AIOU hosts special event on higher education opportunities in Russia

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KARACHI, Jun 03 (APP):Following were the Opening Rates of foreign currencies in kerb market issued by the Exchange companies Association of Pakistan, here on Tuesday.

F.C. BUYING SELLING

INTER BANK 282.10 282.15

USD 282.20 284.40

EURO 321.00 325.00

GBP 380.00 385.00

JPY 1.95 1.99

AED 76.80 77.50

SAR 74.80 75.50

SAR announces full operational readiness of Mashaer Train for Hajj 1446 AH

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Mina, Jun 3 (SPA/APP): As part of its national role in serving pilgrims and in line with the Kingdom’s efforts to enhance transportation systems and improve service quality during the Hajj season, the Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) has announced the full operational readiness of the Mashaer Metro Train for the 1446 AH Hajj season starting from Tuesday morning, Dhul Al-Hijjah 7.
SAR has completed its preparations in coordination with various relevant entities, particularly security and service authorities. Comprehensive operational preparation included nearly 12,000 trial trips since last January, in addition to four full-scale simulation exercises accurately replicating the conditions of the Hajj season to test the readiness of systems, trains, and stations and ensure safe and efficient operations.
The Mashaer Metro Train operates on five distinct service patterns tailored to the different Hajj rituals, making it a unique transport system globally. During the Hajj season, the train is scheduled to carry out more than 2,000 trips, aiming to transport over two million passengers with high efficiency and precise organization within those five operational patterns.
SAR also conducted extensive maintenance and rigorous testing on all facilities and stations of the project to ensure their readiness and compliance with safety and quality standards. The train connects nine stations across the holy sites of Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina, with the final station in Mina located on the fourth level of the Jamarat Bridge, enhancing the smooth movement and safety of pilgrims.
The Mashaer Metro Train is one of the region’s most prominent sustainable transport projects. It operates a fleet of 17 trains, each with a capacity of 3,000 passengers, enabling a total transport capacity exceeding 72,000 passengers per hour. This helps reduce congestion in the holy sites, lower carbon emissions, and provide a smart, safe, and environmentally friendly travel experience.
The operation of the train reflects SAR’s commitment to supporting Saudi Vision 2030 by enabling a reliable, efficient, and sustainable transport experience for pilgrims, showcasing the Kingdom’s advanced infrastructure and improving the quality of services provided.
The operation and maintenance of the Mashaer Metro Train were entrusted to SAR by the Cabinet’s Resolution No. (538) dated 16/9/1440H, as part of efforts to enhance operational efficiency and service quality during the Hajj season.

Tourist train launches buffet service for older travelers

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Beijing, Jun 3 (BRNN/APP): Tourist trains tailored for older travelers are gaining popularity in China as the country’s “silver economy” continues to grow.

Recently, several trains have departed from Shenyang, Dalian and Changchun cities in northeast China to popular destinations such as northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Shenzhen in south China’s Guangdong Province, Chengdu in southwest China’s Sichuan Province, and Jiujiang in east China’s Jiangxi Province.

China Railway Shenyang Bureau Group Co., Ltd. has introduced a buffet dining service on tourist trains for older passengers, allowing travelers to select their own dishes to better accommodate varied dietary needs and preferences.

The buffet offers a range of dishes and has received positive feedback since its launch. Meals are served over a two-hour period, with breakfast priced at 20 yuan ($2.79) per person and lunch and dinner at 30 yuan each.

Chefs rotate the menu daily, ensuring unique, freshly prepared options with an emphasis on authentic flavors and balanced nutrition.

The buffet features a variety of regional specialties, including popular dishes such as sweet and sour pork, fried pork in scoop (known as Guobaorou), boiled spicy fish fillet, and Kung Pao chicken.

The buffet caters to all passengers, whether they prefer meat, follow a vegetarian diet or have specific cultural dietary needs. To support the health of senior travelers, meals are prepared with less sugar, oil and salt, making them lighter and easier to digest.

