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First lady reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding women’s dignity, rights, safety

By
Najam ul Hassan
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 25 (APP): First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari on Tuesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding the dignity, rights, and safety of all women and girls, stating that “No society can progress if its women live in fear or silence.”

On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the first lady, highlighting the urgency of the issue, emphasised that “Breaking the culture of impunity is not optional, it is essential for justice”, according to a press statement issued by the President House.

Aseefa Bhutto Zardari stressed the need for stronger laws including strict implementation of those laws, expanded survivor support and accountability at every level.

Reflecting on the importance of societal change, the First Lady said, “We must choose respect over prejudice, courage over silence and accountability over complacency.”

Addressing women and girls across Pakistan, the First Lady stated, “Your voice matters. Your safety matters. Your dreams matter.”

She reiterated her commitment to creating a safer and more equal society for future generations.

The first lady further said, “A Pakistan that protects its women is a Pakistan that prospers.”

She called on all citizens, institutions and communities to join hands in ending violence against women and build a future where every woman and girl can live free from fear and full of opportunity.

Murderer gets death sentence

By
Samina Ch
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RAWALPINDI, Nov 25 (APP):A court on Monday has sentenced Ayub to death for murdering a citizen over a land dispute. The court also imposed a fine of Rs. 500,000.0 as compensation to the victim’s family.
According to the details, the incident took place in June 2023, a case of which was registered at Police Station Chontra.
Commending the verdict, City Police Officer (CPO) Rawalpindi, Syed Khalid Hamdani, appreciated the investigating officers and the legal team for ensuring exemplary punishment for the culprit.

SRSO & SSPA launch joint awareness campaign for MAMTA Program

By
Samina Ch
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SUKKUR, Nov 25 (APP):The Sindh Rural Support Organization (SRSO) and Sindh Social Protection Authority (SSPA) have decided to launch a joint awareness campaign at the village level for the MAMTA program.
According to SRSO Spokesperson Jamil Ahmed on Tuesday, the decision was made at a meeting held at SRSO Complex Sukkur, attended by officials from SSPA and SRSO, as well as district managers from various districts.
The campaign will be launched in districts Kashmore, Kandhkot, Shikarpur, Jacobabad, Ghotki, and Qambar Shahdadkot districts through SRSO’s village organizations (VOs) and community focal persons.
The aim is to inform pregnant women and mothers of children under two years about the MAMTA program and encourage them to visit hospitals for better health care, ensuring the mental and physical development of the child.

Customs seizes non-custom paid vehicles worth Rs 81 mln

By
Samina Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 25 (APP):The Collectorate of Customs (Enforcement) Quetta on Tuesday seized non-custom paid (NCP) vehicles valued at approximately Rs. 81 million after foiling a significant smuggling attempt.
The operation marks a major success in the department’s ongoing efforts to curb illicit movement of vehicles across the region, said a news release.
Acting on credible information from the Chief Collector (Enforcement), Islamabad, a customs team conducted a targeted raid on a godown located along the Main RCD Highway in Mastung.
During the raid, officers recovered 11 NCP vehicles parked inside the premises. The seized vehicles include four Prius cars, two Aqua cars, one CH-R, one Honda Vezel, one Nissan 350-Z, one Corolla Fielder, and one Prado Jeep.
All vehicles have been taken into custody for further legal action under the Customs Act, 1969.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has applauded the Quetta Enforcement team for its vigilance and professionalism.
FBR reaffirmed its commitment to combating smuggling, protecting national revenue, and ensuring the promotion of lawful trade across Pakistan.

Pak–Saudi Interior Ministers Chart New Security Roadmap in Strategic Riyadh Talks

By
Samina Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 25 (APP):Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held an important meeting with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif, during his visit to Saudi Arabia, where both sides discussed strengthening security cooperation and deepening institutional ties between the two interior ministries.
The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral collaboration in security matters, including information sharing, capacity building and coordinated efforts to counter emerging threats.
Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to expanding strategic cooperation.
A significant portion of the discussion centred on the long-standing issue of the legal status of Rohingya Muslims residing in Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Interior Minister expressed gratitude to Mohsin Naqvi for Pakistan’s support and efforts regarding the matter.
Prince Abdulaziz also conveyed condolences to the families of the personnel martyred in the recent attack on the Federal Constabulary Headquarters in Peshawar, acknowledging their sacrifice and service.
The two ministers agreed to launch a training exchange programme for police and paramilitary forces, marking a new phase of professional collaboration between the two countries.
It was also decided that the next meeting of the Pakistan–Saudi Arabia Interior Ministries Working Group will be held next month.
Minister  said Saudi Arabia is “a second home for every Pakistani” and expressed pride in the strong, enduring partnership between the two nations.
Pakistan’s Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha, Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ahmad Farooq, Commandant Federal Constabulary Nazir Gaara, Commandant National Police Academy Muhammad Idrees, and senior officials of the Saudi Interior Ministry were also present during the meeting.

