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President Zardari emphasizes upon common man’s welfare in federal budget

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ISLAMABAD, June 17 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday emphasized that the federal budget should prioritize the welfare and uplift of the common man, particularly workers and low-income groups.

The president expressed these views during a meeting with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif who called on him at Aiwan-e-Sadr, President Secretariat Press Wing said in a press release.

During the meeting, they discussed the prevailing political and economic situation in the country.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Minister for Planning and Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for law and Justice, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar and Senator Saleem Manviwalla were also present.

The prime minister briefed the president on his recent official visit to the United Arab Emirates and also shared key features of the federal budget.

President Zardari underscored that the salaried class, pensioners, labourers, and underprivileged segments of society were facing serious challenges and effective measures must be taken to alleviate their burden.

He also highlighted the need for employment generation and social protection initiatives to support the poor and vulnerable sections of the population.

ICP activates business continuity plan for smooth passenger flow at airports

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ABU DHABI, Jun 17 (WAM/APP): The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has confirmed it has taken all necessary steps to guarantee continuous airport operations across the UAE. This includes close coordination with all operational entities to address the fallout from recent regional and political developments that led to airspace closures in certain countries.
The primary goal is to ensure the safety and smooth movement of passengers without compromising service quality.

The ICP clarified that its approved emergency business continuity plan was immediately activated when these events unfolded. This ensures operational flexibility and minimises potential disruptions to travel, especially given the airspace closures by some nations. The plan encompassed precise operational and regulatory procedures, executed in collaboration with strategic partners.

To maintain peak readiness and immediate responsiveness, the Authority has bolstered airport field teams with qualified personnel and robust operational capabilities, available 24/7.

Furthermore, the ICP is coordinating with all relevant operational bodies to manage the situations of stranded passengers, ensuring they receive vital support such as temporary accommodation, logistical services, and accurate information.

The ICP also stated that a streamlined system for passenger entry into UAE airports has been implemented, aligning with current operational needs. Direct guidance is being provided to passengers by support teams, with immediate coordination with airlines in the UAE for flight rescheduling.

The Authority commended passengers for their cooperation and understanding during these exceptional regional circumstances. It reiterated its unwavering commitment to undertaking all necessary measures to guarantee the security and safety of all travelers under any conditions or emergencies. This support is rooted in authentic Emirati values, proactive service standards, and comprehensive crisis and emergency management plans, ultimately ensuring the seamless delivery of services for both arriving and departing passengers according to the highest international standards and practices.

PFA discards over 2,000 litres adulterated milk

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adulterated milk
MUZAFFARGARH , Jun 17 (APP):The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) on Tuesday foiled an attempt to supply a large quantity of adulterated milk in Muzaffargarh.
According to a spokesperson, the operation was led by Director Operations South, Shehzad Khan Magsi, who along with his team inspected four vehicles at Bhutta Pur Flyover. During the inspection, 2,000 litres of substandard milk was discarded on the spot, while one vehicle was seized. In addition, fines amounting to Rs 17,000 were imposed on two vehicle owners and FIRS were registered against two milk suppliers, and two persons were taken into custody, the spokesperson said.
Director General Punjab Food Authority, Muhammad Asim Javed, stated that laboratory analysis revealed low fat content and lack of essential nutrients in the seized milk. He said the supply of adulterated milk is a serious offence and will not be tolerated under any circumstances. He mentioned checkpoints have been set up at entry and exit points of cities to curb the transportation of contaminated dairy products.

DSP Abdul Rasheed bids farewell after 40 years of service

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP):A farewell ceremony was held at the office of the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG)  in honour of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Abdul Rasheed, who retired after serving the Islamabad Police for four decades.
An official told APP on Tuesday that DIG  Muhammad Jawad Tariq attended the ceremony as the chief guest. Senior police officers including SP VIP Security Iqbal Hussain, SP Security/Operations Parighul Tareen, and others were also present.
DIG Tariq said that DSP Abdul Rasheed had rendered remarkable services during his long career and held various important positions in different divisions of the Islamabad Police. “Retirement is a natural part of service, and those who begin their careers must one day conclude them,” the DIG remarked, while commending the dedication and discipline shown by the retiring officer.
DIG Tariq said the department values the contributions of its officers and will always honour those who serve with integrity. “It is the duty of every officer to perform such commendable acts that leave behind a lasting legacy,” he added.
DIG said DSP Abdul Rasheed dedicated his prime years to public service through the police department, and in return, the department granted him respect and dignity, which he should be thankful to Allah Almighty for.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, DIG Tariq presented a commemorative police shield to DSP Abdul Rasheed and extended his best wishes for the future.