“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve worried about eating while traveling because of my teeth,” said Mr. Liu from Shenyang in northeast China’s Liaoning province. “But the buffet on the train is very considerate, with plenty of steamed dishes and soft, tender meat. Now I can travel by train without worrying about meals.”

Relations between Pakistan and Italy are exemplary in trade, investment and education : Attaullah Tarar

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Maryam Zahra

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Japanese baseball legend Shigeo Nagashima dead at 89

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TOKYO, Jun 3 (Kyodo/APP): Japanese baseball legend Shigeo Nagashima, a People’s Honor Award recipient who rose to stardom for his on-field exploits during the country’s era of rapid economic growth in the 1960s and 1970s, died Tuesday due to pneumonia, the Yomiuri Giants said. He was 89.

Nagashima, who was a key player on the Giants team that won nine consecutive Central League and Japan Series titles from 1965 to 1973 and later managed the club, was a charismatic figure whose popularity transcended sports.

Together with teammate Sadaharu Oh, or “O-N” as the pair were nicknamed, Nagashima became a household name at a time when the country’s economy was booming and is fondly remembered by many middle-aged and older Japanese with nostalgia for those times.

His retirement from playing in 1974 made the year’s top 10 news stories, while the speech he gave at his retirement ceremony, in which he said “My Giants are forever immortal,” has become part of Japan’s popular lexicon.

Over his 17-year playing career, Nagashima won the Central League batting title six times, was home run king twice and RBI leader five times. He was also a five-time CL MVP.

He played in 2,186 games during his storied career, with a .305 batting average, 2,471 hits, 1,522 RBIs and 444 home runs.

“I’m really shocked to hear the sudden obituary,” said the 85-year-old Oh, whose 868 home runs is the Nippon Professional Baseball record.

“I’m really disappointed that Mr. Nagashima, who shines brightly in the history of Japanese baseball, has departed after a long bout with illness. He taught me lots of things. I’m grateful to have been able to play with him.”

Known as “Mr. Giants” — often shortened to “Mister” — Nagashima was a flashy fielder with a flair for game-breaking batting heroics. His signature moment was his game-winning, sayonara home run in the first pro game attended by a Japanese emperor on June 25, 1959.

Nagashima is credited with helping pro ball surpass Japan’s traditional university game as the nation’s most popular brand of baseball.

When Yomiuri engineered his hiring as Japan’s manager for the 2004 Olympics, players flocked to his banner. Japan swept through Asian qualifying but he was scratched from Olympic duty when he was felled by a stroke in March 2004.

As Giants manager, he won five pennants, including two Japan Series titles, over 15 seasons. Although he was eventually named the Giants “Manager Emeritus,” Nagashima’s first tenure as manager was a rocky one.

When his offense hit the skids in 1974 and the Giants just missed out on a 10th straight CL pennant, Yomiuri management jettisoned the team’s most successful skipper ever, Tetsuharu Kawakami, to make room for Nagashima.

In 1975, the rookie skipper led the Giants to their only last-place finish. Nagashima won CL pennants in 1976 and 1977, but not the Japan Series and was fired after the 1980 season.

Nagashima returned as manager of the Giants in 1993, while a free agent system introduced at the time allowed the team to secure a steady flow of veteran front-line talent.

In 1994, he won his first Japan Series pennant with a team powered by his young batting disciple and now fellow Hall of Famer, Hideki Matsui, who later joined the New York Yankees.

Nagashima got the better of his old teammate Oh when the pair faced each other as managers in the 2000 Japan Series with Yomiuri prevailing 4-2 against the Pacific League-winning Daiei (now SoftBank) Hawks in the best-of-seven series.

Despite being better known for wacky phrases that caught the public’s attention than his communication skills, Nagashima still had a way of getting the best out of his players.

