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Pakistan’s leap into space: a nation poised for a historic ascent

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
By Shumaila Noreen
ISLAMABAD, Jun 15 (APP): In a moment that will redefine the course of Pakistan’s scientific journey, the nation is preparing to send its first astronaut into space–a feat that once belonged to the realm of dreams is now moving firmly into the realm of reality.
This ambitious step forward follows the signing of a landmark agreement between Pakistan’s national space agency, SUPARCO, and the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), setting the stage for Pakistan’s participation in human spaceflight for the very first time. Under this collaboration, two Pakistani astronauts will undergo extensive training at China’s Astronaut Center. By 2026, one of them will be selected as a scientific payload specialist to join a future mission to China’s Tiangong Space Station (also known as the Chinese Space Station, or CSS).
But this mission is more than symbolic. The selected astronaut will carry the weight of scientific ambition, conducting advanced research in critical domains such as biology, space medicine, fluid dynamics, materials science, and radiation studies. These experiments, made possible by the unique microgravity environment of Tiangong, hold the potential to impact life on Earth in meaningful ways, from healthcare innovations to technological breakthroughs.
SUPARCO Chairman Mohammad Yousuf Khan hailed the agreement as a transformative milestone in Pakistan’s space program. “This marks a turning point in our space journey,” he stated. “It embodies the progress, resilience, and innovation that Pakistani scientists and engineers have steadily built over the years.” He urged youth, academic institutions, and professionals to embrace this momentum by investing in space sciences, research, and technological development.
China, already an established space power, has welcomed Pakistan’s participation with open arms, reinforcing the two nations’ long-standing partnership in science and technology. “Pakistan’s inclusion in the Tiangong program reflects the deep strategic trust between our nations,” remarked Dr. Lin Xiqiang, Director General of CMSA. “Our collaboration in space exploration serves the greater cause of peaceful scientific discovery for humanity.
Pakistan’s journey into space began over six decades ago when, on July 7, 1962, it launched the Rehbar-I rocket from the Sonmiani Range, becoming the first Muslim country–and among the earliest globally–to venture into space. However, despite this pioneering start, the nation’s space program saw a prolonged stall due to shifting political priorities and limited investment in science and technology.
A resurgence came in 2011 with the launch of PakSat-1R, a communication satellite developed in collaboration with China. This momentum was reinforced by the deployment of PRSS-1 and PakTES-1A in 2018. The trend continued in 2024 when PakSat-MM1 expanded digital connectivity to Pakistan’s underserved areas.
Notably, the student-developed iCube Qamar satellite, launched in collaboration with the China National Space Administration, captured images of the Moon, highlighting the emerging potential of Pakistani youth in advanced space technologies.
In January 2025, Pakistan achieved another landmark by launching its first entirely indigenous satellite, the Electro-Optical Satellite EO-1, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in China. Developed solely by Pakistani engineers, EO-1 supports agricultural planning, disaster response, and environmental monitoring, demonstrating the nation’s increasing technical autonomy and competence.
This upcoming astronaut mission is more than a national celebration. It is a critical step toward Pakistan’s integration into the global ecosystem of space-faring nations. The research conducted aboard Tiangong will offer solutions in medicine, climate adaptation, space agriculture, and materials innovation—developments with direct applications on Earth.
At a time when traditional warfare is rapidly giving way to technological warfare, the significance of space research cannot be overstated.
The modern battlefield now spans cyber realms and upper atmospheric technologies, from advanced surveillance to satellite-enabled warfare.
Pakistan’s experience in electronic warfare during recent conflicts has already demonstrated how vital mastery over space and electromagnetic domains has become.
To remain competitive regionally and globally, Pakistan must elevate its scientific priorities. This means greater public investment in research, creating advanced training pipelines, and nurturing a new generation of scientists, engineers, and space professionals.
As space-faring nations race toward the next frontier by exploring the Moon, Mars, and beyond, Pakistan’s journey has finally reentered orbit. But to sustain and accelerate this progress, a strategic realignment is needed. This includes enhancing research funding, integrating space education at all academic levels, and forging global partnerships to maintain technological relevance.
The nation’s reawakening in space science is not merely about catching up but it’s about claiming a seat at the table where the future of humanity is being written.
The launch of Pakistan’s first astronaut will not just mark a historical moment; it will ignite a scientific renaissance that has the power to shape generations to come.

