ISLAMABAD: December 12 –
ISLAMABAD: December 12 – Workers busy stacking wood onto a tall woodpile at a worksite in the Federal Capital. APP/SAK/MAF/FHA
Elderly workers cut wood into pieces at their workplace in the Federal Capital, preparing it for sale.
ISLAMABAD: December 12 –
ISLAMABAD: December 12 – Workers busy stacking wood onto a tall woodpile at a worksite in the Federal Capital. APP/SAK/MAF/FHA
Standard Chartered Bank Board calls on Finance Minister
ISLAMABAD, Dec 12 (APP):A delegation comprising Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan Board led by Christopher Parsons, Chairman of the Board and Senior Executive Officer, DIFC & ADGM, along with senior members of the bank’s board and management Friday met with Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb.
The delegation noted that the board was convening in Islamabad after a considerable period and shared positive feedback from its engagements with international financial institutions and market participants regarding Pakistan’s improving economic outlook, said a press release.
The minister expressed appreciation for Standard Chartered’s continued support to Pakistan, particularly during the negotiation and implementation of the Extended Fund Facility, noting that the bank’s engagement played a constructive role in strengthening market confidence and supporting external financing.
He briefed the delegation on the Government’s reform priorities, emphasizing the importance of sustaining macroeconomic stability and converting it into investment-led and export-oriented growth.
The meeting focused on key areas of collaboration, including privatization, foreign direct investment and access to international capital markets. The minister highlighted the government’s renewed push on privatization, underscoring the need for credible sell-side advisory support to accelerate transactions and attract quality investors.
He also outlined efforts to diversify financing sources through capital market instruments, including progress on a potential Panda bond issuance and steps to refresh Pakistan’s Global Medium Term Note program.
The delegation conveyed that Pakistan remains a priority market for Standard Chartered and expressed readiness to support the government’s agenda through advisory services, syndications and by connecting Pakistan with investor pools, particularly in the GCC and other international markets.
Interest was also expressed in supporting investment inflows linked to major projects and sectors with strong growth potential.
The minister further shared that the government is addressing key constraints to investment, including taxation and energy sector challenges, while advancing institutional reforms to strengthen economic policy-making. Both sides agreed to maintain close engagement to support Pakistan’s reform momentum, enhance investor confidence and promote sustainable economic growth.
SAPM Haroon chairs meeting with SME clusters, discusses sectoral challenges
ISLAMABAD, Dec 12 (APP):Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan on Friday chaired a meeting with representatives of the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) clusters and discussed major challenges faced by the industrial sectors, particularly the cutlery industry.
Representatives of SMEs cluster from Gujranwala, Gujrat, and Wazirabad briefed the SAPM on the severe shortage of high-quality raw material being faced by the cutlery sector, said a news release.
SAPM Haroon urged the State Bank of Pakistan to provide working capital facilities to SMEs, including special support for the cutlery sector. He further emphasized that issues related to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and other relevant departments must be resolved on a priority basis to ensure smooth operations of SME clusters.
He stressed that all government institutions must extend support to SME clusters in strengthening research, innovation, and market competitiveness. He directed SMEDA to immediately take up the visa issues of SMEs with relevant embassies.
Haroon also instructed the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) to provide full facilitation for SMEs participating in international exhibitions.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting SMEs, the SAPM announced that SMEDA is organizing a national-level SME exhibition in line with the vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He urged all SMEs to participate actively in this major national event.
Earlier, the SMEs cluster representatives said despite possessing immense potential, the industry is unable to compete with China due to a continued reliance on handmade production and inadequate access to modern machinery.
They emphasized that the absence of advanced technology, research, and development remains a significant barrier to growth.
The Gujranwala Chamber informed that international exhibitions play a vital role in enhancing SME exports, but prolonged visa processes restrict SMEs from participating in global trade shows.
SME cluster representatives requested government support to resolve visa-related challenges that hinder international market access.
They requested strong cooperation from Pakistan’s commercial attachés abroad to enhance export opportunities.
The SAPM directed SMEDA to include the relevant commercial attachés in the committee to strengthen coordination and support for SMEs.
FJWU launches initiative to boost Digital Literacy and Reintegrate Out-of-School Children
RAWALPINDI, Dec 12 (APP):Fatima Jinnah Women University (FJWU), in collaboration with Helping Hand for Relief and Development (HHRD) and the Education Department, Government of Punjab, has officially inaugurated a landmark initiative titled “Enhancing Digital Literacy and Mainstreaming Out-of-School Children in Primary Schools.”
This pioneering project is designed to combat illiteracy by equipping community members with essential digital skills, creating supportive educational materials, and facilitating the reintegration of out-of-school children into the formal education system, said a press release issued here on Friday.
