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Federal Ombudsman Office provides relief to over 100 citizens in Khairpur

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
SUKKUR, Jun 04 (APP):The Federal Ombudsman Secretariat Regional Office Sukkur, under the directives of Federal Ombudsman Aijaz Ahmad Qureshi on Wednesday conducted an outreach complaint hearing at Circuit House Khairpur.
Over 150 complaints were heard, and more than 100 complainants were provided relief.
The complaints included issues related to SEPCO’s deductions and overbilling, utility stores, Sui Gas, Shah Abdul Latif University, Radio Pakistan, Pakistan Engineering Council, and Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal. The Assistant Federal Ombudsman, Dr. Abdul Waheed Indhar, stated that the Federal Ombudsman Secretariat has provided benefits of over Rs. 25 lac to the citizens through these complaints.
During the open discussion, officials from various departments, including SEPCO and Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal, were present to address the complaints.
The Federal Ombudsman Office has assured the public that their grievances will be addressed in a timely and efficient manner.

3 arrested, drugs, liquor seized

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
GUJRAT, Jun 04 (APP):Police arrested three suspected drug-peddlers and recovered a large quantity of narcotics and liquor in multiple operations conducted in Lalamusa.
According to a police spokesperson, the operations were carried out under the supervision of DSP Lalamusa Circle Zulfiqar Ali Bhutta.
In one raid, SHO Thana Saddar Lalamusa Mehar Muhammad Ateeq, along with ASI Shehzad Butt and other officials, recovered 1,100 grams of hashish from a suspect, identified as Sajjad, son of Khan Muhammad, a resident of Shah Jehanian.
In another operation, SHO Thana Rahmania Inspector Abbas Ali Shah apprehended Abdul Rasheed, son of Raheem Bakhsh, a resident of Model Town, and seized a quantity of cannabis.
Separately, SHO Thana City Lalamusa Inspector Mujahid Abbas, in collaboration with the CCD police, arrested Kamran Masih, alias Heera, a resident of Chakar Mohalla, and recovered 90 litres of liquor.
Cases have been registered against the accused, and further investigations are underway.

Over 1.320 million tons of pulses imported in 10 months of FY2025

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 4 (APP):The imports of leguminous vegetables (pulses) into the country during last 10 months of current financial year grew by 33.47 percent as compared to the imports of the corresponding period of the last year.
During the period from July-April, 2024-25, over 1.320 million tons of pulses valued at $917.890 million were imported as compared to the imports of 1.050 million worth of $687.738 million of the same period of the last year, according the data of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.
Over 143,484 metric tons of pluses valued at $94.262 million were imported during the month of April, 2025 in order to fulfill the local requirements of leguminous vegetables as compared to the imports of 78, 064 metric tons worth of $50.479 million of the same month of the last year, it added.
On year on year basis, the imports of pulses during the month of April, 2025 grew by 88.46 percent as compared to the imports of the same month of the last year, the data reveled.
Overall food group exports from the country during the last 10 months of the current financial year decreased by 1.04 per cent, whereas food imports grew by 0.56 per cent as compared to the imports and exports of the corresponding period of the last year.
During the period from July-April, 2024-25, the food commodities valued at $6.164 billion were exported as compared to the exports of $6.229 billion of the same period of the last year, according to the data of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.
Meanwhile, food commodities worth of $6.855 billion were imported during 10 months of the current financial year as compared to the imports of $6.817 billion of the same period of the last year, it added.

Comprehensive preparations by WSSC-DIKhan for Eid-ul-Azha “Sanitation Week”