PTCL integrates software driven storage platforms from dell technologies to modernize its Data center infrastructure

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):Pakistan’s leading telecom and ICT services provider, Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has teamed up with renowned technology solutions provider, DWP Technologies to integrate software driven Enterprise and Mid-tier storage platforms from Dell Technologies to modernize its data center infrastructure.

A signing ceremony was held in Islamabad to formalize the partnership, attended by Jafar Khalid, Group Chief Technology and Information Officer, PTCL & Ufone, 4G, and Rohail Bashir, Chief Operating Officer, DWP Technologies (Pvt.) Ltd., along with senior management from PTCL Group, DWP and Dell Technologies said a news release.

As part of its ongoing digital transformation journey, PTCL is focused on upgrading its storage infrastructure to boost operational efficiency, enhance performance, and ensure scalability to meet the growing data demands of its network. This modernization effort will streamline PTCL’s operations and solidify its position as a leader in the telecommunications sector. The current mission-critical platform and ecosystem supporting PTCL and Ufone4G, which spans three sites using enterprise replication services (SRDF), will remain fully supported and maintained throughout this initiative, ensuring uninterrupted operations and business continuity.

The upgraded infrastructure introduces several advanced features designed to elevate PTCL’s service delivery and operational effectiveness. It incorporates a three-site active-active metro architecture as part of an enhanced availability initiative, allowing PTCL to maintain continuous service even during localized disruptions. Additionally, the platform is built with scalability in mind, capable of accommodating the future needs of PTCL Group.

The transformation also features significant operational benefits, including drastic reduction in PTCL’s Data Center footprint, along with its power and cooling requirements, leading to lower operational costs and greater energy efficiency.

Sharing his thoughts, Jafar Khalid, Group Chief Technology & Information Officer, PTCL & Ufone 4G said, “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in PTCL’s digital transformation journey, besides stamping PTCL’s authority in Data Center innovation and digital transformation. By modernizing our infrastructure, we are not only enhancing our operational capabilities but also reinforcing our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions to our enterprise customers.”

Rohail Bashir, Chief Operating Officer, DWP Technologies said, “Our collaboration with PTCL and Dell Technologies underscores our dedication to empowering businesses with transformative technology solutions, and showcases our expertise in delivering scalable, efficient, and reliable infrastructure that drives operational excellence. We are proud to partner with two industry leaders to help shape the future of telecommunications in Pakistan and beyond.”

The recent upgrade to PTCL’s data infrastructure is a key milestone in fostering technological innovation and future readiness, which enables the company to seamlessly address the growing and evolving needs of its individual and enterprise customers.

EHCD approves criteria for Emirati students pursuing higher education abroad

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ABU DHABI, Jun 3 (WAM/APP): In line with the UAE’s strategic direction to enhance the quality and outcomes of higher education and human development, and to align its outcomes with national development goals and market needs, the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council (EHCD) has approved a set of criteria for Emirati students who wish to pursue their higher education outside the UAE.

The criteria aim to enhance student’s competence and readiness to enter the job market, and to regulate international scholarship options in accordance with the UAE’s aspirations, national plans, priority sectors, and future developments, thereby supporting the optimal investment in Emirati talents.

Through this initiative, the Council aims to empower students to make well-informed decisions based on clear criteria that ensures the quality of selected programs and academic institutions. It also seeks to enhance the value of the qualifications they obtain, supporting their future career opportunities both within the UAE and abroad.

These criteria are derived from a clear vision to elevate the higher education experience abroad, by guiding students toward accredited and high-quality academic institutions and specializations. Students wishing to enroll in a higher education institution outside the UAE, whether at their own expense or through a sponsoring entity, are required to study at institutions recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, in accordance with the following approved classifications and standards:

1. The institution must be ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide in the intended field of study, regardless of overall ranking or country, according to the Ministry’s approved international rankings, or
2. If studying in the United States or Australia, the institution must be ranked among the world’s top 100 universities in the intended field of study, and among the top 100 universities overall, according to the Ministry’s approved international rankings, or
3. If studying in any other English-speaking country (excluding the USA and Australia), the institution must be ranked among the world’s top 200 universities in the intended field and among the top 200 universities overall, according to the Ministry’s approved international rankings, or
4. If studying in a non-English-speaking country, the institution must be ranked among the world’s top 300 universities in the intended field and among the top 300 universities overall, according to the Ministry’s approved international rankings.

