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NA Speaker pays tribute to Marium Mukhtiar on 10th death anniversary

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NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 24 (APP): National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Monday paid homage to the country’s first female fighter pilot, Marium Mukhtiar, on her 10th death anniversary.

The Speaker hailed Mukhtiar as a symbol of determination, courage, and steadfast dedication, noting that her sacrifice marked a defining moment in the nation’s history. Her pioneering role has paved the way for greater opportunities for women in Pakistan.

Shaheed Marium Mukhtiar’s sacrifice is remembered as a powerful symbol of service and patriotism — a legacy that continues to inspire future generations.

Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan confirm to supply electricity to Kyrgyzstan during winter

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NNPS Desk
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BISHKEK, Nov 24 (Kabar/APP) : Almaty hosted meeting of the heads of the water and energy departments of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan.
According to the press service of the Ministry of Energy of Kyrgyzstan, the talks were attended by Minister of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic Taalaibek Ibrayev, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nurzhan Nurzhigitov, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Minister of Water Resources of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Khamrayev, and Deputy Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic Almaz Jeenaliev.
The parties agreed on the parameters for further water and energy cooperation. Given the challenging situation at the Toktogul Reservoir, the meeting participants decided to support each other with mutual electricity supplies and coordinate joint efforts to successfully navigate the heating season and prepare for the upcoming growing season.
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan confirmed their readiness to supply electricity to Kyrgyzstan during the autumn and winter. This will allow the Kyrgyz side to reduce its winter electricity generation and accumulate water in the Toktogul Reservoir. The accumulated water will be sent to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan during the growing season to ensure stable irrigation of agricultural lands in the southern regions. Furthermore, an agreement was reached to take joint measures to reduce consumption and conserve energy in the region.
The negotiators emphasized that this joint work is being conducted in the spirit of good neighborliness and is aimed at strengthening energy security and stability throughout Central Asia. The Uzbek side also confirmed its readiness to provide technical conditions for transit, supply, and balancing of the energy system.
Following the meeting, a trilateral protocol was signed legally establishing the volumes of winter electricity supplies and water accumulation for the 2026 growing season.

KMU-IPDM organizes Multidisciplinary conference to Promote Antimicrobial Awareness

By
Samina Ch
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PESHAWAR, Nov 24 (APP):Khyber Medical University’s Institute of Pathology and Diagnostic Medicine (KMU-IPDM) organized a comprehensive multidisciplinary conference in connection with Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week.
The event brought together students, researchers, faculty members, and clinicians from various disciplines, highlighting the growing concern of AMR and the need for responsible antibiotic practices.
The program began with the recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a series of expert presentations delivered by specialists from HMC, KTH, IBMS, INS, IPS, AHS, and the departments of Hematology and Pathology.
 Speakers emphasized the urgent need to prevent the misuse, overuse, and unnecessary consumption of antibiotics, and stressed the importance of adopting responsible antimicrobial practices.
Dr. Bushra Rehman, Assistant Professor of Microbiology, served as the Patron-in-Chief of the conference.
The event was graced by the Provincial Minister for Science and Information Technology, Dr. Shafqat Ayaz, as the Chief Guest, while Mr. Tuqeer Ali Shah attended as Guest of Honor.
 Distinguished attendees included Dean of Basic Sciences Prof. Dr. Rubina Nazli, Director Academics Prof. Dr. Zill-e-Huma, Director PHRL Prof. Dr. Yasir Yousafzai, Prof. Dr. Taj Ali Khan, Hematologist Dr. Nida Khan, Prof. Dr. Ihsanullah (HOD Microbiology), Prof. Dr. Asghar (KTH), Dr. Zahid (HMC), and Prof. Dr. Tahir (IBMS).
The active presence of the Fleming Fund Team further strengthened the collaborative efforts toward AMR awareness.
Addressing the conference, Chief Guest Dr. Shafqat Ayaz underscored antimicrobial resistance as one of the most serious public health challenges at both national and global levels.
He stated that the prudent and responsible use of antibiotics has become a shared responsibility for all.
He warned that unregulated and excessive use of antibiotics is accelerating resistance at a dangerous pace, jeopardizing the effectiveness of routine treatments and medical procedures.
Dr. Ayaz stressed that healthcare professionals, students, and policymakers must work collectively to promote evidence-based antimicrobial stewardship.
He also highlighted the importance of public awareness, community education, strengthened surveillance, enhanced diagnostic capacity, and research-driven initiatives, reaffirming the government’s commitment to combating AMR in Pakistan.
To engage students, a quiz competition was held, and the winners were presented with various gifts and certificates.
Shields were awarded to the Chief Guest, Guest of Honor, Principal Investigator, organizers, and invited speakers in recognition of their valuable contributions.
The event concluded with an AMR Awareness Walk led by the Provincial Minister for Science and Technology, in which faculty members and students actively participated, marking a successful culmination of AMR Awareness Week activities at KMU-IPDM.