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
Dera Ismail Khan , Jun 04 (APP):The Water and Sanitation Services Company (WSSC) Dera Ismail Khan on Wednesday announced that it is fully prepared for Eid ul Azha 2025, with a comprehensive sanitation and cleanliness plan in place to ensure public hygiene and effective waste management across the city during the festive period.
The week-long sanitation campaign, titled “Sanitation Week,” will be observed from June 5 to June 11, with intensive operations during the three main Eid days — June 7 to 9.
Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mohsin Habib stated, in an interview with APP, that the plan includes targeted operations for the collection and disposal of animal waste, temporary waste dumping points, city-wide street cleaning, community engagement, and emergency response services. “Our goal is to provide a clean and healthy environment to the citizens during this important religious occasion,” he said.
WSSC has conducted a detailed pre-Eid assessment, identifying areas expected to generate large volumes of waste such as residential neighborhoods, mosques, markets, and public spaces. Sanitation workers, waste collection vehicles, and other essential tools have been allocated accordingly.
Temporary collection points will be set up in high-traffic zones, and waste from these will be transferred to a designated dumping site before final disposal in pre-excavated pits. A city-wide collection schedule has also been issued to address the anticipated spike in waste volume.
To promote responsible waste disposal, biodegradable bags of various sizes will be distributed to households, along with informational brochures on waste segregation. Awareness campaigns will run across print, radio, social media, and banners throughout the city.
Chairman of WSSC Board of Directors Naimat Ullah Khan Gandapur emphasized the importance of community collaboration, stating, “We are engaging local organizations, religious leaders, and volunteers to support this initiative. Public participation is crucial to the success of our efforts.”
WSSC will also deploy additional street sweeping teams and private labor to ensure thorough cleaning of roads and animal slaughter sites. Disinfection using lime powder and rapid removal of animal waste and food remains will be carried out to prevent disease outbreaks.
To handle any emergency situations, seven sanitation workers with four pickup vehicles will be on standby. Control rooms have been established at the WSSC Head Office and the Zonal Office near Imamia Gate. A dedicated social media response team will remain active throughout the week to address public complaints promptly.
Monitoring teams will conduct inspections, maintain data on waste collection, and gather public feedback to improve future services.
Both the CEO and Chairman reaffirmed WSSC DI Khan’s commitment to ensuring a clean, hygienic, and pleasant environment for all residents during Eid ul Azha.

Pakistan desires to strengthen economic partnership with Belarus: PM

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 04 (APP):Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said that Pakistan desired to strengthen economic partnership with Belarus and benefit from the country’s expertise in agricultural machinery manufacturing.
The prime minister, in a meeting with a seven-member delegation led by Belarusian Defense Minister Lieutenant General Victor Khrenin, which called on him here, said that Pakistan and Belarus enjoyed excellent bilateral ties which were strengthening over time.
The delegation included Belarusian Ambassador to Pakistan Andrei Metelitsa, Commander of the Belarusian Air Force and Air Defense Major General Andrei Yulianovich Lukyanovich and officials from the Belarusian defense ministry.
The prime minister said that cooperation with Belarus in information technology and defense sectors would be further strengthened.
He recalled that during his visit to Belarus this year, several memorandums of understanding and agreements were signed, which would contribute to further expand bilateral relations.
He also expressed good wishes for Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko.
Apprising the delegation of Pakistan’s stance regarding the recent tension in South Asia, he said that Pakistan offered India an impartial investigation into the Pehelgam incident, but instead of responding positively, India demonstrated aggression by attacking Pakistan and targeting civilian populations, resulting in the martyrdom of innocent civilians.
The prime minister said that on
May 10, Pakistan responded befittingly to Indian aggression in self-defense.
Conveying President Lukashenko’s good wishes to the prime minister, the Belarusian defense minister said that they
desired peace and stability in South Asia.
He said that the delegation’s visit was aimed at further advancing the progress on MoUs and agreements between the two countries.
The minister appreciated Prime Minister Shehbaz’s personal interest in strengthening bilateral relations and also thanked him for the warm welcome and hospitality.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Federal Minister for Defense Production Reza Hayat Haraj, and relevant senior government officials.

Ceasefire holding, but India’s political rhetoric persists amid global concerns: Dar

By
Najam ul Hassan
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0

ISLAMABAD, Jun 4 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Wednesday said that while military-to-military understanding between India and Pakistan remains intact and the ceasefire is holding, political rhetoric from the Indian leadership continues to stir tensions, potentially due to domestic considerations, including upcoming elections in Bihar.

“Another round of conflict seems remote, but we must remain vigilant,” the deputy prime minister said while speaking at a press conference here.

He emphasized that the “timeline goalposts” agreed upon between the two sides had been implemented that showed the sincerity of the purpose or seriousness. However, he warned that “political rhetoric was still on,” and could have internal reasons, pointing to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s and Defence Minister’s recent statements, including one referring to recent hostilities as “just a trailer.”

