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AIOU to celebrate Golden Jubilee in 2024

By
NNPS Desk
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AIOU

ISLAMABAD, Sep 07 (APP): Vice Chancellor of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood on Thursday said that the university would celebrate its Golden Jubilee in 2024.

It was decided during a meeting in which discussed plans for the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the university, said a news release.

As AIOU will mark its 50th anniversary next year, he instructed the Deans, Professors and Principal Officers to ensure the participation of students in the celebrations.

Various committees have been formed by the university administration to finalize preparations for the event.

These committees will be responsible for highlighting the historical context of the university, setting up a history corner, and organizing alumni associations, conferences, seminars, and convocations in the main campus and provincial capitals.

All committees have started working with full enthusiasm to celebrate the 50 years of AIOU.

It is pertinent to mention here that the university began its journey in 1974 with basic courses.

Subsequently, intermediate and BA level programs were introduced, followed by MA and MSc level programs in the 1990s and then MPhil and PhD level programs.

Today, AIOU stands as the largest university in the country in terms of student enrollment and has largely achieved its founding objectives.

As of June 2023, more than 46 lakh students have graduated from AIOU.

It is worth mentioning that this university started from a rented house and now operates 54 regional offices in different cities across the country.

Since its establishment, the university has made significant progress in various fields, which is why it has decided to celebrate its Golden Jubilee on the completion of 50 years.

Ashfaq Ahmad remembered on death anniversary

By
Sadia Saeed
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Ashfaq Ahmad remembered on death anniversary

RPO inspects security arrangements finalized for Chehlum procession

By
NNPS Desk
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RAWALPINDI, Sep 07 (APP): Regional Police Officer (RPO) Rawalpindi Syed Khurram Ali here on Thursday visited the route of the main Chehlum procession and checked security arrangements finalized to provide foolproof security cover to the mourners.

On the occasion, City Police Officer, Syed Khalid Hamdani, Deputy Commissioner, Hassan Waqar Cheema and senior officers of law enforcement agencies were present.

The RPO also visited the control room set up to monitor the route and reviewed all the arrangements.

He directed the officers concerned to ensure foolproof security cover, particularly for the main procession.

According to a police spokesman, Rawalpindi District Police had finalized the best possible security arrangements for Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA).

He informed that the CPO had directed the police officers to ensure foolproof security arrangements for the Chehlum and utilize all available resources to provide tight security cover to the mourners.

More than 4,000 police personnel were deployed for the security of the processions with 250 Traffic Wardens and City Traffic officers to regulate traffic on city roads, he added.

A control room had been set up in the office of the City Police Officer in Rawalpindi to ensure implementation of the security plan, he said.

He further informed that CCTV cameras were installed to monitor the procession.

Three-layer security would be provided to the processions, and walk-through gates were installed at the entry points of the processions, he said adding, that the participants were being allowed to join the main procession after a full body search.

According to CPO, under the security arrangements, no one would be allowed to stand on the rooftops of commercial and residential buildings situated along the procession routes.

Snipers were also deployed for the security of the main procession, he said.

The CPO informed that searching and sweeping of the main procession route was carried out and streets, roads, diversion points and other routes along the main procession route were sealed.

All available resources were being utilized to ensure foolproof security for Chehlum, the CPO added.

Police arrest 16 drug peddlers on recovery of 16 kg charras

By
NNPS Desk
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RAWALPINDI, Sep 07 (APP): Rawalpindi police in an action against suspected drug peddlers conducted raids in different areas and rounded up 16 accused on recovery of over 16 kg charras and other items.
According to a police spokesman, Naseerabad police netted Ghulam Rasool with 1400 grams charras and Naeem for having 1320 grams charras.
City police held waqar and recovered 1250 grams charras from his possession.
Saddar Wah police in their operation managed to recover 1200 grams charras from Danish and 1150 grams charras from the possession of Shehbaz.
Similarly, Sadiqabad, Saddar Baroni, Race Course, Wah Cantt, R.A.Bazar and Westridge police nabbed Aqib, Jannat Gul, Jahangir, Jaffar Hussain, Rizwan, and Jamshaid and recovered 2200, 2050, 1800, 1160, 1250 and 1200 grams charras respectively.
Separate cases have been registered against all accused while further investigations are underway.
City Police Officer, Rawalpindi had directed the police officers to accelerate ongoing operations against drug peddlers, bootleggers and other lawbreakers, he added.