The Council emphasised the importance of adhering to the specified criteria to avoid non-recognition of qualifications obtained abroad. Non-compliance may result in these qualifications not being acknowledged for purposes such as employment, promotion, study leave, exam leave, thesis discussion, or eligibility for qualification-related benefits within the federal government sector in the UAE.

To ensure a transparent and a balanced approach, taking into account special cases, Emirati students who are currently pursuing their studies abroad, whether self-funded or sponsored by a scholarship entity, will be granted a one-year grace period from the effective date of this decision to adjust their academic status.

A specialised committee, chaired by the General Secretariat of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council has been established to review exemption requests. The committee will assess these requests based on precise criteria that consider the nature of the specialization, the academic institution, and the individual circumstances of each case, to support the students’ best interests and enhance their educational and career opportunities.

The Council also instructs the students and the relevant parties to communicate directly with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research for inquiries related to the approved criteria and the process for submitting exemption requests.

This mechanism is part of a broader set of policies and initiatives being developed by the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council in coordination with relevant entities.

These efforts are designed to enhance the quality of higher education, strengthen accreditation recognition system, and support Emirati students both within and outside the UAE. Such initiatives contribute to empowering Emirati talents, developing human capital, and nurturing generations equipped with the skills, capabilities, and knowledge that align with the UAE’s aspirations and reflects its vision for the future.

New technologies to help Belarus recycle 99% of waste

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MINSK, Jun 3 (BelTA/APP): In a new episode of BelTA’s Nation Speaks project Olga Sazonova, Head of the Waste Management Department at the Belarusian Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection, spoke about the technologies that would enable Belarus to recycle 99% of its waste.

In total, Belarus generated about 60 million tonnes of waste in 2024. Of this, just over 4 million tonnes is solid municipal waste (including secondary material resources), and about 56 million tonnes is industrial waste. Some 80% of the collected municipal solid waste is household waste. Some 70% of the waste from economic activities of enterprises is large-tonnage waste, i.e. waste from the production of potash and phosphate fertilizers, Olga Sazonova said.

“The current waste recycling level in the country is 33% because large-tonnage waste is practically not used. There are no technologies in the world that would allow for its effective use. This is primarily due to the economic feasibility of its use. Secondly, selling large quantities of the product obtained during processing is problematic. These are salts and halite clay-salt sludge. Currently, one of the areas of phosphogypsum processing is the production of rare earth elements. There are certain developments, and we are working in this direction,” the head of the department said.

If we consider the production waste recycling level excluding large-tonnage waste, it is around 90%, while for municipal waste, this level is around 40%.

According to the Goal 99 subprogram of the state program Comfortable Housing and a Favorable Environment, the country needs to achieve a 100% waste recycling rate, including municipal waste. A high percentage of municipal waste recycling can be achieved not only through separate collection of glass, plastic, and paper, Olga Sazonova said. “Practice shows that separate collection can ensure a level of no more than 40%. In order to reach 100%, two new waste management technologies are being introduced,” she said.

The first is the energy use of waste. “This can be either direct incineration of waste by processing plants or RDF, which is then sent to cement plants,” the head of the department explained.

The second is composting organic waste components, because they account for about 40% of all municipal waste. “Organic waste needs additional efforts. This may include composting sites and their further use,” she said.

Railways beefed-up security in trains, at stations during Eid

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP):Pakistan Railways Police has issued instructions to all Superintendent of Police (SP) Railways to tighten security in trains as well as at stations to avoid any untoward incident during Eid-ul-Azha days.