“I wish sense prevails. we have told the world that we are peace lovers and focused on economic revival,” the deputy PM stressed. But he said, “Dignity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity come first — and any conflict can escalate unpredictably.”

DPM Dar reiterated that Pakistan was open to dialogue — especially on counter-terrorism, but criticized India’s rigid stance, particularly Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar’s claim that India would only engage in discussions centered on terrorism. “We have already exposed Indian agencies’ involvement in our territory,” Dar said, adding that the independent movements within its borders were not under the Pakistan’s control.

He also highlighted his recent diplomatic engagements, particularly the informal bilateral visit to China on May 19, which included discussions around a trilateral meeting involving Afghanistan.

He also noted a broader regional outreach, citing engagements with Turkiye, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan. “Our visit to Iran was especially positive,” Dar said, adding that both countries agreed to boost bilateral trade to $10 billion and maintain peace in the region. The Pakistani delegation also met with Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who expressed support for Pakistan’s regional stability and Kashmir resolution efforts.

Dar revealed that Azerbaijan had reiterated its stance on undertaking a $2 billion investment in Pakistan, while discussions on multilateral cooperation, territorial integrity, and regional connectivity projects, including the Trans-Afghan railway and Peshawar-Kabul highway, are progressing.

To a question, the deputy PM criticized India’s stance on the Indus Waters Treaty, calling New Delhi’s push to renegotiate the agreement a violation of international law.
He said Pakistan and India were corresponding for last three years, that this treaty needed review and re-negotiation. “We received the last letter from India on April 8, and the reply was due on May 8 which we gave on time despite escalation of tension between the two countries.”

The treaty cannot be unilaterally suspended, he said adding that any such act would be treated as an act of war.

To another question, he said Saudi Arabia and the UAE played “active roles” in de-escalating recent tensions.

Dar emphasized that Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts had been recognized internationally. “From April 23 to May 11, we explained our position to the world. Our narrative prevailed. Indian claims, including about shooting down of F-16, were exposed.”

He confirmed that Pakistan would assume the presidency of the UN Security Council in July, with “promoting international peace and security through multilateralism and peaceful settlement of disputes” as its central theme.

The deputy PM stated that Pakistan had no intention of initiating conflict but would respond robustly if provoked. “We never initiated war, but we gave a befitting response,” he said. He also confirmed the downing of six Indian aircraft during recent hostilities, including three to four Rafale, one SU-30, and a UAV.

Balochistan govt to prioritize youth empowerment, economic growth in upcoming budget: CM Bugti

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
QUETTA, Jun 04 (APP):Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Wednesday announced that the upcoming provincial budget will prioritize youth empowerment and the creation of maximum employment opportunities, emphasizing the government’s commitment to sustainable development and economic stability in the province.
Speaking to the media at the inauguration ceremony of the new block and auditorium hall of the Balochistan Assembly in Quetta, the Chief Minister highlighted that the new infrastructure has been designed to reflect the province’s cultural heritage, traditional values, and the evolving needs of future generations.
“This new building will not only serve as a functional workspace but will also enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of this prestigious platform for public representation,” said CM Bugti.
Accompanied by provincial ministers, parliamentary secretaries, and other assembly members, the Chief Minister delivered the speech in the newly constructed auditorium. He praised the Department of Communication and Works for the swift and quality completion of the project and noted that the older assembly building could no longer meet the province’s legislative requirements.
CM Bugti further said that the new complex, being developed with the support of the federal government, will be equipped with modern facilities to support the legislative process. He reiterated his administration’s dedication to providing all necessary amenities to elected representatives and improving the overall functioning of the assembly.
Sarfraz Bugti  said that “over 90 percent of the development budget has been utilized within the stipulated time frame,  a clear indicator of the government’s effective performance,” he said.
The Chief Minister also revealed that the next provincial budget will be a surplus budget, reflecting strong financial discipline and improved strategic planning. He assured that youth welfare and job creation will remain top priorities.
Addressing the law and order situation, CM Bugti said that targeted operations against terrorism are ongoing and have yielded positive results across the province. “Peace is returning to Balochistan. Roads are open and life is resuming in all areas, this is tangible evidence of progress and stability,” he added.
The Chief Minister said that the government is focus on infrastructure, financial responsibility, and youth engagement signals a forward-looking agenda for Balochistan.

