13 killed, 1,582 injured in Punjab road accidents

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):Chairperson of Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Rubina Khalid Tuesday welcomed the initiative to rename Islamabad International Airport after Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, as a “landmark decision” and a tribute to a

brave and visionary leader of the country.

Speaking about recent development, she lauded the Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti and members of the Balochistan Assembly for passing a historic resolution in this regard.

“This is a commendable step to honor the legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who sacrificed her life for democracy and the people of Pakistan,” Rubina Khalid said.

She highlighted that Benazir Bhutto endured the hardship of dictatorship with grace, all for the sake of the country. “She proved to the world that democracy is the best revenge,” she added.

Remembering the former Prime Minister, Rubina Khalid described her as a courageous and exemplary leader who always raised her voice for the rights and welfare of people. “This resolution by the Balochistan Assembly is a fitting tribute to her lifelong struggle and sacrifices for the nation,” she said.

The proposal to rename Islamabad Airport in honor of Benazir Bhutto has been widely hailed by supporters of democracy and admirers of her legacy across the country, she said.

MoU sign to strengthen academic, professional, and research collaboration

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP): The National University of Modern Languages (NUML) hosted a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony with Teach for Pakistan (TFP) and the Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL) to foster meaningful collaboration between academia and industry, and to promote research, career development, and public health initiatives.

The first MoU was signed between NUML and Teach for Pakistan (TFP) to create strong linkages in areas of mutual interest. Under the agreement, TFP will offer fellowship, internship, and employment opportunities to NUML graduates. In addition, TFP will organize information sessions, career development events, and professional skill-building workshops for NUML students.

NUML will facilitate collaboration between student societies and TFP to maximize student engagement and mutual benefit. The university will also extend logistical support to TFP for the smooth execution of its programs and initiatives on campus.

The MoU was signed by Director General NUML, Brigadier Shahzad Munir, and Head of development and partnerships (TFP) Mr. Muhammad Uzair. The ceremony was graced by Rector NUML, Major General (Retd.) Shahid Mahmood Kayani, who emphasized the need for practical implementation of the agreement to ensure tangible outcomes and lasting benefits for both institutions. He expressed gratitude to TFP for their partnership and voiced optimism about the positive impact of this collaboration.

In another development, NUML also signed an MoU with the Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL) to jointly advance research in mental and public health, aiming to create a transformative impact through interdisciplinary collaboration.

The agreement, signed by DG NUML Brig. Shahzad Munir and Focal Person for PILL, Assistant Director Research and Development, Dr. Tayyeba Kiran, envisions the establishment of a dedicated research center that will focus on promoting evidence-based solutions to regional and global health challenges. The center will emphasize capacity building, resource sharing, and community impact.

As part of the collaboration, NUML and PILL will jointly conduct mental health awareness initiatives, structured academic sessions, and community health engagement programs, including school-based mental health sessions. These efforts aim to enhance mental health literacy and preventive strategies across academic and wider community settings.

Additionally, both will promote and support research projects addressing local mental health challenges, thereby contributing to national efforts for public well-being and informed policy development.

The signing ceremony was also attended by Pro-Rector (Research and Strategic Initiatives), Dr. Safeer Awan and Registrar NUML, Dr. Waqas.

Mid-Career management course delegation visits Safe City Islamabad

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP): A delegation of officers undergoing the Mid-Career Management Course at the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA) Peshawar visited Safe City Islamabad as part of their study tour.

Mid-Career management course delegation visits Safe City Islamabad

An official told APP on Tuesday that the delegation was welcomed by SSP Safe City Dr Muhammad Iqbal.

He said the senior officers of Islamabad Police briefed the delegation on various components of the project and facilitated their visit to the police operations hall, online women police station, web TV, and wireless control room, highlighting the significance and functionality of the command and control centre.

He said the delegation was given a detailed tour of the core systems of Safe City Islamabad, including the advanced surveillance camera network, and was briefed on operational procedures and system effectiveness.

