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One held with narcotics

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
LODHRAN, Aug 03 (APP): Kahror Pacca city police claimed to have arrested a notorious drug peddler and recovered over one kilogram ice from his possession.
On a tip-off, the police raided and apprehended the suspect, identified as Sajjad aka Ganna Phull and recovered 1.166 kg crystal white ice, a mobile phone and Rs 2500 from him.
A case has been registered against the accused. Further investigation was underway.

Pakistan, Iran keen to boost bilateral trade volume to $10bn: PM 

By
Irfan Khan
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0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 03 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday said that the leadership of Pakistan and Iran were keen to enhance the bilateral trade volume to the target of $10 billion as soon as possible. 

Addressing a joint press stakeout with President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, the prime minister said that today, both countries signed a number of documents to transform them into agreements and to realize the potential of $10 billion trade target, adding that the respective delegations from the two sides would further hold detailed meetings to move forward in this regard.  

Pakistan, Iran keen to boost bilateral trade volume to $10bn: PM 
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and the President of Iran H.E. Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian address a joint press stakeout in Islamabad.

He said during their bilateral meeting, both sides discussed the broad aspects of their bilateral ties, brotherhood relations, religious and cultural ties, and held comprehensive talks to further boost them.  

The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to the Iranian president for his heartfelt message to the people of Pakistan.  

He said in June, Israel without any rhyme or reason, unleashed aggression against Iran which was not only strongly condemned by the government of Pakistan but by the entire 240 million Pakistani people, as there was no reason for Israel to stoke war. 

Prime Minister Sharif also expressed his condolences on the martyrdom of Iranian generals, scientists and the civilians during the conflict and prayed for the departed souls and for the injured for their early recovery.  

Pakistan, Iran keen to boost bilateral trade volume to $10bn: PM 

He also lauded the Iranian leadership for showing bravery and wisdom during the Israeli aggression and said the Iranian forces and the people faced the aggression and exposed the Israeli defence system with volleys of retaliatory missile attacks.  

The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s principled stance over Iran’s right to a nuclear programme for peaceful purposes under the UN charter, saying that Pakistan would stand by its stance.  

In the fight against terrorism, he said both sides shared views that it could not be tolerated at any cost. If anyone in Iran was affected by terrorism, it was akin to a victim of terror in Pakistan, he observed.  

He further said the two brotherly countries would take effective measures to eliminate terrorism. 

The prime minister further said that in Gaza, the worst kind of genocide of the people of Palestine continued unabated and appreciated the Iranian leadership for raising their voice for the rights of the Palestinian people. 

Reaffirming Pakistan’s support, he said they had always supported the Palestinian people, and recently, the deputy prime minister had effectively presented Pakistan’s views at the UNSC forum on the grave situation in Gaza. 

“The newly born kids are being slaughtered, mothers and youth are being killed; streets have turned into red with their blood, while food assistance routes are blocked, leading to deaths of innocent children. Such scenes are heart-wrenching and cannot be recalled,” he regretted and stressed upon the entire Muslim Ummah and the world community to raise their solid voice and make efforts for permanent peace and ceasefire in Gaza, otherwise history would not forgive them. 

The prime minister stressed upon taking of practical steps rather than mere verbal rhetoric. In the valley of illegally occupied Kashmir, he said the situation was not different from Gaza, where the innocent people were being killed, and thanked Iran for its support for the right of the freedom of Kashmiri people. 

The prime minister, on behalf of the people and the government of Pakistan, welcomed the president on his maiden visit to Pakistan.  

The deputy prime minister/foreign minister, speaker National Assembly, chairman Senate, members of the federal cabinet and members of the Iranian delegation were also present.  

President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the position adopted by the parliament, government and the people of Pakistan for supporting Iran during 10-day Israeli aggression.  

He said the bonds of affinities and affection between the two countries and nations were deeply rooted in religion, culture and history, citing poetic verses of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, in which he stressed upon unity among the Muslim countries. 

Advancing the neighbourhood policy was among the priority of their foreign policy, and Pakistan was not only their neighbour but also a brotherly country, he added.  

The president expressed his satisfaction that fortunately, serious and sincere efforts were being initiated by both sides for cooperation in diverse field, and to take their current trade volume of $3 billion dollars to the projected target of 10 billion dollars.  

He said today, important documents were also signed which would enhance bilateral cooperation in various fields.  