PSCA recovers abducted child in Jhang

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
LAHORE, Jun 04 (APP):The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) with the cooperation of police safely recovered a two-year-old child abducted in Jhang.
A spokesperson for the PSCA said the child’s parents reported the abduction to the emergency helpline 15 after the kidnapper, a woman, fled the scene with the child in a rickshaw.
The incident took place in the Block Shah area of Jhang. Using surveillance cameras, Safe City officials quickly traced the rickshaw’s number plate and followed its route, enabling the authorities to locate and arrest the suspect.
The child was recovered unharmed, added the spokesperson. According to police, the woman abducted the child over domestic disputes.
The police registered a case against the accused and initiated legal action.

Karate talent shines in Rawalpindi

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
RAWALPINDI, Jun 04 (APP):Tanveer Ahmed, Secretary of the Rawalpindi District Karate Association, said that Rawalpindi has immense talent in karate, with young players performing brilliantly at national and international levels, bringing pride to Pakistan.
Speaking to APP, he shared that the association is encouraging local players by providing quality training facilities to improve their technical and physical skills.
“The association regularly organizes tournaments to give young athletes opportunities to showcase their abilities. These events help build players’ confidence, allowing them to compete better in national and international competitions”, he said.
He informed that Rawalpindi’s girls’ team won first place in the Central Punjab Karate Championship in Sargodha. In the Under-14 category, player Adeel also secured first place with an outstanding performance.
Sharing further details, he said that at the Quaid-e-Azam Games karate event, Rawalpindi won three gold medals, two by the girls’ team and one by the boys’ team marking a major achievement.
It is noteworthy that the National Karate Championship will be held at the end of June, and preparations in this regard are in full swing in Rawalpindi. Additionally, the Rawalpindi District Karate Association will host three major tournaments in July, August, and September to promote new talent and provide more opportunities for players.

Court sends murder accused of Sana Yousaf to jail on judicial remand

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 04 (APP):The District & Sessions Court of Islamabad on Wednesday approved the identification parade and sent the main accused involved in the murder of TikToker Sana Yousaf to jail for two weeks.
Under tight security, police brought Umar Hayat, the main suspect in Sana Yousaf’s murder, to the Islamabad District and Sessions Court. His face was covered as he appeared before Judicial Magistrate Ahmed Shehzad Gondal.
During the hearing, police requested physical remand of the suspect and permission to hold an identification parade. The court granted the request and sent Hayat to Adiala Jail on a 14-day judicial remand.
Magistrate Gondal directed the jail superintendent to keep the suspect in isolation during the identification process. Police were also told to complete the parade and submit a report by June 18.
On today’s hearing, prosecutor and the district prosecutor were missing.
Expressing concern, Magistrate Gondal questioned “Where is the prosecutor of my court? He then ordered that the district prosecutor be summoned without delay.
A duty prosecutor informed the court that the assigned prosecutor was on leave. The magistrate responded that proceedings would not continue until the district prosecutor was present.
After a short break, the hearing resumed, and the court issued a written order, and approving the remand.

SALU organizes heat stroke relief camps

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
SUKKUR, Jun 04 (APP):Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Khairpur on Wednesday has set up Heat Stroke Relief Camps on campus to help students, faculty, and staff cope with the extreme heatwave.
 The camps, established on the directives of Vice Chancellor (VC), Professor Dr. Muhammad Yousuf Khushk, provide cold drinking water, Roh Afza, and awareness on heat stroke prevention.
The VC inspected the camps and praised the organizing team, led by Dr. Ali Raza Lashari, Coordinator of the Students Societies Centre, and the volunteer team. The camps will continue to operate until the end of the examination period, ensuring relief for students during the harsh weather.
This initiative reflects the university’s commitment to student welfare and proactive leadership.

