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Wajiha Qamar to grace ‘National Peace Festival’ celebrating youth peacebuilders at NSU Islamabad

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP):The National Peace Festival 2025, a flagship event that highlights youth-led peacebuilding and civic engagement, will take place from June 18 to 20, 2025, at the Al-Mukhtar Auditorium, National Skills University, in Islamabad.
Organized by the Shaoor Foundation for Education and Awareness (SFEA) in collaboration with National Skills University Islamabad, the festival is supported by the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) and funded by the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) under the PACE Project.
Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, will grace the event as Chief Guest, acknowledging and encouraging the pivotal role youth play in building peace and preventing violent extremism across Pakistan.
The three-day festival is expected to gather students, faculty members, and peacebuilders from across the country, offering a dynamic platform for dialogue, creativity, and collaborative action. A special emphasis will be placed on the revival of Peace Societies in universities, empowering students to lead initiatives rooted in inclusion, interfaith harmony, and civic responsibility.
The festival will highlight key milestones achieved under the PACE Project, including the training of over 850 students and faculty in peacebuilding, dialogue facilitation, and conflict resolution.
The Unity in Diversity Campaign, led by student Peace Societies, has already engaged over 5,000 students through peace rallies, storytelling events, and interfaith dialogues across Pakistani campuses.
Key Highlights of the Festival include A Peace Forum and Leadership Dialogue, where university vice-chancellors and academic leaders will engage directly with youth to explore how peace education can be integrated into institutional policies.
Moreover, in the Experience Sharing by Peace Societies, student and faculty focal persons will present case studies and real-life impact stories from their campuses.
The Creative Competitions highlight peace, poetry slams, digital poster design, speech contests, and live painting, serving as artistic outlets for peaceful expression. Last but not least, the Music for Peace Performance & Awards Ceremony will conclude with a celebration of culture, youth, and unity.
Minister Wajiha Qamar’s presence reflects on the government’s commitment to supporting grassroots peace initiatives in the education sector. Her expected address will focus on fostering a safe, inclusive, and democratic environment within higher education institutions.
The National Peace Festival 2025 aims to deepen collaboration among students, educators, and policymakers, ensuring that youth remain at the center of Pakistan’s journey toward peace, tolerance, and national cohesion. With creative energy and institutional engagement, the festival promises to be a powerful display to the resilience and vision of Pakistan’s youth.

SP brief Parliamentary Secretary MNA Saba Sadiq about Eman Afroz murder case

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP):The Parliamentary Secretary for Ministry of Human Rights, MNA Saba Sadiq, was briefed on Wednesday about the brutal murder of a student, Eman Afroz, in Islamabad.
MNA Saba Sadiq was briefed by SP Sadar zone Kazam Naqvi that the suspect involved in the killing had been arrested after an investigation.
SP brief Parliamentary Secretary MNA Saba Sadiq about Eman Afroz murder case
According to SP Sadar Zone Kazam Naqvi, the suspect, Feroze, a resident of Jhang, was taken into custody after escaping from the place of incident.
The victim Eman Afroz, a 23-year-old student at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), was shot inside her private hostel room in Sector G-10/1.
SP Naqvi said the incident took place on April 19. The accused entered the hostel premises by climbing the wall with a weapon. Accused waited in the courtyard for about an hour before entering the room where Eman and three other girls were present. He threatened them and opened fire on Eman, causing serious injuries. She was taken to the hospital but could not survive.
The suspect fled the scene by jumping over the wall. A case was registered by Ramna police on the complaint of Eman’s brother. The police launched an investigation and later arrested the suspect. SP Naqvi also shared that the accused had a previous criminal record, including charges of rape and motorcycle theft.
Parliamentary Secretary for Human Rights MNA Saba Sadiq stressed that the incumbent government is having zero tolerance policy about such gruesome and violent incidents against innocent women.
During the briefing, SP Naqvi stated that the investigation was still underway and a complete challan would be submitted with evidence. MNA Saba Sadiq acknowledged the police’s efforts in this case and others, including the Sana Yousaf case.

