32.7 C
Islamabad
Tuesday, May 6, 2025
Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube
Home Blog Page 13092

SLIC directed to extend National Health Program to remote areas

By
Uploader
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Jun 15 (APP): Minister for Commerce, Engr. Khurram Dastgir  Khan on Wednesday directed the State Life Insurance Corporation (SLIC) to  extend the facilities of Prime Minister’s National Health Program (PMNHP)  to the far flung and less developed areas of the country so as to provide the poorest of the poor with quality health services.

The Minister made these remarks while receiving a presentation to
review the performance of the Program by the Chairperson SLIC Ms. Nargis Gilloo.

The Minister directed the chairperson SLIC to start preparation for
launching of the Health Program in Skardu, Kech and Loralai and ensure maximum registration of deserving people in these areas.

He also directed that the remote areas where there are no quality
hospitals, SLIC should negotiate with military hospitals to seek their services for the Health Program on standard terms of the program.

The program is operational in Islamabad, Muzaffarabad and Quetta where  3,724 have been treated for minor and major diseases and surgeries have been conducted while claims of 64,175,908 have been incurred.

There are seven hospitals on the panel of the Health Program in
Islamabad, seven in Muzaffarabad and five in Quetta while efforts are in process to empanel more hospitals.

Khurram Dastgir also directed the SLIC authorities to remove any the
administrative bottlenecks to extend the program to the tribal areas of the country by coordinating with the civil and military authorities of the areas.

The Health Program will be launched in Punjab and the first district
selected to launch the program is Raheem Yar Khan in Southern Punjab where the registration of deserving persons has started.

The meeting was informed that NADRA conducted a customer satisfaction  survey of the persons availing the Health Program facilities and reported a customer satisfaction level of 80% with the facilities provided while 12.6% expressed non-satisfaction and 6.9% did not comment.

A total of 1,393,078 verified persons have been registered with the
Health Program all across the country who will all be receiving the health facilities under the Program soon.

The Minister directed the SLIC administration to streamline the registration process to make it speedy and free of any bogus registrations.

He said that the success of the program depends on ensuring that
deserving persons have been registered and the transparency of processes.

Govt to set up port infrastructure on Pak Afghan border: Khurram Dastgir

By
Uploader
-
0
Allegations against PM are baseless; references will provide opportunity to prove innocence

ISLAMABAD, June 15 (APP): Minister for Commerce Khurram
Dastgir Khan on Wednesday said Pakistan desired to put in
place port infrastructure along Pak Afghan border to manage goods and human traffic.

“Pak Afghan border cannot be left unmanaged. We are putting in place
port infrastructure to manage traffic and legalize trade between the two countries,” he said in a private news channel programme.

The minister said tension of Pak Afghan border is
affecting bilateral relations as well as trade. “If this border
is properly managed, it will boost trade and help keep record of trans boundary movement of goods and human beings.”

He said tens of thousands people cross Pak Afghan border and
there is need for keeping the record as to who comes into Pakistan and goes back to Afghanistan.

Answering a question about Pakistan’s policy on
Afghanistan, Khurram Dastgir said, Pakistan is pursuing the
policy of non interference in Afghanistan. “Since, the PML N came into power, our government had decided not to interfere in Afghanistan affairs and it was manifested during Afghan general election.”

He further stated that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Advisor
on Foreign Affairs and Chief of Army Staff visited Afghanistan
several times and made them believe that Pakistan will
prefer that Afghanistan owns the initiatives like dialogue with
Taliban and other measures for restoring peace.

He also mentioned initiation of security dialogue
and cooperation between intelligence agencies but stated
that perhaps Afghanistan had thought that Taliban were fully under Pakistan’s control and it will bring them to dialogue table.

“This was a misconceived notion of Afghanistan and when Taliban did not come to dialogue table, Afghanistan thought Pakistan was responsible for this.”

Talking about relations with other neighbors, he said relations with
Iran were normal and both the countries signed a five year economic management plan during visit of Iranian President to Pakistan.

Speaking on the issue of Panama Papers, he said, if the opposition
parties will only focus on the Prime Minister’s House, the matter would become complicated. “The opposition will have to decide that do they want witch hunting of the Prime Minister or evolve a strategy to root out corruption.”

He said Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif presented himself for accountability and even today the government is ready to resolve the ToR issue and “I am hopeful the matter will be resolved.”

US calls on Afghanistan, Pakistan to peacefully resolve tension after border clashes

By
Uploader
-
0
Mutual expulsion of diplomats by Pakistan, India should not lead to escalation: US

WASHINGTON, June 15 (APP): The United States on Tuesday called on
Afghanistan and Pakistan to peacefully resolve their tension, after a Pakistani military officer was killed in firing by Afghan forces during a clash on Torkham border.

“We are all watching the tensions very closely,” US State Department spokesman John Kirby said at a regular briefing and added that the United States was in touch with officials on both sides. “We continue to urge a calm resolution to the tension.”

Pakistan lodged a strong protest with the Afghan government over unprovoked firing by the Afghan forces that also injured a Pakistani solider and nine civilians. The firing was aimed at disrupting the construction of a gate well inside Pakistani territory at the border to facilitate cross-border movement of people and vehicle.

The spokesman said that the United States did not want to see violence and any further escalation in tension. He said Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Ambassador Richard Olson, who was in the region at the time of the incident, shared these sentiments.

In Islamabad, Ambassador Olson met with government officials, including the adviser to the prime minister on foreign affairs, the chief of the army staff, and discussed a range of bilateral, regional issues, the spokesman added.

The Afghan Charge d’Affairs was called to the foreign office in Islamabad to convoy the protest. The Pakistan government told the Afghan side that the regulation of movements at Torkham is part of government’s policy to strengthen border management.

BISP board discusses payment model project

By
Uploader
-
0
BISP board discusses payment model project

ISLAMABAD, Jun 15 (APP): Minister of State and Chairperson
Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Marvi Memon chaired 26th
meeting of BISP Board on Wednesday and discussed various projects.
Dr. Zeba A Sathar, Yawar Irfan Khan, Dr. Sania Nishtar, Dr.
Ali Cheema, representatives of Finance Division, Cabinet Division,
Foreign Office and Secretary BISP Muhammad Saleem Ahmed Ranjha attended the meeting.