Shipping Activity at Port Qasim

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
KARACHI, Jun 04 (APP):Five ships, GFS Prime, Malamir, Chemroad Jupiter, Khairpur and ZJ Atlantic carrying Container, Steel coil, Chemicals, Gasoilne and Coal, berthed at Qasim International Container Terminal, Multi-Purpose Terminal, Engro Vopak Terminal, FOTCO oil Terminal and Marginal Wharf Terminal-4 on respectively on Tuesday.
Meanwhile two more ships, Sedra and Al-Thakhira with Steel Plates and LNG are also arrived at outer anchorage during last 24 hours.
A total of ten ships were engaged at PQA berths during the last 24 hours, out of them three ships, GFS Prime, Stena Conductor and Al-Deebel left the port on Wednesday morning, while two more ships, Chemroad Jupiter and Magnum Force expected to sail on today afternoon.
Cargo volume of 156,820 tonnes, comprising 113,162 tonnes imports cargo and 43,658 export cargo carried in 3,110 Containers (1,357 TEUs Imports & 1,753 TEUs Export) was handled at the port during last 24 hours.
There are eight ships at Outer Anchorage of Port Qasim, out of them two ships, Al-Thakhira and DSI Phoenix & another containers carrier ‘Hansa Africa’ carrying LNG, Coal and Container are expected to take berths at EETL, PIBT and QICT respectively on Wednesday, while two more container ships, MSC Michigang and Xin Lian Chang are due to arrive at outer anchorage on Thursday.

Pakistan’s parliamentary delegation concludes UN visit, spotlights Kashmir, respect for international law

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 4 (APP):A high-level Parliamentary delegation, led by Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples’ Party and former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, concluded a two-day visit to the United Nations Headquarters in New York with a clear message that “Pakistan desires peaceful, cooperative relations with all its neighbours based on equality and mutual respect – but will not accept aggression, impunity, or violation of international norms”.
During the visit, the delegation met with the UN Secretary-General, the President of the General Assembly, the President of the Security Council, representatives of the Security Council’s Permanent and Non-Permanent Members, Ambassadors of the OIC Group, representatives of the media, civil society, and think tanks, and the Pakistani community.
The visit was part of Pakistan’s international outreach to present its perspective on the escalating regional tensions and threat to international peace and security, emanating from India’s irresponsible behaviour, unprovoked aggression against Pakistan, belligerent rhetoric, and its unlawful unilateral decision to hold into abeyance the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) – a lifeline for over 240 million Pakistanis. The delegation carried Pakistan’s core message of “Peace with Responsibility.”
In these engagements, the delegation drew attention to India’s illegal use of force and violations of international law, including the UN Charter and International Humanitarian Law, particularly targeting of civilian areas and killing of innocent civilians, including women and children.
The delegation rejected India’s baseless allegations regarding the 22 April terrorist attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir without a shred of evidence, and warned against India’s weaponisation of water through its unilateral hold on the IWT in violation of international law and treaty obligations.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to combating terrorism in all forms and manifestations, the delegation highlighted Pakistan’s crucial role and sacrifices in the success of the global counter-terrorism efforts, while also drawing attention of the international community towards Indian-sponsored terrorism in Pakistan, and its transnational assassination campaign. Cooperation, not politicisation, was required to effectively combat the menace of terrorism, it was underlined.
The delegation emphasized Pakistan’s responsible, restrained and lawful response to Indian aggression and provocations, underlining that Pakistan seeks peace but will always defend its sovereignty with resolve. It warned that India’s attempts to create a “new normal” that implied arbitrary and unilateral strikes could lead to disastrous consequences in South Asia’s nuclear environment and must be firmly resisted by the international community.
The delegation reiterated that durable peace in South Asia hinges on a just and peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in line with UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.
The international community was urged to uphold international law and the sanctity of treaties, push for the revival and normal functioning of the Indus Waters Treaty, and support the initiation of a comprehensive dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues between India and Pakistan, including the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir.
The delegation comprised the members including Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr. Musadik Masood Malik; Chairperson, Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination and former Minister for Information and Climate Change, Senator Sherry Rehman; Chairperson, National Assembly Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and former Foreign Minister, Hina Rabbani Khar; former Minister for Commerce, Defence and Foreign Affairs, Engineer Khurram Dastgir Khan; former Minister for Maritime Affairs, Senator Syed Faisal Ali Subzwari; Senator Bushra Anjum Butt; former Foreign Secretary and Caretaker Foreign Minister, Ambassador (R) Jalil Abbas Jilani; and former Foreign Secretary, Ambassador (R) Tehmina Janjua.

