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Matric scholarship announced for girl students

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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Matric scholarship
PESHAWAR, Mar 31 (APP): International volunteer organization “Volunteer Service Overseas” and Participatory Rural Development Society (PRDS) announced scholarships for those female students leaving their school prematurely without completing their education, due to poverty, lack of access, cultural barriers and other issues.
Through this initiative, scholarship will be awarded to girls aged 13 to 17 years in selected districts of the province. In this regard, an agreement has also been reached between VSO, Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) and PRDS.
According to the Program Manager MYRP KP, Tariq Hayat Yousafzai the dropped out or those girls who had left their education due to certain impeding factors can apply for free admission in the Matric program. Interested girls students can submit their applications till 20th April 2024 in the AIOU regional campus in Peshawar.
According to the agreement, 1200 female students in three districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa including Peshawar, Nowshera and Charsadda will be offered free admission in the two-year matriculation course through the distance learning system of AIOU during this year.
Program Manager, Tariq Hayat told the media persons in Peshawar that this initiative aims to encourage those female students, who couldn’t continue their studies due to poverty, lack of access to schools, cultural barriers and other reasons. Under the ECW Multi-Year Resilience Program, free textbooks will also be distributed among the students besides giving them free admission.
He said the students of these three selected districts can get the admission form and prospectus from the nearest regional offices of Allama Iqbal Open University. He said that the applications along with form B can be submitted till April 20.
He said that the admission form can also be submitted through the online website of the university. After proper scrutiny of the documents of the students and shortlisting, the eligible students will be given scholarships for a period of two years so that they could complete their matriculation, he added.
Tariq Hayat further said that the objective of this initiative is to promote female education in these districts and encourage the girls to continue their education activities.

Ambassador Hashmi visits Guangdong province to enhance ties

By
NNPS Desk
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BEIJING, March 31 (APP): Pakistan Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi paid an official visit to Shenzhen and Guangzhou in the Guangdong province of China to enhance political, cultural, academic, trade and investment ties with the two cities.
This was Ambassador’s inaugural visit to the province since assuming office.

Ambassador’s visit was scheduled to overlap with the closing ceremony of the year-long Gandhara Art Exhibition, jointly organized by Pakistan and China.

During the visit, Ambassador Hashmi had diverse engagements meant to enhance relations with the two major cities on a political level, as well as cultural, academic and most importantly trade and investment ties.

On the political level, Ambassador Hashmi was received by Meng Fanli, Communist Party’s top leader in Shenzhen and by Sun Zhiyang, Mayor of Guangzhou city. In both these meetings, Ambassador paid tribute to the cities’ stellar economic performance in the past four decades and briefed them about the investment landscape of Pakistan and opportunities for investors from Guangdong to invest in diverse sectors.

Both the Chinese leaders noted with satisfaction the growing ties between Pakistan and the respective cities, including through the presence of increasing number of Pakistani students, and expressed the desire to further enhance economic ties.

The meetings saw a consensus to enhance cooperation in priority sectors through establishment of institutional mechanisms.

On the cultural front, Ambassador Hashmi attended the closing ceremony of Gandhara Art Exhibition, where he delivered remarks highlighting the importance of such initiatives in longstanding ties between Pakistan and China.

On the sidelines, he also met Wang Xudong, Director of Palace Museum, where both sides positively noted the successful culmination of the event, and discussed ways to further enhance cultural cooperation.

On the economic side, Ambassador Hashmi interacted with a number of prominent Chinese enterprises, both state-owned and private, including Amer International, Huawei, Shum Yip Group, BYD, BGI Economics, Mindray, Guangzhou Metro (the parent enterprise of Lahore Orange Line) and a number of other companies.

Leadership of all these enterprises briefed the Ambassador about their engagement with Pakistan and their future plans.
Ambassador Hashmi briefed the interlocutors about the investment policies of Pakistan and assured them of his full support.

He also addressed a forum of technological enterprises based in Shenzhen.For engaging with academia, Ambassador paid a visit to Shenzhen University and had a meeting with the President.

The two sides discussed various areas of collaboration, including the possibility of setting up a Pakistan Research and Study Centre at the university. He also interacted with Pakistani students enrolled at Shenzhen University.

Additionally, he visited Guangdong University of Foreign Studies in Guangzhou, where he interacted with the students learning Urdu. The students also displayed their affection towards Pakistan through a number of cultural performances, including a rendition of “Dil Dil Pakistan”.

Ambassador Hashmi also had a number of community interactions during his visit, where he lauded the important role played by Pakistani Diaspora and assured them of full facilitation by the Embassy in Beijing and Consulate-General in Guangzhou.

