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Fake milk supply bid foiled, supplier caught

By
Kamran Muraad
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LAHORE, Oct 22 (APP):The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) foiled an attempt to supply fake milk to Lahore by arresting two suspects and seizing a rickshaw loaded with adulterated milk drums. A total of 705 litres of fake milk was discarded on-the-spot, and a case has been registered against the accused.
According to Director General Food Authority Asim Javed, the operation was conducted by food safety teams under his supervision. The rickshaw, bearing registration number CAQ-1497, was intercepted near Mandiali after a prolonged surveillance operation. The fake milk was being transported from the suburban area of Farooqabad to Gawalmandi, Lahore.
“On-site tests failed immediately — the so-called milk was actually a chemical mixture disguised as dairy,” said DG Asim Javed. He added that the mixture was prepared using powder, water, chemicals, and vegetable oil to mimic the appearance of milk.
The rickshaw driver attempted to flee but was apprehended by the food safety team. DG Asim Javed reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to eliminating food adulteration from Punjab.

Murad unveils Rs 55b farmer relief package; Sindh to procure up to 1.2m tonnes wheat

By
NNPS Desk
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0

KARACHI, Oct 22 (APP): In a decisive move aimed at safeguarding farmers and ensuring food security, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Wednesday unveiled a sweeping Rs 55 billion relief package, announcing that the provincial government will procure between 0.8 to 1.2 million tonnes of wheat during the 2025-26 crop season at a support price of Rs 3,500 per maund.
Addressing a press conference flanked by senior ministers Sharjeel Memon, Sardar Muhammad Bux Mahar and Makhdoom Mahboobzaman at the CM House, Shah made it clear that the Sindh government would not allow farmers to be crushed by rising cultivation costs or market manipulation by middlemen.
“This is not charity — it is justice for the backbone of our economy,” Shah said, underscoring that the procurement plan is aimed at ensuring market stability, fair farmer compensation, and continued food self-sufficiency.
The package includes direct fertilizer subsidies — one bag of DAP and two bags of urea per acre — to relieve the burden of rising input costs, and promises prompt and transparent payments to growers. Shah stressed that fertiliser will be delivered on time and procurement will be conducted under strict oversight by district administrations.
The Chief Minister acknowledged that setting a support price was not without challenges. However, persistent efforts by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari ultimately secured federal approval after discussions with the IMF.
“Our original demand was Rs 4,000 per maund, based on real production costs. We accepted Rs 3,500 only to ensure timely support reaches farmers,” Shah explained.
Citing the successful 2023-24 wheat procurement drive, Shah highlighted how timely government intervention stabilised local markets, prevented flour shortages, and saved precious foreign reserves.
The announcement comes amid broader efforts to tackle entrenched rural challenges. Fertilizer shortages, law and order concerns, and looming agricultural taxation were all addressed during the briefing. Shah revealed that the triple agricultural tax proposed by federal authorities has been deferred, thanks again to Bilawal’s intervention, with Sindh maintaining a manageable 15 percent rate.
Turning to law and order, Shah acknowledged the twin security challenges of rural dacoits and urban street crime. He asserted that the government is investing in police modernization, training, and technology to restore peace across the province. He also confirmed Sindh’s commitment to the federal government’s decision to repatriate Afghan refugees, stressing that the process would be peaceful and by the book.
In reply to a question about Punjab’s recent ban on the movement of certified seed, Shah confirmed he had instructed Sindh’s chief secretary to raise the matter directly with Punjab’s counterpart to prevent damage to inter-provincial agricultural cooperation.
Shah also addressed the recent dengue outbreak, stating that the health department has been mobilized, and municipal authorities have been instructed to ramp up fumigation and vector control across affected districts.
“Our agenda is clear: support the farmer, protect the citizen, secure the economy,” Shah concluded, reaffirming the PPP government’s unwavering commitment to economic justice and public welfare.

PBF delegation meets industrialists of Nowshera Industrial Estate, demands policy shift

By
Ahmed Waheed
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PESHAWAR, Oct 22 (APP):Chief Organizer Pakistan Business Forum (PBF), Ahmad Jawad, here on Wednesday, led a high-level delegation to the Nowshera Industrial Estate to engage directly with local industrialists and business stakeholders.
The visit was part of PBF’s ongoing initiative to connect with business communities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and advocate for economic reforms that strengthen the province’s industrial base.
Speaking during the visit, Ahmad Jawad stressed the importance of revitalizing KP industrial zones through practical policy changes and active stakeholder engagement.
He noted that the province holds immense potential for growth due to its strategic location, rich resources, and entrepreneurial spirit, but it continues to face bottlenecks that require urgent attention.
“Industrial development is the backbone of any thriving economy,” Jawad said and added that “Our visit here is not ceremonial. We are here to listen and raise the voice of KP’s business community at the national level”.
Addressing these concerns, PBF KP Chairman Ashfaq Paracha suggested changes. We believe this change could unlock real industrial activity across KP’s economic zones, he said.
He added that this shift would bring discipline to the allocation process, foster genuine entrepreneurship and create jobs for the province’s growing youth population.
The Pakistan Business Forum plans to prepare a detailed policy paper on this issue and present it to the relevant authorities for immediate consideration, he added.

