Multan Arts Council to pay musical tribute to Suraiya Multanikar

Mon, 2 Jun 2025, 6:43 PM

MULTAN, Jun 02 (APP):A grand musical evening will be held at Multan Arts Council to honour the artistic services of Presidential Award-winning singer Suraiya Multanikar for her contributions to classical, folk, and Kafi music. The event will take place on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

According to Director Arts Council Saleem Qaisar, the program will feature participation from prominent personalities, especially from the performing arts sector.

Speakers including Dr. Anwar Ahmad, Rana Mehboob Akhtar, Khurshid Malik, Syed Ali Tanha, and Khalid Nazir will shed light on Suraiya Multanikar’s legacy in music.

Famous singers Rahat Multanikar, Saubia Malik, Nadia Hashmi, Kausar Japani, Amber Aftab, Imran Mughal, Younas Khan, and Adeel Mazhar will perform her iconic songs as a tribute.

In addition, artists such as Attaullah Multani and group, Iman Shah, Anam Raj, Aasia Malik, Saira Baloch, Saima Multani, and Urooshi Malik will present performances based on her songs.

PMYP will equip youth with modern technology & skills: VC UAJK

Shahzad Ahmad

Mon, 2 Jun 2025, 6:42 PM

MUZAFFARABAD, Jun 02 (APP):Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK), Prof Dr Nadeem Haider Bukhari, has emphasized the importance of investing in youth by equipping them with modern skills, technological proficiency and strong Islamic values.

He said youth are the greatest asset of the nation and must be guided wisely to help them unlock their full potential and contribute meaningfully to Pakistan’s progress.

He expressed these views while addressing as Chief Guest at a special event held under the umbrella of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program (PMYP) at UAJK’s Chella Campus on Monday.

Prof Dr Bukhari lauded the initiative launched by the Prime Minister of Pakistan for youth empowerment and called it “a step in the right direction.” He stressed that the government, academic institutions, parents, and society at large must take joint responsibility to ensure that youth are not wasted but rather mentored and motivated to become productive citizens.

Highlighting the need for responsible use of time and media, the Vice-Chancellor advised students to adopt discipline, set high goals, and strive to achieve them through hard work.

Sharing the inspiring example of Olympian Arshad Nadeem, he encouraged the youth to follow his example by pursuing excellence despite limited resources.

On this occasion, Mr Muhammad Ali Malik, Deputy Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, gave an overview of the objectives and impact of the PMYP.

He shared several inspiring success stories of young people who have benefited from the program and informed the audience that various initiatives, including skills development programs and interest-free loans, are being launched to empower youth across the country, both financially and professionally.

The event was attended by key stakeholders and officials, including Prof Dr Wajid Aziz Lone, Focal Person PMYP UAJK; Syed Waqar Hussain Shah, Project Director PMYP; Mr Shahid Hussain, Engagement and Education Expert; Mr Faizan Ali, Consultant; Fateh Muhammad Kiyani, Focal Person PMYP AJK; Prof Dr Saadat Hanif Dar, Registrar UAJK; Prof Dr Khawaja Basharat, Director Finance; and Dr Sharjil Saeed, Director Student Affairs, along with a large number of faculty members and students.

As part of the day’s activities, focus group discussions were held with students to gather their insights and recommendations for inclusion in the upcoming National Youth Policy. These discussions provided a platform for youth voices to directly inform policy planning at the national level.

In addition, boxing talent hunt events were organized under the PMYP banner, drawing participation from different institutions. The sporting events reflected the Prime Minister’s vision of encouraging youth involvement in healthy extracurricular activities alongside academics and skills development.

The event concluded with renewed commitment from both university leadership and government representatives to continue working hand-in-hand to build a more skilled, responsible and empowered youth population in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and beyond.

Three drug peddlers arrested

Ali Ali

Mon, 2 Jun 2025, 6:41 PM

GUJRAT, Jun 02 (APP):Gujrat police arrested three drug peddlers, including two women, during an ongoing crackdown.

According to a police spokesperson, the operation was conducted under the supervision of DSP Kharian Saddar Circle, Shahid Mehmood Gujar. SHO Dinga Police Station SI Fahad-ur-Rehman, In-charge City Police Post ASI Tasawar Hussain, and other officials participated in the raids.The arrested suspects were identified as Seman Bibi of Jani Chak, Bushra Bibi of Jhelum, and Hassan Ali of Dinga.