Shenzhen city is known for being at the center of China’s reform and opening up four decades ago. The city has now established itself as a hub of innovation, entrepreneurship and emerging technologies in diverse sectors. Guangzhou, another major city in southern China, is renowned for its bustling trade and commerce, exemplified by the world-famous Canton Fair.
The city is also celebrated for its pivotal role in China’s industrial and economic landscape as a manufacturing hub in the Pearl River Delta.

 

Ashrafi hails SIFC as catalyst for Pakistan’s economic progress

By
NNPS Desk
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Ashrafi

ISLAMABAD, Mar 31 (APP): Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) Chairman Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi on Sunday commended the establishment of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) as a pivotal stride towards economic revitalization.

He, speaking to the press, lauded SIFC as a visionary initiative spearheaded by Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir. He emphasized that this landmark initiative has garnered trust not only from fraternal Islamic Arab nations but also from both local and foreign investors.

Expressing optimism, Ashrafi underscored the potential of SIFC under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to navigate Pakistan out of its prevailing economic challenges, aligning with the visionary strategies advocated by the army chief.

Acknowledging SIFC as a testament to the collaboration between the military and civilian leadership, the PUC chairman hailed it as a substantial boon for both Pakistani and foreign investors. He reiterated his belief that SIFC would serve as a cornerstone for the development and prosperity of Pakistan, encapsulating the shared vision of the government and the armed forces.

With the establishment of SIFC, Ashrafi said Pakistan stands poised to attract increased investments, foster economic growth, and pave the way for a brighter future. As stakeholders rally behind this transformative initiative, he said hopes are high for a sustainable economic resurgence that benefits all segments of society.

Ashrafi issued a resolute statement in response to the recent attack on Chinese guests in Besham, declaring that those responsible would face the full force of justice.

In a stern warning, the PUC chairman emphasized that the perpetrators of this heinous act would be made an example, ensuring that such acts of terrorism and extremism are met with uncompromising resolve.

He reiterated the nation’s unwavering commitment to combatting terrorism under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, General Syed Asim Munir alongside the unified efforts of Pakistan’s armed forces and security agencies.

Expressing solidarity with China, Ashrafi conveyed heartfelt condolences on behalf of Pakistan, affirming that the entire nation shares in the grief of its esteemed ally. He reassured China that Pakistan stands firm in its commitment to thwart any attempts by enemies to undermine the strong bond of friendship between the two nations and the safety of Chinese visitors.

Ashrafi underscored that Pakistan’s determination to safeguard its guests, particularly those from friendly nations like China, remains steadfast. He unequivocally stated that the perpetrators of this cowardly act would not escape justice, emphasizing that their punishment would serve as a stern deterrent to those who seek to disrupt peace and harmony.

As investigations into the attack continue, Ashrafi said Pakistan’s resolve to uphold the rule of law and protect the safety and well-being of all visitors within its borders remains unwavering. The nation stands united in its condemnation of terrorism and extremism, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining peace and security for all, he maintained.

RTO Rawalpindi surpasses budget targets for March 2024, quarterly goals

By
NNPS Desk
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Tehmina Aamer, the Chief Commissioner Inland Revenue - File photo

RAWALPINDI, Mar 31 (APP): In a remarkable feat of fiscal management, the Regional Tax Office (RTO), Rawalpindi has surpassed its budgetary targets for March 2024, as well as its quarterly goals for the period spanning January to March 2024.

A statement from RTO issued here on Sunday said the office exceeded expectations by achieving a commendable in revenue collection.

“The achievement underscores the office’s commitment to efficient revenue generation and financial accountability,” it said.

Tehmina Aamer, the Chief Commissioner Inland Revenue, expressed her admiration and appreciation for the diligent efforts of the entire team at RTO Rawalpindi.

She lauded the dedication and professionalism of the officers and officials of RTO, Rawalpindi, which enabled the office to exceed its targets consistently.

She affirmed her confidence that the overall annual target for the financial year 2023-24 would also be achieved, given the continued commitment and hard work of the team.

The RTO, Rawalpindi has achieved the budget target allocated for the first three quarters. The remarkable performance signifies a proactive approach and diligent efforts on the part of the tax officials.

AJK PM vows indiscriminate socio-economic uplift, unveils development initiatives

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NNPS Desk
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AJK PM

MIRPUR, Mar 31 (APP): Amidst an Iftar dinner hosted in his honor by Minister Wildlife Fisheries and Development Authority Muzaffarabad Sardar Javed Ayub, Azad Jammu Kashmir Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar ul Haq reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to prioritize the comprehensive socio-economic development of the region.

Emphasizing the pivotal role of tourism and road infrastructure in generating local employment opportunities, the PM underscored the imperative of improving the livelihoods of residents, including those in remote and far-flung areas.