He said the officials informed the delegation that the Safe City Islamabad project, based on modern technology, plays a vital role in emergency response, dispatch control, the E-Challan system, and the “Pucar-15” emergency helpline.

He said the utility of surveillance cameras in maintaining public safety, preventing crime, and protecting lives and property was also highlighted.

He added that facial recognition cameras have been installed at all entry and exit points of the capital to help identify suspicious individuals.

The delegation appreciated the advanced technological systems of Islamabad Police and expressed gratitude to the Director General Safe City Islamabad and his team for organizing a successful and informative visit.

2 ‘car thieves’ held in injured condition after Rawat shootout

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NNPS Desk

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RAWALPINDI, Jun 03 (APP): Two alleged car thieves were arrested in injured condition and their two accomplices escaped after a shootout with the personnel of Crime Control Department (CCD) and police in the area of Rawat on Tuesday.

According to the Rawalpindi Police spokesman, during the crossfire, a bullet hit Constable Mudassar Rasheed in the chest but he remained safe due to his bulletproof jacket.

The CCD and police personnel during snap checking signalled the accused riding in a car to stop, but they started firing on the police.

In the retaliatory fire by the policemen, two of them were injured and taken into custody while the other two made their escape good abandoning the car.

The car, which was reportedly stolen one and a half months ago from the area of Rawat, was seized by the police, besides recovering weapons from the arrested accused.

The injured accused were shifted to a hospital while a search was underway to nab their absconding accomplices.

Senior police officers reached the spot on receiving information about the incident.

Meanwhile, City Police Officer Syed Khalid Hamdani congratulated the SSP Crime Control Department, SP Saddar, CCD and Rawat police teams for bravely facing the accused risking their lives and recovery of the stolen car despite the fire.

IGP visits Malir Jail following prisoner escape incident

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KARACHI, Jun 03 (APP):Inspector General of Police Sindh, Ghulam Nabi Memon, visited Malir Jail on Tuesday following the escape of several prisoners.

The IGP also held a telephonic conversation with Inspector General Prisons Sindh, Qazi Nazir, to discuss the incident in detail, according to spokesman for Sindh Police.

According to SSP Malir, the escape was met with swift police action, including an immediate cordon of the surrounding area. He briefed the IG on the measures taken to contain the situation and begin the search operation.

IG Sindh assured full cooperation from Sindh Police to the Prisons Department in re-arresting the fugitives. “Prompt response by law enforcement agencies helped re-capture several inmates on the spot,” he said.

He further clarified that Malir Jail mostly houses inmates involved in drug-related and minor offenses. “All prisoners’ records are maintained by the jail administration,” the IG stated.

Police teams have been formed across the province to apprehend the remaining escaped prisoners. Orders have been issued at the provincial level to expedite the arrests.

“The Sindh Police will leave no stone unturned in bringing the fugitives to justice,” IG Ghulam Nabi Memon vowed.

Art Exhibition held at SBBU

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HYDERABAD, Jun 03 (APP): Female students from the Department of Arts and Design at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University displayed their artwork through academic activities at the campus. On this occasion, participants of the exhibition said that the students of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University are not only bringing recognition to the university through their academic and curricular engagements but are also proving their abilities and hard work in practical fields. Director Public Relations Kashif Noorani said that in particular, the students of the Department of Arts and Design are expressing their creative talents through their artworks.

This institution, running under the mission of Shaheed Rani Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto for education and women’s empowerment, is providing full support and encouragement to its students to succeed in every field. Unfortunately, some anti-education elements are conspiring to weaken this excellent educational institution, especially one that provides the best environment for female students. However, those who wish to harm the progress and peace of the students will never succeed.

University administration said that it is confident that the teachers, students, and especially the female students of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University will come together to stop these conspiratorial elements and play a vital role in maintaining the university’s peaceful, educational, and creative environment. Administration said that the bright future of this university is becoming a role model not only for educational institutions but also for society, where education, peace, and development go hand in hand.