The agenda items of the board meeting included recommendations
of the 2nd meeting of the Governance and Integrity Committee,
payment model to recredit beneficiaries and BISP employees
Efficiency and Discipline Rules.

During her welcome note, Chairperson BISP briefly discussed
the agenda items and also shared the various initiatives being undertaken by the organization.

She informed the board that the pilot phase of new poverty
survey of BISP is getting launched soon.

She further said that two survey approaches i.e. Door to Door
Approach and Desk Approach (self registration) are being employed in
the 16 pilot phase districts to establish value for money of both the approaches, which will facilitate in the decision regarding the approach to be adopted in national roll out for 2017 18.

After thorough deliberations, the board approved the payment
model to re credit beneficiaries.

As per approved model, BISP can request its partner banks to
use available de credited funds for disbursement of payments to 32,217 re credited beneficiaries, after bio metric verification of beneficiaries.

The board was apprised that Part VIII of BISP Employees
Service Regulations dealing with code of conduct is under review.
The board decided to replace the Part VIII (Code of Conduct) of BISP Employees Service Regulations with Government Servants (Efficiency and Discipline) Rules, 1973 till the institutionalization of BISP’s own Regulations.

This measure has been taken to ensure that BISP can take
tighter action against corruption and against its own employees.

The BISP board appreciated the strategic vision and able
guidance of MNA Marvi Memon in steering BISP towards being one of the best social safety net programmes of the world.

It was the fifth BISP Board meeting since she assumed office
of the chairperson in February 2015.

US Senate passes defense authorization bill, proposes new reimbursement mechanism for Pakistan

By
Uploader
-
0

WASHINGTON, June 15 (APP): The US Senate on Tuesday passed a $602 billion defense authorization bill, which has also proposed a new reimbursement mechanism for Pakistan to expedite security enhancement activities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and the FATA region.

The provision pertaining to Pakistan is called “Pakistan Security Enhancement Authorization” and authorizes $800 million for the country. It also fences $300 million behind a similar Haqqani network provision.

The Senate Armed Services Committee has used the Coalition Support Fund (CSF) model to restructure security support for Pakistan on the basis that it believes CSF mechanism may soon be ending as it was linked with a specific US mission in Afghanistan which has formally ended.

The new authorization is founded on the need to support Pakistan for its own security needs instead of a broader basis for supporting a coalition. This is not a new provision as similar provisions existed in the Annual Defence Authorization Act since fiscal year 2015.

The bill authorizes military spending for the fiscal year that begins on Oct. 1. The proposal for Pakistan was passed as originally initiated. None of the over 400 amendments considered by the Senate targeted this outlay for Pakistan.

The House of Representatives last month passed its version of bill. The Senate’s version of the Authorization Act, which was passed on Tuesday, now must be reconciled with the one passed by the House last month. A conference Committee of both houses of the Congress will now be constituted to reconcile the two drafts and develop a consensus draft.

The consensus draft will be passed from both houses of the Congress again before it is sent to the President for signature. The Consensus draft is expected to be completed in July. Past’s year’s bill had been passed as late as November.

A report by the US Senate Armed Services Committee that was filed along with the draft Defense Bill, described Pakistan as a long-standing Strategic partner of the United States. It stated that Pakistan-US relationship will continue to be strong and enduring.

The committee also noted that since 9/11 Pakistan has been a vital partner of the US in efforts to combat terrorism in South Asia.

The committee believed that “stability in the region cannot be achieved without stability in Pakistan itself and that fostering a strong, stable, and secure Pakistan is consistent with the national security goals of the United States”.

The committee wrote in its report that security and stability within the borders of Pakistan is vital to the stability of the region and to transregional efforts to combat terrorism more broadly.

Noting with concern that terrorist attacks continue to plague Pakistan, the committee strongly supported efforts by the Pakistan government to take steps to degrade and defeat terrorist networks and activities within its own borders.

“For these reasons, the committee believes that security assistance for Pakistan should continue,” the committee report said.

UN Women announces Hollywood star Anne Hathaway as Goodwill Ambassador

By
Uploader
-
0

UNITED NATIONS, June 15 (APP): UN Women, the world body’s
organization dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of
women, Wednesday announced the appointment of American award winning actress Anne Hathaway as global Goodwill Ambassador.

A long standing supporter of women’s and girls’ rights,
Hathaway will put the spotlight on the issue of the unequal burden
of care work in the home as one of the key barriers to gender equality, working internationally to advance the adoption and implementation of policies that will bring measurable change, the announcement. These
include affordable childcare services and shared parental leave at
both government and corporate levels.

“The appointment of Anne is timely because this year UN Women is
driving hard to foster more positive mindsets and practical arrangements around workplaces that build and support equality for women,” Phumzile Mlambo Ngcuka, UN Under Secretary General and UN Women Executive Director, said. “The ‘motherhood penalty’, which means that when they become mothers, women’s pay and opportunities at work suffer” is a particularly insidious demonstration of gender inequality in the workplace. For too long it has been difficult or impossible to view raising a child as being truly an equal responsibility for both parents.

“Stereotypes that make it hard for fathers to take time away from
work to care for a child are outdated leftovers from the ‘male breadwinner’ model and have no place in today’s mixed workforce. Well implemented parental leave is just one way for employers to demonstrate that they understand the value of their staff, both male and female,” Mlambo Ngcuka added. “To make the case for how this will increase opportunities for women we needed an advocate who had the intellect and passion to tackle this complex issue. Within moments of meeting Anne I realized that we had found our woman. We are truly honoured to have her onboard.”

Childcare services and parental leave are two ways for employers and governments to demonstrate that they understand the value of their people. Just as they hinder women’s equal participation in the workforce, rigid gender roles keep men stuck in harmful cultural stasis.

Consumed by a culture of overwork that penalizes them for taking time off for family care responsibilities, men too face dire consequences from our failure to value care. Failing to involve men in the conversation about care as a core component of gender equality only calcifies harmfully rigid social norms about gender overall.

