Tuesday, December 23, 2025
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NAB Multan officials acknowledged over best performance 2025

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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MULTAN, Dec 17 (APP):National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Multan on Wednesday organized a special ceremony to recognize and encourage officials who demonstrated outstanding performance during the year 2025.
The ceremony was presided over by Director General NAB Multan, Asim Lodhi, who lauded the dedication, professionalism and commitment of the officials in achieving institutional objectives. Addressing the gathering, the DG emphasized that acknowledging merit and hard work was essential for promoting efficiency, integrity, and motivation within the organization.
During the event, appreciation certificates along with cash awards were distributed among the officials who showed exemplary performance in their respective duties.
They included Stenotypist Muhammad Younis, Assistant Private Secretary Rashid Ali, UDC Muhammad Tahir, Assistant Muhammad Jameel Khan, Assistant Hafiz Usama Ali, Driver Rehan Akbar, LDC Asif Rasheed, UDC Ahmad Hassan, Data Entry Operator Muhammad Kamran, LDC Junaid Bashir, and Assistant Supporting Personnel Muhammad Sharif.
The DG NAB Multan expressed confidence that such initiatives would further strengthen the culture of accountability, discipline, and excellence within NAB. He encouraged all officers and staff to continue performing their duties with honesty and dedication in line with the bureau’s mandate.

Strong local governments, inclusive participation vital for sustainable democracy, peace: PA Speaker

By
Kamran Muraad
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LAHORE, Dec 17 (APP):Speaker of the Punjab Assembly (PA) Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has said that strong local governments, inclusive public participation and supremacy of the Constitution were essential for achieving sustainable democracy, social peace and national stability.
He stressed that violent extremism posed a serious threat to human values and societal harmony.
Addressing a Strategic Planning Workshop organized by the Punjab Center of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism (CoE-CVE), here on Wednesday, the Speaker said that countering extremism required a collective, coordinated and sustained effort by state institutions, civil society and all segments of society. He emphasized that lasting peace could only be ensured through evidence-based, comprehensive and long-term strategies rather than reactionary measures.
He observed that when the state failed to effectively discharge its constitutional and administrative responsibilities, extremist elements exploited the resulting vacuum. He underscored the importance of incorporating subjects related to countering extremism, tolerance, pluralism and constitutional awareness into educational curricula to ensure the positive intellectual and moral development of children and youth.
The Speaker said that meaningful engagement of madaris, youth, religious scholars, media and other social stakeholders was indispensable for eradicating extremism. He added that strengthening social cohesion, promoting a national narrative and ensuring institutional cooperation required effective coordination among all stakeholders.
He expressed his resolve to the effective implementation of the five-year strategy devised to counter violent extremism in Punjab in collaboration with all relevant institutions.
The event was attended by Home Secretary Punjab Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi, Deputy Coordination Officer Punjab CoE-CVE Dr. Ahmad Khawar Shehzad, National Coordinator NACTA Javed Ahmed Dogar and former senator Barrister Dr. Muhammad Ali Saif.
Later, while addressing a public event on grassroots democracy at a private university, the Speaker said that democracy was not merely an ideology but a practical process rooted in public participation. He emphasized that local governments, being the closest tier of governance to the people, played a pivotal role in addressing day-to-day public issues.
He stressed that financial autonomy, transparency and timely release of funds to local governments were essential for effective service delivery. Speaking on constitutional matters, he said Parliament must remain strong and sovereign, adding that courts were meant to interpret the Constitution while parliamentary supremacy should be upheld.
He also highlighted the importance of protecting Article 140-A of the Constitution, terming the passage of a resolution in this regard a significant development. He credited Chairman Public Accounts Committee Ahmad Iqbal for the initiative.
The Speaker said that initiatives such as the “Suthra Punjab” campaign and road rehabilitation projects reflected the effectiveness of local government systems. He concluded that inclusion of youth, women and minorities strengthened local democracy, while education and awareness were key to promoting democratic values at the grassroots level.

