery of Rs 100,000 from a defaulter.
According to officials of Task Force, the consumers were using gas illegally as they were found making commercial use of gas, offering illegal connections to others and gas theft in Burewala and Ghaziabad area in Multan city.
 Gas metres of two consumers were disconnected for using compressors. However, the department’s teams also removed extensions during the crackdown.
The teams also imposed fine on consumers involved in different sorts of violation. The department urged citizens to cooperate and informed about illegal use of gas at phone number 0619220085 as secrecy would be maintained.
According to Regional Manager Hussain Zafar, a special cell has been introduced to respond to complaints. Some officers have also been deputed in the cell to ensure timely resolution of complaints.

PDMA predicts gusty wind, rain with thunder, hails

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
LAHORE, Apr 23 (APP): There are chances of gusty wind, rain with thunder and hails at few places in Punjab from today till April 29.
According to PDMA spokesperson, DG PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia has issued instructions to the Deputy Commissioners across the province to remain alert.
Kathia said that concerned departments should be on alert to deal with any emergency situation. The district emergency operation centers of all districts including the provincial control room have also been alerted. Monitoring of the situation in the PDMA control room continues 24/7. Rescue 1122 and other rescue agencies must keep the machinery and personnel alert, he added.
DG Irfan Ali Kathia further said that citizens should be careful and stay away from electric poles and hanging wires. Stay in safe places to avoid lightning. Never go under the open sky during lightning and stormy conditions. Take special care of children and never let them go near water that collects in low-lying areas, he said and added that citizens should avoid unnecessary travel and drive slowly.
Due to climate change, Pakistan is facing unusual rainfall. Citizens can call PDMA’s helpline 1129 for assistance.

Protectorate of Emigrants Office in Abbottabad to be fully functional by June 2024: NA told

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Apr 23 (APP): Federal Minister for Law and Justice, Azam Nazeer Tarar, informed the National Assembly that a Protectorate of Emigrants Office in District Abbottabad would be fully functional by June 2024.

In response to a resolution put moved by MNA Shahzada Muhammad Gushtasap Khan, urging the government to take immediate action to establish a Protectorate of Emigrants Office in District Mansehra, the minister that the necessary funds had already been released for the establishment of the office.

 

1...10,12810,12910,130...31,097Page 10,129 of 31,097

ABOUT US

Serving the nation since 1947 by providing an accurate, objective, uninterrupted flow of news to the people, the national news service is pursuing a comprehensive strategy to transform the existing news operations into a forward-looking service – APP Digital for its diverse subscriber-base and the public.

Contact us: news@app.com.pk

FOLLOW US

Copyright © Associated Press of Pakistan