When it comes to equality, Hathaway is a committed voice for
change, it was pointed out. She previously served as an advocate for
Nike Foundation and travelled to Kenya and Ethiopia to raise awareness
on child marriage. In 2013, Hathaway provided the narration on
“Girl Rising,” a CNN documentary film, which focused on the power
of female education as it followed seven girls around the world who
sought to overcome obstacles and follow their dreams.

“I feel honoured and inspired by this opportunity to aid in
advancing gender equality. Significant progress has already been made
but it is time that we collectively intensify our efforts and ensure
that true equality is finally realized,” Hathaway said.

 

Death anniversary of Hazrat Khadija tul Kubra (RA) to be observed on Thursday

By
Uploader
-
0

ISLAMABAD, June 15 (APP): The Youm e Wisaal of Ummul Momineen
Hazrat Khadija tul Kubra (RA) would be observed throughout the
country on Thursday with devotion and reverence.

The great Muslim lady Hazrat Khadijah (RA) passed away on
10th Ramazan in the tenth year of Hijrah, 620 CE, at the age of 65. Soon after her death, the uncle and guardian of Hazrat Muhammd (PBUH), Abu Talib (AS) also died. The two lamps of their glorious lives were extinguished.

The Holy prophet was overwhelmed with sorrow. He called the
year of their death as, “The Year of Sorrow” (Aa’m ul Hozn).

She has always been known as “Tahirah Pure”…Islam could not
have prospered without the role of Bibi Khadija (R.A). Her contribution, determination, devotion, love, care and dedication for the cause of Islam in essence revolutionized the world.

She was the first woman to declare that the Creator was One,
and that Muhammad (SAW) was His Messenger.

She was a rich widow and ran a large trade. Holy Prophet
Muhammad (SAW) was associated with her in trading ventures. She
herself offered the Holy prophet (SAW) to marry her.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah’s (SAW) marriage with Sayyidah Khadija
(RA) took place about fifteen years before the beginning of the Revelation, he being 25, and she was 40.

From the time of her marriage with the Holy Prophet (SAW) till
her death, over a period of twenty years, she gave her husband ease of
circumstances, and deep love and devotion. Sayyiduna Khadija (RA) bore the Beloved Habeeb (SAW) six children When Islam came under mounting pressure from its enemies, Khadija (SA) sacrificed her comforts, her wealth and her home forit.

Hazrat Khadija was born in Makkah. She was the daughter of
Khuwayled bin Asad bin Abdul Uzza bin Qusayy.

There are four women who enjoyed supremacy over other women and
one of the great personalities out of them is Hazrat Khadija tul Kubra (S.A.) on whose honour and supremacy an Ayah of Holy Quran stand witness that says: “Rasool, We found you poor, then we made you wealthy.”

Khadija tul Kubra (R A) was great Mohsina e Islam on which
Quran also stands witness.

This great woman has the honour of being the first Musaddiqa
e Paighambar (SAW), her wealth and sacrifices her offspring helped Islam to a great extent as she utilised all her wealth all around to dissemination of Islam.

Hazrat Khadija (R.A.) home had become a shelter not only for
Rasool (SAW) but for all Muslims. Hazrat Khadija tul Kubra (RA) had
been the protector and defender of Paigham e Risalat in the initial and most difficult era of Islam. The Seerat e Khadija (RA) is the beacon of light for women at large in every era.

President grieves over death of Dr Aslam Farrukhi

By
Uploader
-
0
President grieves over death of Dr Aslam Farrukhi

ISLAMABAD, June 15 (APP): President Mamnoon Hussain Wednesday
expressed his deep grief and sorrow over the death of renowned Urdu author, poet and scholar Dr Aslam Farrukhi.

In his condolence message, the President prayed for the
departed should and expressed sympathy with the bereaved family.

He said late Dr Aslam Farrukhi had rendered memorable services
in the field of literary research and mysticism which would be remembered forever.

UNSC authorizes high seas inspections off Libya’s coast to stem illegal arms flow

By
Uploader
-
0

UNITED NATIONS, June 15 (APP): The United Nations Security Council
unanimously has adopted a resolution authorizing member states, acting nationally or through regional organizations, to inspect vessels on the high seas off the coast of Libya they believe are carrying illicit weapons.

Condemning the flow of arms and related materiel into the North African country, including to terrorist groups, the 15-member body said it made the decision to authorize such inspections in these exceptional and specific circumstances for a period of 12 months from today, and with Member States engaging in appropriate consultations with Libya’s
Government of National Accord.

The Council also said that the inspections would be authorized provided that those Member States make good-faith efforts to first obtain the consent of the vessel’s flag State prior to any inspections, and called upon all flag States of the vessels to cooperate with such inspections.

In the resolution, the Council reiterated its grave concern at the growing threat of terrorist groups in Libya proclaiming allegiance to the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da’esh), the growing trend of groups associating themselves with it, as well as the continued presence of other Al-Qaida-linked terrorist groups and individuals operating in the country.

Expressing deep concern at the threat posed by unsecured arms and ammunition in Libya and their proliferation, including through their transfer to armed groups in violation of the arms embargo, the Council also underlined the importance of coordinated international support to Libya and the region to address such issues.

The Council also expressed concern that the situation in Libya is exacerbated by the smuggling of illegal arms and related material in violation of the arms embargo, underlining its concern at the allegations of violations of the arms embargo by sea, land, or air. Further, it expressed concern that such arms and related material are being used by terrorist groups operating in Libya, including by ISIL.

Further to the text of the resolution, the Council reaffirmed its determination that terrorism, in all forms and manifestations, constitutes one of the most serious threats to peace and security.

In addition, the Council condemned the flows of arms and related material transferred to or from Libya in violation of the arms embargo, including to ISIL and other terrorist groups in Libya.

“Disability is not inability,” says UN chief, urging equal rights for all

By
Uploader
-
0

UNITED NATIONS, Jun 15 (APP): Marking the 10th anniversary of a United Nations treaty that protects the rights of persons with disabilities, senior UN officials have highlighted the critical role, people with disabilities play as invaluable partners to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

“Through the power of music and the arts, these talented women and men are living examples of our core message: disability is not inability,” UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in a video message, referring to artists from the Beautiful Mind Charity, “4WheelCity” and the Samulnori team who are performing at UN Headquarters.