Terrorists’ overnight hideout identified, fingerprints obtained: IGP

By
Samina Ch
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PESHAWAR, Nov 25 (APP):Inspector General of Police (IGP) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Zulfiqar Hameed has confirmed that authorities have identified the location where terrorists spent their night before attacking the FC Headquarters.
However, he added no facilitators have been arrested so far and investigations continue.
Talking as the chief guest at RMI Media League Cricket At Gymkhana here on Tuesday, the IGP stated that three terrorists entered the FC Headquarters, where they were later killed by security forces. CCTV footage showing their arrival has been obtained and NADRA has begun work to verify their identities.
Authorities are also determining the route the terrorists used to enter Peshawar.
He informed that the terrorists’ motorcycle has been seized and fingerprints lifted from it are now part of the ongoing forensic investigation.
IGP Hameed highlighted that recent measures taken by the KP Police have significantly reduced terrorist incidents. The provincial police force is being equipped with weapons, modern technology, including anti-drone systems and bulletproof jackets and vehicles for officials and police stations.
He praised the bravery of the KP Police, noting that despite operating in a stressful environment, the force continues to make sacrifices for peace in the region. To reduce stress and boost morale, sports activities are being promoted across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Pakistan exports 1,700MT homeopathic medicines to 26 countries in five years

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 25 (APP): Pakistan has exported nearly 1,700 metric tons of homeopathic medicines to 26 countries in five years, generating more than USD 5 million in revenue.
According to five-year data (2020-21 to 2024-25) of the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (NHSR&C) available with Wealth Pakistan, a total of 1,696.27 metric tons of homeopathic medicines were exported to 26 countries, fetching USD5.23 million.
The countries where the medicines were exported include Sudan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, the United States, Kenya, Yemen, the United Arab Emirates, Ghana, Malaysia, Mauritania, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Fiji, Lesotho, Cambodia, South Africa, Guyana, New Zealand, China, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Singapore.
Among these 26 countries, Sudan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan are major importers. Sudan imported 274.96 MT of homeopathic medicines from Pakistan in five years, followed by Bangladesh with 158.87 MT and Afghanistan with 157.96 MT.
The year-wise break-up of medicines is 238.99 MT in 2020-21, 165.93 MT in 2021-22, 229.40 MT in 2022-23, 284.00 MT in 2023-24, and 777.95 MT in 2024-25.
The total worth of these exported medicines, as calculated by the NHSR&C, is USD5.23 million, with USD0.86 million fetched in 2020-21, USD0.91 million in 2021-22, USD0.99 million in 2022-23, USD0.87 million in 2023-24, and USD1.60 million in 2024-25.
Meanwhile, Pakistan also spent USD21.28 million importing 7611.40 MT of homeopathic medicines from seven countries and regions, including Germany, France, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, the European Union and Spain.
The country imported 1966.20 MT of medicines in 2020-21, 2065.80 MT in 2021-22, 2099.20 MT in 2022-23, 1231.30 MT in 2023-24, and 248.9 MT in 2024-25. The largest quantity of homeopathic medicines, weighing 248.9 MT, was imported from Germany in 2024-25, costing USD5.18 million.
Health experts say that homeopathic medicines offer a natural and individualized approach to health by stimulating the body and self-healing mechanisms. Normally, these medicines are prepared from highly diluted substances, making them generally safe with minimal side effects.
Talking with Wealth Pakistan, health expert Muhammad Mahar said homeopathy treats the person as a whole, addressing physical, emotional, and mental symptoms rather than just isolated diseases. “It can help manage chronic conditions, allergies, digestive issues, and stress-related problems,” he said, adding that many people prefer homeopathy for its gentle, non-invasive nature, suitability for all ages, and emphasis on long-term wellness. However, the effectiveness varies.
Mahar said the export of homeopathic medicines offers significant financial and strategic benefits for both manufacturers and the national economy. The global demand for alternative and natural healthcare products is growing. By tapping into international markets, companies can increase revenue streams, achieve higher profit margins, and diversify their customer base, reducing dependency on domestic sales alone.
He further highlighted that on a broader economic level, homeopathic medicine exports contribute to foreign exchange earnings and strengthen the national economy. It creates jobs across the manufacturing, research, marketing, and logistics sectors, boosting local industries.
Additionally, exporting innovative or standardized formulations enhances the country’s global reputation in alternative medicine, which will definitely open doors for international collaborations, investments, and knowledge exchange.
Beyond financial gains, exporting these medicines promotes public health worldwide by providing access to safe, natural treatment options, which are often in demand in countries with a growing preference for holistic wellness, he added.