The pilot phase will be carried out in UC Ranyal, Rawalpindi, leveraging FJWU’s academic expertise and human resources through a robust Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
Addressing the ceremony as chief guest, Prof. Dr. Bushra Mirza (TI, Pride of Performance), Vice Chancellor FJWU emphasized the importance of inclusive education and the transformative role of digital literacy in empowering underserved communities.
This meaningful collaboration between FJWU, HHRD, and the Punjab Education Department reflects a shared commitment to advancing primary education, reducing educational disparities, and fostering digitally empowered communities.
Balochistan CM unveils sweeping healthcare reforms for healthy future
QUETTA, Dec 12 (APP): Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti reaffirmed his government’s commitment to reshaping Balochistan’s healthcare system, pledging a future that is strong, secure, fair and healthy for all citizens.
In his special message on International Universal Health Coverage Day here Friday, the chief minister underscored that access to quality healthcare is not a privilege but a fundamental human right and a core responsibility of the state.
“Medical facilities will be extended to every citizen, from urban centers to remote mountainous regions to ensure universal access”, he said, adding, for the first time several underserved areas in Balochistan are receiving basic health services—an achievement CM Bugti described as extraordinary and historic.
The chief minister reaffirmed that the modernized programs for mothers and children remain a top priority to safeguard future generations.
Under the comprehensive health reforms, the government hospitals are undergoing reforms to guarantee free, high-quality treatment for the poor and vulnerable.
CM Bugti emphasized that a strong health system acts as the ultimate protective shield during disasters and emergencies. He noted that current investments in healthcare are also investments in social stability and provincial prosperity.
“The positive results of these reforms are already becoming visible, and we are seeing a real transformation in the lives of our people,” he added.
The provincial government is fast-tracking policies to ensure equitable distribution of health resources. According to the Chief Minister, the structural changes initiated this year will lay the foundation for a resilient and self-reliant Balochistan in the years ahead.
NPDC’s delegation visits Parliament House
ISLAMABAD, Dec 12 (APP): A 27-member delegation of the 11th National Parliamentary Development Course (NPDC) visited the Parliament House, here on Friday where senior officers of the Senate Secretariat warmly welcomed the delegates.
During the visit, Director General Research and Coordination, Iffat Mustafa, gave briefing on “Custodians of Parliamentary Dignity, Institutional Image, Trust and the Role of Parliamentary Officers”, said a press release.
She highlighted that Parliament plays a central role in addressing public issues, formulating policies, and overseeing government affairs.
Speaking about the role of parliamentary officers, Iffat Mustafa emphasized that the parliamentary staff serves as the backbone of the institution. She noted that officers perform their duties with neutrality and within the rules and procedures, ensuring effective support to Parliament. She added that improved performance by officers not only strengthens Parliament but also benefits the nation as a whole.
She further stated that familiarizing NPDC participants with the parliamentary system, democratic norms and constitutional framework is of national importance, as informed and well-trained officers are essential for improving institutional efficiency.
The delegation later visited the Senate Museum, where they were briefed on the history of the Senate, the legislative journey, and its constitutional responsibilities. Participants also visited the Gali-e-Dastoor, where they were informed about Pakistan’s constitutional evolution and historic documents.
The delegation also visited the Senate Hall and received insights into the procedures, traditions, and conduct of the Upper House sessions.
Training workshop held for women farmers in organic waste management, kitchen gardening
RAWALPINDI, Dec 12 (APP):A training workshop for women farmers on organic waste management and kitchen gardening was held at the Government High School for Special Children, Hill Doulhoo, Murree, with technical and financial support from the Dr Akhtar Hameed Khan Memorial Trust (DAHKMT), the district administration said on Friday.
According to the organizers, the programme aimed to equip rural women with practical skills in home gardening, compost preparation and sustainable agricultural practices. More than 45 women farmers attended the workshop.
DAHKMT Chief Executive Officer and focal person Sameera Gul briefed the participants on converting dry leaves, vegetable peels and fruit waste into natural fertiliser, highlighting its low cost and health benefits.
Agriculture Officer (Extension) Kotli Sattian Quratulain delivered a detailed lecture on modern cultivation methods for winter vegetables and fruits suited to Murree’s climate and soil. Agriculture Officer (Extension) Murree Dr Suleman Haider Shah outlined the nutritional and economic value of produce grown through kitchen gardening, noting that home-based cultivation could promote healthier living and ease household expenses.
At the end of the session, the participants received winter vegetable seed kits, gardening tools, bags and informational material. They described the initiative as useful and timely, saying such programmes would strengthen rural households and promote healthy food production.
