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PFA discards 25kg unsafe spices, imposes fine over violations

By
Ali Ali
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0
MULTAN, Jun 18 (APP):The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) intensified its crackdown in south Punjab, penalising two food production units in Jehanian and Mian Channu for serious hygiene and safety violations.
Director Operations South Zubair Ahmed Ejaz led the inspection operations alongside food safety teams. The units, located in 3-Marla Scheme (Jehanian) and Small Industrial Estate (Mian Channu), were found guilty of using adulterated ingredients and violating food safety protocols.
During the inspections, authorities discovered that the production units were using low-quality ‘aam choor’ (dried mango powder) and starch to adulterate spices. Additionally, unhygienic practices were noted, including the use of chemical drums for storing water and food items, the use of unclean water during production, and raw materials stored directly on the floor.
The PFA teams immediately confiscated and destroyed 25 kilograms of unsafe spices on-site. Each production unit was fined Rs 150,000 for the violations.
Speaking on the matter, Director General PFA, Muhammad Asim Javed, said that every step of the food supply chain – from production to distribution was being monitored.

Alhamra pays tribute to Tariq Aziz on 5th death anniversary

By
Ali Ali
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0
LAHORE, Jun 18 (APP):The unforgettable voice of Pakistan’s cultural memory ‘Dekhtee Aankhon, Suntay Kaanon, Ko Tariq Aziz Ka Salaam Pohnche’ once again echoed through the halls of Alhamra as the Lahore Arts Council paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary host of Neelam Ghar and Bazm-e-Tariq Aziz.
The iconic show that ruled the golden era of Pakistani television found a solemn yet celebratory remembrance at Alhamra, marking the fifth death anniversary of Tariq Aziz, a towering figure in the nation’s media and cultural history.
The commemorative event was held at Alhamra Hall 3, drawing a large audience in honor of the man whose voice and charisma had become a symbol of national pride. The ceremony featured esteemed guests and industry legends, including Rashid Mahmood, Khalid Abbas Dar, Ashraf Khan, renowned singer Annie Tahira, and media personalities Naveed Raza and Jawad Waseem, who all shared cherished memories of working alongside the late icon.
Adding a deeply emotional note to the evening was the presence of Hajra Tariq Aziz, the widow of the beloved host, whose grace and dignity reminded attendees of the lasting legacy Tariq Aziz has left behind.
Alhamra Chairman Razi Ahmed remarked that Tariq Aziz’s voice didn’t just echo across television screens, it became the voice of a nation awakening to its cultural identity. Honoring him is to honor our own story.
Alhamra Executive Director Touqeer Haider Kazmi said that Alhamra stands as a canvas of memories, painted with the words, wit, and wisdom of Tariq Aziz. His name will forever be a chapter in the cultural soul of Pakistan.
The Lahore Arts Council continues its tradition of honoring national icons who have shaped Pakistan’s artistic and cultural identity. This tribute served not only as a memorial but as a celebration of the enduring spirit of Tariq Aziz, whose voice still resonates in the hearts of millions.

Delegation of Anjuman Imamia Asna Ashriya meets Hanif Abbasi

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 18 (APP):A delegation from Anjuman Imamia Asna Ashriya Rawalpindi Wednesday, met with the Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi here to discuss the arrangements for Muharram-ul-Haram 1447 AH and the challenges faced by mourners during religious processions and gatherings.
The delegation was led by President Syed Mushtaq Shah and included Syed Mujtaba Naqvi (General Secretary), Mohsin Bhatt (Vice President), Jaffar Bhatt (Finance Secretary), Syed Ali Naqvi (Joint Secretary) and Syed Ejaz Shah (Information Secretary).
During the meeting, various issues related to Muharram processions were discussed in detail, including administrative arrangements, obstructions along procession routes, shortage of drinking water, sanitation and security concerns.
The delegation apprised the minister that unnecessary blockades during processions and gatherings create significant hardship for participants.
In addition, water scarcity and lack of cleanliness in key areas remain pressing concerns.
Hanif Abbasi gave the delegation a patient hearing and immediately instructed the Commissioner of Rawalpindi to personally assess the situation and resolve the highlighted issues without delay.
“Ensuring the provision of clean water, sanitation, security and other essential facilities for mourners during Muharram is a top priority of the government. Clear directions have been issued to all concerned departments.”
At the end, the delegation expressed gratitude to the minister for his prompt action and personal commitment.
They also hoped for more improved and efficient arrangements during the upcoming Muharram.