“Let us work together for a world of opportunity and dignity for all, a future of inclusion, one in which we all gain by leaving no one behind,” he added.

Implementing the new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for all persons with disabilities is the main focus of the Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) as they meet in New York from today through Thursday.

Gathering hundreds of disability advocates and government delegates, the 9th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the CRPD constitutes one of the largest and most diverse international meetings on disability in the world.

The UN is underlining that the annual review of the Convention will examine the implementation of the binding agreement adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2006 to reaffirm that the one billion persons with disabilities, 15 per cent of the world’s population,  must enjoy all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

“There is still much more we can do to fully implement the CRPD and make rights a reality for the more than one billion persons with disabilities around the world,” the UN Chef de Cabinet, Edmond Mullet, said, while speaking on behalf of the Secretary-General at the opening of the meeting.

“The Conference of States Parties offers a good opportunity to reflect on important lessons and move forward as your theme puts it in “Implementing the 2030 development agenda for all persons with disabilities: Leaving no one behind,” he stressed.

Mullet also highlighted some of the progress made in recent years, such as disability-inclusive strategies being featured in the Sendia Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, while most recently at the World Humanitarian Summit, stakeholders highlighted the importance of furthering humanitarian actions that are responsive to the needs of persons with disabilities.

In his opening remarks, General Assembly President Mogens Lykketoft said international commitments to the rights and advancement of persons with disabilities are deeply rooted in the UN Charter.

Indeed, they have been elaborated on over many decades through the Convention, as well as the outcome document of the 2013 High-level Meeting on Disability and Development of the General Assembly.

“And finally, now, thanks to the advocacy of disability organizations and concerted efforts of many others, they have been included at the heart of the 2030 Agenda, an agenda that promises to leave no one behind,” he said, adding that in the SDGs, disability is not about needs but about rights and empowerments.

“Persons with disabilities have been given specific prominence across a range of the goals as well as in relation to data collection and monitoring of the SDGs,” he said.

Recalling that yesterday, his office organized a General Assembly panel discussion on disabilities and that yesterday morning, civil society also held its annual forum which this year focused on leaving no one behindr, Lykketoft said that the high level of interest and participation in these meetings was very encouraging.

Book on Sikh heritage in Pakistan launched in Chicago

By
Uploader
-
0

CHICAGO, June 14 (APP): A book on the Sikh heritage in Pakistan has
been launched in Chicago, highlighting the legacy of the community that
was left behind following the partition.

The 500-page book “Lost Heritage, The Sikh Legacy of Pakistan”, by financial services executive-turned author Amardeep Singh, is his personal journey in search of his roots of origin.

Consul General Faisal Niaz Tirmizi was the keynote speaker at the launching ceremony of Singapore-based Amardeep Singh, who has also documented the rise and fall of the Sikh empire in Punjab (1799-1849) founded by Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

In doing so, Amardeep Sing had abandoned a lucrative banking career to visit 36 holy/historic sites in Pakistan.

Consul General Tirmizi said that the Sikh legacy in Pakistan was not only that of the Sikhs but was also the legacy of all citizens of Pakistan. He said although a very small portion of the population, the Sikh community is represented in all the walks of life in Pakistan. He further said that government of Pakistan is already facilitating Sikh Yatrees through swift visa processing and speedy custom and immigration clearance.

At the outset, Amardeep Singh expressed his gratitude to the government and the people of Pakistan for making his stay very comfortable and for opening their hearts and homes during his spiritual journey. He said that the Pakistani expatriates, living abroad, have welcomed his book very warmly as well. He specially appreciated the talk given by Ambassador Abdul Basit in New Delhi who greatly lauded his contributions in further cementing ties of Sikhs all across the world to the birth place of their religion.

On a suggestion from members of the audience to build world-class hotels around these facilities and to give more visas to Sikh Yatrees living in North America, Consul General Tirmizi said that these proposals would be conveyed to the Government of Pakistan. A few Sikh businessmen also suggested that the Sikh community could help raise funds for building world-class hotels around these facilities in a bid to attract the next generation of Sikhs from North America towards their religious sites.

Amardeep Singh also expressed his concern over the working of Pakistan-Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee and hoped that there would be more representation of Sikhs in it. He also expressed his concern that the Sikh section of the Lahore Museum has been closed down for three years, and urged the government to reopen it.

`Zarb-e-Azb to always shine on pages of our history’: PM

By
Uploader
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Jun 14 (APP): Describing the two years of Zarb-e-Azb as an “everlasting tale of human determination, courage, fortitude, bravery and sacrifice” Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif on Tuesday said it would always continue to shine on the pages of our history and would be a source of guidance for the new generation.

“Due to this (Zarb-e-Azb), the nation regained peace, that was snatched by terrorists and anti-state elements.

Thanks to Allah, the back of terrorists has been broken and Insha Allah they will soon become part of the trash of history,” the Prime Minister said in his message on the completion of two years of the Operation Zarb-e-Azb.

He said the elected government took a decision two years back and for its implementation, the whole nation including the Pakistan Army and other security institutions played their role with full consistency and determination, which purged the country of the scourge of terrorism.

The Prime Minister said the Jawans of Pakistan Army, who presented their sacred blood, were at the forefront in the success of this (operation). Jawans of Police and other security institutions, who sacrificed their lives, were also part of this success, he added.

“All of them proved it true once again that the death of a martyr is the life of a nation,” he remarked.

The Prime Minister the credit of this success also goes to those mothers, who happily sacrificed their sons for the sake of country. “Those sisters are also part of this success, who prayed their brothers and the country,” he added.

The Prime Minister said during these two years, Pakistani nation once again proved that they were one for the defence of their motherland.

“Be it the political differences or the religious or regional or provincial affiliations, this nation has all the capability to be above board, for the country’s defence, and Pakistan’s identity takes over all the identities,” he maintained.

The Prime Minister said, “Be it the external or the internal enemies, Pakistani nation stands solid against all and no one should have any doubt about it.”

He said the ideological and proactive spirit exhibited consistently by the nation during the last two years required them to never let this spirit cool down.