Irrigation Deptt signs MoU with IWMI to work together on KP Water Act, National Water policy

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
PESHAWAR, Jun 04 (APP):The Irrigation Department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has agreed to work with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) to address the growing water crisis, climate change and poor water governance in the province.
The collaboration will focus on guidelines issued by various institutions in the light of KP Water Act 2020 and National Water Policy 2018 implementation in the province, as well as the prevailing rules and regulations.
In this regard, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Irrigation Department KP and the International Water Management Institute.
Secretary Irrigation Department Muhammad Ayaz Khan, country representative of International Water Management Institute Dr. Muhammad Ashraf, Director Water, Food and Ecosystem Dr. Mohsin Hafeez, Policy Advisor Engineer Naeem Khan, Team Leader KP Engineer Kifayat Zaman, Senior Research Officer Bioinformatics Engineer Naqash Taj Abbasi and senior officers of the Irrigation Department, attended the ceremony.
Meanwhile, speaking at the ceremony, Engineer Naeem Khan said that the main objective of the IWMI project is to conduct an accurate and scientific analysis of the groundwater situation so that the water crisis can be overcome through effective policymaking.
He said that the Irrigation Department is the largest government agency working on water resources in the province with which he has been associated for 40 years, however, through this important project, the relationship will be further strengthened and the institution will be developed on modern scientific lines.
During the function, Dr. Mohsin Hafeez said that the process of geo-tagging of tube wells has been started in Mansehra and Charsadda districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
This initiative is being carried out under the Water Resources Accountability Program, which is supported by the UK’s Commonwealth Development Office and the CGIAR’s Nexus Gains Initiative.
He further added that after Punjab, water counting and water management will be carried out at two places in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa using modern equipment and rules and regulations will be formulated in consultation with the relevant stakeholders and guidelines.
Addressing the ceremony, Secretary Irrigation Department Muhammad Ayaz Khan said that the province is facing many challenges in reducing water resources and improving their utilization.
The guidelines compiled by the International Water Management Institute are improving the irrigation system of the province. He paid tribute to the project officials, especially Engineer Naeem Khan, for their services.
At the end of the ceremony, Secretary Irrigation Department Muhammad Ayaz Khan and Country Representative IWMI Dr. Muhammad Ashraf signed a Memorandum of Understanding.
Dr. Muhammad Ashraf said that measures such as water accounting, development of governance management information systems, irrigation demand management, and equitable distribution of multi-sectoral water have become indispensable to address water issues.

Pakistan, ADB signed landmark $ 300 million, ”Subprogram II”  loan

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 4 (APP):Pakistan and Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Wednesday signed a landmark USD$ 300 million “Improved Resource Mobilization And Utilization Reform Program (Subprogram II)” loan agreement.
The Government of Pakistan and Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $300 million loan agreement for the “Improved Resource Mobilisation and Utilization Reform Program (Subprogram-II)”. Statements were made from both sides.
Dr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary of the Economic Affairs Division, and Ms. Emma Fan, Country Director, Pakistan Resident Mission, ADB signed the Loan Agreement. The ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Government of Pakistan and ADB.
The signing of the agreement underscores Pakistan’s commitment to prioritize macroeconomic stabilization and fiscal consolidation through enhanced domestic resource mobilization.
This program is designed in a programmatic mode and aims to introduce structural reforms in trade, revenue generation and capital market development. A Policy Based Guarantee (PBG) of $ 500 million is also associated with this policy-based loan (PBL), backed by a sovereign counter-guarantee and indemnity to raise commercial financing of $1.00 billion.
The total financing package of $ 800 million will significantly contribute to Pakistan’s ongoing macroeconomic recovery and stabilization efforts.