Police recovered more than two kilograms of hashish and 20 liters of liquor from their possession. Cases have been registered against the accused, and investigations are underway.

Senator Rubina Khalid inaugurates BISP tehsil office in Bhera

Shahzad Ahmad

Mon, 2 Jun 2025, 6:40 PM

SARGODHA, Jun 02 (APP):Chairperson BISP, Senator Rubina Khalid, formally inaugurated the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) tehsil office in Bhera today.

Upon her arrival, she received a warm welcome from the local community. Secretary Information of the Pakistan Peoples Party, Nadeem Afzal Gondal Chan, was also present on the occasion, along with a large number of party leaders and deserving women from the area.

Addressing the participants, Senator Rubina Khalid stated that the newly established office aims to provide registration and payment services to deserving women close to their doorsteps. This initiative reflects BISP’s strong commitment to ensuring that every deserving woman receives assistance in a dignified and transparent manner—one of the programme’s top priorities.

Senator Rubina Khalid further emphasized that BISP is the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, and the credit for implementing this programme goes to President Asif Ali Zardari. She highlighted the unique aspect of BISP that recognizes the women as the head of the household. Currently, 10 million families are benefiting from the programme, which is designed to bridge the gap between household income and essential expenses for low-income families.

She added that, under special instructions from President Asif Ali Zardari, financial support is being provided to deserving women in a transparent and respectful manner. Referring to Bibi Shaheed’s famous words, “Skill is your asset,” she noted that the Benazir Hunarmand Programme has been launched to provide technical training, helping families become self-reliant and contribute positively to the country’s economy.

Senator Rubina Khalid clarified that there is no fee for the BISP survey. To participate, individuals must bring their national identity card, children’s B-form, a recent electricity bill, and an active mobile number. She also highlighted the Benazir Nashonuma Programme, which provides nutritious food and financial assistance to pregnant and lactating women and children under the age of two, aiming to prevent stunting.

Moreover, she mentioned that under the Benazir Taleemi Wazaif Programme, educational stipends are awarded to children who maintain at least 70% school attendance. Special incentives are given to girls to promote female education.

The BISP chairperson reminded everyone that all official messages are sent only from the number 8171. “Do not trust messages received from any other number or source,” she stressed. She reiterated that corruption and irregularities will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and strict action will be taken on any such complaints.

Earlier, while addressing the ceremony, Nadeem Afzal Gondal Chan expressed his gratitude to Senator Rubina Khalid and the entire BISP team for inaugurating the Tehsil Office in Bhera, which will greatly benefit the local community.

Enrolment of special children starts

Ali Ali

Mon, 2 Jun 2025, 6:40 PM

FAISALABAD, Jun 02 (APP):The enrolment of special children has started at the Government Special Education Center, Stadium Road, tehsil Jaranwala Monday, under the auspices of the Punjab Special Education Department.

This step has been taken to provide quality education, training and basic facilities to children with disabilities.

According to official sources here, the children with hearing problems, visually impaired, physically or mentally disabled can get admission in the center.

The institution will provide uniforms, textbooks, wheelchairs, crutches, necessary equipment and transport facilities to all the students free of cost. In addition, students whose attendance will be 70 percent or more, would also be given a monthly stipend of Rs80, to share financial burden of the parents.

According to the authorities concerned, the aim of this initiative is to make special children educated, independent and active citizens of society.

AirSial launches first international flight from Islamabad to Dubai

Shahzad Ahmad

Mon, 2 Jun 2025, 6:38 PM

ISLAMABAD, Jun 02 (APP):In a landmark moment for Pakistan’s aviation industry, AirSial successfully launched its first international flight from Islamabad International Airport (IIAP) to Dubai. Flight PF784 departed at 11:34 AM with 137 passengers on board, marking the airline’s entry into international operations.

The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) efficiently managed and supervised the departure, reinforcing its role in supporting the country’s growing aviation sector.

A special launch ceremony was held at the airport’s Business Class check-in area, attended by key dignitaries including the Honourable Defence Minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, who served as Chief Guest. He was joined by Defence Secretary Lt. Gen. Muhammad Ali HI (M), Director General of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority Mr. Nadir Shafi Dar, Chief Operating Officer and Airport Manager Mr. Aftab Gilani, and AirSial’s CEO.

