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Youth delegation visits Parliament, praises Minister’s advocacy

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NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP): A delegation of the Youth Alliance for Peace and Development visited the National Assembly of Pakistan, Parliament House, with Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Tribal Affairs and Member of National Assembly (MNA) and Minister of State, Mubarak Zeb Khan.

In a statement issued here on Wednesday, the delegation paid tribute to the Minister of State for his unwavering support for the youth, especially those of Khyber Pakhtunkhaw.

They also praised the Member of the National Assembly for raising his voice strongly on the urgent issues and unpleasant situation in Bajaur.

Planning Ministry rolls out 286 projects under ‘URAAN Pakistan’ Initiative

By
Samina Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP):Member of Planning Commission and Vice Chancellor of Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) Dr Muhammad Nadeem Javaid said the Ministry of Planning has so far rolled out 286 projects under the ‘URAAN Pakistan’ Initiative aimed at transforming the country into a $1 trillion economy by 2035 and a $3 trillion economy by 2047.
The projects have been formulated at the federal level under the 5Es Framework and were complemented by parallel initiatives from provincial departments, he told Wealth Pakistan.
The programme seeks to align national development priorities with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while strategically mobilizing resources from both the public and private sectors.
He said the initiative has moved from the conceptual stage to the initial implementation phase, with multiple interventions designed to activate the framework’s key growth drivers.
He said right now, things were being rolled out, adding many projects have been conceived, and provincial governments are actively involved.
Dr Nadeem said the projects span diverse sectors, including infrastructure, human capital development, agriculture, and technological innovation.
He said federal and provincial governments were working in coordination to ensure interventions are targeted, scalable and capable of delivering measurable outcomes.
He emphasized that although the government was playing a facilitating role in launching these interventions, the private sector’s participation will be crucial for their long-term success.
He stressed the role of the private sector was much more important than that of the government. For the private sector, macroeconomic stability and policy continuity are essential.
The 5Es Framework, which is central to the URAAN Pakistan initiative, focuses on five strategic drivers to foster inclusive growth, innovation and resilience.
By integrating these drivers with the SDGs, the government aims to create a development roadmap that addresses both immediate national priorities and long-term global commitments.
Dr Nadeem highlighted that small but targeted interventions were being prioritized to catalyze broader structural transformation.
These efforts are aimed at building momentum, attracting investment, and strengthening institutional capacity.
He suggested that a strong emphasis on public-private partnerships, coupled with policy stability, could significantly boost investor confidence and accelerate development.
He maintained that the initiative is not just a policy document, but a practical plan that is already being implemented.
The federal government has unveiled the Rs17 trillion URAAN Pakistan five-year development plan, which is aimed at achieving economic self-sufficiency.
The federal share will be Rs7 trillion, while the provinces will contribute Rs10 trillion.
For FY2025–26, the development budget is set at Rs4.2 trillion, including Rs1 trillion under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP).

12,000 trees planted to mark Independence Day

By
Samina Ch
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FAISALABAD, Aug 13 (APP):More than 12,000 saplings were planted on retrieved land near Roshanwala Bypass to mark the Independence Day and Maarka-e-Haq celebrations, here on Wednesday.
 The district government organised a ceremony at Roshanwala Bypass where Brigadier Iftikhar, Lieutenant Colonel Adeel and Deputy Commissioner (DC) Capt (retd) Nadeem Nasser jointly unfurled the national flag and inaugurated the tree plantation drive by planting saplings with their own hands.
Conservator Forest Shaukat Ali Khan, Divisional Forest Officer Ansar Rasool, Assistant Commissioner Saddar Dr. Zulqarnain and others also participated in the activity.
Speaking on the occasion, DC Nadeem Nasir said that the local administration had retrieved the10 acres of state land in Chak No.242-RB Dasoha and this land was designated as a forest park named “Marka-e-Haq”.
He said that more than 12,000 saplings were planted at this park whereas more than 20,000 saplings have so far been planted across the district during current plantation drive.
He said that district administration is committed to safeguarding state land and green spaces. No one would be allowed to illegally occupy even an inch of public land, he added.
He said that tree plantation drive would help to beautify the environment, purify the air and raise awareness among citizens about the importance of trees.
Trees are a valuable asset and it would benefit our future generations, he added.
He urged the citizens to actively participate in the plantation drive by planting at least one sapling as a gesture of love for the homeland.
He also stressed that the celebrations would be made memorable through such environment-friendly activities.
He also paid tribute to the Pak army and said that it had foiled nefarious designs of India and Israel.
The government and private institutions across the district are actively taking part in the campaign, making it a key highlight of this year’s Independence Day festivities, he added.