OIC-COMSTECH, WUACD sign MoU to boost scientific cooperation among OIC member states

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
COMSTECH
ISLAMABAD, Jun 15 (APP):The Ministerial Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (COMSTECH) and the World University Association for Community Development (WUACD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sunday to strengthen cooperation in science, technology, and higher education across OIC member states.
WUACD is an initiative of Airlangga University is a growing international network comprising 41 universities from 11 countries, focused on advancing academic collaboration and community development.
The signing ceremony took place at the Airlangga University East Java, Indonesia, where  Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General OIC-COMSTECH, and Prof. Dr. Mohammad Nasih, Rector Airlangga University and President of WUACD, formally signed the MoU on behalf of their organizations.
The agreement aims to promote joint research, academic exchange, and innovation in key scientific fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Health Sciences, and Engineering. Special emphasis will be placed on supporting scholars and researchers from underrepresented OIC member countries, particularly in Africa.
As part of the MoU, both institutions will offer a range of academic and training opportunities. These include short-term technician training programs of three to four weeks and long-term research fellowships ranging from six to twelve months. Fellows will be hosted at Universitas Airlangga and mentored by its faculty, while OIC-COMSTECH will assist with award issuance and visa facilitation.
Airlangga University serving as the WUACD secretariat, will manage academic placements and supervision. The collaboration is designed to foster practical research, knowledge sharing, and stronger institutional ties among member universities.
On this occasion, OIC-COMSTECH also proposed to host the next WUACD Annual Summit in Islamabad a gesture welcomed by WUACD leadership and seen as a step toward deepening academic cooperation and regional engagement.
The officials from both sides described the MoU as a strategic milestone that will build scientific capacity, encourage innovation, and contribute to sustainable development roughout the Islamic world.
The partnership is expected to open new pathways for long-term cooperation and community advancement through science and education

Gambling Apps trap youth, unemployed persons

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
By M Atif Ismail
MULTAN, Jun 15 (APP):A silent digital trap is catching thousands of young people, students and unemployed labourers across south Punjab as gambling Apps cleverly disguised as harmless mobile games and looting people.
These Apps are spreading fast through social media, offering the false hope of “easy money from home.” But behind the colorful graphics and catchy slogans lies a deep financial and mental danger.
These Apps promote various games. At first glance, they seem like simple fun. But as soon as, a user signs up, they are welcomed with free bonuses, sometimes Rs 500 or more  just to play. In the beginning, they win small amounts. Encouraged by early success, many users start putting in their own money, hoping to earn even more. That’s when the real loss begins, said IT experts while talking to APP.
“I thought I could earn some side income by playing a game online. But within two weeks, I had lost Rs 15,000,” shared a college student on condition of anonymity. His story is not unique. From students to unemployed adults, these apps are pulling people in with big promises and pushing them towards debt, anxiety, and depression.
Once hooked, many users begin spending more time and money than they can afford. The excitement turns into obsession. “The app kept sending me notifications repeatedly.
In many cases, these apps operate from outside country and avoid legal consequences by changing names frequently. IT experts stated that there was weak digital monitoring system. Although, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and FIA Cybercrime Wing have banned several such apps in the past, but new versions continue to surface.
Making matters worse, many social influencer promote these apps in exchange for money. They call them “income games” or “earning tricks,” tricking their followers into trying them. Most viewers don’t know that these promotions are often paid advertisements.
Similarly, Psychologists are also found issuing warning of a growing mental health crisis linked to these apps. Many people become addicted, and their focus, sleep, studies, and relationships suffer badly. “It’s a digital addiction that leads to gambling addiction.
Families across South Punjab are reporting unexpected financial losses and emotional tension. In many cases, parents only learn about it when it’s too late.
Citizens are calling for strong awareness campaigns, especially in schools, colleges and universities. They also recommend strict monitoring of app stores.
IT experts stated, people need to know that there is no such thing as easy money. Real income comes from real work not spinning a wheel or betting on a fake game. It’s time to raise voice before more dreams are destroyed by these flashy lies, they added.

