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Gold prices decrease by Rs.1,000 to Rs.361,300 per tola

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP):The price of 24 karat per tola gold decreased by Rs.1,000 and was traded at Rs.361,300 on Tuesday as compared to its sale at Rs.362,300 on the last trading day, All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewelers Association reported.
The prices of 10 grams of 24 karat also decreased by Rs.857 to Rs.309,756 from Rs.310,613 and for 10 grams of 22 Karat it came down by Rs.785 to Rs.283,953 from Rs. 284,738.
The rates of per tola and ten gram silver went up by Rs.69 and Rs.59 to Rs.3,856 and Rs.3,304 respectively.
The price of gold in the international market decreased by $16 to $3,398 from $3,414, whereas that of silver went up by $0.69 to $36.98, the Association reported.

DMCC signs strategic MoU with aqua-index to support first water-backed digital token

By
NNPS Desk
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0

DUBAI, Jun 17 (WAM/APP): DMCC, the leading international business district that drives the flow of global trade through Dubai, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with AQUA-INDEX, a global pioneer in water commodities trading.

This landmark collaboration supports AQUA-INDEX’s initiative to launch the world’s first digital asset token backed directly by freshwater resources, revolutionising how water is traded, valued, and managed globally.

The token – the first of its kind globally – is backed by verified, drinking-quality water stored in global reservoirs and will enable investors, hedgers, traders and the general public to trade, hold and take delivery of fresh water as a commodity. By combining financial innovation with water market expertise, the partnership offers a practical mechanism for unlocking new liquidity and transparency in global water supply chains.

Under the partnership, AQUA-INDEX will benefit from DMCC’s extensive global network, world-class services, advanced infrastructure, and leading commodity marketplace, facilitating the effective trading and investment in water assets. AQUA-INDEX will enhance the availability and exchange of knowledge around global water usage and pricing and provide access to essential trading and hedging products for DMCC and its member companies. DMCC will not directly own or manage the token itself.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, DMCC, said, “Nearly half the global population experiences water scarcity for at least part of the year, yet water remains the only critical resource without a mature, regulated market. We are proud to partner with AQUA-INDEX to drive a transparent, neutral, and legally coherent structure and marketplace for water to secure the future of a resource that has long been undervalued.

This is the next clear milestone in the formation of DMCC Water Centre, where we will not only bring the conversation of water to the forefront, but also attract the sector’s leading companies to create a global centre in Dubai for water innovation, security, sustainable best practice, knowledge and education, while ensuring that the world’s most transported commodity has the ability to reach water distressed areas.”

Yaacov Shirazi, Chairman and Founder of AQUA INDEX, said, “Pricing water by the value of its usage, standardisation of water by its mineral content and quality, and turning water to a new asset class for a financial trading, is a gamechanger in the world economy. It will establish new levels of water management which prevents scarcity, contamination, and lack of access.”

The announcement forms part of DMCC’s ongoing efforts to establish the DMCC Water Centre, a dedicated ecosystem for the global water industry that positions Dubai as a central, neutral hub for water trading and innovation. The Water Centre brings together WaterTech innovators, logistics providers and commodity traders under one platform.

KP to launch new education program “ILMpact” benefiting 80,000 students

By
Ali Ali
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0
PESHAWAR, Jun 17 (APP):The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is preparing to launch a new education initiative titled “ILMpact” that aims to improve access to quality education and reduce the number of out-of-school children across the province.
Provincial Minister for Education Faisal Khan Tarakai announced that the program will be officially inaugurated soon by Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur.
The ILMpact program is expected to benefit around 80,000 students in eight districts: Battagram, Mansehra, Swabi, Buner, Shangla, Khyber, Mohmand, and Dera Ismail Khan.
The initiative will focus on early childhood education (KG), as well as grades one and two, and will also target other primary classes.
Special attention will be given to children who have never enrolled in school or who dropped out, ensuring that they are brought back into the education system.
Speaking at a steering committee meeting for the program, Minister Tarakai highlighted that the project has been designed to provide not only access to education but also to improve its quality.
Thousands of teachers in the selected districts will receive modern training tailored to meet today’s educational needs. Master Trainers and Lead Master Trainers will be developed to support the initiative, and the training will be extended to all participating schools.
In addition to improving teaching standards, the program will strengthen the role of Parents-Teachers Councils (PTCs) and School Management Committees (SMCs).
Their capacity will be enhanced to ensure more effective school governance and community engagement.
The British Council has been selected as the lead partner for ILMpact, while various other partner organizations will implement the program at the district level. Work has already begun on developing training materials and teaching methodologies.
During the meeting, which was attended by Secretary Education Masood Ahmed, Special Secretary Education Khwaja Faheem Sajjad, MD Merged Areas Education Foundation Mian Ainullah, Additional Secretary Reforms Faiz Alam, and other senior officials and partner organizations, the minister directed the education department to support partners in obtaining the necessary NOCs so the program can be launched without delay.
Tarakai further instructed that the selection process for schools, both in morning and second shifts, be finalized quickly.
He emphasized the importance of sticking to the project timeline, minimizing unnecessary expenditures, and keeping the implementation teams small and efficient.
He also called for involving local leadership and communities in the initiative to ensure its long-term success and sustainability.
Officials from all partner organizations also met with the minister to brief him on their preparations and future plans under the ILMpact program.
The initiative is a major step by the provincial government toward ensuring inclusive and high-quality education for children in some of the most underserved regions of KP.

