Wednesday, December 31, 2025
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Youth innovation takes center stage at Climate Governance Innovation Challenge in UET

By
Ahmed Waheed
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LAHORE, Dec 29 (APP):Young climate leaders demonstrated innovation and leadership at the Climate Governance Innovation Challenge held at University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore, as part of Transparency International Pakistan’s (TI Pakistan) Youth Climate Education & Fellowship Program 2025.
The event brought together students, environmental professionals, and academics to exchange ideas on transparent and accountable climate governance. The challenge served as the final activity of an eight-month fellowship that aimed to empower university students with the knowledge and tools needed to respond to climate change at policy and community levels.
Launched in April 2025 in partnership with University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore, the fellowship trained 40 students in key areas including climate policy frameworks, climate finance, social accountability, carbon markets governance and climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. The program focused on transforming theoretical understanding into practical, youth-led solutions.
Senior officials and faculty members attended the closing ceremony, including Ms Rizwana Anjum, Team Lead, Chief Minister Punjab Green Credit Program (CMPGCP), Ms Ahad Yousaf Khan, Director Environment and Climate Change, Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA), Dr. M. Aman Ullah, Project Manager, Punjab SDGs Support Unit, UNDP, Prof. Dr. Shahid Munir (TI), Vice Chancellor, UET Lahore, Dr.-Ing. Izzat Iqbal Cheema, Director, Continuing Engineering Education & Training Center (CEETC) UET, and Ms. Nasreen Memon, Project Coordinator, Transparency International Pakistan. Speakers highlighted the importance of youth participation in shaping climate policies and strengthening governance mechanisms.
During the competition, ten teams of Youth Climate Fellows presented innovative project ideas addressing climate accountability and sustainability. A panel of experts assessed the proposals based on originality, practicality, and potential societal impact.
The winning team was recognized for proposing an approach that empowers youth to develop innovative, evidence-based climate solutions, unlocking access to climate finance while strengthening transparent and accountable climate governance in Pakistan.
The program concluded with the distribution of certificates to all fellows, honoring their dedication and meaningful contributions toward promoting climate action, transparency, and good governance.

Interior Minister pays tribute to Maj Adeel Zaman who embraced martyrdom in fighting India-sponsored militants in Bajaur

By
Asif Jalal
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 29 (APP): Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Monday paid glowing tribute to Major Adeel Zaman, who embraced martyrdom while bravely fighting India-sponsored terrorists in the Bajaur region.
Mohsin Naqvi said that the martyred officer had “courageously sent five Indian-supported terrorists to hell,” demonstrating exceptional valor in the line of duty. He added that Major Adeel Zaman thwarted the “malicious designs of India-sponsored militants by sacrificing his life.”
The minister noted that Major Adeel “wrote a new chapter of bravery and courage with his blood,” and that the nation takes immense pride in such heroic sons.
Naqvi emphasized that the nation can never repay the debt owed to its martyrs and their families. He also extended heartfelt condolences and deep sympathy to the family of Major Adeel Zaman, praying for strength and patience for them during this difficult time.

ICT Police apprehend 16 lawbreakers, narcotics, weapons seized

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 29 (APP): Islamabad Capital Territory Police have arrested 16 lawbreakers and recovered a large quantity of narcotics, liquor and illegal weapons during an ongoing crackdown across the federal capital aimed at safeguarding citizens’ lives and property.
A public relations officer told APP on Monday that police teams from Sangjani, Sabzi Mandi, Koral, Khanna, Humak, Lohi Bher, Shahzad Town and Phulgran police stations conducted targeted operations in their respective jurisdictions.
During the actions, 10 accused were arrested and police recovered 2,796 grams of ice (crystal meth), 530 grams of hashish, 45 bottles of liquor and four pistols along with ammunition from their possession.
The officer said cases have been registered against the arrested suspects under relevant sections of law, while further investigation is under way to identify their sources and possible links with organised criminal networks.
He added that during a special campaign launched for the arrest of proclaimed offenders and court absconders, police teams also apprehended six wanted criminals, bringing the total number of arrests to 16.
SSP Operations Qazi Ali Raza said Islamabad Police remain fully committed to maintaining peace and ensuring the protection of citizens’ lives and property in the federal capital. “No one will be allowed to disturb the peace of the city. Protecting citizens is our top priority,” he said.

NA Dy Speaker expresses condolences on death of Saeed Maitla’s sister

By
Asif Jalal
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 29 (APP): Deputy Speaker National Assembly (NA) Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, on Monday, expressed grief and sorrow over the demise of the sister of Additional Secretary Administration, National Assembly Secretariat, Saeed Ahmed Maitla.
In his condolence message, the Deputy Speaker NA expressed heartfelt sympathies to Saeed Maitla, saying that the passing of a close relative, particularly a sister, is a profound and irreparable loss for the family.
He said that in this hour of grief, he stands in solidarity with Saeed Maitla and his bereaved family.
Ghulam Mustafa prayed that Allah Almighty may grant the departed soul higher ranks in Jannat, and bestow patience and strength upon the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.