Administration said that it is a matter of great pride and achievement that the female students are not confined to books alone but are showcasing their talents in various fields. The students of the university are playing important roles in education, health, business, social services, and many other areas. These girls, through their hard work, dedication, and skills, have not only succeeded in their personal lives but are also making significant contributions to the development of society.

It said that their achievements in the field of education serve as a guiding light for others, while their performance in practical areas is becoming a source of social change. In business and entrepreneurship, the students have made a distinct place in society through their innovative ideas and projects, which are also creating new employment opportunities.

Governor KP thanks Balochistan Assembly for backing renaming of Islamabad Airport after Benazir Bhutto

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PESHAWAR, Jun 03 (APP): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, on Tuesday expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister of Balochistan and members of the Balochistan Assembly for unanimously approving a resolution to rename Islamabad International Airport as Shaheed Benazir Bhutto International Airport.

He praised the Balochistan Assembly for joining the Sindh Assembly in passing a unanimous resolution, calling it a “national voice” that the federal government must heed.

He also discussed the matter with Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti during a recent meeting, urging support for the resolution.

Lauding the step taken on May 26, Governor Kundi thanked Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, Provincial Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar who presented the resolution MPA Ali Madad Jatak, and all members of the Balochistan Assembly for their support.

Minister Chaudhry inaugurates 300 KW Solar Project at KPT Izhar Abbasi Hospital

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP):Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has inaugurated the 300 kW solarization project at KPT Izhar Abbasi Hospital in Karachi on Tuesday.

The initiative, implemented at a cost of Rs 31.83 million, aims to reduce the hospital’s dependence on fossil fuels and address the worsening issue of climate change.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior officials including members of the KPT Trustees (Transition Committee), General Manager Engineering, Rear Admiral Habib Ur Rehman, Rear Admiral Atiq-ur-Rehman (GM Operations), Brigadier Muhammad Younis (GM Administration), and other key leadership from the Ministry and Karachi Port Trust (KPT).

Addressing the event as a chief guest, Federal Minister Junaid Anwar said KPT hospital solarization is milestone in national sustainability efforts. He emphasised the urgent need to transition to clean energy, especially in essential public service institutions like hospitals.

“The solarization of the hospital is not only a solution to persistent power outages in Keamari but also a strategic move to reduce its carbon footprint,” the minister added. “Generators running on fossil fuels consume up to 5,000 litres of fuel monthly, contributing heavily to carbon emissions and climate degradation.”

Highlighting the project’s broader significance, the minister noted that this effort aligns with the government’s Climate Change Policy and is part of Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s directive to transition government facilities to renewable energy sources.

“Solarization will result in Rs 21.6 million in annual savings and a substantial reduction in carbon emissions, providing both environmental and economic benefits,” he added.

The 25-year lifecycle of the solar project comes with minimal maintenance costs of Rs 450,000 annually, making it a cost-effective and environmentally responsible initiative. The minister stressed that such projects not only combat climate change but also contribute to national self-reliance and economic resilience.

Amidst rising temperatures and an ongoing heatwave — clear manifestations of global climate change — the minister reiterated the government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and urged other public institutions to follow suit.

Following the ceremony, Federal Minister Junaid Anwar toured the hospital, visiting patients in various wards and reaffirming the government’s dedication to improving public healthcare infrastructure through environmentally sustainable means.

HEC revises Business Administration curriculum to align with national and global standards

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has revised the curriculum for Business Administration degree programs in a comprehensive two-day meeting held at the Institute of Management Sciences (IMSciences), Peshawar.

The meeting of the National Curriculum Revision Committee (NCRC) brought together leading academic experts, senior faculty members, representatives from the Business Council through NBEAC, and industry professionals. The collaborative review aimed to align academic standards with the HEC’s Undergraduate and Graduate Education Policy 2023, ensuring relevance to both local needs and global market demands.

Director IMSciences, Professor Dr. Usman Ghani, welcomed the participants on behalf of the host institution. Mr. Nasir Shah, Director General of HEC’s Regional Center in Peshawar, expressed full support for the smooth execution of the meetings. Dr. Farida Anjum, Director Curriculum HEC, emphasized the national importance of the curriculum revision process.