Food safety team conducts operation in DI Khan

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
Dera Ismail Khan , Jun 15 (APP): On the special directives of Deputy Director Wasif Khan, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Safety and Halal Food Authority (KP FS&HFA) team carried out an inspection operation on Multan Road, targeting food outlets and beverage vendors to ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards.
During the operation, a mobile laboratory was used to conduct on-the-spot testing of various food and beverage samples. The team assessed the quality and safety of items being sold, aiming to safeguard public health and maintain food standards.
Vendors were issued clear instructions to uphold cleanliness, adopt hygienic practices, and maintain the quality of their products. Strict warnings were given where violations were observed.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Director Wasif Khan stated, “Ensuring safe and hygienic food is a top priority. These field inspections are meant to create awareness and accountability among food business operators. We urge all vendors to strictly follow health regulations to avoid action.”
The operation is part of a broader campaign to enforce food safety regulations across the district and protect consumers from substandard and unsafe food.

220 illegal shops demolished in Jahanian

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
KHANEWAL, Jun 15 (APP): In a crackdown against illegal constructions, the district administration demolished 220 illegal shops in Tibba Sadiqabad here on Sunday.
Assistant Commissioner Jahanian, Muhammad Zohaib Shafi headed the anti-encroachment
operation.
The operation was conducted under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner Dr Salma
Suleman and targeted encroachments and unauthorized structures at Pul-32, 37, 38, Pul-114, and Allahabad.
The administration has vowed to continue such operations across the district without  any discrimination.

Babusar Top: A mesmerizing journey

By
NNPS Desk
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0

By Fakhar-e-Alam

PESHAWAR, Jun 15 (APP): The dramatic interplay of sunshine and clouds, often accompanied by moderate to erratic rainfall, paints a mesmerizing landscape at historic Babusar Top, the high-altitude mountain pass nestled in upper Kaghan Valley of Mansehra district.
Attracting thousands of tourists during summer especially holidays of Eidul Azha, travelling to Babusar Top from Naran leaves imprints of natural beauty with lakes, meadows, green hill tops and zigzagging road to be reminded in tourists minds for years.
People from all across the country throng this destination, located at a breathtaking altitude of 13,691 feet that connects Upper Kaghan and Naran in Mansehra with Chilas in Gilgit-Baltistan.
“I have visited many places within Pakistan and abroad, but nothing compares to the natural splendor of Babusar—a home to thrill and adventure,” said Muhammad Imran, a 40-year-old architect from C&W Department in Peshawar.
Captivated by the awe-inspiring beauty of Babusar Pass, Imran revealed enjoying chilled drinks stored in nearby glaciers while listening the patriotic song “Dil Dil Pakistan in his car on his way to Babusar Top from Naran.
Pakistan’s flag hoisted proudly atop the pass welcomes thousands of tourists and adventure seekers each summer. Visitors are drawn to its waterfalls, pristine lakes, dodara forest, meadows and birds chirping echo through lush valleys from Kaghan-Naran to Babusar Top.
The tourist recounts his journey from Lower Naran Manshera where he enjoyed local delicacies such as Chapli Kabab, brown trout in relatively cold weather and from there, to legendary Lake Saiful Malook, famed in folklore for the Persian prince Saiful Malook and the fairy princess Badri Jamala.
“During our jeep journey from Naran to Babusar trip, we experienced hiking toward Ansu Lake, witnessing Sooch waterfall’s icy cascades amid great fun and excitement,” he shared.
The journey toward Babusar is dotted with captivating stops like glacial Lulusar Lake at 11,190 feet, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and azure waters. Small roadside shops along Bhattal town, offered unique gifts— Palosa and Ber honey, woolen shawls, caps and glacier-chilled drinks.
Sher Zaman, a local honey vendor, said the prized Palosa and Ber honey — sourced from Karak and Lachi Kohat — is popular among tourists and even exported to Gulf countries due to its purity.
However, the region’s natural charm faces threats like deforestation, glaciers melting, unregulated construction and deteriorating road conditions exacerbated by climate change and timber mafia are affecting the pristine environment.
Dubai-based Pakistani transporter Haji Ehsanullah Khan, another visitor at the Babusar Top, emphasized Babusar’s unique charm and tranquility besides cold weather. “Pakistan has many scenic historic passes but Babusar stands out for its majestic views and unique charisma of Himalayas and Karakoram ranges.”
The final stretch to Babusar involves a steep, winding ascent, offering panoramic views of verdant valleys, snow clad mountains, waterfalls and distant peaks. Many tourists, including families, enjoy these bounties of the Nature but they advise travellers to take measures for a safer drive and use tyre chains during snowfall.
Adventure cyclist and author Dervla Murphy, in her book Two Wheels Over Nine Glaciers, recounted her 1960s cycling expedition through Babusar. She highly praised the locals’ hospitality and the region’s serene lakes and green mountains.
Some historians have mentioned that Babusar Top was originally known as Babur Top, originating from the fact that Mughal emperor Babur passed through this area in the early 16th century.
Professor Dr. Muhammad Naeem Khattak, said that the economic potential of tourism in Northern Areas of Pakistan was immense and urged to focus on infrastructure development to take full advantage of this God gifted resource.
“We need to focus on domestic tourism to broaden its economic base by using digital technology in promoting tourism carried vital importance. Even the visitors can prepare videos and photos for social media for effectively highlighting Pakistan’s tourism treasures abroad,” he said.
Babusar Top offers a wide variety of plant and animal species. One can find snow pigeons, owls, snow cocks, and hawks across the beautiful pine and oak forests nearby. Sheep and wild goats are excessively found in this area but cultivation is a challenge here because of harsh weather conditions and high altitude.
Malika e Parbat is the highest peak of the Babusar region that can only be witnessed from the Babusar Top. Other exquisitely spread plateaus, lush green meadows, fast-flowing streams, and snow-covered peaks of Kashmir across this region work as a bounty to the visitors’ eye from the top view of Babusar. Sharp and steep turns of curvy roads with marvelous landscapes on both sides turn every trip into a lifetime experience.
Although this journey is thrilling and enjoying but the same time it is also dangerous and every year a number of road accidents are reported from this mountainous terrain. The most common reason for accidents is brake failure of vehicles in this steep landscape due to inexperience. Therefore, the new drivers must have complete information about its road’s bends and steeps.
Despite numerous challenges, the magic of Babusar Top remains undiminished — a journey into the heart of Pakistan’s highlands where adventure, culture and breathtaking scenery converge.

