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NLP hosts panel discussion in connection with Independence Day celebrations

By
Asif Jalal
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 19 (APP): National Library of Pakistan (NLP) Tuesday organized a panel discussion titled “Salute to Guardians of the Nation” in connection with the Independence Day and Marka-e-Haq celebrations.
The event aimed to pay tribute to the armed forces, national heroes, and guardians of Pakistan who have dedicated their lives to safeguarding the sovereignty, security, and cultural identity of the nation.
Distinguished scholars, defense analysts, historians, and literary figures participated in the panel discussion. They highlighted the significance of freedom, the sacrifices of national heroes, and the role of institutions in protecting the country’s ideological and geographical boundaries.
Speakers emphasized the importance of national unity, patriotism, and cultural heritage in preserving the legacy of independence and ensuring a prosperous future for coming generations.
The session was attended by researchers, academicians, students, and general visitors, who actively engaged in the interactive discussion.
Director General of the National Library of Pakistan, Rana Yasir Arafat, expressed gratitude for the valuable contributions of the panelists and highlighted the Library’s role as a national knowledge hub, promoting intellectual dialogue, patriotism, literature, history, and cultural events.
DG NLP also underscored the true value of Independence Day and Marka-e-Haq, reminding the audience of the great sacrifices made for freedom.
He extended heartfelt thanks to the esteemed speakers and the enthusiastic audience for making the session impactful and memorable.

ECC approves uniform application of fuel charges adjustment

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 19 (APP): The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet on Tuesday approved a proposal of the Power Division for the uniform application of fuel charges adjustment across the country.

The ECC met under the chairmanship of the Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, to deliberate on important economic and development matters, said a press release.

The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Maik, Special Assistant to Prime Minister for Industries & Production Haroon Akhtar Khan, federal secretaries and senior officials from relevant ministries and government departments.

The ECC considered a summary submitted by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs regarding the arrest of Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) ships in South Africa due to alleged claims of M/s Coniston against Pakistan Steel Mills Limited.

After deliberations, the ECC directed the Finance Division to reimburse Rs 330.526 million to PNSC through a Technical Supplementary Grant (TSG) as per an earlier ECC decision taken in 2017, while further instructing the Ministry of Industries & Production to expedite the finalization and settlement of the arbitration case in court and report back within three months on the progress achieved in resolving this matter on priority basis.

On another agenda item, the ECC approved the term sheet jointly prepared by relevant stakeholders including NEECA, SBP and banks, based on the Draft Tripartite Agreement for the launch of the Prime Minister’s Fan Replacement Programme. To kick start the programme, the ECC also approved a TSG of Rs 2 billion in favour of NEECA.

The ECC approved a TSG of Rs 250 million for the National Security Division for its Strategic Policy Planning Cell, with the decision that the remaining amount would be released in a phased manner subject to contextualization and rationalization of expenditures in consultation with the Finance Division.

The committee further accorded in-principle approval to a proposal submitted by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) regarding federal assistance for the affectees of recent monsoon rains and approved a relief package of Rs 5.8 billion, directing the Finance Division to immediately release Rs 4 billion to mitigate the sufferings of the affected people.

On a proposal from the Finance Division regarding the subsidy for RAAST QR Code based person-to-merchant payments, the ECC approved an allocation of Rs 3.5 billion through TSG for the current financial year with provision for continuation for three years, aimed at accelerating digital adoption and promoting the digital economy.

The ECC further decided that the State Bank of Pakistan would notify the scheme immediately and submit a comprehensive evaluation report to the ECC on the operational effectiveness of the MDR subsidy scheme by the close of the fiscal year.

The committee also considered and approved a summary submitted by the Industries & Production Division pertaining to the New Energy Vehicle Policy 2025-30. The Committee commended the Division for preparing a comprehensive and forward-looking policy aligned with international best practices and recognized its potential to steer the country’s transition towards electric vehicles.

The meeting was further briefed on the risk coverage scheme for small farmers and underserved areas which is designed to provide coverage to subsistence farmers in Punjab and Sindh as well as all farmers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan in view of their low share in current agricultural credit disbursements. The scheme is expected to add more than 750,000 new borrowers to the formal credit system over the next three years.

The ECC reviewed the overall gas sector and supply situation in the country and directed the Ministry of Petroleum to take effective measures to control losses in the sector and ensure operational efficiency.