The committee unanimously elected Professor Dr. Naukhez Sarwar of NUST Business School as Convener, while Professor Dr. Farooq-e-Azam Cheema of Karachi School of Business and Leadership (KSBL) was chosen as Co-Convener. Mr. Hidayatullah Kasi, Deputy Director (Curriculum), facilitated the sessions as Secretary.

The revised curriculum covers key academic components including uniformity in the nomenclature of degree programs, eligibility criteria, program learning outcomes, model schemes of study, course learning outcomes, degree award requirements, and elective options. These updates are designed to incorporate high-demand specializations aligned with international benchmarks, indigenous priorities, and industry expectations.

The revised framework also provides guidance for Level 6 and Level 7 qualifications as defined by the National Qualifications Framework, marking a significant step forward in standardizing and elevating the quality of business education across Pakistan.

KMU hosts Menstrual Health, Hygiene Day 2025

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PESHAWAR, Jun 03 (APP):On the occasion of Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH) Day 2025, the Khyber Medical University (KMU), Peshawar in collaboration with Menstrual Health Management (MHM) Working Group Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, WaterAid, UNICEF, and other sector partners, organized a high-level event at KMU’s Alexander Fleming Hall.

The event held under the global theme “Together for a “Period Friendly World,” the event brought together health professionals, representatives from academic and research institutions, development partners, and youth.

Vice Chancellor of KMU, Prof. Dr. Zia Ul Haq, graced the occasion as the chief guest and reaffirmed the collective commitment to ending menstrual taboos and promoting dignified menstrual health.

The event featured comprehensive discussions on various important aspects of menstrual health.

Ms. Naheed Akhtar Khan from SRSP delivered a presentation titled “Climate & Dignity: Menstrual Health in a Changing World,” emphasizing the link between climate change and menstrual health.

Prof. Dr. Robina Nazli, Dean of Basic Medical Sciences at KMU, addressed the topic “Menstrual Hygiene Management in Girls,” stressing the need for educational interventions and institutional support.

Ms. Huma Kanwal Atta, Head of KMU’s Mental Health Department, spoke on “The Mental Health Toll of Menstruation in Humanitarian Settings,” highlighting the importance of psychosocial support systems.

A separate session was held on “Policy Integration and System strengthening for MHM,” calling for the alignment of EMIS and HMIS systems and ensuring budget allocations, especially in the context of climate resilience.

Representing the MHM Working Group, Dr. Wasaf Syed expressed gratitude to all participants and stakeholders. She emphasized that menstrual health and hygiene is a shared responsibility and that every individual in society must play a role in its promotion.

In his concluding remarks, Vice Chancellor KMU Prof. Dr. Zia Ul Haq stressed the importance of continuous awareness campaigns, inter-institutional collaboration, and policy-level actions to prioritize menstrual health.

The event served as an effective platform to promote dialogue, collaboration, and practical efforts on menstrual health in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, further strengthening the resolve to build a period-friendly world.

WHO, BISP to expand support for malnourished children

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP): The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) will expand their joint efforts to treat children suffering from severe acute malnutrition in Pakistan.

WHO, BISP to expand support for malnourished children

This was stated by BISP Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid and WHO Representative in Pakistan Dr Dapeng Luo during visit to nutrition stabilization centre (NSC) at the Federal Government Polyclinic hospital.

They said each year, the partnership helps around 43,000 children under the age of two who have medical complications caused by malnutrition.

They added these children are treated at 169 nutrition stabilization centres (NSCs) across the country.

Senator Rubina Khalid said, “We want to make sure no mother or child is left behind. Healthy mothers and children are the foundation of a strong Pakistan.”

She said that under the Benazir Nashonuma programme, WHO-supported centres funded by BISP have treated 46,000 children since 2022 and given counselling to more than 64,000 mothers and caregivers.