The Prime Minister said, “besides terrorism, we also have to fight poverty, unemployment, instability and diseases as well.”

“We have to make Pakistan a cradle of peace, where the economic activities are promoted so that our youth get education and skills and we provide them such an environment, where they can demonstrate their skills effectively,” he added.

The Prime Minister said, “We will not have to let cool down the spirit of Zarb-e-Azb and have to fight, with the same vigor, the social evils like poverty and unemployment”.

Prime Minister Sharif expressed his belief that the way terrorists had to run due to this nation’s courage and determination, Insha Allah, poverty and squalor will be defeated as well and Pakistan will emerge as a peaceful and prosperous country.

Pakistan’s stock market dominates Asia: Bloomberg

By
Uploader
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Jun 14 (APP): Asia’s best-performing stock market this year could be in for an additional boost if MSCI Inc. includes Pakistan in its emerging-market index for the first time since 2008.

The index provider, added frontier-market Pakistan to its list for possible reclassification last year, citing improvements in transparency and liquidity, said a report appeared in the Bloomberg.

The report said Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is seeking to boost economic growth to its fastest pace in more than a decade

after achieving stability through an International Monetary Fund loan programme that averted an external payments crisis in 2013.

The nation also plans to end an energy crisis in two years with the help of $46 billion of planned Chinese investment.

The Karachi Stock Exchange KSE100 Index has gained 15 percent
this year, making it the best performer in Asia.

The gauge has climbed 4.2 percent this month, compared with a
0.4 percent fall in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index.

EFG Hermes said last month an upgrade could lure around $475
million of inflows by mid-2017. Pakistan has a “70 percent chance”
of being promoted, according to Tundra Fonder, a fund manager
specializing in frontier markets.

The country’s benchmark index rallied the most in five weeks
before MSCI’s decision due late Tuesday in New York.

“Pakistan is moving into acceptance: the nation has what it
needs, a decently functional state and decent stability,” said
Mattias Martinsson, the Stockholm-based chief investment officer at
Tundra Fonder, which holds $200 million of Pakistani equities.

“We have a pretty fair chance,” said Farid Ahmed Khan, the
Karachi-based chief executive officer at ABL Asset Management Co.

Pakistan was downgraded to frontier status in December 2008,
four months after the Karachi Stock Exchange imposed a rule that
caused near total paralysis of market activity for more than three
months.

MSCI’s Frontier Markets Index currently features 16 Pakistani
companies that make up about 9 percent of the gauge.

“Pakistan’s market has been doing so well as valuations are
some of the lowest in the region,” said Arthur Kwong, the Hong Kong-
based head of Asia-Pacific equities at BNP Paribas Investment
Partners, which oversees about 552 billion euros ($623 billion).

“Basically people are looking for alternatives, finding markets that are less correlated to the U.S. interest-rate cycle and the China macro slowdown. Pakistan, no doubt, is one of the outstanding spots,” the report said.

KP Finance Minister presents supplementary budget of Rs 26.34 bln for year 2015-16

By
Uploader
-
0

PESHAWAR, June 14 (APP): Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Finance Minister Muzafar Said Advocate Tuesday presented Supplementary Budget of Rs 26.34 billion for the year 2015-16 excessive expenditure in various departments.

While giving detail about the excessive expenditure Finance Minister Muzafar Said Advocate in a budget speech said that they have utilized these amounts in two different pools-revenue and development. Rs 18.495 billion have been spent under revenue expenditures while Rs 7.538 billion for developmental expenditures.

He highlighted the allocations under revenue expenditures said that Rs 763.148 million was being spent on police department, Rs 10.796 billion for rehabilitation work, Rs 221.768 million for Home and Tribal Affairs, Rs 120.711 million for administration of justice, Rs 2 million for environment, forestry, fisheries and wildlife, Rs 897 million for grant to local councils, Rs 9.7 million for sports and tourism, Rs 15 million for building and structure, Rs 87 million for information and Rs 5.424 billion for District Non-Salary.

He said that for the completion of the ongoing schemes and expedite
work on various projects the government have spent Rs 7.53 billion for developmental budget out of which Rs 5.27 billion were spent on PSDP schemes.

Pre-monsoon rains forecast in next 2-3 days

By
Uploader
-
0

ISLAMABAD: June 14, (APP): Met Office forecast pre-monsoon
rains over upper parts of the country during Wednesday evening to
Friday.

Rain/dust-thundershower is expected at scattered places in
Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Peshawar,
Mardan, Kohat divisions and Islamabad during Wednesday evening to
Thursday.

However, isolated heavy falls also expected in Rawalpindi,
Gujranwala divisions and Islamabad on Thursday.

Spokesman Met office told APP that pre-monsoon currents are
penetrating in upper Punjab and Kashmir and a fresh westerly wave is
also likely to approach upper parts of the country on Wednesday.

Under the influence of such meteorological conditions
Spokesman further informed that two good rains of pre-monsoon
are likely to occur in the country during the coming week.

He said seasonal low lies over north Balochistan with its
trough extending eastward. Weak moist currents from Arabian sea are
penetrating in upper/eastern parts of the country and likely to
continue during next 3-4 days. A shallow westerly wave is likely to
enter upper parts of the country on Wednesday evening/night and may
persist till Friday.

In last 24 hours weather remained hot and dry in most parts of
the country. However, rain-thunderstorm occurred at isolated places
in Lahore and Hazara divisions.

Rainfall recorded during this time span was Lahore City 05mm
and Kakul 01mm.

Maximum temperatures recorded on Tuesday remained Dalbandin,
Larkana, Dadu, Shaheed Benazirabad, Sibbi, Kohat 46øC, Bhakkar,
Jacobabad, Turbat, Weather remained hot and dry in most parts of the
country. However, rain-thunderstorm occurred at isolated places in
Lahore and Hazara divisions. R.Y.Khan 45øC. Islamabad 41øC, Lahore
43øC, Karachi 34øC, Peshawar 42øC, Quetta 40øC, Gilgit 38øC,
Chitral 38øC, Hunza 32øC, Muzaffarabad 38øC, Murree 28øC, Skardu
36øC, Faisalabad 41øC, Multan 40øC, Hyderabad 38øC, Dir 36øC and
Kalat 34øC.