Australian High Commissioner meets KP Governor to discuss peace, education, climate, sports cooperation

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PESHAWAR, Jun 17 (APP):Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Neil Hawkins, called on Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, at the Governor House on Tuesday.
They had a detailed discussion on a wide range of issues including the law and order situation, the socioeconomic conditions of merged districts, environmental challenges, and promotion of sports particularly women participation.
Governor Kundi apprised the High Commissioner on the province’s longstanding struggle with terrorism, saying that while security forces and police were performing their duties commendably, the provincial government’s lack of seriousness on maintaining peace remains a concern.
Highlighting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s natural resource wealth, the Governor emphasized that pending issues between the province and federal government can be resolved through strategic planning and dialogue.
He also asked the High Commissioner to support the increase of scholarships for the province’s talented youth in Australian institutions, especially in modern and technology-driven education sectors.
“Education is the fundamental tool for building a peaceful society,” Governor Kundi stated, adding that he was taking active steps to promote both education and sports among youth across the province.
He further shared ongoing efforts to expand the services of the Red Crescent Society in KP, including the launch of a free ambulance service in Peshawar, which will soon be extended to all districts including the newly merged areas.
Discussing climate concerns, the Governor pointed out that due to a large number of glaciers, KP was one of the most vulnerable provinces to environmental changes, which have caused significant damage through floods in recent years.
High Commissioner Neil Hawkins appreciated the Governor’s vision regarding modern education and technology.
He reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to expanding cooperation in education, offering merit-based scholarships, and promoting sports, especially women participation.
He also lauded the sacrifices made by the people, police, and security forces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the fight against terrorism.
The meeting reflected mutual intent to strengthen bilateral cooperation across key development sectors in the province.

Punjab Ombudsman advisor hears public complaints

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KHANEWAL, Jun 17 (APP):Punjab Ombudsperson’s Advisor Tanweer Iqbal Tabassum heard complaints of people against maladministration of provincial departments at Baldia Hall in Mian Channu on Tuesday and resolved 40 of them on the spot.
Speaking on the occasion, Tanweer Iqbal said that resolution of public complaints was the top priority of the Punjab Ombudsperson’s office adding that he believed it was mandatory to maintain public trust.
He said that strict action should be taken against those involved in development of illegal towns, unregistered constructions and developers which may include registration of FIRs.
He urged people to file applications with the office of Punjab Ombudsperson to get their grievances addressed speedily. Tanweer Iqbal Tabassum heard complaints against revenue, health and local government departments and ordered officials to resolve them immediately.

India & Israel global terrorist states: Tahira Aurangzeeb

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ISLAMABAD, Jun 17 (APP):Pakistan Muslim League leader and Member of National Assembly Tahira Aurangzeb has said that India and Israel were global terrorists states. Pakistan condemns Israeli aggression against brotherly country Iran.
Answering questions outside the Parliament House, Tahira Aurangzeb said that from the first day, the Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif had said that Pakistan stands with brotherly country Iran. Iran has also expressed gratitude to Pakistan for this support.
She said that Israel has started the aggression first and Iran has the full right to defend itself.
If the international community does not stop Israel from further aggression, it will destroy the peace of the region and the entire world. Israel’s aggression is a violation of international laws. India and Israel will have to be held accountable for its war aggression. In response to a question, she said that the Pakistan People’s Party is and will remain our ally, the agenda of the Tehreek-e-Insaf will fail.

Rescue 1122 responded to 1,524,200 emergencies since 2010: Spokesman

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PESHAWAR, Jun 17 (APP):Director General of Rescue 1122 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Shah Fahad on Tuesday told a press conference here that the emergency service provided as many as 1,524,200 emergencies since 2010.
He credited the use of modern technology for the organization’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively adding that during the over the past five months alone, the service responded to more than 32,000 emergencies, safely transported over 3,700 pregnant women to hospitals, and delivered 20 babies inside ambulances.
In response to the recent spike in forest fires, the team tackled 65 fire incidents in just the last two weeks. With rising temperatures, the department also set up 108 heatwave relief camps, providing medical aid, water, and refreshments to the public.
Highlighting long-term performance, Shah Fahad revealed that since 2010, Rescue 1122 has handled over 219,700 road traffic accidents, 968,700 medical emergencies, 37,300 fire incidents, 26,000 crime-related emergencies, 270,600 inter-facility referrals, and 1,900 building collapse incidents.
A major development announced was the upcoming launch of a helicopter ambulance service, initiated under the special directive of the Chief Minister.
This air rescue operation will cater to remote and hard-to-reach areas, enabling rapid medical evacuations using fully equipped helicopters.
To further modernize the department, a new monitoring system is being introduced to track operational vehicles in real time, ensuring faster and more coordinated emergency responses.
Shah Fahad also disclosed that plans are underway to expand Rescue 1122 services to all 56 tehsils in the province.
He said coordination with the Planning Department was ongoing for this provincial rollout.
Referring to the department’s annual budget he said it has now crossed Rs two billion, with the bulk of expenses going toward fuel for emergency vehicles and medical supplies.
He concluded by reaffirming the department’s commitment to professional training, staff welfare, and the continuous enhancement of rescue capabilities.
 “Rescue 1122 stands ready, around the clock, to protect lives and property across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” he stated.

DC visits Maryam Nawaz Health Clinic in Bhakkar

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BHAKKAR, Jun 17 (APP):Deputy Commissioner (DC) Muhammad Ashraf, visited the Maryam Nawaz Health Clinic in Kotla Jam, Bhakkar on Tuesday, to assess the quality of medical facilities provided to patients.
According to DC office, during the visit, he interacted with patients and their relatives, inquiring about the availability of medical services and staff attendance.
The DC inspected the clinic’s records, emphasizing the importance of timely treatment and provision of medicines to patients.
He stressed that providing quality medical facilities is a top priority for the district administration and instructed staff to maintain high standards of cleanliness and patient care.