She said that in 2025, the number of centres will increase to 199, aiming to treat 80,000 children and counsel 120,000 mothers each year.

Dr. Luo praised the programme’s success, highlighting a 98% cure rate — well above the global standard of 75%.

He said that Pakistan is still facing serious challenges with child nutrition as about 40% of children under five are stunted and nearly 18% suffer from wasting.

He said that climate change is making the situation worse. He added malnutrition is also causing an estimated $17 billion in economic losses each year, or 6.4% of Pakistan’s Gross National Income.

He said thar WHO will continue to work with BISP, the government, and other UN agencies like WFP and UNICEF to detect malnutrition early and provide life-saving support.

KU VC urges stronger regulations essential to curb plastic pollution

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KARACHI, Jun 03 (APP):The Institute of Environmental Studies of the University of Karachi arranged a seminar entitled ‘ending plastic pollution’ at the KU’s Chinese Teachers Memorial Auditorium on Tuesday.

Addressing the seminar, the KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi warned that plastic pollution poses a severe threat not only to our environment but to life on Earth as a whole.

He urged that stronger regulations are essential to curb plastic pollution nationwide.

He emphasized the urgent need for policies that improve plastic waste management and recycling infrastructure.

He stressed that unless strict government regulations and penalties for violations are effectively enforced, Karachi—and Pakistan as a whole—cannot eliminate plastic usage.

The KU VC Professor Dr Khalid Iraqi advised that reducing access to plastic—by banning it in shops and markets—would be the most effective way to gradually minimize and eventually eliminate its use.

He lamented that, unlike other nations where legal repercussions serve as deterrents, Pakistan struggles with weak enforcement of environmental laws.

Highlighting the alarming global plastic consumption statistics, the Director KU’s IES Dr Muhammad Farrukh Nawaz, shared that approximately one million plastic bottles are purchased every minute worldwide, while an estimated five trillion disposable plastic bags are used annually.

He added that over 13 million tons of plastic waste end up in oceans every year, severely endangering marine life.

A senior faculty member of IES Professor Dr Moazzam Ali Khan echoed concerns about the lack of a recycling culture in Pakistan.

He explained that once plastic enters the environment, it becomes a permanent part of it. Unfortunately, rather than recycling, waste is frequently burned, further worsening pollution levels.

On this occasion, the Director General of the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency, Waqar Hussain Phulpoto, urged citizens to take collective responsibility for reducing plastic usage.

He stressed the importance of educational institutions, particularly universities, in raising awareness and fostering behavioral change among students.

The KU Dean of the Faculty of Science Professor Dr Musarrat Jahan Yusuf emphasized the dire need for alternatives to plastic that can help mitigate environmental, marine, and human health hazards associated with its use.

Another speaker, the president of the Society for Human Rights and Environmental Protection, Saeed Rajput, pointed out that Pakistan is grappling with serious environmental challenges.

He noted the concerning fact that Karachi has only one water treatment plant, which is non-functional, resulting in untreated toxic water being discharged into the sea.

He urged the public to recognize their role in environmental protection and to actively participate in awareness efforts.

The speakers collectively stressed that federal and provincial governments must implement sustainable waste management policies, raise awareness, and enforce strict regulations to combat the growing threat of plastic pollution.

Ushna Suhail bags National Ranking Tennis C’ships title

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NNPS Desk

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP): Ushna Suhail claimed the ladies singles title of the 1st edition of the Emerging Pakistan National Ranking Tennis Championships at the PTF-SDA Tennis Complex on Tuesday.

Top seed Ushna Suhail lived up to expectations, clinching the Ladies Singles title with a composed and dominant
straight-sets victory over promising 4th seed Zunaisha Noor of Islamabad.

In a final that showcased high-quality tennis from both players, Ushna’s experience and consistency proved decisive.
The opening set saw both players trading sharp down-the-line and cross-court shots, but Ushna quickly asserted control, racing to a 5-2 lead before breaking Zunaisha in the eighth game to seal the set 6-2.