Malaria vaccine price cut set to protect 7 million more children by 2030

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NNPS Desk
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UNITED NATIONS, Nov 24 (APP): Vaccine alliance Gavi and UN children’s agency UNICEF have struck a new pricing deal that will sharply cut the cost of a key malaria vaccine and make it possible to protect nearly seven million additional children by 2030, the agencies announced on Sunday.

Under the agreement, the price of the R21/Matrix-M vaccine will fall to $2.99 per dose within a year – a reduction expected to save up to $90 million. Those savings should allow countries to secure more than 30 million extra doses over the next five years.

“Today’s announcement is a powerful example of what our Vaccine Alliance does best,” said An Vermeersch, Gavi’s Chief Vaccine Programmes & Markets Officer.

“We are leveraging innovative financing and partnerships to secure affordable vaccines that can better protect children against one of Africa’s biggest killers.”

Malaria remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases. In 2023, it caused an estimated 597,000 deaths, the vast majority among young children in Africa. A child dies from the disease roughly every minute.

“A devastating death toll like this demands action,” said Leila Pakkala, Director of UNICEF’s Supply Division.

“At a time of declining international aid, UNICEF is determined to work with partners to deliver enough vaccines at the best possible price to protect children.”

The new pricing arrangement was enabled by an advance payment through the International Finance Facility for Immunisation (IFFIm), which converts long-term donor pledges into upfront funds. This gives Gavi the ability to act quickly when major market-shaping opportunities emerge.

Ken Lay, Chair of the IFFIm Board, said, “This agreement shows how financial innovation can unlock opportunities that save lives.”

More than 40 million malaria vaccine doses have already been delivered through Gavi-supported programmes, with 24 African countries now integrating malaria vaccination into routine immunization.

Demand is strong: 14 countries introduced the vaccine for the first time last year, and another seven have done so in 2025.

The lower price is expected to help Gavi move closer to its target of fully vaccinating 50 million additional children against malaria by the end of the decade.

Both WHO-recommended malaria vaccines, R21/Matrix-M and RTS,S, have been shown to reduce malaria cases by more than half in the first year after vaccination, with further protection following a booster dose.

For families and health systems already under strain from the disease, the expanded rollout could be transformative. “This is about giving every child a fair chance at protection,” Lay said. “It’s about saving lives now, not years from now.”

Three FC troops martyred in suicide attack on FC Hqs, two attackers killed, compound cleared: CCPO