Law Ministry notifies 39 anti-rape crisis cells in Balochistan

By
Asif Jalal
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 19 (APP): The Ministry of Law & Justice has notified the establishment of Thirty Nine (39) Anti-Rape Crisis Cells (ARCCs) in Balochistan.
Establishment of ARCCs in Balochistan shall help in alleviating the plight of victims of sexual violence, as they provide the safe environment of a hospital for victims to report an offence, register an FIR, and access medico-legal services, all under one roof.

PFA cracks down on unsafe meat in Chiniot

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
CHINIOT, Aug 19 (APP):The Punjab Food Authority Chiniot on Tuesday has arrested a gang involved in the illegal trade of unsafe meat in Chiniot.
Deputy Director Operations Dr. Muhammad Qasim Raza, leading the Food Safety Team, recovered 200 kg of extremely unsafe meat from a sick animal, which was subsequently destroyed in a sewer near the bypass.
A case has been registered against the accused for engaging in the illegal business of counterfeiting. The accused was found to be without necessary records, and a veterinary specialist team inspected the meat, declaring it unsafe for consumption.
This operation is part of the authority’s ongoing efforts to ensure food safety and protect public health.

President bids farewell to UAE Ambassador, emphasizes strengthening bilateral ties

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 19 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday met with the outgoing Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Alzaabi, during a farewell call here at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
President Zardari expressed deep appreciation for the UAE’s consistent support to Pakistan, particularly during difficult times, a Presidency’s news release said.
He lauded Ambassador Al-Zaabi’s role in promoting mutual cooperation and strengthening diplomatic ties during his tenure.
“Pakistan attaches great importance to its longstanding, brotherly relations with the United Arab Emirates,” President Zardari said. He reiterated the need to further deepen the multifaceted partnership between the two nations, especially in the areas of trade, investment, and regional cooperation.
The President congratulated Ambassador Al-Zaabi on a successful diplomatic tenure and praised his contributions to enhancing Pakistan-UAE relations. He extended best wishes for his future endeavors.

Govt committed for strengthening auto sector: Rana Ihsaan

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 19 (APP): The Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce, Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan Tuesday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s auto sector in order to promote and develop the local industrial sector for achieving sustainable economic growth.
While addressing the Auto Parts Manufacturers Summit 2025, he acknowledging the central role of the automotive sector in exports, job creation, and industrial development, the Coordinator assured participants that their legitimate concerns will be addressed.
The summit held under the theme “Excellence in Engineering”, which highlighted the sector’s innovation and provided a platform for dialogue on advancing Pakistan’s industrial and economic future, said a press release.
Ihsaan Afzal Khan stressed that the government is determined to break the country’s recurring boom-bust cycle through bold structural reforms. He identified trade liberalization, fiscal discipline, and privatization as key drivers of long-term growth.
He further pledged close collaboration with stakeholders to shape policies that expand the industrial base, boost export competitiveness, and strengthen Pakistan’s standing in the global economy.

DC Murree, Station Commander plant saplings

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
RAWALPINDI, Aug 19 (APP):Deputy Commissioner Murree Agha Zaheer Abbas Shirazi along with Station Commander Brigadier Ahmed Nawaz and District Police Officer Murree Asif Amin Awan planted a sapling here at the Police Station Kuldana on Tuesday as part of the tree plantation campaign.
Additional Deputy Commissioner General Murree Kamran Saghir and District Forest Officer Aamir Imtiaz were also present on the occasion.
Deputy Commissioner Shirazi on the occasion highlighted the importance of trees and said that everyone should plant and protect them as it was continuous charity.
He said as per the Green Punjab Vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, saplings were being planted across the district. Tree plantation was essential for human survival as many problems were being faced due to climate change, he added.
“The Murree Forest Department is conducting a tree plantation drive in both the tehsils of the district. We should not only take eco-friendly measures but also protect the trees,” he stressed.

Mega drinking water project to be launched in Rawalpindi Div with 1,151 filtration plants

By
Asif Jalal
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0
RAWALPINDI, Aug 19 (APP): Commissioner Rawalpindi Engineer Amir Khattak on Tuesday said a mega project would be launched on a priority basis in Rawalpindi to ensure the immediate and effective supply of clean drinking water to the citizens.
The project would be part of large-scale schemes being launched by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to ensure the provision of clean and safe drinking water across the province, he added.
Some 1,151 water filtration plants had been proposed for the Rawalpindi Division under the mega project, which would directly benefit the public, the commissioner said while chairing a meeting here at his office regarding the provision of clean drinking water.
Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Hassan Waqar Cheema, Director Development Zenia Khan, SE Public Health and other officers concerned attended the meeting. The deputy commissioners of Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal and Murree participated through video link.
The commissioner appointed the Additional Deputy Commissioner (Headquarters) as the focal person for the ‘Clean Water’ project.
He directed all the deputy commissioners of five districts to identify suitable land for filtration plants within a week. “In this regard, the government land should be selected on priority basis, such as schools, government offices, police stations or mosques, and if the government land is not available in any area, then such private land should be identified which can be donated for this noble cause” he advised.
The commissioner observed that the provision of clean water was a fundamental right of the people and that was why the completion of the project was among the top priorities of the Punjab Government.
He instructed the officers concerned to ensure speedy implementation of the project so that the people could benefit from it as soon as possible.