River erosion threat, rapid assessment ordered

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Jun 15 (APP):On the special directives of Deputy Commissioner Dera Ismail Khan, the Additional Deputy Commissioner (Relief), Syed Gulfam Abbas Shah, along with Assistant Commissioner DIKhan, Syed Muhammad Arslan, on Sunday conducted an official visit to Jhok Obhechar, a vulnerable Kacha area situated along the Indus River, to assess the increasing threat of riverbank erosion.
During the field visit, the officers closely inspected the eroding riverbank and interacted with local residents to gather first-hand information on the situation. The inspection aimed at identifying the scale of damage and the immediate and long-term needs of the affected population.
The team noted that river erosion in the area has intensified, posing a serious threat to local homes, agricultural land, and livelihoods. In response, Revenue officers have been tasked with conducting a rapid needs assessment, enabling the district administration to prepare and implement prompt relief measures and long-term erosion control strategies.
Speaking to the community, ADC Relief Syed Gulfam Abbas Shah reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to protecting vulnerable communities:
 “Our priority is to provide timely assistance and work on sustainable solutions. We are actively coordinating with all relevant departments to mitigate the impact of erosion and safeguard lives and property.”
The district administration is expected to compile a detailed report following the revenue officers assessment and coordinate with provincial disaster and irrigation departments for necessary interventions, including embankment strengthening and potential relocation efforts if required.
The visit reflects the government’s proactive approach in addressing climate-induced challenges such as river erosion, particularly in remote and underserved Kacha regions of Dera Ismail Khan.