Moroccan govt announces 10 fully funded scholarships for Pakistani students

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 4 (APP):The Kingdom of Morocco has offered 10 fully funded scholarships to Pakistani students for admission into Moroccan Public Institutions of Higher, Technical, and Professional Education for the academic year 2025-26, according to an announcement by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan.
These scholarships are open to Pakistani and AJK nationals in fields such as Medical Studies, Engineering, Management Sciences, Veterinary Sciences, and Architecture. Students can apply for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD programs, subject to eligibility criteria including academic qualifications and age limits. The deadline to register online is Thursday, 12 June 2025 at 4:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time.
Applicants must be Pakistani or AJK nationals and should not hold dual nationality. Candidates applying for undergraduate programs must have completed a minimum of 12 years of education (FSc or A-level) and be no older than 23 years. Master’s applicants need 16 years of relevant education, while PhD candidates must have completed at least 18 years in a related field. A valid HAT or USAT score is mandatory, depending on the level of study, and nominations will be based on these test scores.
Since French is the primary medium of instruction in most Moroccan institutions, especially in scientific and economic disciplines, selected candidates will be required to complete a French language refresher course at centers such as Alliance Française in Pakistan during the 2024-25 academic year. Courses in Arabic Language and Literature and Islamic Studies are taught in Arabic, and applicants for these fields must be proficient in the language.
Interested students must apply online through the HEC portal at scholarship.hec.gov.pk under the Moroccan Govt Scholarship Program. At this stage, there is no need to submit hard copies of documents. However, shortlisted candidates will later need to provide academic transcripts, motivation letters, recommendation letters, medical certificates, and other relevant documents including a police clearance certificate and, if employed, a No Objection Certificate from their employer.
Applicants pursuing professional degrees like medicine, engineering, or law must confirm the accreditation status of their chosen programs with the relevant professional councils in Pakistan, such as PMDC, PEC, or PBC. Special instructions have been issued by PMDC regarding admissions to foreign medical institutions, and applicants are advised to review these guidelines thoroughly.
For further information, students can visit the official websites www.amci.ma, www.enssup.gov.ma, and www.men.gov.ma.

PM’s tribal grand Jirga: Commitment to peace and development for Pashtun people

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
PESHAWAR, Jun 04 (APP):The people and civil society of Khyber Pakthunkhwa including erstwhile Fata, here on Wednesday highly lauded the address of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to the tribal grand Jirga at Peshawar and termed it inclusive and wide-ranging with solutions to all issues faced by the province today.
“The PM’s address at grand tribal Jirga yesterday at Peshawar was inclusive and foresighted with solution of all problems faced by the KP today,” said Professor Dr. AH. Hilali, former Chairman, Political Science Department at University of Peshawar while talking to APP.
He said Khyber Pakthunkhwa has faced the brunt of terrorism and rendered great sacrifices for defense of motherland, that was also acknowledged by the Prime Minister. He said Rs700 billion under one percent anti terrorism share was in line of NFC award has been released to KP for strengthening of its police forces, raising of Counter Terrorism Department and capacity building of law enforcement agencies, which was rightly highlighted by the premier.
Professor Dr Hilali said that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has touched all important issues, including terrorism, NFC award, sacrifices of KP people for Pakistan and operation Iron Wall. He said that the confidence of Indian armed forces were shattered after PAF shotdown six Indian warplanes.
On Tuesday last, Prime Minister, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, visited Peshawar along with federal ministers, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and other senior officials and addressed a historic Grand Jirga of tribal elders from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Accompanying the Prime Minister were the Federal Minister for Defence, Minister for Interior, Minister for Information, and Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan. Upon arrival in Peshawar, he was warmly received by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sardar Ali Amin Gandapur and Governor Faisal Karim Kundi.
In his landmark address to the Grand Jirga, the Prime Minister paid rich tribute to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stating that the Pashtun nation has made unparalleled sacrifices for peace, which will forever be remembered in the golden pages of the national history. He said the entire nation salutes their courage, determination, and selflessness.
The Prime Minister urged tribal elders to fully support state institutions in thwarting the conspiracies of the insurgent elements backed by India and to expose their misleading narratives. He emphasized that the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps, police, and all law enforcement agencies stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
“We will protect peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at all costs,” he stated, “and together, the state institutions and the nation will eradicate the menace of terrorism completely.”
In his speech, the Prime Minister also stressed the need for better relations with Afghanistan and urged the Afghan government to ensure that Afghan soil is not used for terrorism against Pakistan.
He described the youth of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a valuable national asset and encouraged them to play a positive role in promoting development, peace, and harmony in the country.
Tribal elders welcomed the Prime Minister and the Army Chief, calling the Grand Jirga a timely and significant initiative. They praised the successful completion of Operation Iron Wall and paid tribute to the armed forces of Pakistan.
Earlier, the Prime Minister laid a floral wreath at the Peshawar Cantonment’s Martyrs’ Memorial and paid homage to the fallen heroes. He was welcomed at the site by the Army Chief and Peshawar Corps Commander.
On this occasion, the Prime Minister also announced a review of the NFC Award, the provision of special funds for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the establishment of a high-level committee to address the issues of the tribal districts-a move aimed at promoting development and stability in the region.
Hamaza Khan, PMLN Nowshera President termed the visit of Prime Muhammad Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif as timely and inclusive in all respect.
He paid glowing tributes to political and military leadership that thwarted the Indian nefarious designs.
Professor Dr Adnan Sarwar Khan, former Chairman International Relations Department at University of Peshawar said that PM address at Grand Tribal Jirga at Peshawar has been received well at Khyber Pakthunkhwa including erstwhile Fata.
Dr Adnan welcomed the Prime Minister announcement to review of the NFC Award, the provision of special funds for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the establishment of a high-level committee to address the issues of the tribal districts that will help promote development and stability in the region.
Former Member National Assembly from Khyber, Shah Ghee Gul Afridi also welcomed the Prime Minister vision for KP and termed his address historic.
He said Pakistan is our country and tribal people are ready to give every sacrifices for its protection and defense against all internal and external threats.