Pakistan, Nepal explore new avenues for women’s empowerment, education and cultural ties

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 19 (APP):Pakistan and Nepal have agreed to intensify collaboration on gender development, women empowerment, and climate resilience, as a delegation of Nepali women parliamentarians on Tuesday visited the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) in Islamabad.
During their visit, President Amb. Jauhar Saleem underscored the importance of enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Nepal on gender development, said a press release.
He noted the cordial relationship between the two countries and advocated for its translation into tangible cooperation across various sectors of mutual interest.
He commended the Parliamentarians’ dedication to addressing legislative and governance gaps that impede gender development.
Amb. Saleem highlighted gender development as a key area for collaboration, alongside climate change, and educational and cultural exchanges between the two countries. He proposed allocating the existing 50 percent scholarship to Nepali students specifically for female, anticipating a significant boost to women’s empowerment in the region.
Ms. Nagina Yadav, delegation head and leading Nepali Congress Party figure, outlined Nepal’s gender development status and the delegation’s commitment to addressing gender challenges. She conveyed the delegation’s strong desire for concrete collaboration with Pakistan, recognizing Pakistan’s effective women empowerment initiatives.
Ms. Puja Chaudhary, of the Janata Samajbadi Party Nepal, emphasized the opportunity to harness strong bilateral relations for targeted working groups on business, education, culture, climate, and direct people-to-people exchanges. Also part of the delegation were Sarita Bhusal, a politician from the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist), and
Ms. Gaura Nepali, Dalit rights activist and chairperson of the Centre for Dalit Women Nepal (CDWN).
Felix Kolbitz, Country Director of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES), Pakistan Office, identified climate change as a particularly promising area for collaboration, given the vulnerability of both countries.
He elaborated on FES’s commitment to fostering cooperation between Pakistan and regional countries like Nepal to advance women empowerment and address human security issues.
Echoing what Kolbitz highlighted, Ms. Natalia Figge, Resident Representative, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Nepal Office noted that Nepal and Pakistan can develop synergy on gender equality through frequent exchanges as a practical means to accelerate gender parity efforts. Ms. Pabitra Raut, Program Manager at FES, Nepal also accompanied the delegation.
The interactive session with Nepali Parliamentarians concluded with Q&A, generating several constructive proposals for future collaboration.

CM visits Honda company in Tokyo, discusses EV cooperation

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
Maryam Nawaz
LAHORE, Aug 19 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif visited the headquarters of Honda Company in Tokyo on Tuesday and met Executive Vice President Noriya Kayahara.
The two sides discussed enhancing strategic cooperation between the Punjab government and Honda, particularly in the areas of local production and assembly of electric vehicles (EVs), said a handout issued here.
During the meeting, both agreed to benefit from Japan’s expertise, especially Honda’s experience, to train and skill Punjab’s youth in the EV sector.
The CM briefed the Honda leadership about Punjab’s plan to establish an EV depot for 1,500 electric buses in collaboration with the private sector.
CM Maryam Nawaz said Honda’s cooperation in promoting the culture of electric vehicles in Punjab would be highly valued. She added that Punjab has vast potential to become the largest market for EVs in the region, offering excellent investment opportunities and skilled labor for manufacturing and assembly.
She highlighted Punjab’s vision to develop battery charging infrastructure for electric vehicles and bikes across urban and semi-urban areas and welcomed Honda’s support in setting up a state-of-the-art vehicle testing laboratory. She added that the Punjab government is extending attractive incentives and opportunities to foreign investors.
The CM also shared plans for launching a high-speed train project between Lahore and Rawalpindi and introducing a Tourist Glass Train between Rawalpindi and Murree to promote tourism. She reiterated her government’s commitment to improving vehicle safety standards to reduce road accidents.
The Honda Executive Vice President warmly welcomed CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, appreciating her forward-looking vision and passion for Punjab’s development.
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