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DC reviews restoration plan for Fareed Gate, historic buildings

By
Kamran Muraad
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BAHAWALPUR, Dec 19 (APP): A review meeting on the beautification, restoration, and rehabilitation of Farid Gate, Shahi Bazaar, and other key historic buildings was held in Bahawalpur under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Syed Hassan Raza. The Director General of the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) participated in the meeting via video link and gave a detailed briefing on the progress of the project. Deputy Commissioner Syed Hassan Raza reviewed the ongoing work being carried out by the technical team of the Walled City of Lahore Authority and directed that all development and restoration activities be completed strictly in accordance with the approved timeline. He made it clear that no delay or compromise on quality would be tolerated.
During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner instructed the relevant departments to make arrangements for additional sewerage drainage at Fareed Gate to ensure the immediate disposal of rainwater. He emphasized that the capacity of the existing drainage system should be enhanced and an additional drainage line constructed to prevent water accumulation during the monsoon season. He further directed that specially designed lighting poles be installed inside Fareed Gate to highlight its historic identity, while shop sheds should be developed according to attractive and standardized designs to enhance the overall aesthetics of the area. He stressed that all shops within Fareed Gate must follow a uniform design, with identical lighting poles, decorative lights, and standardized canopies to maintain visual harmony.
The Deputy Commissioner instructed the concerned authorities to further accelerate the pace of restoration and rehabilitation work to ensure completion within the stipulated timeframe. He informed the meeting that the project for improving the trail from Fareed Gate to Jamia Masjid Al-Sadiq and restoring historic buildings in the area is being executed at a cost of Rs. 442.6 million. He stated that the primary objective of the project is to preserve Bahawalpur’s historical and cultural heritage while providing improved facilities for citizens and tourists. The project includes external restoration of historic buildings, revival of wooden architectural features, improvement of footpaths and walkways, installation of modern electrical and lighting systems, removal of overhead wires and transformers, installation of directional signboards, aesthetically designed market sheds, and provision of street furniture for public convenience.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner directed all concerned departments to ensure that the project is completed within the prescribed period and in accordance with high-quality standards, so that Bahawalpur’s historic charm can be fully restored and the city presented as a model historic destination. The meeting was attended by Deputy Director Development Faisal Shehzad, Chief Officer Municipal Corporation Mian Muhammad Asif, Chief Officer District Council Rais Imran, and other relevant officials.

GCWUS hosts Think-Fest on Campus initiative

By
Kamran Muraad
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SIALKOT, Dec 19 (APP):Government College Women University (GCWU), Sialkot proudly hosted ThinkFest on Campus, an initiative of Afkar-e-Taza ThinkFest Pakistan, bringing a vibrant culture of ideas, dialogue, and critical inquiry to the city of Allama Iqbal. As per a release, the event marked a significant step toward extending meaningful intellectual conversations beyond major urban centers and into historically rich cities like Sialkot.
The speakers underscored the symbolic importance of holding ThinkFest in Sialkot, the birthplace of Allama Muhammad Iqbal. Deputy Commissioner Sialkot,  Saba Asghar, welcomed the initiative and remarked that the city had long awaited the revival of Iqbal’s Afkar-e-Taza. She congratulated Afkar-e-Taza for rekindling the spirit of open inquiry, reflection, and critical thought among the youth of Sialkot.
Addressing the audience, Vice Chancellor GCWU Sialkot, Prof. Dr. Shazia Bashir, highlighted the transformative power of such intellectual forums. She stated that if Sialkot could produce towering thinkers like Allama Iqbal and Faiz Ahmed Faiz, platforms like ThinkFest could nurture many more impactful voices by encouraging debate, intellectual courage, and reflective thinking among students.
A major highlight of the event was the keynote address by Dr. Adil Najam(Former VC, LUMS and Currently Professor at Bostan University, USA) titled “Pakistan’s Moment of Youth.” Dr. Najam emphasized the need to understand and study youth rather than lecture them, describing young people as a dynamic and defining force of society. He stressed the importance of giving youth the freedom to experiment, fail, and learn, warning that restricting this space could deepen societal divisions. He framed Pakistan’s future as a choice between “boom or bust,” citing youth-driven development models such as China as powerful examples of empowerment.
The program also featured an insightful session titled “Partition, Migration and Development: The Story of a New Sialkot,” presented by Mr. Ilyas Chatta, which examined the historical consequences of Partition, migration patterns, and the evolution of Sialkot’s post-Partition identity and development.
Another compelling panel discussion, “Breaking Silence, Building Power: Rights, Laws and Representation for Women and Minorities,” featured Ms. Nabhila Bhatti and Ms. Nida Usman, who discussed legal frameworks, representation, and the urgent need for inclusive spaces that amplify marginalized voices.
ThinkFest on Campus Sialkot concluded with enthusiastic participation from students and faculty, reaffirming GC Women University Sialkot’s commitment to promoting critical thinking, civic engagement, and meaningful dialogue. The university appreciates Afkar-e-Taza ThinkFest Pakistan for bringing this impactful intellectual experience to the campus.