Field Marshal Asim Munir receives warm welcome from overseas Pakistanis in Washington

By
NNPS Desk
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RAWALPINDI, Jun 17 (APP): Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), during his official visit to the United States, was warmly welcomed by a large gathering of overseas Pakistanis in Washington D.C., where he interacted with the community and received their strong support and appreciation.

Field Marshal Asim Munir receives warm welcome from overseas Pakistanis in Washington

According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the diaspora warmly appreciated the outstanding performance of the Armed Forces during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos/Marka-e-Haq, showcasing their bravery and professionalism.

During the interaction, the COAS expressed his deep appreciation for the vital and most significant role being played by overseas Pakistanis for being ambassadors of Pakistan.

He acknowledged their contributions to the Pakistan’s economy, and global reputation by contributing actively through remittances, investments and higher achievements in other domains.The overseas Pakistanis shared their experiences and suggestions with the Army Chief.

He emphasized the importance of engagement with the overseas Pakistanis, highlighting the need for continued collaboration and cooperation to address common challenges and promote cooperation.

The interaction concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment, as the COAS and the overseas Pakistanis pledged to work together towards a more secure, prosperous, and resilient Pakistan.

Ambassador of Spain called on Mohammad Ishaq Dar | Deputy Prime Minister

By
Maryam Zahra
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Tarar for institutional solution to challenges faced by media

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP): Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar said on Tuesday that media was fourth pillar of the state and the government intended an institutional solution to the challenges faced by the media.

During a meeting with a delegation of Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), he said the government was taking effective steps for protection, welfare and professional facilities of journalists.

The meeting discussed Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act ( PECA), elimination of newspapers not published regularly, payments to print media, Journalists Protection Commission and other important issues.

The minister said that PECA law provided protection to credible journalists.

Tarar said he believed in consultation and further improvement, suggestions about rules would be welcomed.

“We are ready to consult with journalist organizations on PECA law. Misunderstandings between journalists and the relevant ministry regarding PACA will be removed”, Attaullah Tarar remarked.

He informed the delegation that a committee has been established to eliminate newspapers not published regularly.

He assured that payments would be made to print media this year in the form of dues and said Journalists Protection Commission would start working soon.

The minister said that the main purpose of the PECA was to bring so-called and fake journalists, hiding in the guise of journalism under the ambit of the law.

The Federal Information Minister appreciated the role of the media in the national interest during recent Pak-India stand-off.

The media demonstrated a mature perspective in protecting national security and the state’s position., he added.

The Pakistani media played an effective role in disseminating accurate information and dispelling rumors, Attaullah Tarar said.

The message of national solidarity from the media in difficult circumstances was highly commendable, he added.

He said that freedom of the press was the crucial hallmark of a democratic system in the world.

The CPNE delegation appreciated the role of Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Public Relations Department of the Pakistan Army (ISPR) in providing timely and certified information.

The CPNE delegation acknowledged that Ministry of Information has ensured timely and authentic provision of information and kept the flow of information effective and coherent, which was commendable.

The CPNE delegation made suggestions regarding the protection of journalists, access to information and improvement of the professional environment of journalism.

The Federal Minister for Information assured to seriously consider the suggestions of the CPNE delegation.

“We will provide all possible cooperation to resolve the problems of journalists,” Attaullah Tarar assured.

He said the government will form a joint working group with media representatives and resolve the problems on priority basis.

Prime Minister’s Media Coordinator Badar Shahbaz Warraich and Principal Information Officer Mubashir Hassan were also present in the meeting.