Rangers, SIU arrest seven extortion suspects in joint operation

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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KARACHI, Dec 17 (APP):Pakistan Rangers Sindh and the Special Investigation Unit have arrested seven suspected extortionists belonging to the Jameel Chhanga and Samad Kathiawari groups during a joint intelligence-based operation in District Central and City areas.
According to Rangers spokesperson on Wednesday, the suspects Parvez alias Pawa, Asghar Ali, Shakeel Ahmed alias Comrade, Faizan alias Lamboo, Muhammad Zubair alias Chhoto were arrested in injured condition while Muhammad Sabir and Muhammad Umar alias Afshani Baloch were also taken into custody. Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from their possession.
Authorities said the suspects were operating on the instructions of extortion ring leaders Jameel Chhanga, Usama Jameel and Abdul Samad Kathiawari. The group allegedly targeted factory owners, shopkeepers, under-construction building projects and restaurants, issuing extortion slips and opening fire on those who refused to pay, creating fear in the area.
During interrogation, the suspects confessed to firing at a fast-food outlet in Nazimabad in October 2025 over refusal to pay extortion money. CCTV footage of the incident clearly shows the suspects involved.
The extorted money was illegally transferred to the ring leaders Jameel Chhanga, Samad Kathiawari and Usama Jameel who are currently residing abroad.
The suspects are described as habitual offenders and are wanted in multiple cases of extortion and attempted murder registered at various police stations across Karachi. Further investigation is underway.

Kuwait signals strong investment interest in Pakistan: Ali Pervaiz

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 17 (APP):Federal Minister for Petroleum, Mr. Ali Pervaiz Malik, held a meeting with the Minister of Finance and Renewable Energy of Kuwait and Chairman of the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA), Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem, to discuss ways to further strengthen the close and historic bilateral relations between Pakistan and Kuwait.
Kuwait signals strong investment interest in Pakistan: Ali Pervaiz
During the meeting, both ministers emphasized the deep-rooted historical ties between the two brotherly countries and underscored their shared commitment to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, said a press release issued here Wednesday.
They exchanged views on mechanisms to enhance joint collaboration in the coming phase, particularly in the areas of energy, investment, and trade, in a manner that serves the mutual interests of both nations, it said.
Kuwait signals strong investment interest in Pakistan: Ali Pervaiz
Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem noted that Kuwait maintains a notable investment portfolio in Pakistan and expressed Kuwait’s keen interest in further expanding its investments.
He affirmed that the Kuwait Investment Authority is willing to explore new investment opportunities in Pakistan and to work closely with relevant stakeholders to increase the scope of bilateral investments, the press release said.
Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik welcomed Kuwait’s continued confidence in Pakistan’s economy and highlighted the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for foreign investment, particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors.
Ali Pervaiz Malik also held a separate meeting with the Chairman of Meezan Bank Pakistan, Mr. Riyadh Al Edrissi. The Minister appreciated the strong performance of Meezan Bank and remarked that such successful foreign investment initiatives set a positive example for others to follow, reinforcing investor confidence in Pakistan’s financial sector.
In another meeting, the Federal Minister met with the Director General of the Kuwait Fund for Economic Development, Mr. Waleed Shamlan Ahmad. The discussions focused on enhancing development funding and strengthening cooperation on projects aimed at supporting Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
Additionally, Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik held a meeting at the Kuwait Investment Authority with the Deputy Managing Director, where discussions centered on further exploring investment opportunities and strengthening institutional cooperation between Pakistan and KIA.
 Ali Pervaiz Malik also interacted with leaders of the Pakistan business community in Kuwait. He emphasized that Overseas Pakistanis are a valuable asset for the country and appreciated their contributions to Pakistan’s economy, investment climate, and bilateral relations.
These engagements reflect the shared resolve of Pakistan and Kuwait to deepen their strategic partnership and further expand collaboration for sustainable growth and prosperity.