On the direction of Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, the department had directed all SPs Railways to depute sufficient force at exit and entry points of all railway stations and strict watch to be carried out of suspicious persons, an official in the Ministry told APP.

Pakistan Railways Police Commando Force would be deputed at vulnerable installations and in trains, while bomb disposal staff would also be kept on alert for search of luggage and passengers at railway stations.

“The SPs Railways directed to conduct complete check and search of empty rakes before trains reach the platforms for departure for their destinations,” the official added.

All the SPs Railways would also be directed to remain present on Eid holidays and randomly check trains, stations and escorting staff, the official added.

The official said the number of passengers was increasing day by day at railway stations and trains ahead of Eid and the Railway administration had arranged special trains across the country to facilitate the extra passengers.

It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan Railways has decided to operate five Eid Special Trains from various cities to facilitate passengers during the Eid-ul-Azha.

According to the details, the first special train had departed from Karachi Cantonment Railway Station for Lahore at 1:00 pm on June 2.

The second special train had left Quetta for Peshawar at 10:00 am on June 3.

On the same day, the third special train will depart from Lahore for Karachi at 5:00 pm while fourth special train will leave Karachi Cantonment for Rawalpindi at 7:30 pm.

The fifth and final Eid Special Train will depart from Karachi Cantonment for Lahore at 7:30 pm on June 4.

2-Pakistani inspire at China Huaneng Group’s 40th anniversary english speech contest

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):At the grand celebration of China Huaneng Group’s 40th anniversary, a landmark moment that commemorated four decades of innovation and global energy leadership, two compelling voices from Pakistan captured the hearts of audiences; Faran Tahir and Nouman Ali.

2-Pakistani inspire at China Huaneng Group’s 40th anniversary english speech contest

Both speakers, who have dedicated significant years of their careers to China Huaneng, delivered their speeches virtually from the Sahiwal Coal Fired Power Plant in Pakistan, and their words echoed powerfully across the large auditorium in China.

The speeches, presented during the English-Speaking Contest celebrating the company’s 40-year milestone, were not just performances, they were deeply personal journeys framed with gratitude, vision, and commitment. Through the use of a live online link, Faran and Nouman’s addresses were broadcasted on large screens to an engaged audience, including executives, employees, and fellow contestants from across various branches of the company. Their physical absence was more than compensated by the sincerity and strength of their stories, which transcended borders and created a memorable connection with everyone present.

Faran Tahir, Manager Planning at the 1320 MW Sahiwal Coal Fired Power Plant, shared a decade-long story that reflected not only professional growth but also a profound alignment with the values and mission of China Huaneng.

Dressed in a formal suit, Faran stood against the backdrop of the Sahiwal power plant and painted a vivid picture of his journey from the day he first joined to the present day, where he now stands as a key part of a landmark energy project in Pakistan.

His speech was structured with elegance, weaving personal anecdotes with strategic insights, and highlighting the powerful collaboration between China and Pakistan under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Audience members were visibly moved as Faran spoke about how the culture of excellence at Huaneng shaped his work ethic and how witnessing China’s dedication to sustainability and innovation inspired him to strive for greater heights.

His speech closed with a powerful statement of appreciation and vision: “This is not just a story of energy; it is a story of light, connection, and a shared future.”

Nouman Ali, with six years of experience at China Huaneng, followed with a speech that complemented Faran’s narrative beautifully.

Speaking with poise and passion, Nouman offered insights into the challenges and triumphs he encountered on his journey. Wearing a sharp dark suit and speaking confidently, Nouman took the audience through his early experiences as a young professional adapting to a multinational environment, and how the supportive atmosphere of Huaneng enabled him to grow both technically and personally.

His speech resonated particularly with younger members of the audience, as he spoke about resilience, continuous learning, and building bridges between nations through shared work.