Ch Tanveer arrested after bail denied by court

By
Ali Ali
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RAWALPINDI, Jun 17 (APP):Police arrested former Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) senator Chaudhry Tanveer from the Rawalpindi bench of the Lahore High Court (LHC) after bail was denied in the former MPA murder case.
According to the information, Justice Sadaqat Ali Khan on Tuesday rejected Chaudhry Tanveer’s bail plea, after which he was arrested from the premises of the court.
Chaudhry Tanveer had filed a pre-arrest bail application in the murder case of former MPA Chaudhry Adnan. Ch Tanveer is named in the murder case of Chaudhry Adnan.
It should be noted that former MPA Chaudhry Adnan was shot dead in Kachehri Chowk on February 12 last year. The heirs of the deceased had registered a case against the former senator.

Bill for establishing Pakistan Infrastructure Development Authority under review following Pak-PWD abolition

By
Ali Ali
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Hina Durrani
ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP):The bill regarding the establishment of the Pakistan Infrastructure Development Authority, intended to replace the Pakistan Public Works Department (Pak-PWD), is currently under review following the government’s order to abolish the Pak-PWD.
On June 4, 2024, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered the abolition of PWD owing to poor performance and widespread corruption.
According to an official document shared by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoIB), Federal Cabinet has approved abolishment of Pakistan Public Works Department (PWD) at a meeting of federal cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad.
Pakistan Infrastructure Development and Asset Management Authority will be created under a special Act to replace Pak-PWD.
Under the approved plan, Asset and Facility Management Company will be established to contintheaintenance and repair works assigned previously to the Pak PWD.
Its staff will be transferred to respective ministries after grading and Golden Handshake Scheme will also be implemented. All property records of the Pak-PWD will be computerized.
“Pakistan Infrastructure Development Company will be established to supervise federal development projects while all provincial development projects under supervision of the Federal Government will be handed over to the relevant provincial institutions,” the document added.
In an exclusive interveiw with APP, official spokesperson of Ministry of Housing and Works clarified that a final decision regarding the assets and buildings of the PWD (Public Works Department) couldn’t be made at this time.  A bill was still pending to establish a new authority called the Pakistan Infrastructure Development Authority. The bill was presented in the National Assembly and was then referred to the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Housing and Works, where it currently remained pending. Until a decision was made on this bill, no final determination could be made about the buildings and assets of the PWD.
She further informed, “However, these assets technically belong to the Ministry of Housing and Works. Even if a decision is made to dissolve the PWD completely and if a notification is issued for its full abolition, since the Ministry of Housing and Works still exist, it will remain the custodian of these assets and will be responsible for managing them.”
 “For now, no final decision has been made in this regard,” she added.
It is pertinent to mention here that Public Works Department which was established in 1854 during British India by Lord Dalhousie to oversee and implement construction projects in the region. After Pakistan came into being on 1947, This department was renamed Pakistan Public Works Department (PWD). The department operated under the Ministry of Housing and Works and at its peak employed around seven thousand personnel.

HRDN organizes youth training program for peace building, CVE strategies & online safety

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP):The Human Resource Development Network (HRDN) successfully conducted a comprehensive four-day youth training program in Mirpur Khas, Sindh under its flagship Youth Engagement and Resilience Initiative (YERI) Project, aiming to enhance the capacities of young individuals to prevent and counter violent extremism (PVE/CVE).
The training workshop provided opportunity to explore PVE and CVE Strategies focusing on building awareness around violent extremism, exploring its root causes and equipping youth with tools to become proactive peace ambassadors within their communities. Participants engaged in critical thinking exercises, discussions, and scenario-based learning tailored to their specific contexts, said a press release on Tuesday.
The workshop Enhanced Digital Literacy and Online Safety through the YERI E-Learning Platform. The training was dedicated to hands-on engagement with an innovative E-learning platform. This E-learning platform provided self-guided modules covering essential topics such as positive thinking, interfaith harmony, diversity and inclusion, responsible internet usage, and strategies for ensuring accuracy in online spaces.
Notably, the platform empowered users to report hate speech and other forms of violent content encountered online, aligning with international efforts to combat online hate speech and promoting a proactive approach to digital safety.
YERI is funded by the European Union and supported by the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
Dilip Kumar, a member of the Hindu community, stated that the training promoted interfaith and inter-religious harmony and he found such initiatives to be highly beneficial.
Shah Zaman, a teacher, stated that he learned various strategies to reduce terrorism and extremism, and he believes he can apply these teachings in his practical experience.
Asma Ejaz, Project Manager of YERI, stressed the urgent need to prevent and counter extremism, highlighting that Pakistan is ranked as the second-most terrorism-affected country in the world, according to the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2025.
The Human Resource Development Network (HRDN) is a membership-based network comprising national and international NGOs and individual professionals. Established to promote sustainable development, HRDN empowers its members by offering opportunities for capacity building, networking, and knowledge-sharing.