Targeting Women on Social Media: SC refuses bail

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 29 (APP): The Supreme Court on Monday heard a bail petition filed by accused Tayyab Dar in a case involving the posting of obscene content against women on social media, and deferred its decision until next week.
A two-member bench comprising Justice Jamal Mandokhail and Justice Musarrat Hilali took up the matter.
During the hearing, complainant’s counsel Rizwan Abbasi informed the court that the accused is named in the FIR and that evidence exists showing his involvement in spreading obscene material on social media. He argued that the posts targeting women were so vulgar that they could not even be read aloud in court.
Counsel for the accused contended that the objectionable Facebook posts were uploaded by the accused’s son, and therefore, the father could not be held responsible for the actions of his son.
However, he conceded that the SIM card used for the posts was registered in the name of the accused and was being used by his son.
Justice Jamal Mandokhail observed that if the matter was so serious, children should not be given mobile phones, while Justice Musarrat Hilali questioned whether the accused was ever unaware of the activities being carried out through his phone number.
The complainant’s counsel further informed the court that, according to the investigation report, both the father and son used the same mobile phone. Justice Musarrat Hilali remarked that the documentary evidence was against the accused. Justice Jamal Mandokhail observed that if such an offence is proven, the court would have to take a strict view, as no one is allowed to damage another person’s dignity.
The complainant’s counsel requested additional time to submit further documents and opposed the grant of bail. Accepting the request, the court adjourned the hearing until next week and deferred the decision on the bail petition.

Commissioner inaugurates “Man-o-Salwa” free food point

By
Ahmed Waheed
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MULTAN, Dec 29 (APP):In a remarkable display of humanity and public service, Commissioner Multan Aamir Karim Khan inaugurated the “Man o Salwa” free food point, further strengthening the city’s commitment to social welfare and dignified assistance for the underprivileged.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the commissioner stated that “Man o Salwa” was providing free and respectable meals twice a day to deserving individuals, ensuring that no one goes hungry while preserving human dignity.
He highlighted that this newly launched center was the fourth successful free food point in Multan, following the effective operation of similar facilities in WAPDA Town, Gulgasht, and the Industrial Estate.
He maintained that the existing food points were already benefiting more than 1,000 people per meal, reflecting the growing impact of the initiative.
Commissioner Aamir Karim Khan termed the project a shining example of service, dignity, and social responsibility, emphasizing that such initiatives play a vital role in building a compassionate and inclusive society.
He also appealed to philanthropists and well-off citizens to come forward and become part of this noble mission, so that the scope of the project can be expanded and more deserving individuals can benefit.
The “Man o Salwa” initiative continues to emerge as a beacon of hope for the needy, reinforcing Multan’s image as a city that values humanity, generosity, and collective social responsibility.

53rd CTP officers visit Safe City Islamabad, review modern policing systems

By
Asif Jalal
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 29 (APP): A delegation of officers from the 53rd Common Training Program (CTP) visited Safe City Islamabad and reviewed its modern technological systems aimed at enhancing security and policing in the federal capital.
A police spokesperson told APP on Monday that the delegation was received by the Director Safe City Islamabad, who briefed the visiting officers on the overall working and importance of the Safe City project.
53rd CTP officers visit Safe City Islamabad, review modern policing systems
During the visit, the delegation was taken on a detailed tour of the central system of Safe City Islamabad, including the Command and Control Centre, Police Operations Centre hall, and state-of-the-art surveillance camera network. Officers were informed about how these systems support real-time monitoring and effective police response.
53rd CTP officers visit Safe City Islamabad, review modern policing systems
The spokesperson said the delegation was briefed that Safe City Islamabad plays a key role in multiple public safety initiatives through advanced technological projects, including the Police Operations Centre, Emergency Control Centre, Online Women Police Station, Dispatch Control Centre, E-Challan system and the Pucar-15 emergency helpline.
They were also informed about the performance and effectiveness of Safe City cameras installed across the city, which are actively contributing to crime prevention and the protection of citizens’ lives and property.
53rd CTP officers visit Safe City Islamabad, review modern policing systems
Officials further shared that facial recognition cameras have been installed at major entry and exit points of the capital, helping law enforcement agencies identify and track suspicious elements more efficiently.
The visiting officers appreciated the modern technological infrastructure of Islamabad Police and termed the Safe City project a successful model of smart policing. They also thanked Inspector General of Police Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi and his team for the detailed briefing and informative visit.

