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CM’s message for PML-N voters

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LAHORE, Apr 21 (APP): Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif said on Sunday “Pakistan Muslim League-N, under the leadership of Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, is sincerely trying to solve public problems.”
in her message to the PML-N Voters on the day of by-elections. She added,” PML-N voters are coming out, which is a welcome sign,”
The Chief Minister said, “We have given relief, relief and only relief to the people of Punjab in a short span of time.” She highlighted,” Ramadan Nigehban Relief Package, 20,000 bikes, cheap flour and cheap bread are proof of our few days’ performance.”
 Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said,” Labourers, farmers, students and women of Punjab are at the top of my priority list: “She added,”Rs 130 billion farmer package reflects Nawaz Sharif’s agriculture-friendly vision.”
 The Chief Minister Punjab ensured,” My team and I always strive to make things easier for the common man.” She underscored,” Laptop, iPad schemes are also going to be introduced in Punjab soon.”
  Madam Maryam Nawaz Sharif said,” All candidates of Muslim League (N) will succeed with a clear majority, Inshallah.” She added,” My mission is to carry forward the vision of your and my leader Muhammad Nawaz Sharif.”

Punjab’s Labourers, Farmers, Students and Women are on top priorities: CM

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LAHORE, Apr 21 (APP): Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif said, “We gave maximum relief to the people of Punjab in a short span of time.
The labourers of Punjab, farmers, students and women are foremost in my priorities. Ramazan Nigheban Package, 20 thousand bikes, subsidized flour and subsidized roti speak volumes of our few days performance.
Rupees 130 billion Kissan Package depicts agriculture-friendly vision of Nawaz Sharif. Myself and my team always strive to provide ease and comfort to the common man. We are soon going to introduce laptop and Ipad schemes in Punjab. My mission is to carry forward the vision of the people as well as of Quaid Nawaz Sharif.
PML-N under the dynamic leadership of Mian Nawaz Sharif is endeavouring to the utmost so as to resolve problems of the masses. PML-N voter turnout was impressive in the by-elections which is welcoming as they reposed their complete trust in the leadership of PML-N and their candidates,” she concluded.

LESCO collects over Rs 2.10m from 55 defaulters in 24 hours

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LAHORE, Apr 21 (APP): The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has recovered more than Rs 2.10 million from 55 chronic defaulters in all the five districts- Lahore, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Kasur and Okara- on the 203rd day of its recovery campaign.
LESCO spokesman told media here Sunday that on the 203rd day, SE (Superintending Engineer) Nisar Sarwar has recovered outstanding dues of Rs 0.59 million from 15 defaulters in Northern Circle; SE Umar Bilal recovered Rs 0.46 million from 13 defaulters in Eastern Circle; SE Najamul Hassan recovered Rs 0.29 million from 07 defaulters in Sheikhupura Circle; SE Jamshed Zaman collected Rs 0.49 million from 16 defaulters in Okara Circle and SE Ahmed Shahzad Chughtai recovered Rs 0.33 million from 04 defaulters in Kasur Circle.
During the 203 days, the spokesman added that the LESCO has recovered a total of Rs 2.876 billion outstanding dues from 100,322 dead defaulters. He elaborated that uptill now the company has collected Rs 425.34 million from 14,588 defaulters in Northern Circle; Rs 672.41 million from 12,983 defaulters in Eastern Circle; Rs 380.39 million from 11,223 defaulters in Central Circle; Rs 159.07 million from 5,887 defaulters in South Circle; Rs 232.43 million from 8,666 defaulters in Nankana Circle; Rs 424 million from 11,735 defaulters in Sheikhupura Circle; Rs 186.33 million from 16,045 defaulters in Okara Circle and Rs 396.34 million from 19,195 defaulters in Kasur Circle.

International zoological Congress to commence at UAJK on April 23

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MUZAFFARABAD, Apr 21 (APP): The University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK) is ready to kick off the three-day 42nd World Pakistan Congress of Zoology, facilitating global discourse on the latest innovations and persistent challenges in the field.
Commencing on Tuesday, April 23, amidst the picturesque surroundings of the King Abdullah Campus, the conference will serve as the global platform for this significant event, drawing in distinguished scientists, researchers, faculty members, and scholars from across the world.
Under the auspices of the Zoological Society of Pakistan, the congress will witness the gathering of leading minds in zoology from various countries, including the United States, Australia, Switzerland, Greece, China, and Turkiye.
With an expected attendance of over 1000 participants, the congress assures a rich exchange of ideas, with more than 500 researchers slated to present their latest discoveries.
Confirming their presence, Vice-Chancellors from prominent institutions such as the University of Baltistan, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Sindh, Preston University Karachi, Islamia College University Peshawar, University of Okara, Baba Guru-Nanak University Faisalabad, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Federal Urdu University of Arts Sciences and Technology, among others, will be in attendance to grace the occasion.
The comprehensive agenda spanning three days will encompass a wide range of sessions addressing the latest advancements, challenges, and opportunities in zoology. Topics including entomology, cell biology, molecular biology, environmental biotechnology, and wildlife conservation will be explored through interactive discussions, lectures, and presentations.
The grand opening ceremony, scheduled for 9:00 AM at the main auditorium of UAJK’s King Abdullah Campus, will be honoured by Chief Guest Prime Minister Azad Jammu and Kashmir Chaudhry Anwar Haq.
Notable dignitaries including Vice Chancellor UAJK Prof Dr. Muhammad Kaleem Abbasi and officials from the Zoological Society of Pakistan will acknowledge the invaluable contributions of researchers in zoology, with medals and awards to be conferred.
Every effort has been meticulously made to ensure the seamless execution of the congress, with all arrangements in place to accommodate the needs of delegates from across the globe, facilitating their participation in this prestigious conference.