Junaid Buland vows to equip 80% of Sindh’s Youth with Skills

By
Samina Ch
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HYDERABAD, Aug 13 (APP):The Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Sindh for Skills Development and Chairperson of the Sindh Technical and Vocational Training Authority (STEVTA) Junaid Buland has said that the daughters and youth of Pakistan are our most valuable asset.
“Our target is to provide skills to 80% of the province’s youth, enabling them to achieve financial stability,” he stated while addressing a ceremony marking the 78th Independence Day.
He said that this freedom was the result of the sacrifices of our elders, and to preserve it, we must keep alive the tradition of unity, hard work and sacrifice. Paying tribute to the armed forces guarding the country’s borders, he said their sacrifices ensure our peaceful lives.
Junaid Buland added that his inspiration to love the poor and respect hardworking people comes from Quaid Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. He further said that the process of learning should never stop, and in line with this belief, STEVTA was emphasizing not only vocational training but also soft skills development across the province.
The STEVTA Chairperson said, “Our aim is for talented students to step forward, become empowered, and further strengthen STEVTA, and hopefully we would lead the institution towards the path of success”.
During the event, Junaid Buland inaugurated a new computer lab and visited the display center, beautician and garments sections. For the first time, 200 modern computers have been provided to various polytechnic and technical institutes across Sindh. In collaboration with the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Human Resource Research and Development Board and NAVTTC, six-month short courses are underway, with 30 female students per course receiving regular training.
Talking to the media, Junaid Buland said, “Despite limited resources, we are providing the best possible facilities in all technical centers across the province. Empowering girls with skills is our mission.”

PHA finalises Independence Day preparations

By
Samina Ch
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SARGODHA, Aug 13 (APP):Under the auspices of the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) Sargodha, preparations for the Independence Day and ‘Maaraka-e-Haq’ celebrations have been finalised.
Media Consultant PHA Shafqat Awan said the event would blend cultural pride, national unity, and public participation. The central ceremony is scheduled for August 13 at 8pm in the lush green lawns of the PHA office.
The programme will feature a musical show enriched with national songs, a vibrant fireworks display, and a special segment honouring the Pakistan armed forces for their success in ‘Operation Banyanum Marsoos’. It will also highlight the objectives of Pakistan’s creation, with a particular focus on educating the younger generation about the sacrifices and aspirations that shaped the nation.
At midnight, as the clock strikes August 14, the night sky will light up with fireworks, accompanied by heartfelt tributes to the nation’s martyrs, marking an emotional and memorable start to Independence Day celebrations.
Director General PHA Muhammad Arshad Chaudhry said the initiative reflects a commendable effort to combine civic engagement, cultural heritage, and national pride in one event. “Such activities go beyond celebration; they strengthen social cohesion, beautify the city, and serve as a bridge between the government and the people,” he added.

SC branch recuses itself from Bahria Town Property Auction Case

By
Samina Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP):A three-member bench of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, headed by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, has recused itself from hearing the ongoing Bahria Town property auction case.
The bench, comprising Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Shafi Siddiqui, and Justice Mian Gul Hassan Aurangzeb, was scheduled to hear petitions against the auction on Wednesday. During the proceedings, Bahria Town’s counsel, Farooq H. Naek, appeared before the court. However, the bench declined to hear the case, with the Chief Justice remarking that it would be more appropriate for the matter to be heard by the original bench.
Counsel for Bahria Town noted that the Islamabad High Court’s detailed verdict had also been issued and informed the court of his intention to submit further arguments based on that decision. Granting permission to file additional submissions, the Supreme Court referred the case back to the previous bench.
Subsequently, the hearing was adjourned indefinitely.