Rana Rehman nominated honorary divisional scout organizer

By
Ahmed Waheed
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FAISALABAD, Dec 29 (APP):Provincial Secretary Punjab Boy Scouts Association Headquarters Lahore Muhammad Tariq Qureshi has issued a notification to nominate Rana Abu Khabib Rehman as the Honorary Divisional Scout Organizer of Faisalabad division.
According to official sources here Monday, Rana Abu Khabib Rehman held a meeting with the district scout organizers across the division, and took briefing on scouting in their districts.
The future course of action in the scouting movement was also discussed on the occasion.
Meanwhile, District Scout Organizers from all the four districts Faisalabad, Chiniot, Jhang and TobaTek Singh Mian Muhammad Haseeb, Abrar Hussain, Dil Sher Ali and Muhammad Liaquat Dogar congratulated Rana Abu Khabib Rehman on assuming the charge as the Honorary Divisional Scout Organizer.

Planning minister reviews Rs 2.1 trillion power,hydel power portfolio; seeks three-year completion plan

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Dec 29 (APP): Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Prof Ahsan Iqbal on Monday reviewed Rs 2.1 trillion power, hydel power portfolio and sought three-year completion plan.

The Minister has chaired a high-level meeting to review critical Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) projects in the power and hydel energy sectors, directing the Power Division to prioritise important near-completion projects, rationalise future financing, and put in place a realistic three-year execution framework along with financial requirements from PSDP to ensure timely delivery of strategically important projects, said a release.

The meeting was attended by Secretary Planning, Chief Economist Dr Imtiaz Ahmad, Member IRC and senior officers from Power, EAD and Finance Divisions along with senior officials from the relevant line ministries.

The Minister was briefed on the overall portfolio and financial position of major power and hydel sector projects.

Thirty-Seven critical power sector projects with a combined approved cost of Rs 1.7 trillion were reviewed and of this, Rs 1.1 trillion had been spent up to June 2025 while throw-forward stood at Rs 492.4 bn, he said.

He said that the allocation for 2025-26 is Rs 104.7 bn. An additional demand of around Rs 175 bn was indicated during the first quarter of the current fiscal year.

Prof Iqbal observed that periodic portfolio reviews were essential to ensure that scarce public resources were aligned with national priorities, that cost overruns and implementation delays were identified early, and that projects with the highest economic and social returns were completed without slippages.

He directed the Power Division to prepare a project-wise break-up of critical schemes and submit a yearly financing and execution plan for the next three years for each project.

He further instructed that near-completion projects be prioritised so that sunk investments could be converted into operational assets at the earliest.

“The objective is to reduce the throw-forward and complete priority projects within defined timelines,” the minister said, adding that delays not only escalate costs but also defer the economic benefits of infrastructure, including improved energy availability, industrial productivity, and investor confidence.

The Minister said that among the key power sector projects reviewed were the 2x660MW coal-fired power plant at Jamshoro (Rs177bn), the Power Distribution Enhancement Investment Programme (Tranche-I) Advanced Metering Infrastructure project (Rs16.9bn), the Electricity Distribution Efficiency Improvement Projects in MEPCO (Rs10.2bn) and HESCO (Rs8.1bn), the 500kV Matiari–Moro–Rahim Yar Khan transmission line (Rs188.5bn), and another Electricity Distribution Efficiency Improvement project costing Rs11.7bn.

Major hydel and transmission-related projects also came under discussion, including the Dasu transmission lines, Ghazi-Barotha Hydropower Project, the upgradation and extension of NTDC’s telecommunications and SCADA system at the National Power Control Centre, and evacuation of power from the 2,160MW Dasu Hydropower Project (Stage-I), he said.

The minister directed the Secretaries of the Ministry of Planning, Finance, EAD, Power and the Ministry of Water Resources to jointly identify bottlenecks, whether financial, technical, or administrative, and resolve them on a fast-track basis through coordinated action and engagement with all stakeholders.

Ahsan said that a disciplined three-year rolling plan, he said, would help the government to avoid the accumulation of incomplete projects, contain fiscal pressures, and ensure public investments into tangible improvements in energy security and economic growth.

The meeting concluded with instructions to finalise a list of the most critical projects in order of priority for the next three years and work out the bare minimum annual PSDP requirements needed to complete them within stipulated timelines.

NA Speaker condoles with Saeed Maitla

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 29 (APP): Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of the sister of Additional Secretary Administration, National Assembly Secretariat, Saeed Ahmed Maitla.
In his condolence message on Monday, Ayaz Sadiq expressed heartfelt sympathies to Saeed Maitla, terming the demise of his sister an irreparable loss for him and his family.
He said, the bond of a sister embodies love, sincerity and sacrifice and her passing is a great loss.
The NA Speaker said that he stands in solidarity with Saeed Maitla and his family in this hour of grief.
Ayaz Sadiq prayed that Allah Almighty may grant the departed soul higher ranks in Jannat-ul-Firdous and bestow patience and fortitude upon Saeed Maitla and his family to bear this irreparable loss.
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