UN rights chief urges US to consider robust gun control while slamming Orlando killing

By
Uploader
-
0

UNITED NATIONS, June 14 (APP): In the wake of the mass killing of 49 people by a sole gunman in a nightclub in Orlando, Florida, the United Nations human rights chief Tuesday urged the U.S. leadership to live up
to its obligations to protect its citizens from the “horrifyingly commonplace but preventable violent attacks that are the direct result
of insufficient gun control.”

“It is hard to find a rational justification that explains the ease
with which people can buy firearms, including assault rifles, in spite
of prior criminal backgrounds, drug use, histories of domestic violence
and mental illness, or direct contact with extremists – both domestic
and foreign,” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al
Hussein said.

“How many more mass killings of school-children, of co-workers, of African-American churchgoers — how many more individual shootings of talented musicians like Christina Grimmie, or politicians like Gabrielle Giffords, will it take before the United States adopts robust gun regulation?” he added, questioning the availability for civilians
anywhere of an assault rifle or other high-powered weapons designed to kill lots of people.

“Irresponsible pro-gun propaganda suggests that firearms make
society safer, when all evidence points to the contrary,” Zeid said.
A new UN human rights report on the civilian acquisition, possession
and use of firearms highlights the “devastating impact” of gun violence
on a host of human rights, including the rights to life, security, education, health, an adequate standard of living and participation in cultural life.

The report states that women and children are frequently found to
be victims of firearm-related violence, including through the use of guns
to commit rape and other sexual violence, abduction, assault and domestic violence.

It states that protection of human rights must be central to the development of laws and regulations regarding the availability, transfer
and use of firearms. UN and regional human rights experts have long recommended that firearm control measures must include adequate
background check systems, the periodic review of licenses, clear gun
removal policies when intervening in domestic violence cases, mandatory training, and the criminalization of illegal sale of firearms, among others.

“Examples from many countries clearly show that a legal framework to control the acquisition and use of firearms has led to a dramatic
reduction in violent crime,” Zeid said. “In the United States, however, there are hundreds of millions of guns in circulation, and every year thousands of people are killed or injured by them.”

Zeid added that it was particularly reprehensible – indeed dangerous
that this terrible event is already being utilized to promote homophobic
sentiments.

He urged everyone in the United States to rally around the common
cause of ensuring that the human rights, and consequentially the security, of all are strengthened in the aftermath of this horrendous incident.

“That is the least that is owed to the relatives of all those children, women and men whose lives have been snatched from them by
gunmen from a wide variety of backgrounds in the Orlando nightclub, at
the Sandy Hook Elementary School, at the Methodist Church in downtown Charleston, and at so many other homes, schools, colleges and other venues across the United States,” he said.

N.Waziristan cleared of terrorists due to army’s sustained operations: President

By
Uploader
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Jun 14 (APP): President Mamnoon Hussain on Tuesday
said North Waziristan including Shawal Valley had been completely
cleared of miscreants and peace was restored due to sustained
operations of the army.

Talking to Member National Assembly Muhammad Nazir Khan who
led a delegation from his constituency in North Waziristan Agency,
the President said the repatriation and rehabilitation of Internally
Displaced Persons (IDPs) was being carried out on priority.

The President said no stone would be left unturned in
providing educational, health and other development facilities to
the tribal people.

He expressed his satisfaction over the pace of return of the
displaced persons to their homes and said the government in
consultation with the local representatives would ensure restoration
of economic and commercial activities.

President Mamnoon appreciated that the army had undertaken a
lot of work for infrastructure development and construction of
health and educational institutions.

He said the FATA Secretariat would be directed to expedite
work on development and welfare projects in consultation with the
local representatives.

President Mamnoon paid tributes to the people of tribal areas
for rendering immense sacrifices during the war against terrorism
and said the entire nation valued their contribution in restoration
of peace in the region.

Muhammad Nazir Khan, also the Parliamentary Secretary,
Ministry of Professional and Technical Training briefed the
President about the overall development activities in North
Waziristan Agency.

He said due to the commitment of the government and the Army,
the area had been completely cleared of the terrorists and peace had
been restored.

He also submitted proposals regarding infrastructure
development, provision of health and education facilities and
development of agriculture in the area.

KP unveils Rs 505 bln tax free,budget 2016-17

By
Uploader
-
0

PESHAWAR, Jun 14 (APP): Provincial Finance Minister Muzaffar Said
Advocate on Tuesday presented Rs. 505 billion tax free and balanced budget for the year 2016-17 in the KP Assembly carrying Rs. 161 billion development outlay, slight readjustment in provincial taxes, an increase of ten percent in the salaries and pension of the government employees besides seeking creation of 36232 new jobs.

In his budget speech the Finance Minister stated that the province is
expected to obtain Rs380,187 million from the federal tax assignments, Rs 293,694 million as one per cent of divisible pool for war on terror, Rs 35,289 million as straight transfer, Rs 17,199 million as net hydel profit, Rs, 18,704 million as arrears of net hydel profit and Rs. 15000 million as incentive on surplus cash balance.

The province’s own receipt included Rs. 49,507 million as tax receipt,
Rs. 18,171 million non tax receipt and Rs 18,635 million as commercialization of government properties.

The KP government has decided to allocate Res 33 billion for the local
governments during the next fiscal, he said adding the province will generate Rs15billion from its own resources under sales tax on services sector, Rs40billion under tax and non-tax heads, Rs.18 billion from annual net hydel power income, and Rs15 billion from net hydel profit arrears, the minister said adding KP will generate Rs3.5billion from its own power generation in the coming fiscal.

The provincial Finance Minister announced salary package for the
government employees under which he announced the merger of 10 percent interim allowance 2013 and 2014 into the basic running pay of the provincial government employees as well as he also announce 10 percent increase of salaries for government employees.

The Minister announce 10 percent increase in the pension of retired
employees and 25 per cent increase in the pension for the employees having more than 85 years age. The rise in salaries, pension and allowance would cost Rs. 14.20 billion to provincial exchequer.