Pakistan ports to embrace AI by August 14: Maritime Minister

By
Samina Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP):Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, on Wednesday, said that significant strides are being made to modernize and streamline Pakistan’s port operations through digitalization, transparency, and innovation — including the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by August 14.
During the question-hour in National Assembly, Chaudhry dismissed claims of inefficiency in port operations, emphasizing that Pakistan’s ports are facilitators of cargo, not producers of industrial output. He said the performance of ports is directly linked to the volume of industrial activity and trade in the country.
“Despite challenges and underutilization concerns, our ports generated a record profit of Rs 109.7 billion. This speaks for itself,” he stated.
The minister announced that Pakistan’s ports are being fully digitalized, and a new Artificial Intelligence-based system (AIMS) will be introduced on August 14, making the Ministry for Maritime Affairs the first federal ministry to integrate AI at the operational level.
“With the Prime Minister’s policy on AI now in place, we’re taking the lead to make our ports more efficient, transparent, and future-ready,” he said.
Chaudhry also shared that the Port Community System and Pakistan Single Window are being implemented to address long-standing concerns related to customs delays, leakages, and port inefficiencies.
Responding to concerns over port-related thefts, the minister said his ministry is working closely with FBR and Pakistan Customs to ensure tighter controls, smoother clearance processes, and integrated policy implementation.
“We’re not only receiving guidance from relevant authorities but also extending our support to them,” he added.
Regarding the bunkering system, the minister welcomed suggestions from the honorable member and confirmed that we are working on a bunkering policy that would be announced soon. The initiative aims to encourage international participation and investment in Pakistan’s maritime fuel supply chain.
Chaudhry reiterated his ministry’s commitment to accountability and progress, expressing gratitude for the appreciation shown by parliamentarians on the improvements made over the past few months.

HEC initiates governance study of 46 Pakistani universities including IUB

By
Samina Ch
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BAHAWALPUR, Aug 13 (APP):The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has commissioned the Institute of Management Sciences (IM Sciences) and International Consulting Associates (Pvt) Ltd (iConsult) to conduct a comprehensive study of governance systems across 46 higher education institutions in Pakistan.
The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (IUB) is among the institutions selected to participate in this initiative. As part of the study, a dedicated review panel is touring IUB to assess governance practices and institutional effectiveness. The visit began with a meeting between the panel and Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kamran, during which key governance priorities and issues were discussed.
Over the two-day visit, the panel will engage with senior university leadership and a broad cross-section of the campus community. Meetings are planned with Director Business Incubation Centre and Dean Faculty of Management Sciences and Commerce, Prof. Dr. Jawad Iqbal, Director Students Affairs and Dean Faculty of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Prof. Dr. Abdul Rauf, Registrar Muhammad Shaji ur Rehman, Treasurer Sheikh Tariq Mahmood, Controller Examinations Syeda Zuriat ul-Zahra, Director ORIC Prof. Dr. Muhammad Atif, Director Board of Studies and Research Prof. Dr. Asif Naveed Ranjha, Career Development Centre, Deans, Chairpersons, faculty members, and students.
The panel’s findings will inform recommendations to strengthen governance practices, strategic planning, financial oversight, human resources management, and research stewardship across IUB and the participating institutions.

Pakistan’s economy accelerates with robust reforms, enhanced export and global confidence; says Finance Minister

By
Samina Ch
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Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, presenting the Federal Budget 2025-26 in the National Assembly
RAWALPINDI, Aug 13 (APP):Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Muhammad Aurangzeb affirmed that the government, under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, is prioritizing a business-friendly environment.
 He said that robust economic reforms introduced by the government has achieved global confidence and enhanced exports.
Addressing the business community on “Independence Day Celebrations”, at Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) here on Wednesday, the minister he noted that consumer confidence is at its peak, economic growth is at record levels, and privatization of state-owned enterprises will accelerate this year. He highlighted record-high foreign exchange reserves, an improved domestic business climate, and called for unity to move the country forward.
The Minister extended advance Independence Day greetings, emphasizing that faith, national unity, security, and economic stability are inseparable.
“Over the past 18 months, significant steps have been taken to boost revenue, stabilize the rupee, and reduce the policy rate”, he said adding agricultural loans have surpassed Rs. 2.5 trillion, debt servicing reached Rs.1.0 trillion last year, and debt has increased by 41% with private sector lending at 38%.
He highlighted strong stock market performance driven by new investors, ongoing rightsizing in 45 ministries and over 400 departments, pension reforms, and initiatives to lower electricity prices. “The Prime Minister is personally overseeing FBR transformation meetings, ensuring no extra tax burden on salaried individuals, while working to close loopholes and broaden the tax base”, he added.
The minister also shared that international financial institutions and rating agencies have acknowledged Pakistan’s reforms.
“A tariff agreement with the U.S. has been reached, discussions with the IMF are underway, and after 2.5 years, USD 1.0 billion in Middle Eastern investment has been secured”, he said
The Finance Minister expressed optimism for the future, stating that the economy has stabilized, interest rates have been significantly reduced and there is room for further cuts with another reduction expected soon.
RCCI marked Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day with a flag hoisting ceremony and “Marka e Haq” celebrations. The event also featured the cutting of an Independence Day cake.
RCCI President Usman Shaukat, Senior Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Fahad Barlas, former presidents, executive committee members, representatives from trade associations, and a large number of chamber members received the minister upon his arrival at the chamber house.
Additional Director General ML&C Rana Manzoor Ahmad, Chairman of Tehreek-e-Naujawanan Pakistan Abdullah Gul, and other dignitaries were also present. A documentary highlighting the Chamber’s ongoing initiatives was screened.
In his address, RCCI President Usman Shaukat thanked the Finance Minister for his presence and lauded Pakistan’s journey of resilience, sacrifice, and hope over the past 78 years. He saluted the armed forces for their recent victory in Marka-e-Haq. Highlighting recent improvements in economic indicators, he urged the government to further lower interest rates to single digits, reduce electricity and gas tariffs, and cut tax rates to stimulate business activity and job creation.