Police set up intelligence wing to prevent drugs in schools: IHC told

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 17 (APP):The Islamabad High Court (IHC) was informed on Wednesday that a special intelligence wing of the Special Branch has been formed to prevent drugs in educational institutions.
The Islamabad Police submitted a report to the IHC in which it was stated that a special unit of the Federal Police has also been established.
The report stated that plainclothes Intelligence Wing personnel would monitor educational institutions and their surroundings. The wing will collect intelligence on drug-related activities.
According to the report, the personnel will maintain contact with schools, colleges and universities for immediate action. The Special Investigation Unit is investigating drug cases, collecting evidence and monitoring them.
IHC’s Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas heard a case related to the eradication of drugs in educational institutions, in which Islamabad Police, Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) and Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority (PEIRA) submitted their reports regarding the implementation of the court orders.
During the hearing, Director Legal of the IG Office Tahir Kazim informed the court that two important meetings of stakeholders were held under the chairmanship of the IG Islamabad on the court order, in which a joint strategy for the eradication of drugs in educational institutions was considered.
Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas remarked that the government should form a joint task force itself to eradicate drugs.
He said that the aim of the court was that all the relevant institutions should sit together and work practically in this campaign, just calling meetings is not enough, but their implementation should also be seen.
ANF Prosecutor Rana Zulfiqar told the court that a focal person has been appointed in each private educational institution to eradicate drugs and regular meetings will be held every month in this regard.
The PEIRA officials informed that an awareness campaign against drugs is being conducted in educational institutions and a special awareness session was held on December 9, by calling a team consisting of representatives of 100 schools.
They told the court that a committee consisting of a focal person has been formed in each school. On this occasion, the court also mentioned the advertising of the awareness campaign on drug eradication by PEMRA on channels, however, it remarked that he had not seen any such report being broadcast yet.
The court summoned the concerned officer of PEMRA for the next hearing regarding the implementation of the drug eradication campaign. During the hearing, Director Legal IG Office Tahir Kazim, ANF Prosecutor Rana Zulfiqar and DSP Legal Sajid Cheema appeared in the court.
The court adjourned the hearing of the case till January 27, with further instructions.

Misbah Khar stresses need for further augmenting Pak-Uzbekistan cooperation in diplomacy, trade, culture

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 17 (APP):Advisor to the Chairman Senate and Ambassador to ISC, Misbah Khar, attended the book launching ceremony ” New Uzbekistan:  the Path of Shavkat Mirziyoyev”, where she highlighted the growing importance of strong and multifaceted bilateral ties between the two brotherly countries.
During the ceremony, Misbah Khar underscored the need for further augmenting cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan in the fields of diplomacy, trade, culture, education, and parliamentary engagement, said a press release issued here on Wednesday.
She termed the launch of “New Uzbekistan: The Path of Shavkat Mirziyoyev” a meaningful occasion that strengthens understanding between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
The book was praised for capturing Uzbekistan’s transformation under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s leadership and for providing insight into the country’s reform-driven, people-centered vision.
Misbah Khar emphasized that greater understanding of this transformation would deepen cooperation in trade, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges.
In her remarks, she stressed that the book would serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, businesses, and students, reinforcing Pakistan–Uzbekistan relations and supporting the shared geo-economic vision of both countries.
She emphasized that enhanced collaboration and sustained dialogue would help unlock the full potential of bilateral relations and contribute to regional connectivity and stability.
Representing the Senate Secretariat at the event, the Advisor warmly welcomed the participants and distinguished guests from Uzbekistan. She stressed the significance of strengthening institutional linkages and promoting people-to-people contacts to further deepen mutual understanding and cooperation.
Misbah Khar called for continued efforts to boost bilateral cooperation through academic exchanges, policy-oriented research, and closer parliamentary interaction, noting that such initiatives would further solidify the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
The book launching ceremony was attended by diplomats, scholars, researchers, and representatives of relevant institutions, who appreciated the initiative for fostering greater awareness and understanding of Pakistan–Uzbekistan relations.

Federal Minister meets with the Director General of the Kuwait Fund for Economic Development, Mr. Waleed Shamlan Ahmad.

By
Wajid
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Federal Minister meets with the Director General of the Kuwait Fund for Economic Development, Mr. Waleed Shamlan Ahmad.
APP22-171225
KUWAIT: December 17 –

Balochistan signs MoU with LIMS to digitalize land records

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
QUETTA, Dec 17 (APP):In a groundbreaking step toward modern governance and transparency, the Balochistan government signed an agreement with the Land Information Management System (LIMS) to digitalize land records across the province.
The signing ceremony, held at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Quetta, was attended by Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Qambar Dashti, Senior Member Board of Revenue (SMBR), and the Chief Executive Officer of LIMS.
The initiative aims to replace outdated manual systems with a secure, transparent, and modernized digital framework.
Under the agreement land records in 25 districts will be digitalized in the first phase.
The project will leverage Geographical Information System (GIS) technology to map and catalog land data.
The system will streamline land-related processes, reduce delays, and provide immediate relief to the public through a transparent database.
Addressing the ceremony, CM Bugti underscored the importance of digitalization for accountability and sustainable development.
“This digital system will not only minimize the potential for corruption but will also provide immense ease to the public regarding land acquisition, transfers, and verification processes,” he noted.
The Chief Minister directed authorities to ensure timely implementation with the highest quality standards, reaffirming his government’s commitment to harnessing technology for improved public service delivery.
The ceremony was attended by Provincial Revenue Minister Mir Asim Kurd Gello, Chief Secretary Balochistan Shakeel Qadir Khan, Additional Chief Secretary (Development) Zahid Saleem, Principal Secretary Babar Khan, Secretary Finance Imran Zarkoon, Board of Revenue members Qambar Dashti and Bashir Ahmed Bangulzai

