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A new chapter begins: citizens call Paharpur’s district status a historic milestone

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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Dera Ismail Khan , Nov 30 (APP):Citizens of Paharpur tehsil have warmly welcomed the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s formal notification establishing District Paharpur, terming it a historic milestone that fulfills their decades-old demand for administrative autonomy.
According to officials, the provincial government on last Wednesday issued the notification for the creation of the new district through the bifurcation of Dera Ismail Khan. The district comprises Tehsil Paharpur and Tehsil Paniyala, which previously functioned as a sub-division of Dera Ismail Khan.
The upgradation was initially approved during the 39th meeting of the provincial cabinet held on October 2, 2025, chaired by then chief minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur. With the issuance of the official notification on November 26, the decision has now come into effect.
Local residents described the new district as a long-awaited relief, saying it would significantly reduce administrative hurdles and bring essential services closer to the population. They noted that people had been compelled to travel long distances to Dera Ismail Khan city for routine matters, causing financial strain and time delays, particularly for low-income families.
Muhammad Farooq, a shopkeeper in Paharpur, while speaking to APP, said the new district would “open doors for local business growth” and improve public access to government departments.
 A female school teacher Hina Bibi expressed hope that the decision would “enhance education facilities and speed up approvals for new schools and staff recruitments.”
Saqlain Shah, farmer from Mian Wadda village said the district status would help improve agricultural support services and road connectivity, which small farmers had long struggled with. A university student Wajahat Ali from Paharpur observed that the upgradation would “increase development opportunities for youth,” particularly in higher education and employment.
Meanwhile, Faraz Mughal, spokesman to the former chief minister, said the move demonstrated the government’s commitment to decentralization and balanced development across the province.
Makhdoomzada Aftab Haider, MPA from PK-111, on social media platform congratulated the people of Paharpur, stating that the new district would play a pivotal role in the region’s socio-economic advancement. He expressed gratitude to the provincial cabinet for acknowledging the persistent demand of the area’s residents.
Adding his views, Syed Kamran Shah Zaidi, former MPA candidate, described the decision as the “victory of the people’s voice.” He recalled that he had personally highlighted the demand for district status during the former Chief Minister Gandapur’s  public gathering in Paharpur.
Citizens lauded former chief minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur and the provincial cabinet for addressing their longstanding demand, expressing confidence that the formation of District Paharpur would usher in a new era of development, improved services, and administrative convenience for the region.

FIA advises public to ignore unverified off-loading claims, Follow official sources only

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 30 (APP):The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has advised citizens not to rely on unverified or speculative social media posts regarding off-loading incidents and instead obtain information exclusively from official channels.
An FIA official told APP on Sunday that misleading claims circulating online create unnecessary fear and confusion among travellers. The spokesperson reiterated that FIA prioritises transparency and strict adherence to the law in all its policies and procedures.
The advisory stated that the citizens should avoid trusting unverified or unofficial news regarding passenger off-loading;
Accurate information should only be obtained from FIA’s official platforms and designated officers; FIA remains committed to lawful, transparent, and passenger-friendly procedures; For guidance or assistance, citizens may call FIA Helpline 1991;
For complaints, they may contact: complaints@fia.gov.pk
The FIA reaffirmed that ensuring public confidence and maintaining legal compliance remain its top priorities.