The Finance Minister also announced increase in minimum wage from
Rs.13,000 to 14,000 of the labourers, adding that the services of 13,200 LHWs are being regularized while there is a proposal for the appointment of 1088 vaccinators at the level of Union Councils.
He also announced three- year extension in the contractual services of
11,000 personnel of special police force.
The miscellaneous allowance of the Qasid, Nabi Qasid and Daftari has
been increased from Rs 300 to Rs 450.
Similarly, the employees from BPS 1-15 working after the duty hours
would be getting 50 percent rise in the conveyance allowance.
The washing and Dress allowances of BPS 1-4 Â also increased from 100 to
150 rupees. Rs. 2500 M.Phil allowance has also been announced for provincial employees, while the upper limit of additional charge allowance and deputation allowance has been increased from Rs. 6000, to 12,000.
The Minister also announced 50 percent rise under the head of
qualification pay for CIMA, ACCA, SMC, NDC, NMC, ICWA, ICMA, CA and MCMC.
The provincial government for the first time has allocated Rs. 1000
allowance per month for the disabled persons of the province.
He told the House that two new solar projects would be initiated one
each in southern district and Chitral at a cost of Rs200million each which on completion would provide electricity at cheaper rates to 3000 households.
He told that Rs 600 million have been allocated for extension in Gomal
Zam Dam project and Rs 2 billion for irrigating over 50,000 acres of barren land in the southern districts.
The Finance said that special packages would be announced in the next
fiscal- year for the laborers, teachers, police and class-IV employees. The honorarium a to the poets, writers and artists would continue to be paid in the next fiscal as well.

About readjustment in the provincial taxes, the Finance Minister said
the government has proposed upward revision in the taxes including token tax fees, while for the luxury cars the tax ratio is being enhanced from Rs5000 to Rs6500.
Similarly, the ratio of the capital value tax would be the same however
its scope would be extended to rural parts of the province as well in the next fiscal, he said.
The mutation fee is being enhanced from 2 percent to 2.5 percent
similarly Rs. 300 fee has been proposed for non prohibited bore and Rs 1500 for prohibited bore weapons. The rates of electricity duty are also being revised upwardly during 2016-17.
The Finance minister said that 21percent of the development resources
would be utilized on developments schemes, 10.9 percent on health facilities, 10.5 percent on primary and secondary education, nine percent on construction of roads and 5.8 percent on local government institutions in the districts.
The Finance Minister also mentioned about special measures for
transgender people in KP which included their proper registration and payment of monthly honorarium.
He said that his government would provide maximum funds for the schemes
involving social welfare aspects of the people including education, health and social welfare.

The Finance Minister, while referring to the development programme
2016-17, informed that the government would provide maximum funds for the ongoing schemes while the number of new schemes would be kept to the minimum level.
Of the total Rs161 billion ADP, the provincial government’s share in
the development outlay would be Rs125bn and Rs36billion foreign aid and grants.
A total 1,516 development projects would be executed including 1,199
ongoing and 255 new ones in next fiscal, he informed. The volume of the district ADP 2016-17 has been pitched at Rs 33.90 billion during the next fiscal year.
Giving break-up sector wise allocations in the budget, he said that
education to get Rs. 111.52 billion of which Rs. 102. 2 billion have been allocated for primary and secondary education and Rs. 9.50 billion for Higher education, showing an increase of 15 percent over the out going fiscal year.
Similarly, health would get Rs. 38.42 billion, showing 28 percent
increase over the corresponding year. Social welfare, special education and women development would get Rs. 1.69 billion showing 23 percent increase.
He said that police would get Rs. 32.94 billion, irrigation 3.42
billion, Technical education and manpower training Rs. 1.97 billion, Rs. 600 million for Sport, Culture and Tourism, Rs. 3.80 billion for agriculture, Rs. 2 billion for environment and forest, Rs. 3.20 billion for communication and works, R.s 40.91 billion for pension, Rs. 2.90 billion for subsidy on wheat, Rs. 8.8 billion for payment on debt servicing and Rs. 11 billion for payment of foreign loans and making advances to the government employees.
The Finance Minister informed the House for Rs. 294.22 billion has been
allocated for welfare portion of the budget which is 61 percent of the total budget and Rs. 49.78 billion allocated for administrative budget and Rs. 161 billion for the development program which is 22 per cent of the ADP.
Giving details of the expenditures for the fiscal year, he said that of
the total Rs. 505 billion, Rs. 344 billion have been set aside for current expenditure, showing 10 percent increase over the outgoing fiscal budget.

The Finance Minister Muzaffar Sayed told the House that under the
allocation of Rs. 3 billion in health sector, the government would extend the Health Insurance Program to the whole of the province, providing best health care facilities to over 10 million population.
He said the government inheritied a very poor education system lacking
basic faciliteis in the government schools however, the provincial government in the last three years succeeded in overcoming shortcoming, adding that in next two years the missing facilities would be met.
He said that for the first time in the history of Pakistan, first
females cadet college would be set in Mardan, similarly, Chitral and Bunner campuses of Abdul Wali Khan University would get status of full fledged universities. A campus of engineering university would be set up in Upper Dir, while a campus of Bannu University would be established in Lakki Marwat.
Similarly, the institute of Criminology and Forensic Sciences would be
established at university of Peshawar at a cost of Rs. 20 million he said adding Rs. One billion would be spent on the welfare of the youth besides the government would set up 100 youth centres for them.
He said the government has proposed Rs. 200,000 to 2,000,000 interest
free loan for youth to start small businesses.
Under private public partnership the construction of Swat expressway
costing Rs. 34 billion has been approved which is likely to be completed by December 2017.
The feasibility study of Chakdara – Mingora road has been included in
PSDP. The road between Margalla hills in Islambad to Changa Galli that would shorten the distance between Islamabad to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would be completed at a cost of Rs. 670 million.
Simiarly, Rs. 1 billion would be spent on improving road infrastructure
in Hayatabad and Regi Lalma townships.