Fertilizer industry can drive agricultural transformation under Green Initiative Pakistan

By
Najam ul Hassan
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fertilizers import

KARACHI, Sep 7 (APP):: Pakistan is the only country out of the top five major urea consumers – including China, Brazil, USA, and India – that is, unfortunately, not investing in capacity growth over the next five years, even though it is facing a rapid surge in population.

A robust domestic fertilizer industry can prove to be an invaluable partner for the Government to help achieve greater food security and agricultural exports under the Green Initiative Pakistan.

“As the fertilizer production in Pakistan has stagnated over time, the Government is forced to spend increasingly significant amounts of valuable foreign exchange to import urea. To transform the agriculture sector under the Green Initiative, it is crucial to prioritize sustainable gas supplies for the fertilizer sector and resolution of other outstanding issues. It could potentially aid the export of excess production and earn much-needed foreign exchange for Pakistan,” Brig Sher Shah added.

Brig Sher Shah, Executive Director of Fertilizer Manufacturers of Pakistan Advisory Council (FMPAC) said that, “The importance of a strong indigenous fertilizer manufacturing industry cannot be underscored enough to achieve sustained economic growth and the envisaged goals of Green Initiative Pakistan. The fertilizer industry stands with the Government to play its pivotal role in the next green revolution through abundant and affordable supplies of urea, balanced use of fertilizers, improved agri practices and upskilling of our hardworking farmers.”

He highlighted the success of Fertilizer Policy 2001 in attracting around PKR 162 billion in new plants and capacity expansions of almost 2 million tons by the fertilizer manufacturers. The industry has also completely passed on the benefit of incentivized gas pricing under Fertilizer Policy 2001 to the farmers by selling urea at significant discount to international prices.

Brig Sher Shah also expressed support for the Government’s resolve to curb blackmarketing and hoarding of urea. “These illegal activities result in higher market prices for the farmers and create a false impression that fertilizer manufacturers are earning unreasonable profits. The industry earnings are in line with any other key sector of the economy, whereas it has always shielded the farmers from higher international urea prices and contributed towards the country’s food security.”

He shared that an improvement in crop support prices and availability of cheaper domestically produced urea have resulted in considerable improvement in farm economics. Data shows that, currently, a farmer can barter one urea bag to equivalent of around 30kg wheat, while in past years it was tradeable for 58kg. Contrary to popular perception that urea comprises a higher share of farmers’ costs, urea cost was around only 7 percent of wheat production cost per acre. Based on field surveys, urea also remains a minor cost of around 3 percent of the farmer’s total household spend.

Jan lauds COAS intervention against mafias

By
Raiq Qureshi
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COAS Asim Munir
QUETTA, Sep 07 (APP):Information Minister Jan Achakzai has welcomed the intervention of the Army Chief and said that mafias have been checked by the timely intervention of the Army Chief and his team.
He said that the mafias wanted to create utter chaos in the currency market by black marketing.
He said that things have improved, and now the State Bank and Finance will use this opportunity to improve the systems.
The minister also said that smuggling has also come down and the price of sugar has stabilized.
He said that the Chief Minister of Balochistan has taken social measures to check electricity thefts and sugar smuggling, in line with the desire of Prime Minister Anwarul Haq.