President Pezeshkian said that they were determined to take steps to implement these agreements, while development of land, sea and air routes would facilitate trade. 

Given the threats from terrorists in the border areas, both sides agreed to enhance the border security for the safety of the people of the two countries, he added.  

The Iranian president underlined the need for development of trade and economic cooperation which would contribute to progress, prosperity, peace and stability in the region.  

He also condemned the Israeli aggression and genocide in Gaza and steps to destabilise the region.  

The Iranian president said the two sides believed that the association and cooperation among the Muslim countries were needed to take shape to counter expansionist designs of the Zionist’s regime and ensure stability in the region. 

Iran and Pakistan had asked the global bodies to leave the double standards, and stop spillover of war, violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the countries, he added.  

He also expressed his pleasure to arrive in his second home; Pakistan and expressed his gratitude to the government of Pakistan and the prime minister for the warm reception and hospitality accorded to them. 

Pakistan, Iran keen to boost bilateral trade volume to $10bn: PM  Pakistan, Iran keen to boost bilateral trade volume to $10bn: PM  Pakistan, Iran keen to boost bilateral trade volume to $10bn: PM 

Earlier, the Iranian president and the prime minister witnessed signing ceremony of 12 different agreements and MoUs to enhance cooperation in plants protection and quarantine, collaboration in science, technology and innovation, IT, exchange programme in culture, education, youth, health, science and research,  model text of MoU on maritime security and fire extinguishing, MoU on judicial assistance, implementation programmes on products inspection and quality, tourism cooperation and joint ministerial statement on free trade agreement. 

Pakistan, Iran keen to boost bilateral trade volume to $10bn: PM  Pakistan, Iran keen to boost bilateral trade volume to $10bn: PM  Pakistan, Iran keen to boost bilateral trade volume to $10bn: PM 

Candyland U17 football trials underway

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 03 (APP):Under the banner of Candyland, U17 football trials are currently being conducted across the country, aimed at finding young football talent in Pakistan.
The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has commended Candyland’s consistent efforts and long-term vision for the promotion of football at the youth level. Talented players identified through Candyland trials will be referred to the PFF’s official national U-17 trials, said a press release.
The national trials will be conducted by coaches appointed by the PFF. Players who perform exceptionally well in these national trials, will be selected for the National U17 training camp. The goal of this initiative is to form a competitive national squad that will represent Pakistan at the upcoming SAFF U17 Boys’ Championship, scheduled to be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
The final squad for the tournament will be selected by the PFF’s technical team based on players performing exceptionally during the camp.

Hamza Khan finishes as runner-up in Valencia 2025 PSA Tournament

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 03 (APP):Talented Pakistani squash player Hamza Khan has proven once again that he’s a force to be reckoned with on the court, as he finished, runner-up in the $15,000 Valencia 2025 PSA Tournament held in Spain.
In the final match, Hamza Khan put up a good fight but ultimately lost to World No. 31 Iker Pajares (ESP) with a score of 3-0 (8-11, 5-11, 4-11), said a press release.
Hamza’s performance was commendable, showcasing his determination and skill.
Just two months ago, Hamza won the Northern Star Resources Ltd Golden Open 2025, a PSA Challenger Tour Event, showcasing his growing dominance in the sport.
Hamza’s consistency and progress in PSA events are truly inspiring, and fans of squash and Hamza Khan can’t wait to see what’s next for this talented player.
The Pakistan Squash Federation has congratulated Hamza on his remarkable achievement, and wished him all the best for his future endeavors in the world of squash.

Three-Day Urs of Syed Shah Murtaza to begin on Friday in Thandiani

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 03 (APP):The annual three-day Urs celebrations of revered Sufi saint Syed Shah Murtaza will be held from Friday,  August 8 to Sunday Aug 10 in the scenic hill station of Thandiani, Abbottabad, drawing devotees from across Pakistan.
The spiritual gathering will be formally inaugurated by Pir Tariqat Hazrat Syed Pir Mujadid Hussain, Sajjada Nashin of Darbar-e-Aalia, who will lead the traditional opening rituals.
Organized to honor the saint’s enduring legacy and spiritual teachings, the Urs is expected to attract large numbers of followers and visitors. The observance will conclude on August 10 with the final collective prayers (Khatm-e-Dua), marking the culmination of the three-day spiritual event.