In the second set, Ushna maintained her momentum and did not allow the young challenger to settle. Applying relentless pressure, she capitalized on key moments and dictated play, ultimately closing out the match with a convincing 6-2, 6-1 win.

This victory reaffirms Ushna Suhail’s position at the top of Pakistan’s women’s tennis, while Zunaisha Noor’s spirited performance highlights her potential as a rising star in the sport.

The Men’s Doubles semifinals delivered high-octane action and thrilling tennis, as experience clashed with youth and top seeds faced fierce resistance in two gripping encounters.

The seasoned duo of Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and Aqeel Khan showcased their class and composure, overcoming top seeds Yousaf Khalil and Barkatullah in a tense three-set showdown.

Barkatullah and Yousaf came out firing, dominating the opening set with solid baseline play and sharp shot selection, sealing it 6-3. However, the tide turned in the second set as Aisam and Aqeel matched the top seeds shot for shot. The set went into a tiebreak, where the veterans held their nerve to edge it 7-6(5), leveling the match.

In the decisive super tiebreak, Aisam and Aqeel raced to an 8-4 lead, but the top seeds clawed their way back to 8-all. At the crucial juncture, Aisam’s experience came to the fore, helping the pair win the next two points and clinch a hard-fought victory, booking their spot in the final.

In the second semifinal, the youthful pair of Ahmad Nael Qureshi and Abubakar Talha pushed second seeds Muzammil and Abdullah Yousaf to the limit in another exhilarating match.

Muzammil and Abdullah took the first set 6-2, displaying superior court control. However, Ahmad and Talha responded with fiery resilience in the second set, showcasing aggressive baseline play and a series of stunning down-the-line winners. Their efforts paid off as they forced a tiebreak and won it 7-6(5) to force a super tiebreak.

Ahmad and Abubakar surged ahead 8-2 in the decider, but the experienced second seeds clawed back point by point, eventually leveling the score at 9-9. In a tense finish, Muzammil smashed a powerful overhead and followed it up with a precise cross-court winner to seal the match and secure their place in the final.

The Men’s Singles final is set to feature a clash of titans as top seed Aqeel Khan and second seed Muzammil Murtaza both booked their spots in the championship match with commanding semifinal victories.

Both players displayed their class and dominance, securing straight-set wins over their respective opponents. Aqeel showcased his trademark consistency and court craft, while Muzammil impressed with his powerful groundstrokes and tactical precision.

With both players in top form, the final promises to be an exciting clash as experience meets rising talent in a high-stakes battle for the Men’s Singles title, scheduled for tomorrow at 4:00 PM.

Men’s Singles (semifinals): Aqeel Khan beat Barkatullah 6-3 6-4, Muzammil Murtaza beat Yousaf Khalil 6-2 6-4.
Ladies Singles (final): Ushna Suhail beat Zunaisha Noor 6-2 6-1.

Men’s Doubles (semifinals): Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi & Aqeel Khan beat Yousaf Khalil & Barkatullah 3-6, 7-6(5) 10-8, Abdullah Adnan & Muzammil Murtaza beat Abu Bakar Talha & Ahmad Nael Qureshi 6-2 6-7(5) 11-9.
Junior 18 & Under Singles (semifinals): Muhammad Salar beat Asad Zaman 6-4 6-2, Hamza Roman Vs AbuBakar Talha (in Progress).

Boys 14 & Under Singles semifinals: Muhammad Muaz beat Muhammad Umer 7-5 6-2, Muhammad Junaid beat Razik Sultan 6-4, 3-6, 7-5.

Boys 12 & Under Singles semifinals: Muhammad Aayan beat Muhammad Danyal 4-0 4-0, Muhammad Muaz beat M. Faizan 4-1 4-1.

Boys 12 & Under Singles final: Muhammad Aayan beat Muhammad Muaz 4-2 4-2.

Murad Inaugurates Rehabilitation Centre for Children with Disabilities

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KARACHI, Jun 03 (APP): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Monday inaugurated a state-of-the-art rehabilitation centre dedicated to children with physical and neurodevelopmental disabilities, calling it a “beacon of hope” for families across the province.