Nouman’s speech was deeply appreciated for its sincerity and the clarity with which he outlined how China Huaneng’s approach to talent development and cross-cultural cooperation gave him the opportunity to become a better engineer and leader.

His closing remarks emphasized gratitude, but also hope: “As we move forward, let us remember energy is not only about power, but also about empowering people.”

The audience responded to both speeches with enthusiasm and admiration.

Judges, staff members, and fellow participants expressed appreciation for the clarity, depth, and emotional power of Faran and Nouman’s storytelling. Their speeches were noted for bringing an international flavor to the contest while also reinforcing the core values that China Huaneng upholds globally collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for sustainable development.

The significance of their participation lies not only in the content of their speeches but in what they represented: the unity of nations working together toward a brighter future.

The Sahiwal project, a flagship example of Sino-Pak cooperation, became the unifying backdrop of both speeches and a reminder of the tangible outcomes that result from global partnerships rooted in mutual respect and purpose.

In a world often divided by borders, Faran Tahir and Nouman Ali’s presence virtually delivered but deeply felt demonstrated that when stories are sincere and partnerships are strong, the impact knows no boundaries.

Their speeches added a meaningful and inspiring dimension to the 40th anniversary celebrations, leaving a lasting impression not only on the audience in China but also on all who continue to work for a future powered by cooperation and mutual growth.

Pervaiz Malik, President SOCAR discuss enhancing bilateral energy cooperation

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Shahzad Ahmad

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP):Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and President of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) on Tuesday discussed enhancing bilateral energy cooperation and exploring new avenues for collaboration in the oil and gas sector in Baku.

According to a news release received here, the meeting focused on strengthening ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan in the energy domain.

Both sides exchanged views on mutual interests, including potential investments and joint ventures, to bolster energy security and sustainable development.

Ali Pervaiz Malik highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships with global energy leaders like SOCAR.

He also informed about the government’s efforts to create an investor-friendly environment to encourage more investment in the country.

Rovshan Najaf commended Pakistan’s progress in the energy sector and expressed SOCAR’s interest in deepening engagement with Pakistani counterparts.

HEC’s month long initiative for Capacity Building of academic leaders concluded

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Shahzad Ahmad

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):The Higher Education Commission (HEC’s) month-long capacity building initiative for the academic leaders and university management on university governance and leadership concluded.

Registrars, Deans, Controller of Examinations and Treasurers of as many as 47 universities from across the country took part in the programme. It was organised in collaboration with the British Council Pakistan, and Edinburgh Napier University (ENU), UK under the umbrella of Pakistan-UK Education Gateway, a programme.

The programme aims to enhance partnership between the higher education sectors of Pakistan and the UK. IMSciences Peshawar was the partner of ENU for this training programme.

Adviser Global Engagement Division HEC Mr Awais Ahmad was the chief guest of the closing ceremony, attended by Deputy Director British Council Ms Marya Rehman, Head of Global Online Edinburgh Napier University Dr Fawad Khaleel, Joint Director IMSciences Dr Atta ur Rahman and other notables. Colleagues from HEC and the British Council were also present on the occasion.

The certification programme spanned three weeks of online and one week of in-person sessions.

22 power pilferers held

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SARGODHA, Jun 03 (APP):Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) task teams nabbed 22 power pilferers during the last 24 hours.

According to the report issued here on Tuesday,the anti power theft task teams raided various sub divisional areas including Kot Fareed and nabbed 22 power thieves.They were–Haroon, Shakeel, Rasheed, Naveed, Nouman, Ibrahim, Ahmed, Aslam, Imran, Khalid, Kaleem, Kamran, Khaliqdad, Walidad, Faheem ,Farman and others.

The alleged nominated power thieves were involved in meter detecting, meter reversing and were causing the loss of over 1700 units on daily basis.