Funeral prayers of martyred constable

By
Raiq Qureshi
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police constable
DG KHAN, Sep 07 (APP):Funeral prayers for a constable who embraced martyrdom during an attack by unknown muggers were offered at police lines on Thursday.
A large number of people, besides relatives of Ghulam Hassan and RPO Sajjad  Hassan Khan, DPO Hassan Afzal, and police staff, attended the funeral. The martyr was given a state funeral, wherein a smartly turned-out contingent of the police presented a gun salute.
The RPO consoled the heirs and told them that the Punjab police would extend financial assistance to the kids and the wife of the constable. He stated that the accused would be brought to book soon, adding that Shaheed’s blood would not go in vain.
DPO Hassan Afzal paid rich tribute to the martyr, saying that the police would not hesitate to render sacrifice for the safety of the masses. Later, the deceased was laid to rest in his native town Mouza Raman, in the Shah Sadruddin Kala area.

Defence and Martyrs Day commemorated in Ankara

By
Najam ul Hassan
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ISLAMABAD, Sep 7 (APP):Pakistan’s Defence and Martyrs Day was commemorated in Ankara with enthusiasm and patriotism, paying tribute and homage to the indomitable courage of the armed forces and martyrs who sacrificed their lives in successfully defending the motherland.

The event was organized by the embassy of Pakistan in Turkiye and was attended by Turkish Minister of Trade Prof. Dr Omer Bolat who graced the occasion as chief guest and Commander Turkish General Staff (TGS) General Metin Gurak as guest of honour, a message received from the embassy said on Thursday.

Highlighting the significance of September 6, at Defence Day reception hosted at Pakistan House, Ankara, ambassador Dr. Yousaf Junaid said that the 16-day war, left a lesson that peace-loving, brave and self-respecting nations, determined to sacrifice lives for their country could not be defeated by force and belligerence.

“Over the last 76 years, three major wars, several skirmishes and numerous rounds of unprovoked clashes have been imposed on Pakistan. India continues its illegal and immoral military occupation of Jammu and Kashmir and denies the right of self-determination to Kashmiris against every norm of international law and the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council”, the ambassador added.

Ambassador Junaid reiterated that Pakistan is committed to regional peace and security and has contributed significantly in global campaigns against terrorism and peace-keeping missions all over the world. The ambassador stated that Pakistan believes in constructive engagement, resolving issues through dialogue and peaceful co-existence and thanked the Turkish nation for standing with Pakistan and Pakistani people through thick and thin.

In his remarks, Turkish Minister of Trade Prof. Dr Omer Bolat appreciated exemplary and historic bilateral relations, in particular flourishing defence ties and excellent cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries.

He underscored that strategic and comprehensive Pakistan Turkiye bilateral relations are an important factor towards promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond.

While highlighting the strategic Pakistan Turkiye partnership, Commander Turkish General Staff (TGS), General Metin Gurak paid tribute to the sacrifices of the martyrs and valour of the Pakistan Armed Forces.

The nation commemorates Defence Day on 6th September each year to honour the sacrifices of Pakistan’s valiant armed forces, the professionalism, dedication and devotion with which they have served the nation. The 1965 war stands out in Pakistani history as a symbol of unwavering national resolve, courage, strong will and unmatched spirit of sacrifice.

High ranking Turkish civil and military officials, ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, defence & military Attaches, media persons and members of Pakistani community also attended the reception.

Pakistan High Commissioner, London pays tribute to nation’s martyrs

By
Najam ul Hassan
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0

ISLAMABAD, Sep 7 (APP):Pakistan High Commission, London held a ceremony on 06 September 2023, in connection with the Defence and Martyrs Day to commemorate the 58th anniversary of Pakistan Defence Day.

The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Dr. Victoria Tuke from the UK’s Ministry of Defence, Lords, MPs, Defence Attaches from friendly countries, and members of the community.

In his address, High Commissioner Dr. Mohammad Faisal paid tribute to the martyrs of the nation and highlighted the significance of the day, which is dedicated to honouring the courageous individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of Pakistan.