High Commissioner of Australia Tim Kane called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.

By
Wajid
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APP56-191225 ISLAMABAD: December 19 - High Commissioner of Australia Tim Kane called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. APP/MAF/FHA
High Commissioner of Australia Tim Kane called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
APP56-191225
ISLAMABAD: December 19 –

ADC reviews development work at govt high school Pindi Cargo Khan

By
Kamran Muraad
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ABBOTTABAD, Dec 19 (APP): Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Azka Fatima visited Government High School Pindi Cargo Khan to review the ongoing development works in accordance with the directives issued during the open court proceedings. She inspected the school along with SDOC C&W.
During the on-site inspection, officials informed the ADC that most of the development work at the school had been completed, while the remaining drainage work and roof painting would be completed shortly.
ADC Azki Fatima emphasized the importance of the timely completion of development projects and directed the concerned departments to ensure quality work.
She reiterated that the district administration is taking practical steps to provide basic facilities in educational institutions and to promote quality education across the district.

Abbottabad administration reviews encroachment, drainage issues during Thandiani road expansion

By
Kamran Muraad
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ABBOTTABAD, Dec 19 (APP): Additional Assistant Commissioner Galiyat Muhammad Tariq on Friday conducted a site visit to village Ghamawan to review issues related to encroachments and drainage arising during the expansion of Thandiani Road.
During the visit, officials including the contractor of KPCIP, Girdawar Circle staff and the Patwari Halqa were present. Local residents informed the administration that rainwater was entering the rear portions of their houses due to the road construction, while in certain areas the expansion of the 33-foot-wide road had not yet been completed.
The contractor assured affected residents of providing necessary material to protect rear walls and prevent water seepage. It was also decided to formally demarcate encroachments on both sides of the road and to acquire the required land to complete the expansion according to the approved width.
Through mutual consultation between local residents and concerned departments, consensus was reached on resolving the issues. The district administration reaffirmed its commitment to taking practical steps for the prompt and effective resolution of public grievances.

Hazara division’s only comprehensive sports complex under construction in Dhamtor

By
Kamran Muraad
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ABBOTTABAD, Dec 19 (APP): Deputy Commissioner Abbottabad Sarmad Saleem Akram inspected the ongoing construction activities of the largest sports ground of Hazara Division at Dhamtor, which will be the only facility in the region to provide comprehensive sports facilities under one roof.
During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the cutting, filling and leveling work on 85 kanals of land out of the total 265 kanals allocated to the Sports Department at Dhamtwar Dotar. Regional Sports Officer Ahmed Zaman briefed the Deputy Commissioner on the progress of the project and informed him that construction work was progressing at a fast pace and is expected to be completed and inaugurated by the end of 2025.
Deputy Commissioner Sarmad Saleem Akram directed the concerned authorities to ensure completion of the project within the stipulated timeline. He described the sports complex as a major step towards promoting sports activities and a healthy lifestyle among youth, and expressed hope that with the cooperation of the provincial government, the facility would be completed according to international standards..