Govt-universities collaboration to strengthen maritime education nationwide: Junaid Anwar Chaudhry

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 18 (APP):Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, has reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing marine education and fostering a maritime-oriented mindset, particularly among coastal communities in Pakistan.
This was discussed during a meeting with Vice Admiral (R) Asif Khaliq, Rector of Bahria University, who called on the Minister at his office on Wednesday.
During the meeting, the minister highlighted the vital role of Bahria University in strengthening Pakistan’s maritime sector through academic collaboration and technical support. He expressed his intent to benefit from the institution’s expertise in marine sciences and maritime education to build awareness and capacity at the grassroots level.
“Our goal is to promote inclusive development by enabling access to quality education for youth from over 70 coastal and fishing communities, especially in Sindh and Balochistan,” said the Minister. “This is essential for cultivating a skilled maritime workforce that will serve as a foundation for Pakistan’s blue economy.”
In line with this vision, the Minister announced the launch of the Maritime Educational Endowment Fund (MEEF), a new initiative aimed at providing scholarships to deserving and talented students from coastal regions. The fund is designed to remove financial barriers and empower the next generation of maritime professionals.
He noted that the creation of the MEEF is based on recommendations by the National Assembly Standing Committee on Maritime Affairs and reflects the government’s broader commitment to education-driven empowerment in marginalized coastal areas.
“The Maritime Educational Endowment Fund underscores our dedication to sustainable human capital development,” he stated. “By investing in coastal youth today, we are laying the foundation for a resilient and prosperous maritime sector tomorrow.”
Rector Bahria University, Vice Admiral (R) Asif Khaliq welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed the university’s support. He assured the Minister that Bahria University stands ready to extend full academic and technical assistance in implementing this vision, including curriculum development, training programs, and joint research.
The Minister expected that this collaboration will create long-term educational and economic opportunities for coastal communities while bolstering Pakistan’s maritime future through innovation, inclusion, and education.

PM forms committee to promote cashless economy, digitization

By
Najam ul Hassan
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 18 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday established a high-level committee to promote cashless economy and speed up the digitization.

The committee, chaired by the prime minister himself, will review the progress and initiatives related to the promotion of digitization and cashless economy on a weekly basis.

Chairing a meeting in this regard, the prime minister emphasized that digitization of the economy was among the government’s top reform priorities.

The prime minister directed to encourage the digital money transfers and digital payments through policy initiatives.

He pointed out that in the federal budget 2025-26, the government had proposed a number of initiatives for the promotion of cashless economy.

He told that the government was also taking steps to discourage the informal economy and to promote digital transactions for shopping and money transfers.

“During the holy month of Ramazan, the transfer of funds to rightful beneficiaries through digital wallets was ensured in a transparent, efficient, and effective manner,” the prime minister said.

He added that the use of digital wallets ensured that beneficiaries received their rightful assistance without any human interference, allowing for a transparent distribution of aid.

The prime minister highlighted that the inflation rate reduced and the foreign remittances increased due to improvement in the country’s economy.

“Bullish trend in the stock market reflects the investors’ trust over the government policies,” the prime minister said adding that by the grace of Allah Almighty, the government’s economic teams’ efforts were yielding fruits.

During the briefing, the meeting was informed that the traders were given instructions regarding digital payments and transfers of money through digital means.

The meeting was also briefed on the initiatives regarding the ministries of Finance and Information Technology.

Federal Ministers Muhammad Aurangzeb, Ahad Khan Cheema, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, Chairman Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and other high officials attended the meeting.

Govt unveils draft National Tariff Policy 2025–30

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 18 (APP):The Government of Pakistan unveiled the draft National Tariff Policy (NTP) 2025–30 during the National Regulatory Reforms Conference organized by the Board of Investment (BoI).
The conference, aimed at advancing regulatory simplification and industrial competitiveness, brought together federal ministers, diplomats, and private sector representatives for a strategic dialogue on Pakistan’s economic direction.
Mr. Rana Ihsaan Afzal, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce, represented the Ministry of Commerce and delivered the keynote address on the Minister’s behalf.
In his speech, Mr. Afzal underscored the government’s strong commitment to rationalizing Pakistan’s tariff regime, simplifying business processes, and fostering export-led growth. He stated:
“The National Tariff Policy 2025–30 is designed to create a predictable, transparent, and investment-friendly tariff structure. By facilitating duty-free access to raw materials, phasing out Additional Customs Duties (ACDs) and Regulatory Duties (RDs), and supporting nascent and green industries, this policy paves the way for innovation, employment generation, and sustained economic growth.”
The NTP 2025–30 outlines ambitious reform goals, including the phasing out of ACDs in four years, elimination of RDs and the 5th Schedule within five years, and the establishment of a simplified four-slab Customs Duty structure (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%). The policy aims to benefit key sectors including textiles, engineering, pharmaceuticals, and IT, while encouraging investment and reducing production costs across the board.
Rana Afzal highlighted that the implementation will begin with the reduction of tariffs on approximately 7,000 tariff lines, largely focused on raw materials and intermediate goods, yielding an estimated Rs. 200 billion in benefits to trade and industry.
“These reforms will enable Pakistan’s industries to scale, compete globally, and shift towards higher value-added exports,” he said. “With these changes, we anticipate not just stronger GDP growth, but also increased employment, improved industrial productivity, and enhanced investor confidence.”
The conference was also attended by Federal Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar, Federal Minister for the Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, senior officials, diplomats, and leading figures from the private sector.
Participants lauded the government’s efforts to streamline regulation and modernize trade facilitation, calling the draft policy a significant step toward Pakistan’s long-term economic transformation.
The event served as a key milestone in the government’s broader reform agenda, aligning with Pakistan’s vision for sustainable development, industrial competitiveness, and global economic integration.