AC City shifts 21 professional beggars to Kohsar Police Station after public reports

By
Samina Ch
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0
ICT
ISLAMABAD, Nov 25 (APP):The Assistant Commissioner (AC) City conducted a targeted operation in Blue Area and Sector F-7, transferring 21 professional beggars to Kohsar Police Station within a single day after acting on citizen complaints.
The district administration intensified its campaign against organised begging in Islamabad after receiving multiple public complaints about growing activity at busy commercial spots. Following these reports, AC City teams carried out a coordinated operation in Blue Area and Sector F-7, two high-traffic zones where beggars are frequently seen approaching pedestrians and motorists.
During the operation, 21 individuals identified as professional beggars were taken into custody and shifted to Kohsar Police Station for further action. Officials said the drive aims to discourage organised groups that operate in commercial areas, often exploiting children and vulnerable persons for income.
According to the AC City office, the campaign is part of an ongoing initiative to reduce begging in the federal capital and ensure that commercial districts remain safe and accessible. Officials added that professional beggars often move across different sectors during the day, making public reporting essential for timely action.
Teams patrolled key locations and conducted checks based on complaints submitted through helplines and social media channels. The administration said such operations will continue on a daily basis, and strict action will be taken against those involved in organised begging networks.
Authorities urged citizens to cooperate by refraining from giving money on the streets, as financial support encourages more groups to operate in busy areas. Instead, residents were advised to notify the administration if they see individuals frequently begging at the same location.
The AC City office said the goal is to make Islamabad a city free from organised begging. Officials said the administration is working with police and social welfare departments to ensure that individuals taken into custody are processed under relevant laws and, where needed, connected with welfare services.
The city administration also stressed that many organised groups operate under handlers who move beggars across different markets. Operations will continue in Blue Area, F-7, and other sectors where similar complaints have been received.

FCCP adjourns hearing of appeal challenging appointment of retired judges to election tribunals

By
Samina Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 25 (APP):The Federal Constitutional Court has adjourned indefinitely the hearing of an appeal challenging the appointment of retired judges to election tribunals. The case was taken up on Tuesday by a five-member larger bench headed by Justice Aamer Farooq.
During the proceedings, Advocate Sameer Khosa argued that Justice Aamer Farooq, as a High Court judge, had already ruled on a similar preliminary petition, raising a question over the bench’s eligibility to hear the case.
At this, Justice Baqar Najafi asked whether the intra-court appeal was even maintainable. Justice Aamer Farooq clarified that the petitions referred to by the lawyer had been objected to at the preliminary stage, and that he had issued no judgment on any petition filed by the current appellant. “Even if a decision was given in some other case, it has no relevance to these proceedings,” he remarked.
Advocate Khosa informed the court that he had advised his client regarding the requirements and independence of the constitutional court and requested time to seek instructions on whether his client wished to continue appearing before the court.
Accepting the request, the court adjourned the hearing for an indefinite period.

Member National Assembly from Rajanpur (N-A 189) Shamsher Ali Mazari calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif

By
Khuram Maryam
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0
Member National Assembly from Rajanpur (N-A 189) Shamsher Ali Mazari calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif
APP01-251125 ISLAMABAD: November 25 - Member National Assembly from Rajanpur (N-A 189) Shamsher Ali Mazari calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. APP/TZD
Member National Assembly from Rajanpur (N-A 189) Shamsher Ali Mazari calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif
APP01-251125
ISLAMABAD
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