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CM grieved over loss of lives in Shahdara electrocution incident

By
Asif Jalal
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0
LAHORE, Aug 06 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic death of four individuals due to electrocution in Shahdara area of Lahore.
The CM, extending her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, prayed for the departed souls and strength for the families to bear this irreparable loss. She also directed the relevant authorities to submit an immediate report on the incident.
CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized the need to ensure public safety and called for steps to prevent such incidents in the future.

Corruption scam of Rs 1.24b unveiled in APP; I will take up it personally, says Attaullah Tarar

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP): Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar said that he would personally follow up on the Rs1.24 billion embezzlement case in the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) funds, during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting held here Wednesday.
He gave this response to a question raised by Senator Sarmad Ali, who asked why FIR had not been lodged even after more than ten months of the exposure of the Rs1.24 billion scam.
Federal Minister Attaullah Tarar said the Managing Director of APP, Muhammad Asim Khichi, had uncovered a major scam involving misappropriation of Rs 1.24 billion provident fund (PF) and employees-related expenses (ERE) in the organization. He assured the committee that he would pursue the case himself for registration of an FIR against those responsible.
It was further told to the meeting that the amount mentioned in the mega corruption scam was duly endorsed in the Commercial Audit Report 2023-24 and 2025-26.
Moreover, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) had also issued directions to FIA for initiating legal action to recover the embezzled funds.
The meeting was chaired by Senator Barrister Ali Zafar and attended by Senators Irfan Siddiqui, Pervaiz Rashid, Jan Mohammad Belaidi, Syed Waqar Mehdi, and senior officials from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, including Secretary Ambreen Jan and Additional Secretary Ashfaq Khalil.
Speaking to media after the meeting, Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi said he would raise the matter in the Senate. He said the delay in registering the case was concerning, especially when the APP administration had already submitted documentary evidence to the FIA.

DPM/FM reaffirms govt’s commitment to institutional efficiency, accountability

By
Irfan Khan
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Wednesday reaffirmed government’s commitment to institutional efficiency, accountability and the delivery of measurable outcomes through improved coordination and implementation.

The DPM/FM chaired an inter-ministerial meeting with key government departments aimed at enhancing overall efficiency across the government, DPM Office said in a press release.

DPM/FM reaffirms govt’s commitment to institutional efficiency, accountability DPM/FM reaffirms govt’s commitment to institutional efficiency, accountability

The meeting was attended by ministers of EAD, petroleum, IT; advisors to the PM on PMO, industries and production, governance, privatization; SAPM Tariq Bajwa; federal secretaries of establishment, EAD, privatization, and other officials from concerned departments.

The discussions focused on strengthening inter-ministerial collaboration, streamlining processes, and promoting a governance model that is efficient, transparent, technologically enabled, and results-oriented.

CM congratulates Pakistani students on achievement in international nuclear science Olympiad

By
Asif Jalal
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0
LAHORE, Aug 06 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has congratulated Pakistani students for their remarkable success in the International Nuclear Science Olympiad, where they secured gold, silver, and bronze medals, bringing pride to the nation.
In her message, the chief minister said, “Our talented students have raised the prestige of the homeland by excelling on an international platform. This achievement reflects the immense potential of our youth and the bright future of Pakistan in the fields of nuclear science and advanced scientific disciplines.”
She added that the performance of these young minds is a testament to their capability, dedication, and brilliance, adding, “The success of our students proves that the youth of Pakistan are fully capable of making their mark and creating new history on the global stage.”
CM Maryam Nawaz said that the government is committed to promoting science education and nurturing talent across Punjab, ensuring that young Pakistanis are empowered to excel in all fields of modern knowledge.

NA adopts resolutions on Palestinian support, digital harassment and honour killings

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP): The National Assembly on Wednesday adopted a resolution reaffirming Pakistan’s historic and unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their struggle for freedom, dignity and justice. The resolution, moved by PPP lawmaker Shazia Marri, expressed deep concern over the continuing and escalating Israeli military aggression in Gaza, which has resulted in the killing of civilians and widespread destruction of homes and infrastructure.
It strongly condemned recent statements and actions by Israeli authorities indicating plans for the long-term occupation of Gaza, forced displacement of its population, and attempts to erase the Palestinian identity of the territory. The resolution also denounced the use of starvation, siege, and collective punishment as tools of war, emphasizing that these acts constitute war crimes under international law.
The House called upon the United Nations and the international community to fulfill their moral and legal responsibilities by taking immediate and concrete steps to end Israeli military aggression in Gaza, ensure the protection of civilians, and guarantee unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance. It further urged that the occupying power be held accountable for war crimes and crimes against humanity, and that the Palestinian people be supported in their quest for justice and self-determination.
The resolution also urged the government to continue to raise its voice for the Palestinian cause at all international forums, including the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
In another resolution, moved by Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), the House urged the federal government to strengthen the legal framework to ensure strict punishment for unauthorized video recording, cyber harassment, and digital defamation.
It stressed enhancing the capacity of law enforcement agencies, including digital forensic units, to investigate and respond promptly and effectively. The House also called for targeted public awareness campaigns on digital rights, legal remedies, and safe reporting channels, in addition to establishing dedicated complaint desks in police stations. It further recommended introducing educational modules on digital ethics, privacy rights, and anti-harassment laws in institutions.
The National Assembly also adopted a resolution strongly condemning the unlawful acts of so-called honour killings. Moved by Shahida Rehmani, it emphasized zero tolerance for such acts and proposed the formation of an interprovincial task force for coordinated action to curb these crimes.