The Finance Minister Muzaffar Said told the House that the government
was leaving no stone unturned for the attainment of the provincial rights and made a mention to China Pakistan Corridor Western Route.
He said that the government has agreed to give the status of motorway to
Kohat “Jhud Indus Highways and DI Khan ” Peshawar Indus Highways and the projects have been made part of the PSDP.
Chashma Right Bank Canal is an important project for the province, he
said and told the federal government has agreed to bear 65 per cent expenditure to this effect and the practical work on the project would start this year at a cost of Rs. 121 billion.
The project would irrigate 2,86,000 acre barren land in DI Khan and
Tank districts.
He also said the government wanted to establish 18 more industrial
states of which eight would be part of the CPEC, adding that during next three years around 2 million people would get employment opportunities.
Refering to minorities, he said the government has allocated Rs. 90
million for renovation and refurbishing of Churches, Temples and other religious places of minorities besides provision of textbooks, scholarships and uniforms to their students.
The government would set up a judicial complex in Nowshera, Kohat,
Dargai, Shabqadar, Tall, Totali, Tank and Kulachi.
He said that Rapid Bus Service project spread over 23 kilometers would
be completed at a cost of Rs. 20 billion with the assistance of ADB by December in provincial metropolis.
The Minister said a comprehensive package of Rs. 3 is being chalked out
to provide pesticides, seeds and fertilizers to farmers, adding that 26,800 metric ton certified seed of wheat would be provided to farmers across the province to increase wheat production.
Besides, he said that Rs. 300 million assistance package and solar
tube-well would be given to farmers to bring barren land under cultivation while agricultural equipments would be provided on cheap rental rates to poor farmers through extension centres.

Salient features, highlights of KP budget 2016-17

By
Uploader
-
0

PESHAWAR, June 14 (APP): The main features and highlights of Khyber
Pakthunkhwa budget for fiscal year 2016-17 announced by Provincial Finance Minister Muzaffar Said advocate is explained below.

· The budget’s total outlay is Rs 505 billion.
· The budget is tax free and balanced, carrying Rs161bn development
outlay
· Creation of 36232 new jobs proposed
· Minimum wage for labourers fixed at Rs 14,000
· Salaries, pension of Government employees up by 10 percent.
· Merger of 10 percent interim allowance 2013 and 2014 into the basic
running pay of KP Govt employees announced
· 25 per cent increase in pension of KP Govt employees having more than 85 years age announced
· The rise in salaries, pension and allowance would cost Rs. 14.20
billion to provincial exchequer
· Increase in minimum wage from Rs. 13,000 to 14,000 of the labourers
besides regularization of services of 13200 LHWs announced
· Proposal for appointment of 1088 vaccinators at Union Councils
presented
· 3 years extension in the contractual services of 11000 personnel of
special police force announced
· The miscellaneous allowance of the Qasid, Nabi Qasid and Daftari
increased from Rs. 300 to Rs. 450.
· The employees from BPS 1-15 working after the duty hours to get 50
percent rise in the conveyance allowance
· The washing and Dress allowances of BPS 1-4 increased from 100 to 150 rupees and Rs. 2500 M.Phil allowance announced for provincial employees

· The upper limit of additional charge allowance and deputation allowance
increased from Rs. 6000, to 12,000.
· 50 percent rise under the head of qualification pay for CIMA, ACCA,
SMC, NDC, NMC, ICWA, ICMA, CA and MCMC announced
· Rs 1000 allowance per month for disabled persons
· KP to get Rs 17199m as net hydel profit and Rs, 18704 million as
arrears of net hydel profit
· Rs33 billion allocated for local governments
· Rs600 million for extension in Gomal Zam Dam project earmarked
· Upward revision in taxes including token tax fees, tax ration on luxury
cars being enhanced from Rs5000 to Rs6500 proposed
· The mutation fee is being enhanced from 2 percent to 2.5 percent and
Rs300 fee proposed for non prohibited bore and Rs1500 for prohibited bore weapons.
· Special measures for transgender including their proper registration
and payment of monthly honorarium announced
· A total 1516 development projects would be executed including 1199
ongoing and 255 new ones in next fiscal.
· Rs 111.52 billion allocated for Education allocated, showing an
increase of 15 percent over the out going fiscal
Rs. 38.42 billion for Health earmarked, showing 28 percent increase
over the corresponding year
· Rs. 32.94 billion for police allocated
· Districts Govts and TMAs to get Rs8.66bln each
· Village/neigbourhood councils to get Rs10.91bln
· Rs3.42 billion for irrigation and Rs.1.97 billion for Technical
education and manpower training allocated
· Rs294.22 billion allocated for welfare portion which is 61 per cent of
the total budget
· Rs49.78 billion for administrative budget and Rs. 161 billion for
development program which is 22 per cent of ADP

Kashmir issue to be resolved in accordance with aspirations of Kashmiris: Pervaiz Rashid

By
Uploader
-
0
Pervaiz Rashid condoles with Chief Editor Daily Kashmir

ISLAMABAD, June 14 (APP): Minister for Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage Senator Pervaiz Rashid said Kashmir issue would be
resolved in accordance with United Nations resolutions and aspirations of the people of Kashmir.

He said this in a meeting with a delegation of Kashmiri Hurriyat leaders who called on him here Tuesday.

He said that resolution of Kashmir dispute was imperative for durable peace and stability in the region.

Senator Pervaiz Rashid said Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif
has highlighted the Kashmir dispute at all international forums including
United Nations General Assembly and reminded the international community of its responsibilities in fulfilling the promise made with the
people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Muhammad Nawaz Sharif with his sagacity and statesmanship would
mitigate the sufferings of the Kashmiri people as they have rendered
unmatched sacrifices for their just cause of freedom from Indian occupation, the minister added.

The minister also reiterated the continued support of the government
and the people of Pakistan for the Kashmiris in their struggle for right of self determination.

The delegation praised the Prime Minister for reviving the Kashmir
issue which they said had become dormant under the regime of Pervez
Musharraf.

They also prayed for the health and speedy recovery of Prime Minister
Nawaz Sharif.

The delegation was headed by Chairman Jammu and Kashmir Salvation Front Zafar Akbar Bhat.

Secretary Information SM Imran Gardezi was also present in the
meeting.

1...13,09113,09213,093...13,405Page 13,092 of 13,405

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