SBP launches ‘Pakistan Financial Literacy Week’

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APP12-141025Faisalabad — APP12-140425 FAISALABAD: April 14- Female artists perform a cultural folk dance during Punjab Culture Day celebrations at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad. APP/TWR/MAF/TZD/SSH

RAWALPINDI, Apr 15 (APP):In line with the vision of the Punjab Chief Minister, the City Traffic Police (CTP) Rawalpindi marked Punjab Cultural Day with a colorful ceremony at the Traffic Headquarters. The event showcased the rich heritage of Punjab and Potohar, celebrating the province’s traditions, arts, and linguistic diversity.

Under the directives of Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Rawalpindi Bensh Fatima, the program was broadcast live on CTP’s social media platforms, allowing a wider audience to engage with the festivities. Inspector Numan Razaq (Incharge FM Radio) hosted the event.

Renowned poet, writer, and broadcaster Abid Hussain Janjua graced the occasion, enthralling the audience with verses that highlighted Punjab’s history, values, and cultural values. Traffic Wardens Yasir, Zahid Bukhari, and Tauseef Ahmed Kalyami also delivered speeches emphasizing Punjab’s cultural significance.

The event featured captivating performances by Potohari poets, including Shiraz Akhtar Mughal, Farid Zahid, and Sub-Inspector Naveed Aslam Kahut, who infused the gathering with regional charm. Traffic Warden Chaudhry Zulfiqar (sitar player) and his ensemble added a melodic touch which received great appreciation by the audience. Sanitary worker Liaquat Bhatti energized the crowd with traditional music.

Traffic Warden Babar Shahzad, Studio Engineer FM Radio, presented a thought-provoking Punjabi essay on culture, ethics, and social values, underscoring the language’s importance.

“The initiative by Rawalpindi Traffic Police is not just an effort to preserve cultural heritage but also a step toward fostering a harmonious and inclusive society”, said CTO Beenish Fatima while appreciating the performance of the participating singers, poets and musicians.

The event reinforced the department’s commitment to promoting cultural unity while engaging the community in Punjab’s vibrant traditions.

Lt Gen (Retd) Nigar Johar appointed as Brand Ambassador for Women Empowerment

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RAWALPINDI, Apr 15 (APP):In a historic move for gender equality and women’s leadership, the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) has appointed Lt Gen (Retd) Nigar Johar Khan as its official ‘Brand Ambassador’ for Women Empowerment and Women’s Initiatives.

The announcement was made during an event, “SHE Leads – A Tribute to Women,” which was held at the Chamber House the previous day. The ceremony celebrated the resilience, strength, and remarkable contributions of women across Pakistan, with Lt Gen (Retd) Nigar Johar Khan, the first and only female three-star general in Pakistan as the chief guest.

RCCI President Usman Shahkat, in his welcome address termed her professional rendering as one of courage, dedication, and breaking barriers.

“She has redefined what is possible for women in Pakistan and stands as a beacon of hope and aspiration”, he added.

Group Leader Sohail Altaf reiterated the Chamber’s unwavering commitment to inclusive development.

“Events like these reinforce the message that women are key architects of Pakistan’s progress while honoring our national icons”, he said.

Delivering keynote address, Lt Gen (Retd) Nigar Johar praised RCCI’s proactive stance on gender equality. “Creating spaces for women to lead, grow, and shape the future is essential”, she said and also commented on RCCI’s vision and dedication in empowering women.

She also highlighted the importance of unity and solidarity, endorsing RCCI’s upcoming solidarity walk in support of Palestine alongside the Palestinian ambassador.

The event was attended by Senior Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Fahad Barlas, former presidents, executive committee members, Director AIC Ijaz Qamar Kayani, and a large number of women members.

Three Policemen Martyred, 16 Injured in Mastung Blast

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Fire and Smoke — Explosion of smoke. Copy spaceClick on the links below to see more of my pyrotechnic images.

QUETTA, Apr 15 (APP):At least three police personnel were martyred and 16 others injured in a blast near a police vehicle on Dasht Road in Mastung district, spokesperson of Balochistan government Shahid Rind said.

According to the Spokesperson of Balochistan government Shahid Rind that a powerful explosion targeted a police vehicle near Kund Masuri in Mastung district, resulting in the martyrdom of three personnel of the Balochistan Constabulary and injuries to sixteen others.

The incident occurred when a bus carrying police personnel from the RTC Kalat came under attack by an improvised explosive device (IED).

“Three personnel were martyred in the tragic incident, and sixteen others sustained injuries,” Shahid Rind said in a statement, adding that the condition of two of the injured is critical.