Bangladesh national flag hoisted at new chancery to mark People’s Uprising Day

By
NNPS Desk
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0

By Rehan Khan

ISLAMABAD, August 06 (APP): The national flag of Bangladesh was hoisted for the first time at the newly constructed Chancery Complex of the Bangladesh High Commission in Islamabad to mark the People’s Uprising Day.

Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan, Md. Iqbal Hussain Khan, raised the flag atop a 49-foot pole as the national anthem played, symbolizing a significant diplomatic milestone for the country’s presence in Pakistan.

A large gathering attended the historic occasion, including the mission’s defence advisor, deputy high commissioner, press counsellor, head of chancery, other diplomatic staff, and employees of the high commission. Also in attendance were expatriate Bangladeshi architect Mazhar who contributed to the project and Pakistani engineers Latif and Mozammel, along with many local citizens.

Speaking at the ceremony, High Commissioner Iqbal Hussain Khan emphasized the symbolic significance of the event.

“This Chancery Complex and today’s flag hoisting mark an important milestone in the 49-year history of Bangladesh’s diplomatic mission in Islamabad. It stands as a proud testament to our independence, sovereignty, and national identity,” he said.

Located in the heart of Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave, the new complex is set to enhance the high commission’s diplomatic outreach and operational capacity in Pakistan, opening a new chapter in bilateral engagement between the two countries.

FGRF joins hands with PHA in tree plantation

By
Asif Jalal
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0
RAWALPINDI, Aug 06 (APP):A tree plantation ceremony was held here at the Allama Iqbal Park in collaboration with Faizan Global Relief Foundation (FGRF) of Dawat-e-Islami and Punjab Horticulture Authority (PHA) Rawalpindi.
PHA Rawalpindi Director General Ahmed Hassan Ranjha was the special guest at the ceremony, while the attendees included important personalities from Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Dawat-e-Islami.
The ceremony began with the recitation of the verses of Holy Quran and Naat-e-Rasool Maqbool (SAW).
PHA DG Ranjha, in his address, appreciated the efforts of Dawat-e-Islami urging the religious parties to help raise awareness about the importance of tree plantation.
“This effort of Dawat-e-Islami is commendable, and the PHA Rawalpindi fully supports it,” he said, adding the climate change phenomenon could be dealt with only by highlighting the importance of tree plantation.
He further said that planting trees to make the environment people-friendly was a national duty. “We urgently need to popularize tree plantation to protect our areas, cities, streets and neighbourhoods from pollution and climate change.”
Other speakers also highlighted the importance of tree plantation.
An FGRF representative shed light on the services of the organization. A documentary video was also shown in this regard.
Later, the DG PHA along with other guests planted saplings.

PFF to hold first ever-national futsal team tryouts

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP): The Pakistan Football Federation is set to conduct its first-ever national futsal team tryouts ahead of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026 Qualifiers.

Open to futsal players across the country, the tryouts will take place on 10th August 2025 at the 5th Generation Sports Complex in DHA Phase 8, Lahore, from 9am to 6pm, said a press release.

The players must bring valid identification, including a passport and CNIC, to be eligible for selection.

The Pakistan Football Federation’s technical team will finalize the squad in due course, with a training camp scheduled to begin in the first week of September.

Pakistan has been drawn into Group D alongside Iraq, Chinese Taipei and host nation Saudi Arabia. The group stage matches will be played in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, with Pakistan set to face Iraq on September 20, Saudi Arabia on September 22 and Chinese Taipei on September 24.

Long-term investment policy essential to unlock Pakistan’s economic potential

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP): Nasir Mansoor Qureshi, President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), has urged the government to take concrete and practical steps to establish an investor-friendly environment that encourages both foreign and local investment.
Speaking to a delegation of visiting businessmen Wednesday, alongside ICCI Senior Vice President Abdul Rehman Siddiqui and Vice President Nasir Mehmood Chaudhry, Qureshi highlighted Pakistan’s immense investment potential across diverse sectors.
These include information technology, cement, pharmaceuticals, textiles, surgical instruments, sports goods, mining and minerals, and unique commodities like pink salt.
He emphasized that the country urgently needs a long-term, consistent investment policy formulated in close consultation with real stakeholders. “Only through inclusive policy-making we can ensure sustainable economic growth and investor confidence,” he stated.
The ICCI President pointed out that strategies must be grounded in practical realities and address the genuine challenges facing the business community, particularly in terms of regulatory complexities and the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) taxation practices.
He stressed that instead of overburdening the existing taxpayers or creating a climate of fear, efforts should be focused on widening the tax net and streamlining compliance mechanisms.
Nasir Mansoor Qureshi reaffirmed that the ICCI has always played a constructive role by presenting actionable policy proposals to the government. “We are committed to continuing our proactive engagement with policymakers to shape a business-friendly ecosystem in the best interest of the national economy,” he added.

Two acquitted in Tarnol drug case due to lack of evidence

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP): The District & Sessions Court of Islamabad on Wednesday acquitted the two accused in a drug-related case after the prosecution failed to present sufficient evidence.
Additional District and Sessions Judge West, Nasrum Minallah, acquitted two individuals nominated in a drug case registered at Tarnol Police Station.
According to the written court order, the accused — Shaoor Abbas and Nouman — were cleared of all charges due to insufficient evidence.
During the hearing, defence counsel Advocate Muhammad Bilal Raza argued that both individuals were falsely implicated in the case and had no connection with narcotics.
The defence maintained that the prosecution failed to establish any link between the accused and the alleged offence. After hearing arguments from both sides, the court ordered their acquittal.
The decision was based on the lack of credible evidence, leading the court to conclude that the charges could not be proven beyond doubt.
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