Musadik Malik calls for urgent climate resilience measures at AKU conference

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 30 (APP):Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr Musadik Malik on Sunday stressed the urgent need for climate-resilient development and coordinated action to confront the escalating impacts of climate change, particularly on vulnerable populations in Pakistan.
Speaking as chief guest at a conference titled “Climate Change and the Built Environment: Promoting Resilience and Adaptation in Low-Income Settings”, organised by the Institute of Global Health and Development at the Aga Khan University (AKU), the minister said Pakistan must move swiftly to strengthen preparedness, adaptation and environmental stewardship across all sectors.
Dr Malik informed participants that the government has formulated a 300-day national preparedness plan on the instructions of the prime minister to gear up for the 2026 monsoon season. The coming months, he said, would be critical for rehabilitating infrastructure damaged by this year’s floods and for implementing measures to mitigate future disasters.
He said the plan’s next stage—Phase II—would focus on long-term adaptation and the expansion of climate resilience initiatives already underway. The strategy, he added, is anchored in a three-part framework: “Fix, Grow and Build.”
The minister underscored the need for active provincial participation, warning that effective climate resilience cannot be achieved without close coordination between federal and provincial governments, as well as local institutions and community-led organisations.
Highlighting Pakistan’s acute climate vulnerability, Dr Malik noted that the country contributes less than 1 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions yet remains among the world’s most climate-affected nations. In comparison, he said, just ten countries account for more than 70pc of global emissions.
He urged the international community to acknowledge its responsibilities and work toward climate justice, enhanced financing and collective global action.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to climate-resilient development, Dr Malik called on global partners, development organisations and local stakeholders to collaborate in safeguarding vulnerable communities and building a sustainable future.

Pakistan Africa Economic Council appoints  Muhammad Murtaza Noor as General Secretary

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 30 (APP):The Pakistan Africa Economic Council (PAEC)  appointed Muhammad Murtaza Noor as the General Secretary (GS) for its Islamabad Region to oversee administrative affairs, membership development, event coordination, and strategic liaison.
 The appointment was announced by the PAEC Board of Directors and Central Executive Committee, recognizing his dedication, leadership, and longstanding contributions to strengthening international cooperation, said a press release on Sunday.
Pakistan Africa Economic Council appoints  Muhammad Murtaza Noor as General Secretary
The PAEC leadership expressed confidence that his dynamic leadership will enhance the council’s outreach and deepen Pakistan-Africa economic and institutional linkages.
With over 25 years of experience in higher education, development, and international cooperation, Murtaza Noor is known for his impactful work in academic networking, youth development, and policy advocacy.
He serves as National Coordinator of IUCPSS, the largest netwok of public and private sector universities, Executive Director of APSUP, and Senior Vice President of the Academia-Industry Linkages Forum.
He is also the founder of the International Students Convention & Expo, Pakistan’s largest student-focused platform.
He has played key roles in global academic diplomacy, including serving as Advisor, Linkages & Media, at OIC-COMSTECH-OIC, Coordinator for the OIC-COMSTECH Consortium of Excellence and Country Coordinator for the Global Higher Education Leadership Academy.
His work with HEC, LUMS, UNDP, and other leading  institutions has strengthened governance, capacity building, and inter-university collaboration nationwide.
A regular columnist and youth advocate, he has also received multiple national and international honours, including the Peace Award, Civic Education Award, and Awards of Honour from various national and international organisations and institutions. He has also represented Pakistan on main occasions internationally.
PAEC leadership extended best wishes to Murtaza Noor for a successful term, expressing full confidence in his ability to advance Pakistan-Africa cooperation and contribute to the council’s vision of enhanced regional engagement.

President expresses condolences over loss of life in Southeast Asia floods

By
Irfan Khan
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ISLAMABAD: Nov 30 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari, Sunday, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and widespread displacement caused by severe flooding across Southeast Asia.

The president said the tragedy, which claimed hundreds of lives and left many missing, brought great distress to the people of Pakistan.

He conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and to the governments and people of Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, President Secretariat Media Wing said in a press release.

The president noted that Pakistan understood the pain and uncertainty caused by such disasters, as it continued to face climate driven catastrophes of its own.

He said the scenes of submerged communities and families forced from their homes were a reminder of shared human vulnerability and the growing impact of extreme weather across the region.

President Zardari said Pakistan would stay closely engaged with regional partners and international organisations to explore practical ways of offering support within its means.

He said Pakistan stood by the affected countries as they navigate this crisis.