Rupee sheds 24 paisa against US Dollar

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP):The Rupee on Tuesday depreciated by 24 paisa against the US Dollar in the interbank trading and closed at Rs 283.41 against the previous day’s closing of Rs 283.17.
However, according to the Forex Association of Pakistan (FAP), the buying and selling rates of the dollar in the open market stood at Rs 283.25 and Rs 285.45 respectively.
The price of the Euro decreased by Rs0.37 to close at Rs 327.48 against the last day’s closing of Rs 327.85, according to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
The Japanese yen came down by 01 paisa and closed at Rs1.95, whereas a decrease of Rs 0.21 was witnessed in the exchange rate of the British Pound, which was traded at Rs 384.39 as compared to the last day’s closing of Rs 384.60.
The exchange rates of the Emirates Dirham and the Saudi Riyal increased by 06 and 08 paisa to close at Rs 77.17 and Rs 75.53, respectively.

Noor, Nasir start their Asian Individual C’ships campaign with impressive wins

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP): Talented Pakistani players, Noor Zaman and Nasir Iqbal, kicked off their campaign at the 23rd Asian Individual Championships in Sarawak, Malaysia, with impressive wins.

Noor Zaman dominated Aaron-Jon Widjaja Liang of Singapore, while Nasir Iqbal outclassed Jaejin Yoo of Korea, said a press release.

Both matches were won quite easily, showcasing the skill and determination of our players!

Nasir Iqbal beat Jaejin Yoo (Korea) by 3-0 (11-5, 11-2, 11-4) while Noor Zaman defeated Aaron-Jon Widjaja Liang (Singapore) by 3-1 (11-7, 6-11, 11-6, 11-3).

Both the players will face their Round 3 matches on Wednesday.

JCSC General Sahir Shamshad Mirza confers civil awards to 47 scientists, engineers

By
NNPS Desk
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RAWALPINDI, Jun 17 (APP): General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M), Deputy Chairman Development Control Committee and Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), on Tuesday conferred civil awards on 47 eminent scientists and engineers, serving under the National Command Authority for their meritorious services.

According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the investiture ceremony, held at Chaklala Garrison, Rawalpindi, was conducted on behalf of the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Among the recipients, 10 officers were awarded Sitara-i-Imtiaz, 21 received the President’s Award for Pride of Performance, and 16 were honored with Tamgha-i-Imtiaz.

IHC Judges transfer case; proceedings to continue tomorrow

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP):Advocate Hamid Khan and Faisal Siddiqi on Tuesday concluded their arguments before the Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court of Pakistan regarding transfer and seniority case of the judges in Islamabad High Court. The Court adjourned the hearing for tomorrow (Wednesday June 18) and Advocate Idrees Ashraf, representing founder of PTI, will begin his rebuttal arguments.
The proceedings was conducted by the five-member Constitutional Bench headed by Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar.
Advocate Hamid Khan argued that the power to advise on judicial transfers lies with the Cabinet. Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar pointed toward Article 48, noting that the term “Prime Minister” is also mentioned there, and questioned whether the Mustafa Impex ruling renders that term ineffective.
Justice Salahuddin Panhwar observed that the IHC Chief Justice’s decision didn’t highlight any illegality. However, Justice Mazhar remarked that since the decision of the IHC Chief Justice has been challenged, the petitioning judges and their lawyers should have pointed out its legal flaws.
Siddiqi cited the Attorney General’s position, stating that if a transfer is temporary, sub-clause (2) applies, while permanent transfers fall under sub-clause (1). He emphasized that an appointment is not valid until the summary is signed, and described Article 194 as the key to this case.
Justice Mazhar questioned the implications of a fresh oath on a judge’s previous service and whether it would affect their seniority. Siddiqi clarified that since the transfer is temporary, a fresh oath would not impact prior service. Once a judge returns, they would regain their original seniority. He reiterated that a judicial transfer is not a new appointment, nor can it be permanent. According to the presidential order, transfers can only be temporary.
Justice Mazhar remarked that the IHC judges did not address the transfer process in their representation. Siddiqi explained that the judges could only discuss seniority in the presence of the Chief Justice. He claimed that the Chief Justice of the IHC had fixed the seniority, which directly affected the judges involved.
When asked whether he would have filed a petition had the representation been accepted, Siddiqi responded affirmatively, stating they would still have challenged the transfer.
Justice Mazhar pointed out that the affected parties are the judges themselves and that the bench had already clarified that the main case concerns these judges. In their representation, IHC judges labeled the transferred judges as “deputationists,” a description which, he noted, could be seen as unfortunate.
Subsequently, the court adjourned the hearing on the judges’ seniority and transfer case until Wednesday. The court also decided to hear the Advocate General of Punjab on the same day. Senior lawyer Munir A. Malik stated they would respond separately to the Advocate General’s arguments.

UAE President, Iraqi Prime Minister discuss bilateral ties, regional developments

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ABU DHABI, Jun 17 (WAM/APP): UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan spoke by telephone with His Excellency Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani, Prime Minister of the Republic of Iraq, to review bilateral relations and opportunities to strengthen cooperation, as well as the latest situation in the Middle East.

The two sides discussed recent developments in the region and the ongoing risk posed to security and stability. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and the Iraqi Prime Minister underscored the importance of de-escalation, restraint, and the resolution of conflicts through diplomatic means, in the interest of the region and its peoples.

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

By
Ali Ali
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0
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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0
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.
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