All the injured have been shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment, while those with severe injuries are being transferred to Quetta for advanced medical care.

Authorities have ordered a detailed investigation into the incident, and a report has been sought, the spokesperson added.

Kyrgyzstan’s industry grew by 16.3% in first quarter of 2025

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Bishkek, April 15 (Kabar/APP) : The volume of industrial production in Kyrgyzstan in January-March 2025 amounted to more than 159 billion soms and increased by 16.3 percent compared to January-March last year, Chairman of the National Statistical Committee Baktybek Kudaibergenov told at a briefing.
According to his data, the growth of industrial production compared to January-March 2024 was ensured by an increase in the production of refined petroleum products (by 1.9 times), food products (including beverages) and tobacco products (by 1.7 times), pharmaceuticals (by 41.7 percent), rubber, plastic products and building materials (by 43.0 percent), wood and paper products, printing products (by 29.9 percent), chemical products (by 8.5 percent), as well as the production of basic metals (by 3.2 percent). He added that positive trends were observed in construction, where the increase in volumes amounted to 69.0 percent, wholesale and retail trade – 10.5 percent, as well as in agriculture – 2.5 percent.

President, PM strongly condemn terror attack on security vehicle in Mastung

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday strongly condemned the terrorist attack on a vehicle of the Balochistan Constabulary in the Shamsabad area of Mastung district in Balochistan.

The president and prime minister, in their separately issued statements, expressed grief over the martyrdom of three personnel of the Balochistan Constabulary.

They prayed for peace for the martyred souls and strength for the bereaved families to bear the loss.

President Zardari also prayed for the early recovery of the injured and reiterated the nation’s resolve for continuous efforts to wipe out terrorism from the country.

Prime Minister Shehbaz directed the authorities concerned to provide immediate medical assistance to those injured.

“We will thwart the nefarious designs of the terrorists, who are enemies of humanity. Our war against terrorists will continue until the scourge of terrorism is completely eradicated from the country,” the prime minister added.

Police recover illegal weapons in operation

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KOHAT, Apr 15 (APP):The police on Tuesday recovered illegal weapons in an operation carried out in gardens of Kaghazai area under jurisdiction of the Cantt Police Station.

The police recovered 1 Kalashnikov, 2 repeaters, 2 pistols, 1 rifle and dozens of cartridges form the culprits, the police spokesman said.

On the special instructions of District Police Officer (DPO) Dr. Zahidullah, the district police had launched operation against anti-social elements, he added.

The spokesman said that the operation was carried out under the leadership of SHO Cantt, Arshad Mahmood and SHO City, Fayyaz Khan .

The police registered cases against the accused and launched further investigations.

Man electrocuted

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SARGODHA, Apr 15 (APP):A man died of electric shock here under the jurisdiction of Kaloorkot police station on Tuesday.

According to a spokesperson,Muhammad Luqkan (45) r/o Kaloorkot was welding a motorcycle when he received a severe electric shock from the welding plant.As a result,he died on the spot.

Police sent the body to heirs.

Two killed, six hurt as bus driver falls asleep while driving

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP):Two people lost their lives and six others were injured when a passenger bus went off the road near Shah Maqsood Interchange in Haripur on Tuesday.

According to motorway police spokesperson, a bus carrying 40 passengers was on its way to Rawalpindi from Gilgit when it suddenly veered off the road. As a result, two passengers died while the six others were injured.

“The accident occurred after the bus driver fell asleep while driving”, he said.

Police and rescue teams reached the site shortly after the incident and moved the injured to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

The National Highways and Motorway Police urged the drivers to take adequate rest before setting out on long-distance journeys.

PM strongly condemns terror attack on security vehicle in Mastung

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday strongly condemned the terrorist attack on a vehicle of the Balochistan Constabulary in the Shamsabad area of Mastung district in Balochistan.

The prime minister, in a statement, expressed grief over the martyrdom of three personnel of the Balochistan Constabulary.

He prayed for peace for the martyred souls and strength for the bereaved families to bear the loss.

The prime minister also directed the authorities concerned to provide immediate medical assistance to those injured.

“We will thwart the nefarious designs of the terrorists, who are enemies of humanity. Our war against terrorists will continue until the scourge of terrorism is completely eradicated from the country,” the prime minister added.