PM Anwar ul Haq on this occasion, outlined the government’s dedication to uplifting the economically disadvantaged segments of society, citing the provision of financial assistance to widows, orphans, divorcees, the elderly, and disabled individuals through the endowment fund scheme. Additionally, he underscored the government’s resolve to ensure equitable application of the law across the state and to utilize taxpayers’ funds for the welfare of the people.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s steadfast stance on combating corruption, promoting good governance, merit, and the rule of law. Notably, he stressed the government’s responsibility in providing alternative fuel to the populace and enforcing a ban on tree cutting to address environmental concerns.

During his visit, PM Chaudhry Anwar ul Haq ceremoniously laid the foundation stone for a 30 km network of link roads under the Kotla Constituency Kashmir Program, signaling a tangible step towards the realization of the government’s developmental vision for the region.

CM promises ensuring freedom of worship to minorities

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
Maryam Nawaz
LAHORE, Mar 31 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has emphasised the importance of ensuring freedom of worship and providing complete protection to all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.
According to handout issued here on Sunday, she was addressing the Easter ceremony in Sheikhupura. The CM vowed to take a firm stand against any form of hate or prejudice directed towards minorities, affirming her commitment to safeguarding their rights. She extended heartfelt greetings to the entire Christian community on behalf of PML-N Quaid Muhammad Nawaz Sharif.
The CM expressed pride in attending a convent school from the age of four until 10th grade. She attributed her personal growth and development not only to her parents but also to the teachers and the staff at that school.
Maryam Nawaz credited her achievement as the first female chief minister of any province in the nation’s history to her teachers also. She highlighted the importance of discipline and cleanliness instilled in her by the school, stating that it played a pivotal role in her life after her parents.
She shared that her father, Nawaz Sharif, had always emphasized the importance of minority rights. She expressed appreciation for the first Sikh minister and congratulated him on his appointment. She lauded the achievements and contributions of the Christian community, as well as individuals like Justice Cornellius for promoting the rule of law and fair justice, and Cecil Chaudhry for rendering invaluable services in the Pakistan Air Force.
The CM also visited the residential locality of the Christian community in the suburbs of Sheikhupura and presented Easter grant cheques to the Christian families. She also cut the Easter cake jointly with the Christian leaders.
Later, CM also visited the National Holy site located at Maryam Church, Maryamabad and distributed an Easter grant among the Christian families. Around 10,000 Christian families were granted Rs 5,000 Eidi per family across Punjab. She participated in the Easter prayer ceremony. The Father of Maryamabad Church Tariq George recited the Bible. The CM also planted a hover sapling in the corridor of the church.
Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora, Provincial Minister for Human Rights Khalil Tahir Sindhu, Secretary Human Rights & Minority Affairs Ali Bahadur Qazi also addressed the ceremony. Archbishop Sebastian Francis Shaw and Emmanuel Ather also addressed the distinguished ceremony.
Federal Minister Rana Tanvir Hussain, Former Senator Pervaiz Rashid, Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Provincial Information Minister Azma Bokhari, Assembly Members, Bishop Irfan Jamil, Bishop Alexander John Malik, Bishop Nadeem Kamran Church of Pakistan, Majid Abel of Naulakha Church and Bishop Azad Marshall Church of Pakistan were also present.