He prayed for the departed and for the safe recovery of those missing.

 

 

LHC orders issuance of character certificate after conviction cleared in minor case

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
MULTAN, Nov 30 (APP):The Lahore High Court (LHC) Multan Bench directed the authorities concerned to issue a clear character certificate to a citizen after confirming that he had already paid the penalty imposed on him for a minor offense during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Petitioner Ahsan Elahi was booked at Police Station Gulgasht for violating COVID-19
restrictions. He was fined Rs 500, which he duly paid. Later, he applied for a character
certificate from the Police Station Record Management System for recruitment as
Inspector Environment (BPS-13). However, he was shown as convicted in the system,
which affected his employment process.
Through Advocate Mehar Ilyas Wasli, Ahsan Elahi filed Petition No. 7701/25, praying
for deletion of the criminal entry and issuance of a correct certificate. His counsel
argued that the offense was minor in nature and that the petitioner had already undergone
the punishment.
The LHC Multan Bench accepted the arguments and held that in case involving minor
offense where the sentence has been fully served, the applicant is entitled to a character
certificate. The court ordered deletion of the adverse entry and directed the authorities
to issue the character certificate in favour of the petitioner.

Fog fever threatens animals’ health

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
By M Atif Ismail
MULTAN, Nov 30 (APP):The Livestock Department has issued an alert over a seasonal rise in Fog Fever, a sudden and severe respiratory disease affecting cows and buffaloes across Punjab.
The illness, medically known as Acute Bovine Pulmonary Edema and Emphysema (ABPEE),
typically appears when animals are shifted to lush green pastures and can lead to rapid
breathing distress and, in some cases, sudden death.
The disease occurs when fresh, soft fodder containing L-Tryptophan converts inside
the animal’s digestive system into 3-Methyl Indole (3-MI), a toxic compound that damages
lung tissues. Key symptoms include fast and open-mouth breathing, whistling sounds from
the throat, rapid rib movement, isolation from the herd, refusal to walk or eat, and, in severe cases, sudden collapse.
Deputy Director Livestock, Dr Jamshaid Akhtar, talking to APP stated, the situation demands strict caution from farmers. He observed that dairy cows, heavy animals and those abruptly shifted to soft green fodder could be at the highest risk. He urged farmers to move animals to new grazing areas gradually, feed dry fodder before grazing, avoid extremely lush pastures and keep sensitive animals under close observation.
He added that any animal showing signs of Fog Fever should be rested immediately in shade and kept calm, while treatment under veterinary supervision and it might include anti-inflammatory medicines, steroids, bronchodilators and fluid therapy in severe cases. The Livestock Department has also advised farmers to contact the nearest veterinary hospital or the 24/7 helpline (08000-9211) for urgent assistance.

Fatimid Foundation center begins blood transfusion services for Thalassemia patients in DI Khan