By
Samina Ch
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PESHAWAR, Nov 24 (APP):A suicide attack at the main gate of the Federal Constabulary (FC) Headquarters in Saddar Cantonment, here on Monday, resulted in the martyrdom of three FC personnel, while three were injured, besides killing two attackers during an encounter as gunshots created fear in the city.
CCPO Peshawar, Dr. Mian Saeed Ahmed told the media here at site of attack that Peshawar police, Federal Constabulary, and Pakistan Army commandos responded with exceptional bravery and swiftly neutralized two attackers and one blew himself up at the main gate of FC. A clearance operation has been completed inside the facility, and the explosive has been defused.
Dr. Mian Saeed stated that due to the attack on the FC Headquarters on Sunehri Masjid Road, Saddar Road has been closed for all traffic. The road was later opened for all kinds of traffic.
The explosion occurred at 8:10 a.m. when a suicide bomber wearing an explosive jacket detonated himself at the main gate when intercepted by FC troops. The blast was so powerful that it was heard from a long distance.
Following the suicide blast, intense gunfire was heard in the area. Security forces immediately cordoned off the vicinity, placing the area on high alert, with additional personnel and rescue teams rushed to the site.
Following attack, BRT service has also been temporarily halted. Citizens have been requested to cooperate with security agencies.
Inspector General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police, Zulfiqar Hameed, told the media that a suicide blast occurred at the main gate and the second bomber was killed at the motorcycle stand, which is located inside the gate. He confirmed that two attackers were killed during an exchange of fire, while the clearance operation was completed by bomb disposal squad.
He said there was no prior information about a terrorist attack on the Federal Constabulary Headquarters at Peshawar.
Deputy Commandant FC, Javed Iqbal, confirmed that all attackers were eliminated. He stated that FC personnel fought courageously, though three FC personnel were martyred and three other injured in the attack.
Muhammad Asim, spokesman of Lady Reading hospital reported that nine people including six civilians and three FC personnel were brought. All injured individuals have been provided medical treatment and are said to be in stable.
Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Federal Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack and lauded the bravery of FC and security forces.

Decision to lift ban on import, export of gold welcomed

By
Samina Ch
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LAHORE,Nov 24:President of the Gold & Gems Art Promotion Council of Pakistan and Central Chairman of the Lahore Division Sarafa & Jewellers Association Muhammad Ahmad
welcomed the government’s decision to lift the ban on the import and export of gold.
In a press release, he said this step will have far-reaching positive effects on the
country’s gems and jewellery industry. The rising prices of gold can only be countered
through increased exports, and this decision was the need of the hour.
He expressed his gratitude to the government and urged that exporters must be given relief to effectively compete on the global stage.
He stressed the need to review the current export mechanism of gems and jewelery and introduce policies that encourage more people to enter the export sector so that national gems and jewellery exports can increase and the country’s foreign exchange reserves can be significantly strengthened.

Rice valued $581.169 miln exported in four months

By
Samina Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 24 (APP):The rice exports from the country during the first four months of the current financial year were recorded at 998.063 metric tons, as against the exports of 1,595,361 metric tons of the corresponding period of the last year.
During the period from July to October 2025, rice exports from the country were recorded at $581.169 million, as against the exports of $1.084 billion of the same period of the last year.
The rice exports decreased by 46.40 per cent during the period under review as compared to the exports of the same period of the last year, according to the data of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.
The country earned $202.355 million by exporting over 182.807 million metric tons of Basmati rice during the first four months of the current financial year, as compared to the exports of $331.817 million of the same period of the last year.
Meanwhile, 815,256 metric tons of rice other than Basmati valued at 378.815 million were also exported as compared to the exports of 1.277 million metric tons valued at $752.375 million of the same period of the last year.
The food group exports from the country were recorded at $1.538 billion during the first four months of the current financial year (2025-26), which went down by 34.93 percent from $2.365 billion during the same period of the last year.
The food commodities that contributed to positive growth in trade included fish and fish preparations, the exports of which grew by 12.80 percent, from $116.114 million to $130.976 million.
The other food commodities that contributed to positive growth included fruits, the exports of which increased by 11.78 percent, from $116.650 million to $130.391 million whereas the exports of meat and meat preparations rose by 6.29 percent, from $160.135 million to $170.209 million.
The food commodities that contributed to negative growth in trade included rice, the exports of which decreased by 46.40 percent, from $1084.192 million to $581.169 million.
The exports of vegetables dipped by 41.08 percent, from $91.122 million to $53.693 million; tobacco by 28.53 percent from $65.473 million to $46.793 million, spices by 4.46 percent from $31.006 to $29.623 million, oil seeds, nuts, and kernals by 66.38 percent, from $209.423 million to $70.410 million.
The export of sugar dipped by 100 percent from $108.247 million to zero export during the months under review, while the exports of all other food items decreased by 14.90 percent, from $382.749 million to $1325.702 million.
Meanwhile, on a Year-on-Year (YoY) basis, the food group exports from the country witnessed a decrease of 42.51 percent during October 2025 as compared to the corresponding month of last year.
The food exports in October 2025 were recorded $430.260 million against the exports of $748.435 million in October 2024.
On a Month-on-Month (MoM) basis, the food exports, however, increased by 28.59 percent in October 2025 when compared to the exports of $ 334.599 million in September 2025, according to PBS data.