He reflected on the historic events of September 6, 1965, when Pakistan’s Armed Forces, supported by resolute citizens, successfully repelled an invasion by a significantly larger adversary.

Dr. Faisal underscored the crucial role played by Pakistan’s armed forces in shaping the nation’s security landscape. He highlighted their ongoing efforts to combat terrorism through legislative and financial network disruption, exemplified by the National Action Plan. The High Commissioner stressed the importance of global cooperation in addressing the root causes of terrorism. In this regard, he appreciated the enduring partnership between the UK and Pakistan in the realm of defence and security.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Victoria Tuke highlighted the significance of ongoing UK-Pakistan cooperation in defence and security matters.

Pakistan High Commissioner, London pays tribute to nation's martyrs

She underscored the shared commitment between the two nations to bolster regional and global security, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling common challenges and promoting peace.

Pakistan High Commissioner, London pays tribute to nation's martyrs

Defence & Naval Adviser, Commodore Muhammad Zeeshan Nabi, and Army and Air Attache Colonel Taimur Rahat also spoke on the occasion, reiterating the enduring importance of Pakistan Defence Day.

Pakistan High Commissioner, London pays tribute to nation's martyrs

Babar, Shadab on  ICC Men’s Player of the Month shortlist

By
NNPS Desk
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Babar Azam and Shadab Khan

ISLAMABAD, Sep 07 (APP): The International Cricket Council (ICC)  on Thursday revealed the latest list of names that comprise the nominees for the ICC Men’s and Women’s Player of the Month awards.

Following a number of competitive white-ball fixtures that took place during August, five nations are represented among the candidates vying for the accolades as voting commences among the panel and global cricket fans.

The nominees for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award features two stars of Pakistan’s recent One Day International (ODI) success, as well as the Player of the Series in the West Indies’ T20I triumph over India.

As Pakistan continue their preparations ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in India, skipper Babar Azam enjoyed a fine spell with the bat in August, scoring valuable runs as his side claimed a whitewash series victory over Afghanistan, and posting a three-figure score in their opening Asia Cup fixture.

At the other end of the crease, Shadab Khan was also prolific, demonstrating his bowling threat with wicket-taking spells in the same fixtures. Completing the lineup is West Indies’ short format hero Nicholas Pooran, who was named the star man for spearheading his side’s 3-2 T20I series victory against India on home soil.
The shortlist for the ICC Women’s Player of the Month Award features three first-time nominees; a dynamic Malaysian all-rounder, a skilful Irish seamer and a firing Dutch opener.

Ainna Hamizah Hashim was a key figure for Malaysia, chipping in with valuable runs and taking vital wickets against the likes of Kuwait and Nepal, before registering a good performance in their opening fixture in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier. Also on the shortlist is Ireland’s Arlene Kelly, who blitzed the Netherlands batting lineup with a host of wickets in their recent T20I series victory. Providing some resistance for the Dutch was opener Iris Zwilling, who posted half-centuries atop the order against Ireland and Jersey during her successful month.

An independent ICC Voting Academy and fans around the world will now be invited to cast their votes to decide the winners, which will be announced next week. Fans registered at icc-cricket.com/awards will be able to vote for their favourite performers until Sunday.
ICC Men’s Player of the Month Nominees for August:
Babar Azam (PAK)
While collective success at the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup will be in focus, Babar has celebrated several personal accolades in recent months, not least the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year for his performances last year. He now sets his sights on becoming the first men’s cricketer to win three ICC Men’s Player of the Month Awards after scores of 53 and 60 helped secure a 3-0 ODI series victory over Afghanistan, and a mammoth 151 ensured Pakistan routed Nepal in the Asia Cup opener last month.
Shadab Khan (PAK):
Shadab is nominated for the first time in the Player of the Month awards as his notable contributions with bat and ball in August set Pakistan up for success against Afghanistan and Nepal. The first two fixtures against Afghanistan heralded just a solitary wicket, but he clicked in the final fixture, taking three for 42 to secure the whitewash. Like Babar, Shadab then reserved his best display for the last outing in the calendar month, launching their Asia Cup campaign with a spell of four for 27 in the win against Nepal.