International symposium on Mental Health Stigma and Community Well-being organised

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
SARGODHA, Dec 19 (APP): The Department of Psychology, University of Sargodha, organised an International Symposium titled “Breaking Stigma and Supporting Well-being: Community Working Together,”
In alignment with national mental health priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the symposium featured five keynote addresses and 45 empirical research papers.
In his address, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Illyas Khan examined key drivers of mental health stigma, including digital misinformation, cultural narratives, and institutional practices, and highlighted evidence-based strategies focused on education, positive communication, and shared stakeholder responsibility.
Dr. Tooba Illyas Khan emphasized shifting Pakistan’s mental health system from clinician-centered care to community-led well-being ecosystems, drawing on UK frameworks and implementation science for sustainable approaches.
Prof. Dr. G. Hussein Rassool discussed integrating Islamic psycho-spiritual practices into psychotherapy to enhance engagement, reduce stigma, and promote sustainable well-being in Muslim communities.
Additionally, Prof. Dr. Intan Hashimah Mohd Hashim presented a strength-based, positive psychology approach, highlighting community-driven strategies that build resilience, belonging, and dignity.
Prof. Dr. Ghazala Rehman stressed culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and client-centered care to ensure inclusive access to mental health support.
Furthermore, the symposium also acknowledged the contributions of session chairs from leading Pakistani universities, whose academic leadership enhanced the quality and rigor of the event.
Chairperson Department of Psychology Prof. Dr. Najma Iqbal Malik, Controller of Examination Dr. Rihana Ilyas also addressed the symposium.

Finance minister reviews sectoral issues with telecom, VC firms

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 19 (APP): Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb on Friday, held a meeting with a delegation comprising telecommunication infrastructure companies (TOWERCO Pakistan) and Venture Capital Firms (VCs) to discuss and review key sectoral issues, with a particular focus on taxation, investment climate, and growth prospects.
The visiting delegation represented a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including telecom infrastructure companies that build, own, and operate mobile network towers leased to mobile network operators, as well as venture capital firms actively investing in Pakistan’s startup ecosystem and wider business ventures.
During the meeting, the participants shared an overview of their respective business models, operational dynamics, and on-ground challenges, particularly those related to physical infrastructure deployment and regulatory compliance.
Members of the delegation presented a number of proposals aimed at rationalizing and relaxing elements of the existing tax regime to help facilitate further growth, enhance investment flows, and support expansion in both the telecommunications infrastructure and venture capital sectors. The proposals were shared in the context of strengthening digital connectivity, improving service delivery, and fostering innovation-led economic activity in the country.
Addressing the meeting, the Finance Minister acknowledged the critical role played by telecom infrastructure companies in enabling nationwide digital connectivity and underscored the importance of venture capital in supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation.
He noted that a predictable, transparent and growth-oriented policy and tax framework is essential to attract long-term investment and to ensure sustainable development of these sectors.
The finance minister emphasized that the government is committed to facilitating private sector-led growth, particularly in technology-driven and investment-intensive sectors. He stated that while fiscal considerations remain important, the objective is to strike a balanced approach that supports business expansion, encourages formalization, and strengthens Pakistan’s digital and innovation ecosystem over the medium to long term.
During the meeting, it was agreed that a dedicated working group would be constituted, comprising representatives from the Tax Policy Office and other relevant stakeholders, to undertake a detailed examination of the proposals and recommendations presented by the delegation. The working group will assess the proposals in detail and develop actionable recommendations.
The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for IT & Telecommunications, Shaza Fatima Khawaja; Chairman Federal Board of Revenue (FBR); Chairman Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP); senior officials of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication and representatives of telecom infrastructure companies (TOWERCO Pakistan), venture capital firms, legal and regulatory advisory firms, and relevant public sector organizations, including Ignite.