LESCO detects 73,488 power pilferers in 215 days

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LAHORE, Apr 21 (APP): The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has detected a total of 73,488 connections from where the customers were pilfering electricity in all its circles of five districts (Lahore, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Kasur and Okara) in 215 day of grand anti-power theft campaign.
A LESCO spokesman told the media here Sunday that the company has also submitted FIR applications against electricity thieves, out of which 70,221 FIRs have been registered in respective police stations, while 29,954 accused have been arrested. The LESCO has so far charged a total of 89,195,501 detection units worth Rs 3,336,693,022 to all the power pilferers.
Grand anti-power theft operations against electricity thieves are being conducted on the directives of the Federal Power Division and the LESCO Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Engineer Shahid Haider is supervising these operations. The LESCO chief vowed that the operations would continue without discrimination until the complete end of electricity theft. The electricity pilferers as well as the LESCO officers and employees who facilitate them are also being brought to justice.
The spokesman added, the LESCO found 146 customers stealing electricity through various means and 66 cases have been registered against the accused, while five accused were arrested during the last 24 hours.
On the 215th consecutive day of the anti-power theft campaign, he mentioned that large commercial consumers were found involved in electricity theft and all of them were also disconnected and charged with detection units. Among the seized connections, he explained, 03 were commercial, 02 agricultural and 141 domestic, and all these connections were disconnected and charged with a total of 204,053 units as detection bill amounting to Rs 3.327 million.
Apprising the media about some major power pilferers, he mentioned that LESCO charged Rs 110,000 detection  bill to an electricity pilferer in Misri Shah area of Lahore; Rs 100,000 detection bill to a power pilferer in Tibbi City area; Rs 95,000 fine in the form of detection bill to a customer stealing electricity in Qila Gujjar Singh area, and Rs 92,000 to another power pilferer also in Chunia area of Kasur.

Minister promises best medical care for victims of factory boiler explosion

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LAHORE, Apr 21 (APP): Punjab Minister of Health and Emergency Services Khawaja Salman Rafique has taken swift action following the tragic incident of a boiler explosion at a factory on Sargodha Road.
The minister directed the authorities concerned to ensure top-notch medical facilities for the injured. As per the latest update, seven individuals are receiving treatment at the burns unit of Allied Hospital-1 Faisalabad, with one patient being transferred to the ICU due to critical condition.
The minister assured that all necessary medical resources are being deployed, with a team of expert doctors led by MS Dr. Faheem overseeing the treatment. The affected individuals, aged between 12 and 40 years, are receiving round-the-clock care. Efforts are underway to provide the best possible support to those affected by this unfortunate incident.
Those affected include Abu Bakr, Salman, Zanair, Waseem, Fayaz, Umair, Mustansar, Azam, Zahoor and Waheed.

Iranian president’s visit to Pakistan signals progress towards economic stability: PUC chairman

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 21 (APP): The Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) Chairman Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi on Sunday hailed the visit of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to Pakistan as a positive step towards fostering economic stability for two countries.

He, in a statement, said it was another milestone in country’s efforts towards economic development following the recent high-profile delegations from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan.

Ashrafi expressed hope about the potential of President Raisi’s visit to pave the way for a new era of cooperation in a range of bilateral issues, including trade, security, and regional stability as the two countries share deep-rooted ties, emphasizing the shared goals of peace and economic development.

He said President Raisi’s visit was expected to focus on an opportunity for Pakistan and Iran to explore avenues for expanding collaboration in areas such as energy, infrastructure, and people-to-people exchanges. By deepening their partnership, Ashrafi said the two countries could unlock new opportunities for growth and prosperity, benefiting their peoples and contributing to regional stability.

National Amateur Golf C’ship concludes

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 21 (APP): The Smart City 63rd National Amateur Golf Championship concluded with resounding success here at Margalla Greens Golf Club, on Sunday.

The championship, which commenced with two practice rounds on April 16 and 17, saw its official start on April 18, marked by a grand opening ceremony and the inaugural tee shot by distinguished guests.

Former National Team Champions, Wing Commander Ishrat Nishat Khokhar (R) and Mrs.Tahira Nazir, ceremoniously opened the championship by teeing off at Margalla Greens, setting the stage for an exhilarating competition.

Approximately 225 players participated across three categories: Amateur Men, Amateur Ladies, and Amateur Seniors (Men), showcasing the diverse talent within Pakistan’s golfing community.