Making journey safer for GB tourists during Monsoon

By
NNPS Desk
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0

By Sultan Shoaib

GILGIT, Jun 15 (APP):: Travelling through mesmerizing terrains of Gilgit-Baltistan is always amusing and heart touching as Nature has showered countless bounties on this region, making it a home to snow covered mountains, tall pines, flora and fauna and diverse wildlife.
Travelling on its zigzagging roads through the green forests and tall peaks, enjoying its weather and landscape, lakes, glaciers, plains and rocks is something leaving pleasant imprints in visitors minds.
But when the first rain touches the dry land of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), besides beauty, it also brings danger with it. No matter it gives life to valleys, makes rivers flow and covers the mountainsides in green. But at the same time, it can cause landslides, flash floods and road blockages.
Every year more tourists come to see GB’s natural beauty and if you also the one planning to travel during the rainy months of July and August, it’s important to stay alert and prepare well.
Because, when the ground gets wet, mountain slopes become weak and rocks can fall onto roads. The Karakoram Highway (KKH), which connects Pakistan with China, often gets blocked in areas like Chilas, Raikot Bridge (on the way to Fairy Meadows), and between Sost and Gulmit.
Although the government takes measures for the safety of travellers, yet GB being surrounded by three mountain ranges; Karakoram, Himalayas and Hindu Kush often faces natural risks like landslides and floods during monsoon.
Heavy rain and glacial melting during summer can also flood the rivers like Indus, Gilgit and Hunza. Roads to valleys like Astore, Skardu or Kaghan may also get damaged or blocked. In many places phone and internet services stop working after landslides, making it hard to contact anyone in case of emergency.
Keeping in view these challenges, the GB government takes measures for tourists’ safety but it needs well woven teamwork between the government, local communities and the travelers themselves.
“GB is an attractive tourist destination. Last year we received 1.5 million tourists,” said Iqbal Husain, Director GB Tourism Department. “We welcome them in all seasons. But, monsoon becomes tricky as we have to take extra measures during this season.”
He acknowledged hard work of authorities to ensure safety of tourists during rainy season as he mentioned to sharing advice through social media, tour companies, and guesthouses. “Visitors are told to check weather forecasts, inform local police if they’re going to far-off places and always follow local guides.”
He said some important projects are being carried out to improve safety like rerouting parts of the KKH and building new tunnels in different areas.
According to the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA), since 2022, more than 80 large landslides blocked the KKH, over 60,000 people in GB were affected by floods and roads and bridges were damaged.
Every year, National Highway Authority (NHA) spends a major chunk of GB budget on roads repair and clear landslides especially in July and August.
But on the other hand, rain makes GB more beautiful, waterfalls flood with water, air gets fresher and local tourism experts say it a great time to visit. But, the same time they ask tourists to be cautious.
“Tourists should check weather alerts and keep their travel plans flexible. If one road is closed, they can try other safe routes or wait,” said Fatima Begum, a tour operator from Hunza since last 15 years. “They should also carry medicine, snacks, water and to be patient.”
“We also ensure that visitors have local SIM cards and emergency contact numbers,” she said and appreciated locals for often clearing roads and assist tourists. “But travelers must also respect the power of nature and avoid taking unnecessary risks.”
Ahmed Raza from Lahore who visited Skardu and Shigar in July 2023, revealing his story of vehicle struck near the Shigar Bridge said, local people were helpful but the most was their guide who had packed snacks and water. “Therefore, besides other arrangements, you also need an experienced guide who is well aware what to do when someone is trapped.”
As keeping people safe during monsoon is not just about fixing problems after they happen. It needs regular planning and action, therefore more weather stations and faster warning systems are being set up to pass alerts on time. Roads and bridges are made stronger and tunnels like Atabad and Shounter are helping a lot.
Local people are getting training in first aid and emergency response by groups like Focus Pakistan and Aga Khan Agency for Habitat. Tourists are provided safety advice at airports, hotels and by travel companies. Some tour companies now offer insurance that covers delays. Emergency teams like Rescue 1122 are getting better equipment and different government departments are working together more closely.
The rainy season in GB is a time to enjoy, but with care. When the government departments remain busy in improving roads and warning systems and stay ready to help quickly and tour companies and hotels inform guests about emergencies, the travellers must also keep themselves well informed about alerts for their safer journey.

Mubarak Zeb thanks PM for support, urges swift probe into rocket attack

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 15 (APP):Minister of State, Mubarak Zeb Khan on Sunday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif for his support following the rocket attack on his residence.
In a statement issued here, the minister of state said, “Thank you, Prime Minister, for standing with us in these difficult times.”
He strongly urged authorities to ensure a thorough investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need to swiftly identify and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The Prime Minister has also directed a comprehensive inquiry into the rocket attack, which occurred early Saturday, targeting the minister’s residence in Bajaur. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.

Pakistan extends felicitations to Bulgaria on 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties

By
Irfan Khan
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0

ISLAMABAD, June 15 (APP): Pakistan on Sunday extended the warmest felicitations to the leadership and people of Bulgaria, on the landmark occasion of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Bulgaria.

“This special occasion is a testament to the cordial and enduring friendship between our two nations over the decades,” Foreign Office Spokesperson said in a press release.

To commemorate this occasion, the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and Bulgaria exchanged congratulatory messages celebrating our shared achievements.

The messages emphasized their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation across various sectors in the interests of both nations.

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