RTO Abbottabad seizes fully operational illegal cigarette manufacturing setup
ISLAMABAD, Dec 12 (APP):In a major crackdown on the illicit tobacco trade, the Regional Tax Office (RTO) Abbottabad has seized a fully operational illegal cigarette manufacturing setup.
The setup includes high-capacity MK-8 cigarette-making machines, a packing unit, stamping and bundle-making equipment, and substantial quantities of tow, packaging material, and non-duty-paid cigarettes, said a news release here on Friday.
The manufacturing facility was found running inside the hujra of a politically influential individual.
All machinery and illicit products have been confiscated, and legal proceedings have been initiated under the Federal Excise Act, 2005.
The successful enforcement action follows just a day after RTO Abbottabad intercepted 3,000 bales of raw tobacco in a separate intelligence-based operation, highlighting a coordinated and intensified crackdown against illegal tobacco manufacturing and smuggling in the region.
During the raid, enforcement teams discovered packaging materials belonging to Falcon Tobacco, which is already under investigation in a separate case being pursued by RTO Peshawar.
The presence of these materials indicates linkages within the broader illicit manufacturing and distribution network.
The seized MK-8 machines, known for their high-speed cigarette production capability, were found fully operational alongside auxiliary systems used for packing, stamping, and bundle preparation.
The recovery of large stocks of tow, paper, filters, and branded packaging material demonstrates the scale and sophistication of the illegal operation.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) reiterates its commitment to combating illicit tobacco trade, safeguarding government revenue, and enforcing strict compliance across the tobacco sector.
Work starts on Pakistani-Brazilian cows crossbreeding project to boost milk production
ISLAMABAD, Dec 12 (APP):Livestock Production Research Institute in Bahadur Nagar Okara is working on a project to introduce crossbreeding between low-potential Pakistani cow breeds and the high-yield Brazilian breed Girolando to boost milk and meat production in the country.
The project, with an estimated cost of Rs17.61 million, will be implemented over three years at the Livestock Production Research Institute in Okara.
“We have developed this project with the objective of bringing the lactation capabilities of Pakistani cows up to the international level,” said Livestock Production Research Institute Director Dr Maqsood Akhtar told Wealth Pakistan.
Pakistan’s cow population includes breeds such as Sahiwal, Cholistani, Dajal, Dhanni, Lohani, Bhagnari, Thari, Hissar, and Rojhan, along with a vast number of non-descript animals.
Dr Akhtar explained that indigenous and non-descript cattle exhibit very low productivity — averaging 2-4 liters of milk per day and 800-1,200 liters per lactation —compared to global crossbred averages of 2,500-3,000 liters per lactation.
Meat production is similarly inefficient, with carcass weights of 80-100kg, whereas improved crossbreds can reach 180-200kg.
“This underperformance has direct nutritional consequences. Pakistan’s per capita animal protein availability is just 18-20 grams per day, far below the international average,” he said.
The proposed project aims to address these deficiencies by introducing the Girolando breed, a dual-purpose cattle type from Brazil that produces 8-12 liters of milk per day, shows strong heat and disease tolerance, and yields A2 beta-casein milk, which is considered healthier for human consumption.
By crossbreeding Girolando with non-descript cattle, the project aims to achieve a 2-3-fold increase in milk production and a 40-50% improvement in meat output.
Beyond productivity gains, livestock experts believe the intervention will significantly raise farm incomes.
“Each upgraded cow is expected to generate an additional Rs225,000 annually through increased milk production and Rs60,000-70,000 through meat. This means a household with 2-3 animals could earn an extra Rs500,000-700,000 per year,” said Dr Abdul Mannan, a livestock researcher.
At the economic level, he said, the crossbreeding program offers strong returns on investment for smallholder farmers. “The expected additional income from just 2-3 crossbred cows can transform subsistence livestock production into a profitable enterprise.”
The project will also support climate resilience. By improving feed-conversion efficiency and reducing greenhouse-gas emissions per liter of milk by nearly 30%, the initiative ensures that productivity gains are achieved sustainably.
Meanwhile, the import of high-quality cattle from Brazil has already begun. “The import is part of the Green Pakistan Livestock Initiative (GPLI), which aims to enhance local livestock quality and productivity,” said Dr Muhammad Junaid, a consultant at the Federal Ministry of National Food Security and Research.
Talking to Wealth Pakistan, he said this step is intended to integrate Pakistani and Brazilian breeds in order to strengthen the genetic pool of local livestock.
He hoped that the cross-breeding would help improve the lactation potential of the non-descript cows that form about 45% of total cattle population in Pakistan.