FCCP dismisses IHC Judges’ plea over transfer case

By
Samina Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 24 (APP):The Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan (FCCP) has dismissed a plea filed by five judges of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) seeking to have their intra-court appeal in the judges’ transfer case returned to the Supreme Court.
The FCC heard the matter and dismissed the petition due to non-prosecution. The judges who had filed the intra-court appeal included Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kiyani, Justice Babar Sattar, Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, and Justice Saman Rafat Imtiaz.
Earlier, the intra-court appeal—related to the transfer of three judges from other high courts to the federal capital—had been fixed for hearing before the FCC, which was established under the 27th Constitutional Amendment. The judges had challenged the Supreme Court’s constitutional bench ruling from June, which held that their transfer was not unconstitutional.
The five judges later filed a miscellaneous application before the FCC, challenging the shifting of their appeal from the Supreme Court to the newly formed constitutional court. They argued that the matter constitutionally fell within the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, and further contended that the amendment creating the FCC was itself inconsistent with the Constitution.
The FCC dismissed the request after the petitioners failed to pursue the case.

Rescue 1122  responds to 35 emergencies in last 24 hours

By
Samina Ch
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DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Nov 24 (APP):Rescue 1122 Dera Ismail Khan carried out prompt emergency response operations over the past 24 hours, handling a total of 35 emergencies.
According to the service’s daily report, among the reported incidents, six were road traffic accidents, while 25 involved medical emergencies.
The service also responded to one fire incident and conducted three miscellaneous rescue and recovery operations across the district.
During the same period, the Rescue 1122 control room received 3,222 calls. Out of these, 350 were information calls, whereas  2,840 turned out to be fake or irrelevant, unnecessarily occupying emergency lines.
It further said that rescue teams successfully assisted and transported 36 patients to safe locations or medical facilities following timely response.
The spokesperson said that the teams remained fully active and committed throughout the day, demonstrating professionalism and dedication to public service.
He also urged citizens to avoid making fake calls, as such actions can delay response to real emergencies.

PM orders accelerating work on Jinnah Medical Complex

By
Najam ul Hassan
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Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in a group photo with the board members of Jinnah Medical Complex in Islamabad on 24 November 2025.
ISLAMABAD, Nov 24 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed to accelerate work on the construction of all proposed medical treatment centers of the Jinnah Medical Complex (JMC), hoping that the project will be completed soon through collective efforts.
“This project will not only be exemplary for Pakistan but for the entire region in the field of health,” the prime minister said while chairing a meeting of the Board of Jinnah Medical Complex.
The prime minister also expressed gratitude to the Aga Khan University for providing technical assistance at various stages of the construction of the Jinnah Medical Complex.
During the meeting, the JMC Board thanked the prime minister for his continuous support and guidance throughout all phases of the project’s construction.
According to the briefing, rapid progress was being made on providing facilities for not only medical services at the Jinnah Medical Complex but also for international-standard medical training, education, and research.
To bring the Jinnah Medical Complex up to global standards, modern technology, including the use of artificial intelligence and robotics, will be employed for research, the briefing added.
Senior officers from the board and relevant institutions were also present at the meeting.
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