Kyrgyzstan on way to energy independence: dozens of new HPPs being built

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Bishkek, April 15 (Kabar/APP) :
A real era of renewal has begun in the energy sector of Kyrgyzstan, head of the information service of the presidential administration Daiyrbek Orunbekov told.
He said that the foundation of the energy system of Kyrgyzstan was laid back in the Soviet period, and to this day the country receives electricity from hydropower plants (HPPs) built 60-70 years ago. After gaining independence and until 2021, practically no serious reforms were carried out in the industry. During this time, the energy sector has been mired in debt, the equipment has become outdated, and of the new facilities, only one unit, the Kambar-Ata HPP-2, has been commissioned.
“In recent years, under the leadership of President Sadyr Zhaparov, large-scale reforms have begun in the energy sector. The President set the goal of achieving energy independence and initiated the active construction of new HPPs and reform of the entire industry,” noted Daiyrbek Orunbekov.
In 2024, dozens of small and medium-sized HPPs were commissioned, such as Bala-Saruu, Kainama, Kok-Art, Ysyk-Ata. In addition, the construction of the Kambar-Ata HPP-1 with a capacity of 1860 megawatts is actively continuing, which will significantly strengthen the country’s energy potential and allow Kyrgyzstan to become one of the major energy centers of the region. As Orunbekov emphasized, special attention is paid to the construction of small hydroelectric power plants: favorable conditions are being created to attract investors, which is already yielding results – dozens of new facilities are being built and launched in the country. List of new hydroelectric power plants planned for commissioning in 2025:
Leilek HPP – 6 MW (Batken region), Kozho-Kayir HPP – 0.6 MW (Batken region), Koysu HPP – 8.7 MW (Issyk-Kul region), Sanarip HPP – 2 MW (Chui region), Alai HPP – 4.4 MW (Osh region), Boz-Uchuk HPP – 5.54 MW (Issyk-Kul region), Avletim HPP – 2.6 MW (Jalal-Abad region), Adyn-Unkur HPP – 0.85 MW (Osh region), Kara-Zhygach HPP – 1 MW (Jalal-Abad region), Aksy HPP – 4.75 MW (Jalal-Abad region), Ysyk-Ata-2 HPP – 4 MW (Chui region), Shamshy HPP – 1.7 MW (Chui region), Konduk HPP – 5.3 MW (Osh region), Ken-Tor-1 HPP – 1.3 MW (Chui region), Karagai-Bulak-1 and 2 HPPs – 2 MW each (Chui region), Sokuluk HPP-3 – 9.5 MW (Chui region), Tuyuk HPP – 5.9 MW (Chui region).
Plans for 2026–2030 include the construction of such large facilities as Zhergez, Turgent, Maily-Suu, Orto-Tokoy, Zherui, Chon-Kemin, Papan hydro power plant and others, with a total capacity of hundreds of megawatts.
According to Daiyrbek Orunbekov, the implementation of these projects will allow Kyrgyzstan to ensure energy independence and become a major energy player in Central Asia.

Pakistan strongly condemns Israeli attack on Gaza’s Baptist Hospital

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 15 (APP): Pakistan on Tuesday strongly condemned the bombing of the Baptist Hospital in Gaza by Israeli occupation forces, calling it a part of a pattern of targeting medical facilities, in flagrant violation of international humanitarian law.

Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan, in a statement, said that the attack took place on Palm Sunday, a sacred occasion for Christians, which underscored Israel’s blatant disregard for religious sanctity and civilian lives.

“Pakistan demands an immediate end to Israel’s ongoing atrocities, which have resulted in the indiscriminate killing of innocent and unarmed Palestinians, including women and children, and the systematic destruction of civilian infrastructure,” the spokesperson said.

He said that the Israel’s relentless assaults had crippled Gaza’s healthcare system, depriving critically ill patients of vital medical care. Coupled with the blockade on humanitarian aid, these actions reflect a deliberate strategy to prolong suffering and entrench conflict.

The spokesperson called for an immediate halt to the hostilities by Israeli occupying forces and reiterated its support for the two-state solution, with a viable, independent and sovereign State of Palestine on pre-June 1967 borders with Al Quds Al Sharif as its capital.

He also urged the international community to take decisive action to hold Israel accountable and protect Palestinian civilians from further violence.

NBP Exchange Rates

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KARACHI, Apr 15 (APP):Treasury Management Division of National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) on Tuesday issued the following exchange rates.