Overloading of public transport raises safety concerns in DIKhan

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Aug 03 (APP): Widespread violations of transport laws continue across Dera Ismail Khan, as public transport vehicles particularly coasters and flying coaches, operate with illegally installed extra seats, causing severe discomfort to passengers. The unchecked practice persists under the watch of the district administration and Regional Transport Authority (RTA), drawing criticism from citizens and commuters alike.
These violations are commonly observed on routes from General Bus Stand, Bannu Adda, Tank Adda, Paroa Adda, and adjoining areas such as Paharpur and Kulachi. Transporters, in a bid to increase profits, have modified vehicles to carry more passengers than permitted, often cramming individuals into tightly packed and unsafe conditions.
Passengers travelling on these routes voiced their frustrations. “We are packed like goods. There’s hardly any space to sit or even breathe properly,” said Asad Imran, a daily commuter from Rangpur.
Another passenger, Kubra Bibi, travelling with her children, stated, “The heat, lack of space, and prolonged travel in these conditions is unbearable. It’s especially dangerous for women and children.”
Commuters criticized the authorities for turning a blind eye. “Where are the transport inspectors? Why is no one stopping these violations?” asked Malik Saleem, a traveler from Paroa.
Civil society members have also expressed alarm, urging the district administration and RTA to launch a sustained and transparent crackdown. They emphasized that ignoring the issue not only endangers lives but also undermines public trust in government institutions.
The public has demanded immediate and effective enforcement of transport laws, regular inspections, and strict penalties for violators to ensure safe, legal, and respectful travel conditions for all passengers.

“Maraka-e-Haq” celebrations continue across Karachi under Commissioner’s supervision

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
KARACHI, Aug 03 (APP): The Independence Day celebrations themed “Maraka-e-Haq” are in full swing across Karachi under the supervision of Commissioner, Syed Hassan Naqvi. Following directives from Chief Minister Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, the city administration has rolled out a comprehensive 14-day program to mark Pakistan’s Independence Day with patriotic zeal, in line with celebrations across the country.
Deputy Commissioners of all districts are organizing various events in their respective jurisdictions. Government buildings, including the offices of the Commissioner and all Deputy Commissioners, have been decorated with national flags and illuminated with decorative lights.
In District Malir, a flag hoisting ceremony was held for the third consecutive day. Deputy Commissioner Saleemullah Odho led the ceremony along with office staff, political and social figures, and members of civil society. Patriotic songs were played and loud slogans of “Pakistan Zindabad” and “Pak Army Paindabad” echoed in the air. Participants offered special prayers for national unity and prosperity, while lauding the armed forces for their role in defending the nation.
Meanwhile, in District Central, Acting DC Asim Abbasi supervised ongoing tree plantation drives for the third consecutive day. In one such event, Assistant Commissioner Nazimabad, with support from KMC’s Forest Department and Saylani Welfare Trust, led a plantation campaign near Agha Khan Laboratory on Sher Shah Suri Road. Around 300 saplings, including Neem, Sukh Chain, and Bougainvillea, were planted. So far, nearly 800 saplings have been planted in various areas of District Central.
Adding to the cultural spirit of the celebrations, traditional “Malakhra” wrestling matches will be held this evening in Manghopir, organized by the Sindh Sports Department. Across Karachi, various programs continue to be held under the supervision of the respective Deputy Commissioners, with government offices and key public buildings decorated in national colors to commemorate the occasion.