Aitikaf – a way of soul purification in last 10 days of Ramazan

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
Aitikaf worship
Dr. Saeed Ahmad Ali
LAHORE, Mar 31 (APP): Islamic scholars say Aitikaf is the next stage of fasting in spiritual development and purification of soul wherein the mutakif (one who enters into Aitikaf) dissociates himself from all worldly affairs and spends his time in prayers and supplications.
There is scholarly consensus that Aitikaf (ritual retreat) is not an obligation in Islam, except for one who makes a vow to do it. Some hold that if a person makes an intention to do ritual retreat (Aitikaf) for a certain period of time and then begins it, he or she is obligated to fulfill this period as intended.
Others say that fasting is a necessary condition of ritual retreat (Aitikaf). Still, others maintain that one must be ritually pure, through ablution (wudu’) or ritual bathing (ghusl), to make ritual retreat (Aitikaf).
Mufti Zubair of Jamia Ashrafia told APP that the concept of ritual retreat (Aitikaf) comes in association with Ramazan in verse 187 of the Quran’s second Surah (Surat Al-Baqarah, 2:187), occurring in the course of the verses (2:183-187) that enjoin fasting and the Ramazan fast in particular. Aitikaf, means to restrain oneself or stop, while according to Sharia, means staying in a mosque during the last 10 days of Ramazan, he added.
To a query Mufti Zubair said that in Arabic language, Aitikaf means to adhere or commit oneself to something. In the Sharia, it marks a particular person taking up stay in a mosque in a specific way for a specified time period.
Noted scholar Maulana Syed Abdul Kabir Azad told APP that in a mosque, simply being there with pure intention – itself a continuous act worship whenever one undertakes it as such. Aitikaf is the acceptable and true form of ritual retreat and seclusion, as opposed to the forms of monasticism other communities have established.
Allah Almighty says in the Quran: “But as for the tradition of monasticism – they themselves invented it. Never did We prescribe it for them, but only that they seek the pleasure of God” (Surat Al-Hadid, 57:27), he added.
In provincial metropolis, at hundreds of mosques, thousands of Muslims sat in Aitikaf before Maghrib prayers on Sunday. The arrangements were being made under the supervision of the Punjab Auqaf Department in the province’s top 100 endowed mosques, including Jamia Masjid Data Darbar, Badshahi Masjid, Jamia Ashrafia, Jamia Naeemia, Jamia Almuntazir and other historically significant mosques.
In Jamia Masjid Data Darbar, the city of seclusion has been divided into four sections for over 2,000 seclusion seekers. The process of setting up cabins named after Baba Ghousia, Baba Farid, Baba Bahoo, and Baba Ahmad Raza has begun in the designated sections. More than 500 citizens sat in the historical and globally renowned Badshahi Mosque.
Special arrangements are being made for the security of those secluding at both locations in Lahore.
Unauthorised individuals and personalities have not been allowed entry into the seclusion cabins, and legal action will be taken against violators. Administrator Data Darbar, Tauqeer Mahmood Wattoo, along with Aitikaf Committee Head and Manager Tahir Maqsood, and Haji Tabeer Mahmood Chishti, will welcome the attendees and assist them to their cabins in the Data Darbar complex.
Chairman of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Maulana Abdul Kabir Azad welcomed the congregants at Badshahi Mosque. Convenor Langar Committee Mian Saeed is responsible for providing facilities including food for Sehri and Iftar to the congregants in the Data Darbar complex.
They were assisted by Administrator Tauqeer Mahmood Wattoo, Executive Officer Nauman Saifi, Managers Sheikh Muhammad Jameel, Tahir Maqsood, Sheikh Asif Mansoor, along with Zahid Anwar Butt and Muhammad Hassan.
Maulana Azad is overseeing arrangements for Sehri and Iftar along with other amenities for the congregants at Badshahi Mosque.

Mohsin Naqvi felicitates Christian community on Easter

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
Mohsin Naqvi
LAHORE, Mar 31 (APP): Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has felicitated the Christian community on Easter.
In a message here on Sunday, he said Easter is a festival that teaches piety, repentance, purgation, purity, peace, love, reconciliation, and salvation, adding that it is more about mere rejoicing.
The Interior Minister said the Christian community is peace-loving and respectable for all of us. Naqvi said  Christians played an important role in the Pakistan movement, and they also have a vital role in the development of the country.
“Christian community’s patriotism and loyality with the country are beyond doubt,” he remarked.
He said father of the nation, Quaid e Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, had had evisaged equal rights, freedom and protection of life and property  for all minorities in Pakistan.
Mohsin Naqvi said it is the day to renew our pledge to spread the message of unity, brotherhood, and love in the country.

FBR collects Rs6,710 billion,  revenues grew by 30% in 9 months

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
FBR
ISLAMABAD, Mar 31 (APP): Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) had collected Rs6,710 billion revenues during first 09 months of current financial year as against the set targets of Rs6,707 billion.
During the period from July-March, 2023-24, the FBR had collected Rs6,710 billion against as compared the set targets of Rs6,707 billion for the first nine months, said a press release issued here Sunday.
Meanwhile,  the FBR had also cleared refunds amounting to Rs369 billion were as compared to Rs254 billion issued during the same period last year, it added.
FBR continues to register 30% growth in revenue collection as compared to the first nine months of previous financial year.
During the month of March, 2024, FBR had collected the assigned target of Rs879 billion, and refunds amounting to Rs67 billion were issued as compared to Rs22 billion issued in March, 2023.

Interior Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Shams Loan and Government Spokesperson Faizullah Firaq are holding a press conference, Special Assistant Zabihullah is also present.

By
Wajid
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0
APP24-310324 ISLAMABAD: March 31 - Interior Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Shams Loan and Government Spokesperson Faizullah Firaq are holding a press conference, Special Assistant Zabihullah is also present.
Interior Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Shams Loan and Government Spokesperson Faizullah Firaq are holding a press conference, Special Assistant Zabihullah is also present.
APP24-310324
ISLAMABAD: March 31 – 
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