The new facility — The Centre for Rehabilitation of Children with Physical and Neurodevelopmental Disabilities — is a joint initiative between the Marie Adelaide Leprosy Centre (MALC) and the Sindh government’s Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD).

“This centre stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to our collective commitment to support children facing physical and neurodevelopmental challenges, including conditions such as autism and Down syndrome,” said the chief minister during the inauguration. “Our vision is clear — to provide these children with the care, therapies, and opportunities they need to thrive and lead fulfilling lives.”

The newly opened facility offers a wide range of integrated services delivered by a multidisciplinary team of professionals. These include, Physiotherapy to enhance mobility and physical development, Speech Therapy to improve communication and language skill, Remedial Therapy for academic and cognitive growth, Behavioural Therapy to support adaptive functioning, Occupational Therapy focusing on daily living skills and sensory integration, A Sensory Room for sensory regulation and exploration, Paediatrician services for medical assessments and developmental care, Special Play Area with adaptive equipment for inclusive play and Audiometry Services for early detection and intervention of hearing impairments.

Shah toured the centre’s facilities, interacted with children, and noted that 50 children had already been admitted on the first day.

The chief minister also announced plans to expand similar rehabilitation centres to various districts across Sindh. “We have already established such centres in Karachi, Gambat, Larkana, Tando Muhammad Khan, and Nawabshah. More are on the way,” he said.

In a major development, Shah revealed that the Sindh government has allocated 100 acres of reclaimed land near the Malir Expressway in Karachi to develop an Inclusive City — a comprehensive environment for persons with disabilities.

“This Inclusive City will feature inclusive schools, rehabilitation complexes, vocational training centres, a general hospital, neuropsychiatry ward, and residential facilities,” Shah stated. A 20-acre park designed for children with special needs and a building to house welfare organisations will also be part of the project.

“This city will be a model of accessibility, dignity, and opportunity,” he added.

Shah paid tribute to Dr Ruth Pfau, founder of MALC, recalling her pioneering efforts in the fight against leprosy. “Her legacy continues through the centre and MALC’s ongoing work,” he said.

Answering media questions, CM announced that the Sindh provincial budget will be presented on June 13, 2025, with agriculture being a central focus.

He also stressed the need for provincial representation in the management of K-Electric and other power distribution companies, citing consumer interests and constitutional responsibility.

“The Sindh government is interested in running HESCO and SEPCO under a public-private partnership model,” he said, adding that discussions with the federal government are ongoing.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including DEPD Secretary Taha Ahmed Farooqi, Special Assistant Rajveer Singh Sodha Tunio, German Consul General Dr Rüdiger Lotz, GLRA Germany Global Health Advisor Dr Anil Fastino, MALC CEO Mervyn Francis, and board members Anwarul Haq Haidri, Azeem Hussain Siddiqui, and Abid Hussain.

23 outlaws including 05 absconders arrested, drugs recovered

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police, Aabara, Secretariat, Shalimar, Sangjani, Khanna, Kirpa, Humak, Bhara Kahu and Phulgran police station teams arrested 18 accused involved in different criminal activities and recovered 6443 gram heroin, 21 bottles liquor and 10 pistols from their possession on Tuesday.

A public relations officer told APP that Cases have been registered against the arrested accused and further investigations are ongoing. Additionally, during a special campaign launched for the arrest of proclaimed offenders and absconders, various police teams arrested 05 criminals.

Following the special directions of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi the Islamabad Police continues its effective crackdown against crime and criminal elements to ensure the peace and tranquility in the federal capital.

The Islamabad Police is committed to protecting the lives and property of the residents and no elements will be allowed to disturb public peace. Ensuring peace and protecting citizens remains the top priority of Islamabad Police.

Pakistani delegation emphasizes UNSC to play proactive role in promoting de-escalation, disputes’ resolution

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NNPS Desk

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