Nicholas Pooran (WI):
With 176 runs across his five T20I outings against India which led to a vital 3-2 series victory, Nicholas Pooran is also a strong contender for this month’s prize. Following defeats in the Test and ODI showdowns in the weeks prior, Pooran inspired the West Indies’ resurgence in the shortest format with two forty-plus scores book-ending a match-winning 67 in 40 balls in the second duel in Guyana. For his exploits, Pooran was named Player of the Series, and earns the islanders’ first nomination in the Men’s Player of the Month awards since Gudakesh Motie was shortlisted in February 2023.

ICC Women’s Player of the Month Nominees for August:

Ainna Hamizah Hashim (MAL): The all-rounder has been a regular fixture in Malaysia’s growth in the T20I format, and thanks to her performances with bat and ball in August, she becomes her country’s first ever nominee in the Player of the Month awards. As well as topping the run-scoring charts, Hamizah Hashim also chipped in with key wickets during the Malaysia Women’s Quadrangular T20I Series and subsequently the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier, most notably in winning causes against Kuwait and Nepal. Throughout the month, she recorded 105 runs at an average of 52.50 with six wickets.

Arlene Kelly (IRE):
Kelly enjoyed a prolific month with the ball in August, and orchestrated much of the success that saw Ireland sweep Netherlands 3-0 in Amstelveen. Her ten wickets included a Player of the Match performance in the first T20I thanks to a spell of five wickets for 12 runs. Three for 11 and two for 20 followed in the final two duels, leaving Kelly with a spectacular average of 4.30 from the series. She will hope to follow in the footsteps of Laura Delany, who last won the Women’s Player of the Month prize for Ireland in October 2021.

Iris Zwilling (NED):
With fine performances across series with Ireland and Jersey, young Netherlands’ opener Zwilling is shortlisted for the Women’s Player of the Month awards, following in the footsteps of men’s compatriot Bas de Leede who was nominated in July. Zwilling scored 178 runs from her six outings during the calendar month, registering half-centuries against both opponents from atop the order. Strengthening her claim for the prize is also an impressive strike rate of 102, and economical bowling spells.

The ICC Player of the Month Voting Process:
The three nominees for either category are shortlisted based on performances from the first to the last day of each calendar month. The shortlist is then voted on by the independent ICC Voting Academy and fans around the world. The ICC Voting Academy comprises prominent members of the cricket fraternity including well-known journalists, former players, broadcasters and members of the ICC Hall of Fame. The Voting Academy submit their votes by email and hold a 90 per cent share of the vote. Fans registered with the ICC can vote via the ICC website, accounting for the remaining 10 per cent. Winners are announced every second Monday of the month on ICC’s digital channels.

Voting Academy for ICC Player of the Month August 2023:
Afghanistan: Hameed Qayoomi and Javed Hamim; Australia: Scott Bailey and Lisa Sthalekar; Bangladesh: Mohammad Sekander Ali and Md Ariful Islam Roney; England: Elizabeth Ammon and Lydia Greenway; Ireland: Ger Siggins and Clare Shillington; India: S Gomesh and Irfan Pathan; New Zealand: Merryn Anderson and Craig Cumming; Pakistan: Sawera Pasha and Sana Mir; South Africa: Zaahier Adams and Ashwell Prince; Sri Lanka: Azzam Ameen and Farveez Maharoof; West Indies: Daren Ganga and Stacy Ann King; Zimbabwe: Daniel Nhakaniso and Grant Flower; Others: Ajit Vijaykumar and Dirk Nannes.

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