Shipping Activity at Port Qasim

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
KARACHI, Jun 18 (APP):Three ships, GFS Prime, SC Ocean LXI and Obsession scheduled to load/offload Container, Furnace oil, and Coal, berthed at Qasim International Container Terminal, FOTCO oil Terminal and Marginal Wharf-4 Terminal respectively on Tuesday.
Meanwhile two more ships, Twerk and Unicorn with Mogas and Coal are also arrive at outer anchorage during last 24 hours.
Five ships were engaged at PQA berths during the last 24 hours, out of them two ships, GFS Prime and Hafnia Tanzanite are left the port on today morning.
Cargo volume of 105,585 tonnes, comprising 50,586 tonnes imports cargo and 54,999 export cargo carried in 3,440 Containers (1,248 TEUs Imports & 2,192 TEUs Export) was handled at the port during last 24 hours.
Eight ships at Outer Anchorage of Port Qasim, out of them two ships, M Bright and Damsgaard & two more ships, Lebrethah and Hansa Africa carrying Palm oil, Chemicals, LNG and Container are expected to take berths at LCT, EVTL, EETL and QICT respectively on Wednesday.

Kerb currency market

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
KARACHI, Jun 18 (APP):Following were the Opening Rates of foreign currencies in kerb market issued by the Exchange companies Association of Pakistan, here on Wednesday.
F.C.                              BUYING        SELLING
INTER BANK                  283.55          283.60
USD                              283.80         285.40
EURO                            326.40         328.00
GBP                              381.50         384.00
JPY                                 1.94             1.99
AED                               77.30           77.80
SAR                               75.50           76.00

Goji berries symbol of Ningxia, key industry supporting local economy

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
YINCHUAN, Jun 18 (APP):Helan County in Yinchuan, located within China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, is well-known for producing high-quality goji berries, also called wolfberries.
The favorable climate and environment in this region contribute to the superior quality and rich nutritional content of the berries grown here.
Ningxia’s goji berries hold a special status — they are the only ones approved for medicinal use in the Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China, and are recognized under the China-EU agreement for mutual protection of geographical indications.
The berries — including their fruit, leaves, seeds, and buds — have been extensively researched and processed into various products for both domestic and international markets. Today, goji berries are not only a signature symbol of Ningxia but also a key industry supporting the local economy.
Traditionally used in Chinese medicine for centuries, goji berries have become increasingly popular in countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, the United States, Australia, and across Southeast Asia. Ningxia is China’s leading region in terms of both goji berry export volume and value, enjoying a strong international reputation.
The berries are prized for their health benefits, such as supporting liver health, improving vision, and enhancing vitality. The growing variety and quality of goji berry-based products — including foods, beverages, medicines, and cosmetics — have helped boost Ningxia’s presence in global markets. More than 120 such products are currently exported to over 50 countries and regions.
Tourism is also playing a role in the expansion of the goji berry sector, as many visitors purchase the berries as gifts or souvenirs. To support the industry, Ningxia has established a national research institute and a testing and inspection center to enhance product quality and drive innovation.
Looking ahead, Ningxia aims to expand its goji berry planting area to approximately 46,667 hectares by the end of 2025, targeting an annual yield of 700,000 tons and an industry value surpassing 50 billion yuan (about $8 billion). According to the region’s goji berry development roadmap, the industry’s total output value is projected to hit 100 billion yuan by 2030 — reinforcing Ningxia’s identity as the true “hometown of goji berries” and driving local economic progress.

Two bogies derailed due bomb explosion on railway track

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
JACOBABAD, Jun 18 (APP):Two bogies of Jaffar express here on Wednesday derailed due  bomb blast at railway track, no loss of lives has been reported in the incident.
SSP Jacobabad, Saddam Hussein Khaskhaili  talking to media persons said that the incident happened due to bomb explosion, adding all the passenger remained safe.
Bomb Disposal squad had been reached on the occasion, he said adding complete security had been ensured for the passengers.
The SSP said Security persons were busy to collect the evidences.
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