Path to Paradise: Around 1.6 mln pilgrims embark on sacred journey for Divine forgiveness, blessings

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By Raziq Ali Shah

MAKKAH AL MUKARRAMAH, Jun 03 (APP): As the curtain rises on Hajj 2025, the tranquil valley of Mina braces itself for an influx of around 1.6 million devout pilgrims—including over 115,000 Pakistanis—converging from all corners of the globe to embark on a spiritual journey on today night (Tuesday night) that culminates in the sacred celebration of Eid al-Azha.

For nearly a month, the faithful have gathered in Makkah, the land revered as Umm al-Qura (Mother of All Settlements)—the epitome of Divine planning—to engage in profound communion with the Creator, beseeching His forgiveness and invoking blessings upon their souls.

According to official reports, around 1.5 million pilgrims have already arrived in Saudi Arabia in anticipation of the Hajj, with more expected to join them. They will be joined by hundreds of thousands of Saudis and local residents as the pilgrimage officially commences on Wednesday.

Following last year’s heatwave, the Saudi authorities have already mobilized over 40 government agencies and 250,000 officials to double their efforts against heat strokes, the report further said. Similarly, shaded areas have been expanded by 50,000 square metres, and numerous cooling mist systems and water fountains have been installed to facilitate the guests of Allah Almighty at the holy land.

Pakistan has meticulously orchestrated arrangements to support its pilgrims through every facet of the journey—from the moment they arrive in Madinah and Makkah. From airport reception to transportation, accommodation, nourishment, medical care, guidance by Moavineen (Hajj Support Staff), and onward to the sacred sites (Mashair) and back home, every detail has been carefully managed.

The pilgrimage begins with the solemn act of entering ihram—a sacred state—upon crossing the outer boundaries of Makkah, known as Miqat, marking the commencement of the sacred journey.

On the eve of the 7th and 8th of Zilhaj, pilgrims proceed to Mina, spanning a distance of 8.1 kilometers, using various modes of transportation including trains and buses as they settle into the vast tent city. This year, the Saudi Authorities restricted movement of pilgrims on foot due to expected extreme heatwave condition and to protect pilgrims from heat related illness.

The 8th of Zilhaj, known as Tarwiyyah Day, finds pilgrims immersed in prayer and reflection in the serene precincts of Mina, preparing spiritually for the sacred ascent that lies ahead.
At dawn on the 9th of Zilhaj, pilgrims embark on the pivotal leg of the journey, proceeding to the plains of Arafat to partake in collective prayers and supplications, punctuated by the Khutbah (sermon) delivered from Masjid al-Nimra on Mount Arafat.

The Day of Arafah holds profound significance—hailed in Surah al-Ma’idah as the day Allah perfected His religion, completed His favor upon Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and ratified Islam as the ultimate way of life.
As the sun sets, pilgrims depart Arafat for Muzdalifah, where they offer Maghrib and Isha prayers—abbreviated to two rakats each—before collecting pebbles for the ritual of Rami over the coming days.

The 10th of Zilhaj, the Day of Sacrifice (Yawm al-Nahr), witnesses pilgrims returning to Mina from Muzdalifah, offering animal sacrifices, commencing the Rami ritual, and marking the global celebration of Eid al-Azha.

Over the next three days, pilgrims continue the Rami ritual, casting seven pebbles on the first day and 21 on each subsequent day, while also trimming or shaving their hair—symbolizing spiritual renewal and rebirth.

On the 12th of Zilhaj, the climax of the Hajj journey unfolds as pilgrims return to Makkah to perform the rites of Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa’i between Safa and Marwah. These rites, integral to the Hajj experience, follow the completion of key acts such as the symbolic stoning of the devil, the sacrificial offering, and hair trimming.

With the completion of Tawaf and Sa’i, pilgrims find a moment of respite, free from the restrictions of ihram. Yet their hearts remain tethered to the sanctity of the pilgrimage, prompting them to return to their tents in Mina to fulfill the remaining obligations of Hajj.