The event marked a significant milestone for both AirSial and Pakistan’s private airline industry, reflecting growing capacity and confidence in international aviation markets.

The Pakistan Airports Authority reiterated its commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure and passenger services, enabling more Pakistani airlines to expand globally while maintaining high standards of safety, comfort, and efficiency.

Pakistan launches first-ever workshop to strengthen plant health and boost agricultural exports

Shahzad Ahmad

Mon, 2 Jun 2025, 6:35 PM

ISLAMABAD, Jun 02 (APP):Pakistan has taken a major step toward improving its agricultural trade by hosting its first Phytosanitary Capacity Evaluation (PCE) Workshop in Islamabad.

The five-day workshop, organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Ministry of National Food Security and Research and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), aims to bring Pakistan’s plant health system in line with international standards.

Held at the FAO Representation Office, the workshop brings together experts from federal and provincial plant protection departments, academia, the private sector, and international technical agencies. It is part of a broader FAO project to strengthen Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures in Pakistan, Lao PDR, and Viet Nam.

Agricultural exports—including mangoes, citrus, rice, vegetables, and seafood—are vital to Pakistan’s economy. However, recurring rejections in foreign markets due to non-compliance with SPS requirements have hindered growth. The workshop is addressing critical areas such as pest surveillance, diagnostics, risk analysis, and export certification.

Federal Secretary of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, Mr Waseem Ajmal Chaudhary, emphasized that meeting international phytosanitary standards is essential for market access. “This workshop is a critical opportunity to assess and strengthen our systems in accordance with IPPC and WTO-SPS Agreement requirements,” he said at the opening ceremony.

FAO Representative in Pakistan, Ms Florence Rolle, highlighted the importance of plant health for food security, biodiversity, and trade. “The PCE process is a powerful tool to identify gaps and guide targeted interventions,” she noted.

Dr GC Yubak, Senior Agriculture Officer at FAO’s Asia-Pacific Regional Office, added that aligning with international standards will reduce pest risks and open new export opportunities for Pakistani farmers.

The PCE workshop supports a “One Health” approach, recognizing the connection between plant health, animal health, and food safety. It encourages institutional collaboration and early warning systems for pest and disease threats.

Findings from the workshop will contribute to a national strategy aimed at improving Pakistan’s SPS framework and unlocking its full potential in global agricultural trade.

PHC seeks KP govt response over not providing funds to local representatives

Shahzad Ahmad

Mon, 2 Jun 2025, 6:34 PM

PESHAWAR, Jun 02 (APP):The Peshawar High Court on Monday sought a response from the provincial government regarding non-disbursement of development funds to local government representatives.

The hearing was conducted by a two-member bench comprising Justice Waqar Ahmad and Justice Farah Jamshed.

During the session, the court addressed the petition filed by local government representatives who claimed, they have not received any development funds despite being elected for nearly three years.

The petitioner’s counsel, Advocate Babar Khan Yousafzai, informed the court that the petitioners are chairmen from various tehsils. He emphasized that despite the passage of three years since the local body elections, the government has failed to allocate any development funds to them.

He further stated that although the court had previously issued a notice to the government, no official response has been submitted so far.

Taking note of the matter, the court directed the provincial government to submit its response by the next hearing and adjourned the case until June 26.

Massive livestock disinfection drive launched to curb animal diseases ahead of Eid-ul-Azha

Shahzad Ahmad

Mon, 2 Jun 2025, 6:30 PM

DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Jun 02 (APP):The Livestock Department in Dera Ismail Khan has launched an extensive disinfection campaign at major transit points to prevent the spread of deadly animal diseases ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.

The disinfection spray was conducted to prevent deadly diseases among animals such as Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) and Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD).

The campaign is aimed at controlling infectious diseases among inter-district and local livestock ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, ensuring the availability of healthy animals in local markets for sacrificial purposes.

By targeting heavy-traffic entry and trade points including Chashma Check Post, Yarik Interchange, Darya Khan Bridge, Ramak Check Post, and Qureshi Morr cattle market, the initiative seeks to block potential transmission routes and protect both livestock and public health.

The authorities have also urged upon the livestock traders and animas’ owners to cooperate by ensuring their animals undergo proper inspection and disinfection before entering into the markets. The department emphasized that early detection and prevention are key to safeguarding the livestock sector and supporting a safe and disease-free Eid celebration.