Aurangzeb Khichi reaffirms Pakistan’s unwavering support for Kashmiri people

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 03 (APP): Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi has reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering moral, diplomatic, and cultural support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), stating that the entire nation speaks with one voice: “Kashmir Baney Ga Pakistan.”
Talking to APP in connection with Youm-e-Istehsal, falling on August 05, the minister said that Pakistan’s support for the oppressed people of Kashmir is rooted in the country’s national resolve and historical responsibility.
“The whole nation is standing with the Kashmiri people. We will continue to raise their voice on every forum and through every platform available to us,” he said.
The minister emphasized that the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture, along with its affiliated institutions, Lok Virsa, the National Language Promotion Department, Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), Pakistan Academy of Letters, and the National Library of Pakistan, has planned a range of cultural and literary activities to mark the day.
These include seminars, discussions, rallies, and competitions aimed at strengthening national solidarity with the Kashmiri cause.
“Culture and literature are powerful tools of resistance,” Khichi stated. “Through our artistic and literary voices, we aim to highlight the ongoing suffering of the Kashmiri people and amplify their demand for justice and self-determination.”
He said that August 05 marks the day when India’s ruling regime stripped IIOJK of its special constitutional status, attempting to silence the people of Kashmir through undemocratic means. “But they failed to crush the spirit of Kashmiris. Their resilience and courage remain unshaken,” he added.
“Through our cultural platforms, we are sending a clear message that the Kashmiri identity, history, and voice cannot be erased. Our artists, writers, poets, and youth are with Kashmir with their heart and soul.”
As part of these initiatives, the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan, will hold a special program to observe Youm-e-Istehsal on August 05.
The day’s schedule includes a photo exhibition and documentary screenings in the PNCA Main Lobby, followed by a puppet show in the auditorium.
These events aim to raise awareness about the illegal actions of August 05, 2019, and the continued human rights violations in IIOJK.

Experts call to break stigma around female drug addiction in Pakistan

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
Drug
By Ayesha Haroon
ISLAMABAD, Aug 3 (APP): In Pakistan, countless women struggle with drug addiction behind closed doors, their pain hidden by a wall of silence and stigma. Many suffer alone, too afraid to seek help for fear of judgment, shame, or rejection by their families and society.
 “It started quietly, I didn’t even realize when I lost control,” said one young woman in recovery, speaking anonymously from a rehab center. Health experts and social activists now warn that this growing crisis demands urgent attention and compassionate care before more lives are lost to neglect and shame.
Dr. Shamsher Hayat, a PhD, clinical psychologist and CEO of Hayat Rehab Clinic, told APPP that, “addiction among women is rising, yet most cases are reported anonymously. Families avoid bringing daughters or wives for treatment out of fear of judgment,” he said, noting a growing number of school and university girls falling into addiction due to peer pressure, neglect, or academic stress.
He described that addiction is often linked to deeper mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, and requires holistic care, detox, therapy, and emotional healing.
Dr. Shamsher Hayat explained that whether women are using cannabis, heroin, methamphetamine, amphetamines, prescription painkillers, or alcohol, substance abuse takes a serious toll, not just physically, but also on their emotional stability, mental health, behavior, and personal relationships.
The impact of female addiction reaches far beyond the individual, affecting children through emotional neglect and mental health struggles, burdening families emotionally and financially. Deep-rooted social stigma wrongly links addiction to moral failure, while gender-insensitive healthcare policies worsen the crisis. Overprescription and misleading media portrayals add to the problem.
Psychologist Zunaira Hamid explained to APP that women are more vulnerable to addiction due to emotional distress, hormonal imbalances, and trauma, often using substances to cope. She noted that addiction affects women differently, with hormonal cycles increasing relapse risk. Yet, most rehab centers lack programs tailored to women’s unique emotional and psychological needs delaying recovery.
Students are increasingly aware of the growing issue of female drug addiction.
Umaima Gull, a Computer Science student at Asia Pacific University, Malaysia, echoed this, saying she’s heard of many girls turning to marijuana and pills due to stress, personal struggles, or toxic friendships, yet stigma keeps them silent. In truth, female addiction is not a moral failure but a public health crisis. These women are not weak, they are often survivors of trauma, neglect, or untreated mental illness, and their silence is a response to a society that chooses judgment over empathy.
Ainabia Faisal, an A-Level student at Cedar College, Karachi, noted that while she hasn’t seen it directly at school, it’s clearly a rising problem in society, especially for girls who face harsher judgment. She cited peer pressure and trauma as major triggers.
In countries like Germany, Canada, and the UK, female addiction is treated as a health issue, not a moral failure. Women have access to gender-sensitive rehab centers that offer medical detox, trauma-informed therapy, childcare support, and long-term reintegration plans. Public health campaigns reduce stigma, while government-funded programs ensure no woman is denied help due to fear or finances. In contrast, Pakistani women face silence, shame, and scarce treatment options, pushed into hiding instead of healing.
Dr. Zainab, a psychiatrist specializing in addiction treatment, highlighted how societal attitudes often prevent women from seeking timely care. “Shame and fear push many women to hide their struggles until it’s too late,” she said. “The earlier the treatment begins, the smoother and faster the recovery process can be. We need to shift the narrative, addiction is a treatable condition, and women deserve support, not silence. Compassion, not condemnation.”
It’s time we stop whispering about women’s addiction and start speaking up. We need better rehab facilities, supportive families, public awareness campaigns, and healthcare policies that treat addicted women with the empathy, respect, and specialized care they deserve.
Because behind every addiction is a story, and behind every story is a woman who needs to be heard, not hidden.