Balochistan govt reaffirms commitment to differently abled, marginalized communities

By
Kamran Muraad
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QUETTA, Oct 22 (APP):The Balochistan government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to the welfare, rehabilitation, and empowerment of the province’s most vulnerable populations, including persons with disabilities, special children, and individuals affected by drug addiction and begging.
Parliamentary Secretary for Social Welfare, Haji Wali Muhammad Noorzai, emphasized that supporting differently abled citizens is a moral and constitutional responsibility. “They will not be left alone under any circumstances,” he declared during a meeting with tribal elders at his office.
The session focused on the province’s ongoing social welfare initiatives, aligned with the vision of Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti.
Wali Muhammad Noorzai outlined a multi-faceted approach to social inclusion, financial assistance, and long-term rehabilitation.
The government is actively supporting special children, persons with disabilities, widows, orphans, the elderly, and underprivileged patients through targeted programs.
Under Balochistan Awami Endowment Fund (BAEF), Tlthe fund continues to provide critical medical assistance to deserving patients across the province, particularly those suffering from chronic illnesses.
The Parliamentary Secretary said that thousands of individuals have successfully completed treatment and reintegrated into society.
He added that the government-run rehabilitation centers currently serve around 1,200 individuals annually, with over 10,000 recoveries recorded to date.
The Parliamentary Secretary stressed that the government’s policy goes beyond immediate care, aiming to equip individuals with the skills needed for long-term societal integration.
“Those affected by drug addiction and begging must be provided with technical training to become productive and dignified members of society,” he added.
He urged tribal elders and the broader community to actively support these efforts, calling collective action essential to protect future generations from social ills and ensure the success of province-wide welfare programs.
Wali Muhammad Noorzai also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working in partnership with local and international NGOs to extend support to the poor and destitute across Balochistan.

SDPI proposes a regulatory sandbox to reform power sector subsidy regime through solar integration

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Oct 22 (APP):Experts on Wednesday proposed a regulatory sandbox to reform the power sector subsidy regime through solar integration in residential solar solutions with rationalized tariff structures and social protection mechanisms. This approach could unlock a more sustainable, equitable, and efficient power sector for the country.
The Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) launched its study titled “Redefining Power Sector Economics: A Regulatory Sandbox for Residential Solar and Industrial Grid Integration” at a policy dialogue held in Islamabad, said a press release.
SDPI proposes a regulatory sandbox to reform power sector subsidy regime through solar integration
The initiative aims to reshape Pakistan’s power sector by introducing a practical framework for integrating rooftop solar energy while rationalizing subsidies to ensure both social protection and industrial competitiveness.
Moderating the session, Zainab Babar, Research Associate at SDPI, said that Pakistan’s power sector is under significant fiscal and operational strain. The current Tariff Differential Subsidy (TDS) mechanism, originally designed to help low-income households, has become a fiscal burden, misallocating resources. Nearly 60% of domestic consumers fall under the ‘protected’ category, many of whom are not the most vulnerable, while industries are shifting to costly self-generation.  The challenge is how to restructure the system to ensure affordable energy for vulnerable consumers while encouraging industrial grid participation.
According to the study, Pakistan has provided energy subsidies totaling Rs 4.3 trillion since FY2011, peaking at Rs 726 billion in FY2021–22 and Rs 724 billion in FY2022–23, with Rs 400 billion currently allocated for FY2025–26. SDPI’s model proposes eliminating cross-subsidies and introducing direct support to low-income households through the provision of solar panels.
Dr. Khalid Waleed, Energy Economist at SDPI, said that the current subsidy and tariff models promote inefficiency and inequity. “Tariff rationalization and solar-based self-generation can reduce fiscal burdens, enhance productivity, and lower consumer bills,” he noted.
He added that rooftop solar integration is a one-time productivity investment that can reduce dependence on imported fuels and recurring subsidies. “We are stuck in a vicious cycle of low demand and high capacity charges. Solarization offers a pathway to break that cycle,” he remarked.
Dr. Fareeha Armughan, Head of Center for Evidence Action Research, SDPI, emphasized that energy transition should be asset-based rather than cash-transfer driven. “BISP’s National Socio-Economic Registry covers 10 million households and can serve as a robust base for implementing solar-based asset transfers,” she said.
Presenting the outcomes of the scenarios designed under the sandbox, Sarim Zia, Research Assistant at SDPI, noted that a 2KW solar system costs around Rs 75,000, providing up to 10 hours of daily energy coverage. “With solar integration and tariff rationalization, consumers can see lower bills and gain energy autonomy while the government reduces its subsidy burden,” he said, adding that tariff rationalization will also help bring back demand. He further mentioned that complementary initiatives like NEECA’s energy-efficient fan project could improve cost efficiency.
Waqas Moosa, Chairman Pakistan Solar Association emphasized the need to reassess the government’s proposed subsidy model and integrate energy storage systems at the grid level. He added that while the initiative to offer subsidies was commendable, it remained narrowly focused on protected consumers using less than 200 units of electricity, potentially limiting its overall impact.
He said there was need to explore the prospects for consumers that have no access to rooftop that limits their opportunity to access solar panels.
From the World Bank, Minahil pointed out that while subsidy alternatives are critical, identifying real beneficiaries remains a challenge. “The exclusion rate in the current subsidy system is very high. We need to ensure government commitment under social safety nets to accurately target support for solar adoption,” she stressed.
Mustafa Amjad, Program Director at Renewables First, endorsed the idea of linking social protection with clean energy investment. “The key is not to end subsidies but to transform them into asset-based energy solutions that provide long-term resilience and economic benefits,” he noted, calling for provincial ownership and community-level implementation.