CURRENCY SYMBOL TT Selling TT Buying

US DOLLAR USD 281.00 280.50

EURO EUR 318.98 318.41

JAPANESE YEN JPY 1.9635 1.9600

BRITISH POUND GBP 370.88 370.22

SWISS FRANC CHF 344.09 343.48

CANADIAN DOLLAR CAD 202.59 202.23

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR AUD 178.45 178.14

SWEDISH KRONA SEK 28.94 28.88

NORWEGIAN KRONE NOK 26.66 26.62

DANISH KRONE DKK 42.73 42.66

NEWZEALAND DOLLAR* NZD 166.03 165.73

SINGAPORE DOLLAR SGD 213.68 213.30

HONGKONG DOLLAR HKD 36.21 36.15

KOREAN WON* KRW 0.1978 0.1974

CHINESE YUAN CNY 38.57 38.50

MALAYSIAN RINGGIT* MYR 63.76 63.65

THAI BAHT* THB 8.38 8.37

U.A.EDIRHAM AED 77.03 76.89

SAUDI RIYAL SAR 74.88 74.75

QATAR RIYAL* QAR 77.37 77.23

KUWAITI DINAR* KWD 917.28 915.65

CONVERSION RATE FOR FROZEN FCY DEPOSITS

USD 280.5529

GBP 369.4882

EUR 319.69

JPY 1.9629

Currency rates of NBP

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KARACHI, Apr 15 (APP):Following are the selling/buying rates of major currencies issued by the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), here on Tuesday.

CURRENCY SELLING BUYING

USD 283.81 277.70

GBP 374.59 366.47

EUR 322.17 315.22

JPY 1.9831 1.9404

SAR 75.63 73.99

AED 77.27 76.12

Overseas Kashmiris seek Canada’s facilitation to help resolve Kashmir conflict

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MIRPUR (AJK), Apr 15 (APP):The Canada-based veteran overseas Kashmiri, Syed Kausar Hussain Shah has called upon the Canada to perform its due global role to facilitate early peaceful solution of Kashmir issue for the emergence of everlasting peace in the region through grant of right to self determination to over 1.60 million Jammu Kashmir state population.

He was addressing a reception hosted in honour of Canadian Member of Parliament George Chahal in Canada, said a message released to the media here .

He urged the community to support George Chahal and other Liberal Party candidates in the upcoming elections scheduled to be held in Canada on April 28, this year.

Kausar expressed the that George Chahal would continue to play an effective role in advocating for the Kashmir issue besides addressing local community challenges.

In response, MP George Chahal expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Syed Kausar Hussain Shah for the warm reception, attended by large number of the overseas Pakistanis including Kashmiris.

Addressing the gathering, MP George Chahal said that Canada’s federal elections were scheduled for April 28, and he was confident of serving the people even more diligently after securing victory.

He emphasized that resolving public issues was his top priority and reaffirmed that the Kashmir issue was close to his heart.

He has previously raised the Kashmir cause in the Canadian Parliament and other forums and promised to continue advocating for it.

The Candian leader added that his campaign was not based on mere promises but on tangible actions. He assured the audience that issues faced by newcomers and immigrants would be addressed on priority basis.

Currently, the Liberal Party holds a majority in Canada, and its performance has elevated its standing.

He expressed hope that the Liberal Party would return to Parliament with a two-thirds majority on April 28.

MP Chahal also highlighted the importance of addressing student issues and local employment challenges, calling them personal priorities.

He vowed that, upon re-election, he would work tirelessly to resolve these matters and deliver visible results.

“This time, you’ll see me perform better than ever as your MP,” he assured.

11 criminals held

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Zaka Ullah Ch

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SARGODHA, Apr 15 (APP):District police on Tuesday arrested 11 criminals from various parts of the district and recovered contraband from them.

According to a spokesperson,the arrested accused were identified as Inam,Wasim,Rashid,Imran,Kamran,Sami, Tahir,Kaleem, Waleed,Nouman and Khalil.

The police recovered 4.6-kg hashish,3.3-kg heroin,345 litres of liquor,12 pistols,four guns,235 bullets,

456 empty bottles and valuables worth millions of rupees from them.

Further investigation was underway.

Foreign exchange rates

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KARACHI, Apr 15 (APP): The Exchange Rates Committee of Financial Markets Association of Pakistan issued the following exchange rates bulletin, here on Tuesday.

CONVERSION RATES FOR APRIL 15, 2025 FOR FOREIGN CURRENCY FOR FORWARD COVER FOR DEPOSITS (EXCLUDING FE 25 DEPOSITS)

SBP SETTLEMENT VALUE DATE APRIL 17, 2025

USD 280.5529
GBP 369.4882
EUR 319.6900
JPY 1.9629

Five motorcycles,one rickshaw recovered

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Zaka Ullah Ch

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