Muqam lauds pro-people budget, urges political unity

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP):Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Engineer Amir Muqam Tuesday praised the government for presenting a pro-people and balanced federal budget, despite facing serious economic challenges.
Speaking during the National Assembly’s budget debate, he emphasized the need for political maturity, unity and a rejection of divisive rhetoric.
Muqam commended the government’s targeted relief measures, particularly for employees and welcomed the increased allocation for defense, calling it essential to maintaining a strong and capable military. “Our armed forces have effectively responded to recent Indian aggression, demonstrating their readiness and resolve,” he said.
Highlighting the unity within the coalition government, the minister acknowledged the efforts of the economic team for incorporating parliamentary feedback and steering the country away from financial instability.
He also lauded PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for his effective diplomatic engagements during recent visits to Western nations, praising his efforts in representing Pakistan on the global stage.
Muqam called for resolving internal disagreements through dialogue rather than airing them in the media or the National Assembly.
He expressed concern over repeated calls from PTI for protests and armed marches toward Islamabad, saying, “Such threats undermine Pakistan’s democratic image and global standing. Responsible leadership does not glorify violence.”
Dispelling the impression in the lower house by some members that only 550 million has been allocated for KP, the minister said that several development projects have been included in the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), especially for the merged tribal districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
“From Chitral to D.I. Khan, development initiatives are underway,” he said, while calling for a fair and needs-based distribution of resources under the National Finance Commission (NFC) award.
Responding to misinformation about a 10% sales tax in the former FATA and PATA regions, Muqam clarified that the levy only applies to imported raw materials.
He reiterated his firm opposition to imposing taxes on the Malakand Division. “I had previously convinced former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to withdraw the tax. Today, thanks to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Rana Sanaullah, the exemption remains in place until 2025,” he added.
The minister warned against allowing any individual’s political ambitions to dictate the future of provinces like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. “Pakistan’s stability and progress can only be ensured through collective effort and national unity,” he added.

SC dismisses plea to allocate reserved seats to PTI for 39 MPs

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP):The Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court of Pakistan has rejected the request to enforce its decision regarding the allocation of seats to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for 39 members of the National Assembly.
During the hearing, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar remarked, “Has the Election Commission declared all 39 members as belonging to PTI?” Advocate Faisal Siddiqi argued that PTI was not allotted seats proportionally with respect to the 39 members.
The Director General (Law) of the Election Commission stated that seats would be allotted based on an overall formula. Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi questioned, “Have these seats already been allotted to others?” To this, the DG Law replied, “No, seats have not been given to anyone yet.”
Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail noted that based on the ratio of 80 seats, around 22 or 23 reserved seats should be allocated. Justice Mazhar further questioned, “If 39 members have been declared as part of PTI, then why haven’t the reserved seats been allocated according to that proportion?”
The Election Commission’s lawyer argued that Parliament had enacted a law stating that once a political affiliation is declared in the nomination papers, it cannot be changed. He added that the law was applied retrospectively, and a review petition on the matter is still pending.
Later, the Supreme Court’s constitutional bench formally dismissed the request to enforce its decision regarding the allocation of reserved seats to PTI for the 39 assembly members.
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