Sardar Yousuf unveils 9-points to promote peace, counter extremism

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Oct 22 (APP):Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf on Wednesday unveiled nine-points to address the contemporary internal, external challenges faced by the country, emphasizing national harmony and tolerance among masses.
The points were unanimously formulated by prominent scholars from all schools of thought during the second meeting of the National Ulema and Mashaikh Council that met here with Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf in the chair.
The minister said that the council emphasized the teaching of Islam to promote peace, solidarity, and unity among Muslim countries and to curb the menace of extremism, terrorism, and hate.
Condemning the aggression of India and Afghanistan against Pakistan, the Council reiterated its resolve that all Islamic scholars stand with the Pakistan Army and would not hesitate to render any sacrifice for the nation.
The Minister stated that Salah and Zakat are fundamental pillars of Islam, therefore, the Council agreed that a week of Salah and Zakat should be observed to promote awareness and education on their observance.
He said that the council directed all clerics and preachers to avoid passing controversial or derogatory remarks against any sect, religious figure, or Fiqh, educating the masses to understand any action regarding religious violations or sensitive religious matters falls exclusively under the jurisdiction of legal institutions.
“Fatwas and Sharia rulings can only be issued by authentic, well-known, and authorized religious institutions,” the Minister added.
Sardar Yousuf apprised that the Council had urged preachers to emphasize tolerance, discipline, and adherence to the law in their sermons to prevent provocation, suspicion, and conflict.
“The sermons and speeches will include topics such as self-improvement, collective welfare, social responsibility, moral training, education, health, cleanliness, environmental protection, women’s and children’s rights, and humanitarian service,” the minister added.
Similarly, the prevailing issues in society — such as unemployment, drug abuse, ignorance, moral decay, and social deterioration — will be discussed from a reformative perspective.
The Council urged scholars to address the intellectual and critical questions of the youth in a dignified and reasoned manner, keeping in view the growing restlessness among them in various respects.
The Council also emphasized the adoption of modern communication skills, principles of effective oratory, and scientific reasoning in public statements, along with the positive use of social media.
The Minister said that the council had agreed that no statement or action should be taken that creates distrust or incitement against state institutions, the judiciary, the armed forces, or the administration.
Moreover, any justification or support for terrorism, extremism, hate speech, or armed struggle should be strictly avoided.
Welcoming the defense pact between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Council described the agreement as a symbol of strength and unity in the Muslim world.
“We congratulate the leadership of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the entire Islamic world on this agreement. It stands as a testament to the fact that the two Holy Mosques are the center of our devotion, and love for them is an integral part of our faith,” the Minister said.
Sardar Yosuf also announced various committees after deliberations by the council members on important issues.