Before departing Makkah, pilgrims undertake the poignant ritual of the farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wida), marking the conclusion of their spiritual odyssey. This solemn act includes completing seven laps around the Kaaba, offering two rakats of prayer, and drinking from the blessed waters of Zamzam. Unlike previous Tawaf rituals, no Sa’i or hair trimming is required after this final circumambulation, symbolizing the formal completion of their sacred pilgrimage.

Boxing trials of men, women concluded at AJK University

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 03 (APP):Boxing Trials of Men & Women under Prime Minister Youth Programme (PMYP) were concluded yesterday at the Azad Jammu & Kashmir University, Muzaffarabad.

Chief Guest of the event, VC Azad Jammu & Kashmir University Muzaffarabad, Dr. Nadeem Haider Bukhari, while talking on the occasion, shared with the participants the importance of sports initiatives and announced plans to establish a multipurpose sports gymnasium.

Dr. Ali Malik, Dep. Sect. PMYP informed the participants about PMYP and its initiatives.

He also talked about the ongoing Boxing Talent Hunt and upcoming Cricket Talent Hunt, Phase-II of the Talent Hunt project, and E-Sports Championships and E-Sports Policy Development.

PMYP’s focal person for AJK, Fateh Mehmood Kiyani, emphasised the importance of staying updated with knowledge and opportunities for growth, highlighting the 4Es of PMYP.

Prominent Urdu poet Akhtar Hussain Jafri remembered

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP):Death anniversary of prominent Urdu poet Akhtar Hussain Jafri was observed on Tuesday.

Born on August 15, 1932 in Hoshiarpur, Akhtar Hussain Jafri he migrated to Pakistan after the partition.

His poetry collections include Aina Khana and Jahan Darya Attarta Hai.

The Government of Pakistan awarded him the Presidential Medal for Excellence in 2002 in recognition of his literary services.

Akhtar Hussain Jafri died on June 3, 1992 in Lahore.

IRSA releases 242,921 cusecs water

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 3 (APP):Indus River System Authority (IRSA) on Tuesday released 242,921 cusecs water from various rim stations with inflow of 187,416 cusecs.

According to the data released by IRSA, the water level in River Indus at Tarbela Dam was 1472.92 feet which was 70.92 feet higher than dead level of 1402.00 feet. Water inflow and outflow in the dam was recorded as 91,700 cusecs and 156,600 cusecs respectively. The water level in River Jhelum at Mangla Dam was 1163.40 feet, which was 113.40 feet higher than its dead level of 1,050 feet. The inflow and outflow of water was recorded 34,395 cusecs and 25,000 cusecs, respectively.

The release of water at Kalabagh, Taunsa , Guddu and Sukkur was recorded as 189,178, 153,583, 121,281 and 66,827 cusecs, respectively. Similarly, from River Kabul, a total of 25,400 cusecs of water released at Nowshera and 7438 cusecs released from River Chenab at Marala.

Security forces killed seven terrorists in two separate operations in Balochistan

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RAWALPINDI, Jun 3 (APP): Security forces killed seven terrorists belonging to Indian proxy, Fitna al Hindustan in two separate operations in Balochistan.

An intelligence-based operation (IBO) was conducted in general area Mach, Kachhi District on reported presence of Fitna al Hindustan terrorists, said an ISPR news release.

During the conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged the Fitna al Hindustan terrorists’ location, and after an intense fire exchange, five Indian sponsored terrorists were sent to hell.

In another IBO conducted in general area Margand, Kalat District, a Fitna al Hindustan terrorist hideout was busted and two Fitna al Hindustan terrorists were successfully neutralized.

Weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from the killed Fitna al Hindustan terrorists, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities.

Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace Indian sponsored terrorism from the country, and reaffirm the nation’s unwavering resolve to bring the perpetrators of Indian sponsored terrorism and their facilitators to justice.

President, PM laud security forces for killing 7 terrorists in Balochistan

By

Ishtiaq Rao

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