90th meeting of IUB Syndicate held

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
BAHAWALPUR, Dec 19 (APP): The 90th meeting of the Syndicate of Islamia University of Bahawalpur was held at Abbasia Campus under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kamran.
Important administrative, legal and academic matters were discussed and decisions were taken in the meeting.
The meeting considered important recommendations including appointments to principal seats in the recently held selection board meeting. The meeting appreciated the services of the Syndicate members Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram Chaudhry and Dr. Mughees Amin, who completed their term.
The meeting was attended by Member Provincial Assembly Mian Muhammad Shoaib Owaisi, Member Provincial Assembly Sadia Muzaffar, Former Vice Chancellor University of Sargodha Professor Dr. Muhammad Akram Chaudhry, Dean Faculty of Engineering and Technology Professor Dr. Muhammad Amjad, Dean Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Professor Dr. Muhammad Khalid Mansoor, Director Coordination Higher Education Commission Shahzeb Abbasi, Additional Secretary Higher Education Department Zahida Azhar, Deputy Secretary Finance Department Maria Javed, Dr. Alia Nazir Associate Professor, Qaiser Ijaz Assistant Professor, Muhammad Zaman Ali Lecturer and Muhammad Shajiur Rehman Registrar and Secretary.

Balochistan Police proves state stronger than ever, vows no compromise on security

By
Kamran Muraad
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QUETTA, Dec 19 (APP): Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, declared that Pakistan remains a strong, resilient, and invincible reality, built upon the Constitution, the rule of law, and the sacrifices of its people.
He emphasized that there can be no compromise on the nation’s security, stability, and sovereignty, with law enforcement agencies, particularly the police playing a frontline role in safeguarding the state.
Speaking at the 104th Passing Out Parade of the Balochistan Police at the Police Training College in Quetta, Sarfraz Bugti praised the force for its immense sacrifices, noting that even in the most challenging circumstances, the police have proven that the state is not weak but stronger than ever. He described the police as not merely an institution, but a symbol of Pakistan’s constitutional existence and a guardian of public trust.
Recalling the tragic terrorist attack on the Police Training College, Sarfraz Bugti paid tribute to Captain Afridi and other personnel who laid down their lives in defense of the state. He said their sacrifices would be remembered in golden words in Pakistan’s history, adding that the blood of martyrs continues to renew the resolve that terrorists will never succeed in their designs.
Bugti noted that terrorists had aimed to shut down the training center, but today it is producing courageous sons and daughters of Balochistan, trained with exceptional determination and bravery. He said the professionalism of academy graduates has shattered the dreams of terrorists and demonstrated the strength of the state to the world.
Delivering a strong message, Bugti said that elements seeking to impose their ideology through violence or talk of breaking Pakistan would always fail.
“The state was not built to tire. Pakistan’s brave forces have stood, continue to stand, and will always stand like an iron wall against every malicious intention,” he declared.
He added that while the doors of peace remain open for those willing to return to the constitutional framework, those who persist in violence will face the same fate as past elements, as the state is fully prepared to confront them.
Sarfraz Bugti stressed that the provincial and federal governments, the Balochistan Police, the Pakistan Armed Forces, and the Frontier Corps are united in confronting terrorism. He recalled attacks on Sardar Bahadur Khan Women’s University, police lines, and the IG’s residence, noting that all institutions remain intact and operational, proving that “the state stands like a rock.”
He highlighted the merger of the Levies Force into the police, acknowledging that while the decision may not be immediately popular, it represents responsible leadership. Converting Balochistan from B-Area to A-Area, he said, is both an honor and a significant responsibility for the police.
Addressing the newly passed-out personnel, Sarfraz Bugti urged them to lead in maintaining law and order, combating terrorism, and protecting citizens without discrimination. He expressed confidence that the merger of Levies into the police would evolve into a strong system ensuring peace and stability across the province.
Despite resource constraints, Bugti assured that facilities would be provided to strengthen the force. The Chief Minister announced adedicated electricity feeder, solar power systems, road repairs, installation of astro-turf to develop a model ground and construction of 80 family quarters, an increase from the initially planned 60.
Concluding his address, Bugti reminded police personnel that the true strength of the uniform lies in character. He urged them to reject bribery, corruption, and personal interests, and to uphold the honor and sanctity of the uniform as their true identity.
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