State-of-the-art upgraded Karachi station set to be inaugurated on September 10: Minister

By
Samina Ch
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Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi is talking to the guest of honor at the Press Club
APP13-270725 LAHORE: July 27 - Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi is talking to the guest of honor at the Press Club. APP/AMI/TZD/FHA
ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 (APP):Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, on Wednesday highlighting a comprehensive roadmap to revamp Pakistan Railways saying that transformational progress is already underway despite limited resources.
Responding legislator’s queries during the National Assembly’s question-hour session, he stated that passenger amenities have been substantially upgraded at major stations—Rawalpindi City, Cantt, Raiwind, Khanewal, and Multan—now aligned with modern standards for cleanliness, restroom facilities, and waiting areas.
He added that a state-of-the-art upgraded station is set to be inaugurated in Karachi on September 10, modeled after recent upgrades in Lahore. Stations in Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Faisalabad will follow suit on September 30, with full transformation of all major stations by December 31, 2025, and all smaller stations by June 2026.
“We are committed to offering international-standard services to every class of passenger – economy, business, and VIP – and I guarantee the facilities will match those seen in developed countries,” Abbasi stated.
Responding to queries about freight services, the minister highlighted that despite a shortage of rolling stock and wagons, Pakistan Railways managed to operate an efficient nationwide cargo network originating from Sindh, generating significant revenue in the past year. “Freight is the backbone of rail systems worldwide. We’re now moving toward a turnaround in this segment as well,” he affirmed.
Abbasi further said that the Narowal section has resumed operations after a 12-year hiatus, and the Musa Pak Express has been revived from Multan. Collaborations with the Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan governments are underway to uplift and restore further routes. “We’re working on agreements with Sindh to restore discontinued routes, and discussions are ongoing with CM Sindh this month. Similar cooperation with Balochistan has enabled a 50km uplift from Sheikh Zaid to Kuchlak,” he said.
When he assumed office, Abbasi said, he focused on three key service areas: punctuality, cleanliness, and food quality. These efforts have yielded measurable improvements, with punctuality now reaching up 90 to 95 percent on certain routes such as Lahore–Rawalpindi.
Addressing a question on mass transit, the minister clarified that Pakistan Railways is not directly involved in projects like the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) or Lahore Metro, as such initiatives now fall under provincial jurisdiction post-18th Amendment. However, the ministry is available to extend technical support when requested.
In a landmark development, Abbasi highlighted progress on the transnational rail link from Kohat to Mazar-i-Sharif via Kharlachi. The project, part of the regional connectivity initiative envisioned during the PDM government, has seen diplomatic and technical advancements, including a trilateral signing ceremony in Kabul with Afghan and Uzbek counterparts.
“The 850-km link to Central Asia, with an existing 75-km track inside Uzbekistan, will be a game-changer. A feasibility study will be completed by December 31 this year,” he announced. “We’ve already allocated $5 million, matched by Uzbekistan, while Afghanistan has assured full security for the route.”
Abbasi revealed that the Karachi–Rohri section (480 km) is nearing final agreement with a financial institution, while Lahore–Rawalpindi (also part of ML-1) has received a Rs 250 billion allocation in Punjab’s budget. “The groundwork for Karachi–Rohri and Lahore–Rawalpindi is expected to begin next year,” he added, noting that negotiations for the remaining segments are ongoing with multiple stakeholders.
He said that the most modern station in the 77-year history of Pakistan Railways will be inaugurated in Karachi on September 10.
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