Global outcry grows as India turns sport into a political weapon

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
By Hasnain Gardezi
ISLAMABAD, Aug 3 (APP): In a disturbing trend that has sparked condemnation worldwide, India’s increasing politicization of sport, particularly its boycott of Pakistan in major events like the recent World Champions League (WCL), has triggered alarm across the international sporting community. A platform once meant to unite is now being undermined by geopolitical posturing, drawing sharp criticism from athletes, officials, and fans, even within India.
Sport has historically offered a rare sanctuary from political hostility. From Ping Pong diplomacy between the U.S. and China to South Africa’s post-apartheid rugby victory, the playing field has often healed divisions. Cricket itself once helped thaw Indo-Pak tensions, as seen during the early 2000s tours.
That spirit now lies in ruins. The Indian legends’ boycott of the WCL match against Pakistan, under the pretext of Pahalgam attacks, led to the match’s cancellation, humiliating Indian cricket and frustrating global fans. Prominent Indian players like Shikhar Dhawan and Harbhajan Singh publicly refused to play, turning a game into a geopolitical statement.
Facing mounting global and domestic criticism, the Indian government has distanced itself from the decision, subtly shifting blame onto the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). By framing the boycott as a sporting rather than political choice, it attempts to shield itself from accountability, a move increasingly viewed as disingenuous by both local critics and international observers.
The backlash to India’s politicized boycott has been fierce and widespread, cutting across continents and cricketing loyalties.
Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram was among the first to denounce the move, saying, “Cricket should bring us closer, not push us apart.” Legendary West Indian fast bowler Michael Holding echoed the sentiment, warning that “players and fans deserve better than political games.”
From Australia, Pat Cummins raised concerns about the fairness of tournaments shaped by political interference, While Inzamam-ul-Haq and Saqlain Mushtaq urged international bodies to hold India accountable for undermining the spirit of global sport.
Joining this growing chorus, former England star Kevin Pietersen issued a blunt rebuke on social media: “Politics always destroys sport! ALWAYS!” — a message that resonated strongly across cricketing platforms already abuzz with discontent.
Australian great Ricky Ponting, reflecting on the increasingly politicized tone of India–Pakistan cricketing encounters, observed, “There’s more edge to these games… the build-up will be different than it is to any other game they play.” His comment highlighted how political pressure continues to distort what should be purely sporting rivalries.
Brett Lee called the India–Pakistan boycott a “tough situation,” urging mutual respect between the two nations. He stated, “We’re here for a tournament—we pushed for it.” Criticizing the last-minute withdrawal, he added, “If India didn’t want to play, they should’ve said so earlier. Practicing, then pulling out—that’s not right.”
Even within India, public figures, former cricketers, and journalists have criticized the boycott as a short-sighted move driven by domestic political compulsions. Social media has become a flashpoint, with hashtags like #CricketNotPolitics and #BoycottTheBoycott exposing the widening gulf between public sentiment and state policy.
As the chorus of condemnation grows louder, the credibility of Indian cricket, and the moral standing of its governing bodies, faces unprecedented scrutiny on the world stage.
International bodies are now under pressure to respond. The International Olympic Committee has previously penalized India for denying visas to Pakistani athletes. Analysts argue it’s time for the International Cricket Council (ICC) and others to enforce consistent standards. If India continues politicizing participation, global sanctions, including disqualifications or event hosting bans, must be seriously considered.
Sporting integrity cannot be selectively applied. No country, regardless of its influence, should be allowed to manipulate the rules without consequence.
India’s ongoing refusal to engage Pakistan, from match boycotts to lobbying against hosting rights, reveals a broader strategy of regional dominance through soft power. These acts deny athletes fair competition and erode the foundational values of international sport.
If India continues to use sport as a political weapon, then global bodies must act, not just in words, but through concrete measures. Fairness, respect, and inclusion must remain non-negotiable pillars of global sport.
The world is watching and the choice lies with India, to uphold the values that make sport a unifying force, or continue down a path of isolation and politicization. It is time to return sport to its rightful place , as a bridge, not a barrier.
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