Park responsibly or face lock-up, says CTO ahead of Eid Cattle Market rush

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 04 (APP):Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Captain (R) Syed Zeeshan Haider on Wednesday visited the Zia Masjid Cattle Market to review traffic flow and parking arrangements ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.
CTO Zeeshan told APP that six temporary cattle markets have been established in the federal capital for Eid, where Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has deployed over 100 traffic officers to ensure smooth traffic management.
CTO Zeeshan said that designated parking areas have been allocated for citizens in coordination with the district administration to facilitate visitors and avoid traffic congestion around the markets.
CTO said parking vehicles on busy roads causes a serious disruption in the flow of traffic and creates difficulties for commuters. “Vehicles found in violation of parking regulations will be shifted to nearby police stations, and their owners may be sent to the lock-up,” warned CTO Zeeshan Haider.
CTO Zeeshan said citizens are urged to use only the designated parking zones and fully cooperate with the Islamabad Traffic Police in maintaining traffic discipline during the Eid season.

Sindh Governor discusses arrangements for Hajj with Saudi minister

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
KARACHI, Jun 04 (APP):Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori met with Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfig Al Rabiah, in Makkah the other day and discussed the arrangements for Hajj, with a special focus on the facilities provided to Pakistani pilgrims.
During the meeting, Dr. Al Rabiah presented the sacred Ghilaf-e-Kaaba as a gift to Governor Tessori, a gesture symbolizing deep respect and brotherhood.
Governor Tessori expressed heartfelt appreciation for the exceptional hospitality and management extended by the Saudi government to pilgrims from around the world, particularly those from Pakistan.
According to Governor House statement, the Governor is currently performing Hajj along with his family on a royal invitation.
The Saudi Minister acknowledged and thanked Governor Tessori for his efforts in facilitating Pakistani pilgrims and reaffirmed that serving pilgrims, especially from Pakistan, remains a top priority for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Three officials of BISE Sargodha suspended

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
SARGODHA, Jun 04 (APP):On the directions of Chairman Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education Sargodha Jahanzeb Awan, Controller Examinations Riaz Qadeer Bhatti suspended three officials over negligence.
According to a press note issued by the board, the action was taken against Nagina Sattar, Deputy Superintendent Government Girls High School Qamar Mishani, Mianwali, who was absence before the examination duty without informing the Center Superintendent and Controller Examinations.
Similarly, Muhammad Amir Abbas Shah who was posted as an invigilator Government Commerce College of Bhakkar, showed irresponsibility in performing his duties whereas
the action had also been taken against Salimullah Khan EST, Superintendent Government College, Sillanwali, for dereliction of duty.
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