PSX sheds 133 points to close at 170,313 points

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 17 (APP):The benchmark KSE-100 Index of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Wednesday closed bearish, shedding 133.44 points, a negative change of 0.08 percent, to settle at 170,313.86 points compared to 170,447.30 points on the previous trading day, according to Pakistan Stock Exchange data.
During the session, the ready market witnessed a trading volume of 1,068.512 million shares with a traded value of Rs51.799 billion, against 1,176.638 million shares valuing Rs53.473 billion in the previous session. Market capitalization increased to Rs19.377 trillion from Rs19.370 trillion a day earlier.
Out of 483 active companies in the ready market, 178 advanced, 255 declined, while 50 remained unchanged.
Bank of Punjab topped the volume chart with 90.619 million shares, followed by Hascol Petroleum with 83.922 million shares and TPL Corporation Limited with 53.151 million shares.
The top gainers included Nestle Pakistan Limited, which rose by Rs49.03 to close at Rs8,000.00, and Hafiz Limited, increasing by Rs47.18 to settle at Rs590.07. On the losing side, PIA Holding Company Limited-B declined by Rs130.00 to close at Rs23,070.00, while Unilever Pakistan Foods Limited fell by Rs125.00 to close at Rs29,000.00.
In the futures market, turnover stood at 222.330 million shares with a traded value of Rs12.532 billion, compared to 271.071 million shares worth Rs13.531 billion in the previous session.
Out of 316 futures-market companies, 113 recorded gains, 199 declined, while four remained unchanged. Among futures contracts, BOP-Dec led with 32.678 million shares, followed by PIAHCLA-Dec with 25.874 million shares and SSGC-DecB with 18.075 million shares.
In the futures market, the top gainers included GHNI-DecB, which rose by Rs17.11 to close at Rs839.20, and UBL-DecB, increasing by Rs12.19 to settle at Rs403.13. On the losing side, HUBC-Jan declined by Rs19.51 to close at Rs225.50, while SAZEW-DecB fell by Rs19.50 to close at Rs1,664.03.

BISE Abbottabad announces HSSC admission schedule for annual exams 2026

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ABBOTTABAD, Dec 17 (APP):The Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE) Abbottabad on Wednesday announced the admission schedule for the Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) Annual Examinations 2026 for Classes XI and XII.
According to an official notification, the HSSC annual examinations are expected to begin in the last week of April 2026. All public and private educational institutions have been directed to submit students’ admission forms through the Online Admission Module (OAM) available on the Board’s website. The Board has clarified that only prescribed-size printed photographs and duly completed admission forms will be accepted.
For regular candidates, the last date to submit admission forms with normal fee is February 12, 2026, while forms can be submitted with double fee up to March 5 and with triple fee up to March 19, 2026. For private candidates, the deadline with normal fee is February 19, followed by March 5 with double fee and March 19 with triple fee. The Board has stated that no admission forms will be accepted after the stipulated deadlines.
The notification further details that the normal examination fee for regular or private Part-I reappear candidates has been fixed at Rs 2,700, double fee at Rs 4,200 and triple fee at Rs 5,700. For Part-II fresh, compartment or reappear candidates, the normal fee is Rs 3,100, double fee Rs 4,600 and triple fee Rs 6,100.
Candidates seeking improvement of marks will be charged Rs 3,200 for one to three papers, Rs 3,700 for up to seven papers and Rs 4,200 for all fourteen papers of both parts. The fee for additional or qualifying subjects has been set at Rs 3,700.
The BISE Abbottabad has also fixed Rs 80,000 as the fee for establishment of an examination centre, Rs 5,000 for centre change, Rs 500 for gazette USB and Rs 3,000 for amanuensis (writer) services.
The Board has advised all institutions and candidates to submit admission forms at least three days before the final deadline to avoid additional charges or rejection. Further details can be obtained from the office of the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education Abbottabad.
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