Despite encountering heavy rain and thunderstorms, Tournament Director Lieutenant Colonel Zahid Iqbal (R) and his dedicated team, alongside the unwavering support of Cdr Majid Satti, Secretary of Margalla Greens Golf Club, ensured the successful completion of the championship, demonstrating resilience and professionalism in adverse weather conditions.

Smart City proudly sponsored the event as the title sponsor, underscoring its commitment to promoting sports and community engagement. Additionally, W Wilson generously sponsored the meals and prizes, contributing to the success and enjoyment of the championship.

It was a truly international affair with players from Qatar, Germany, China, and Sri Lanka joining their Pakistani counterparts in showcasing their golfing prowess and fostering international camaraderie on the greens of Margalla Greens Golf Club.

In the competitive arena, Parkha Ijaz emerged as the National Champion in the Ladies Category, while Rizwan Rashid clinched the title of Senior National Champion. The main trophy was fiercely contested, culminating in a thrilling tie between Ralfay e Aslam Raja and Shahzeb Jahan. Ultimately, Raja secured victory after a gripping sudden death playoff that lasted until the third hole.

Gracing the occasion as Chief Guests were Muhammad Shabbir Iqbal and Mrs.Yasmeen Mubarik, who added to the prestige of the event with their presence. During the prize distribution ceremony, National Star Muhammad Shabbir Iqbal presented the National Trophy to Ralfay e Aslam Raja, while Mrs. Yasmeen Mubarik, Former National Lady Champion, awarded Parkha Ijaz with the Champion trophy.

The distinguished presence of Admiral Ravindra C. Wijegunaratne, Former Chief of Joint Staff, Chief of Naval Staff of Sri Lanka, Major General Najam ul Hassan, Commodore Asif, President MGGC, and members of the Organizing Committee added grandeur to the event.

In recognition of Margalla Greens Golf Club’s exceptional arrangements and conduct, Secretary of Pakistan Golf Federation announced a cash prize to the club, underscoring their commitment to excellence in golfing events.

The Smart City 63rd National Amateur Golf Championship not only showcased outstanding golfing talent but also exemplified the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and perseverance, further elevating the stature of golf in Pakistan.

New Zealand Batter Tim Seifert Play a shot during the 3rd T20 cricket match between Pakistan vs New Zealand at Pindi Cricket Stadium

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New Zealand Batter Tim Seifert Play a shot during the 3rd T20 cricket match between Pakistan vs New Zealand at Pindi Cricket Stadium
APP57-210424
RAWALPINDI: April 21 – 
New Zealand Batter Tim Seifert Play a shot during the 3rd T20 cricket match between Pakistan vs New Zealand at Pindi Cricket Stadium
APP58-210424
RAWALPINDI: April 21 – New Zealand Batter Tim Robinson Play a shot during the 3rd T20 cricket match between Pakistan vs New Zealand at Pindi Cricket Stadium. APP/ADZ/FHA

Myanmar’s Rohingya Muslims in firing line as Rakhine conflict intensifies: UN

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UNITED NATIONS, Apr 21 (APP): The UN’s top human rights official has raised alarm over the escalating violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine state between the ruling junta and opposition forces amid reports of the military regime forcing members of the minority Muslim Rohingya community to join their ranks.

Rakhine was the site of a brutal crackdown on the Rohingyas by the military in 2017, leading to the killing of some 10,000 men, women and newborns and the exodus of nearly 750,000 community members, many of whom continue to languish in refugee camps in neighbouring Bangladesh.

“Rakhine state has once again become a battleground involving multiple actors, and civilians are paying a heavy price, with Rohingya at particular risk,” Volker Turk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said.

“What is particularly disturbing is that whereas in 2017, the Rohingya were targeted by one group, they are now trapped between two armed factions who have a track record of killing them. We must not allow the Rohingya to be targeted again.”

The breakdown of a year-long informal ceasefire between the military and the Arakan Army (AA) last November has plunged 15 out of Rakhine’s 17 townships into conflict.

The military’s loss of territory to the AA in northern and central parts of the province has led to intensified fighting in the townships of Buthidaung and Maungdaw, setting the stage for a potential battle for the state capital, Sittwe.

The presence of large Rohingya populations in these areas further exacerbates the risks faced by civilians. “Facing defeat, the military has outrageously started to forcibly conscript, bribe and coerce Rohingya into joining their ranks,” Turk said.

“It is unconscionable that they should be targeted in this way, given the appalling events of six years ago and the ongoing extreme discrimination against the Rohingya, including the denial of citizenship”.

Reports also suggest that both Rohingya and ethnic Rakhine villagers have been coerced into burning each other’s homes and villages, escalating tensions and violence.

OHCHR is trying to verify the reports, a task complicated by a communications blackout throughout the state. The High Commissioner also cited widespread disinformation and propaganda, pointing to claims that so called “Islamic terrorists” have taken Hindus and Buddhists hostages.

“This was the same kind of hateful narrative that fuelled communal violence in 2012 and the horrendous attacks against the Rohingya in 2017,” he said.

“Countries with influence on the Myanmar military and armed groups involved must act now to protect all civilians in Rakhine state and prevent another episode of horrendous persecution of the Rohingya,” he urged.