Transport Department Chiniot launches crack down on trucks spreading dust and pollution

By
Kamran Muraad
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CHINIOT, Oct 22 (APP):The Transport Department is getting tough on trucks spreading dust and pollution on local roads. Teams are checking trucks carrying sand and gravel every day, setting up checkpoints to catch violators. Secretary Omar Ali expressed his views while exclusively talking to APP on Wednesday. He said that in order to prevent dust from flying around, loader vehicles must cover their loads, and those who do not will be held accountable.
The Transport Department’s daily checks are part of a bigger push to beat pollution and protect public health. With dust a big contributor to smog, officials are keeping a close eye on trucks and loaders. “We’ll keep enforcing the rules to keep our air cleaner,”  the Secretary further added.

FDA City Sports Complex to be fully digitized

By
Ahmed Waheed
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FAISALABAD, Oct 22 (APP):Director General (DG) Faisalabad Development Authority (FDA) Muhammad Asif Chaudhary has announced the launch of a comprehensive digitization project for the administrative affairs of FDA City Sports Complex with the technical assistance of experts from Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB).
Chairing a meeting here on Wednesday, he said that this project would help modernize the management and operational systems of the sports complex through state-of-the-art technology. Both the administration and members would benefit from seamless online services, he added.
He said that FDA Sports Complex is a state-of-the-art recreational facility which is serving a large number of its members through indoor games and other amenities. This facility requires digitization to enhance efficiency and service delivery, he added.
He said that after the system’s implementation, membership applications, fee payments and other dues would be processed entirely online while comprehensive information and user guides about the sports complex would also be made available for both members and general public through a dedicated web portal.
DG Asif Chaudhry directed that a user-friendly website should be developed on priority basis, enabling complex members to submit their suggestions and complaints online for prompt redressal.
He said that the security system would be upgraded by using modern technology with all machinery, equipment and assets integrated into the digital platform for better monitoring and management.
He directed to install a biometric entry system for staff and members, ensuring secure access while sports schedules and upcoming programs would be updated digitally for faster information sharing.
Senior Program Manager (Operations) PITB Usama Zubair briefed the participants on the framework of digital system being designed.
Later, PITB’s Senior Program Manager Usama Zubair along with concerned officials also visited the FDA City Sports Complex to assess the infrastructure and requirements for digitization process.
Director IT Yasir Ejaz Chattha, Deputy Director IT Abdullah Noor, Assistant Director Finance Muhammad Bilal, Senior Accountant Imran Riaz and others were also present on the spot.

FDA demolishes illegal structures in Allama Iqbal Colony

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
FAISALABAD, Oct 22 (APP):An anti-encroachment team of Faisalabad Development Authority (FDA) has launched a major operation with heavy machinery and demolished permanent illegal structures in various markets of Allama Iqbal Colony.
An FDA spokesman said here on Wednesday that State Officer Aneeb Aslam Randhawa supervised the operation and led the anti-encroachment team in inspecting the area.
During inspection, several property owners were found involved in erecting unauthorized constructions and encroachments on public pathways and commercial areas.
The FDA team by using heavy machinery demolished these illegal structures on the spot and initiated legal action against those responsible by submitting challans of the violators in the court of Special Judicial Magistrate, he added.
He said that the citizens and property owners were also warned to refrain from setting up temporary or permanent encroachments as any such unlawful constructions would be immediately demolished.
He said that materials and goods used in encroachments would be confiscated and criminal cases might also be registered against habitual offenders.
Anti-encroachment drive would continue across the city without any discrimination to ensure smooth public movement and uphold planning regulations of the city, he added.

TMA ensures prompt action on public complaints in DI Khan

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
Dera Ismail Khan , Oct 22 (APP):The Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA) Dera Ismail Khan has taken swift action on various public complaints received through the online grievance system to ensure smooth civic services and public convenience.
On the directives of Tehsil Municipal Officer (TMO) Muhammad Hanif, Encroachment In-charge Fahad Khan Sadozai promptly removed illegal speed breakers in the New Chungi area that were causing hindrance to the movement of citizens.
Similarly, acting upon the instructions of TMO Muhammad Hanif, Garden Supervisor Sani Khan Chishti completed the repair and maintenance work of the greenbelt within the premises of Qaziyan Wala graveyard.
Moreover, responding to an online complaint from Gulshan Colony regarding illegal ramps built in the street that were causing inconvenience to residents, the TMA team took immediate action. On the orders of TMO the TMA staff removed the ramps and restored the passage for the public.
TMO Muhammad Hanif said that the Tehsil Municipal Administration is committed to ensuring the prompt resolution of public complaints and providing better civic facilities to citizens through continuous field monitoring and immediate response mechanisms.
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