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
Dera Ismail Khan , Nov 30 (APP):The Fatimid Foundation Center in Dera Ismail Khan has formally commenced regular blood transfusion services for patients suffering from Thalassemia and Hemophilia, marking an important healthcare milestone for the region.
The service was formally launched by noted pediatric specialist Prof. Dr. Ameen Jan Khan, Head of Pediatrics Department at Pak International Medical College, Peshawar.
Administrator Fatimid Centre DIKhan Syed Tehwar Abbas and Admin & HR Officer Abdullah Shah briefed the guest about the hospital’s facilities and took him on a visit to the newly established modern laboratory at the center.
According to details, the Fatimid Foundation Hospital in DI Khan has begun providing screened blood transfusions on a regular basis for patients dependent on lifelong blood support. In the initial phase, five patients belonging to Dera Ismail Khan and Punjab received fully screened and safe blood units.
Prof. Dr. Ameen Jan Khan visited the center to personally oversee the transfusion process. He appreciated the services of the Fatimid Foundation DI Khan, stating that “even a single drop of blood can save a precious human life.” He added that the establishment of this center would serve as an accessible and affordable lifeline for patients from DI Khan, Punjab, Balochistan and surrounding districts, where screened blood will be provided entirely free of cost.
The Fatimid Foundation, a first-class hematological center equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, provides comprehensive healthcare for marginalized communities suffering from Thalassemia, Hemophilia and other hereditary blood disorders. The Foundation operates the country’s largest blood bank and transfusion network, offering absolutely free blood transfusion services to more than 14,000 registered underprivileged patients nationwide. With the DI Khan center now fully operational, families will no longer need to travel to Peshawar or other major cities for treatment.
Administrator Fatimid Foundation DI Khan, Syed Tehwar Abbas, told APP that the mission of the center is clear to ensure safe, screened and quality blood for all patients entirely free of charge. He said patients from DI Khan, Tank, Lakki Marwat, southern Punjab and bordering areas of Balochistan would benefit from the facility.
“We are equipped with a modern laboratory, advanced screening system and trained staff,” he said. “However, the most crucial need is to promote awareness so that the community comes forward for voluntary blood donation. Only through collective efforts can we save more lives,” he added.

President pays tribute to Shaheed ZAB, Benazir on PPP Foundation Day 

By
Irfan Khan
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0

ISLAMABAD, Nov 30 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari, Sunday, paid tribute to Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto, former prime ministers, saying that the struggle of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) had strengthened democracy in Pakistan. 

In a message on the 58th Foundation Day of PPP, he said that resistance against dictatorship and the restoration of public rights were the historic achievements of PPP. 

“The unanimously adopted Constitution of 1973 was a historic gift from Shaheed Bhutto,” President Secretariat Press Wing, in a press release, quoted the president as saying. 

The PPP remained committed to a tolerant and progressive Pakistan, he added.  

He said the PPP had played a key role in the stability of the federation and national unity, adding reforms in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir were the other important accomplishments of the PPP. 

The president further said that foundation of the country’s nuclear programme was laid by the PPP while land reforms, labour rights, education reforms and social justice were the hallmarks of the party.  

“From MRD to ARD, PPP has been the architect of democratic evolution,” he observed. 

President Zardari said the Charter of Democracy and the 18th Amendment were also a part of the PPP’s democratic legacy, adding the inclusion of PPP in the National Action Plan was significant. 

He said the PPP had always been the voice of workers, farmers, women, and minorities. Inclusion of marginalized communities was central to the mission of the party, he added.  

“There is a need to renew commitment to democracy, equality and social justice,” he stressed.  

The president said empowerment of women and minorities was a guarantee for Pakistan’s bright future, urging party’s workers to maintain democratic unity. 

 

Pakistan rejects UNHC for Human Rights’ baseless statement

By
Irfan Khan
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0
MOFA

ISLAMABAD, Nov 30 (APP): Pakistan noted with deep concern the ungrounded and misplaced apprehensions aired on behalf of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights regarding the 27th constitutional amendment adopted by two-third majority of the parliament of Pakistan.  

 “Like all parliamentary democracies, all legislation as well as any amendment to the Constitution remains the exclusive domain of the elected representatives of the people of Pakistan. Democracy and democratic methods form the bedrock of civil and political rights and therefore, must be respected,” the Foreign Office Spokesperson, on Sunday, said in a press statement.  

The constitutional amendments adopted by the Parliament of Pakistan followed due procedures as enshrined in Pakistan’s Constitution.  

“We urge the High Commissioner to respect the sovereign decisions of Pakistan’s parliament and avoid commentary that reflects political bias and misinformation,” it was further asserted. 

The spokesperson further said that Pakistan remained fully committed to protecting, promoting and upholding human rights, human dignity, basic freedoms and the rule of law as enshrined in the constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan. 

While Pakistan gives due importance to the work of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, it was regrettable that Pakistan’s views and ground realities were not reflected in the statement issued.  

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