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Babar Azam equals national record for most ODI centuries

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NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 14 (APP): Pakistan’s prolific batter Babar Azam has etched his name in the record books, equaling the national record for most ODI centuries by a Pakistani player.

In the second ODI against Sri Lanka at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Azam scored a brilliant century (102 off 119 balls), matching Saeed Anwar’s tally of 20 ODI centuries for Pakistan.

Achieving this feat in just 136 innings, Azam has joined the elite group of batsmen who have reached 20 ODI centuries in the fewest innings.

South Africa’s Hashim Amla leads the list with 108 innings, followed by India’s Virat Kohli, who achieved this milestone in 133 innings. Saeed Anwar had scored his 20 ODI centuries in 244 innings.

Azam’s century is a morale booster for Pakistan cricket and this achievement is a significant milestone in solidifying his position as one of the top batsmen in the world.

PCB Chairman congratulates Pakistan team on ODI series win

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 14 (APP):Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, has congratulated the Pakistan cricket team on their victory in the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
The Pakistan team won the second ODI by 8 wickets, securing the three-match series 2-0.
“Well done, Green Shirts! Thank you, Sri Lanka. Today, not only Pakistan but also our dear friends Sri Lanka and the game of cricket have won,” Naqvi said in a statement issued here.
He commended the team’s performance, saying, “Thanks to the brilliant batting by Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Mohammad Rizwan, the Pakistani team has won the second ODI and the series.”
He also expressed gratitude to the Sri Lankan team, saying, “I specially thank the players and management of the Sri Lankan team.”
Naqvi also appreciated the fans’ support, and said, “Cricket enthusiasts have fully supported the Sri Lankan team.”

Pakistan confidently hosting int’l cricket under PM Shehbaz leadership: Tarar

By
NNPS Desk
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0

RAWALPINDI, Nov 14 (APP): Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Friday said Pakistan has been successfully hosting international cricket events across the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Credit for hosting the international cricket confidently goes to prudent policies of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for promotion of sports, said the minister during the presentation ceremony of the 2nd ODI between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Gracing the ceremony as a chief guest, the minister extended heartfelt congratulations to the national team for clinching the series title after beating the Sri Lankan cricket team in three-match ODI series.

Tarar praised the national side’s stellar performance, stating that the “Pakistani team has made the entire nation proud with its outstanding performance.”

He also acknowledged the visiting side, adding that “the Sri Lankan players also displayed excellent cricket.”
The minister underscored the significance of the tour, calling the Sri Lankan team’s visit to Pakistan a true reflection of the strong sports ties and friendship between the two countries.

The Minister also acknowledged the crucial role of the Armed Forces, mentioning that the “Pakistan Army, under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, has paved the way for the restoration of international sports by establishing peace and stability in the country.

Hosting of the international cricket events by Pakistan is the direct outcome of these efforts, he added.

He lauded Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi for the comprehensive security arrangements, highlighting that ensuring foolproof security for all international events, including the Sri Lanka tour, is a major success for the Ministry of Interior.
Tarar expressed the hope that cricketing relations between the two nations would continue to grow in future.

Low-cost cattle semen programme launched

By
Kamran Muraad
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FAISALABAD, Nov 14 (APP):The Livestock & Dairy Development Department (LDDD) has launched a major initiative to improve the genetic potential of low-yielding cattle by offering affordable access to high-quality breeding services with low-cost cattle semen for increasing overall milk production in Faisalabad division.
Director Livestock Dr. Nadeem Badar said that the program, already operational across Punjab, is designed to support small and medium-scale livestock owners by enabling the breeding of superior cattle through cost-effective reproductive inputs.
He said that Punjab government’s initiative carries immense value for strengthening farmers’ economic stability and promoting modern breeding systems across the division.
He said that provision of high-quality semen will not only improve animal genetics but would also ensure a marked rise in milk production. The farmers should take full benefits from this facility for long-term gains, he added.
He said that under this initiative, high-quality Friesian semen is being provided at Rs.150 per dose while Brahman semen is available at Rs.500 for making advanced breeding options accessible to a wider farming community, he added.
He said that the cattle must meet certain criteria to benefit from the high-quality semen facility. It should be a daily milk-yielding capacity of at least three to five liters, freedom from physical or reproductive diseases, full reproductive maturity and at least one prior calving, he added.
He urged livestock farmers to ensure the use of certified semen to elevate the genetic quality of their herds. He said that improved breeds would significantly enhance milk output in the coming years.
The farmers can contact their nearest veterinary hospital for breeding services while the LDDD’s 24/7 free helpline 08000-9211 is also available for guidance and assistance, he added.

Relaunch of smog mitigation projects reviewed

By
Kamran Muraad
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LAHORE, Nov 14 (APP):The review meeting on Sectoral/Departmental Smog Mitigation Action Plans 2025–26 and Relaunch ceremony of  (SMPT 2.0) was held at AKS Auditorium, P& D Board, here on Friday.
Secretary P&D Board Rafaqat Ali chaired the 2nd review meeting and inaugurated the Smog Mitigation Projects Tracking Dashboard (SMPT 2.0), with improved real-time monitoring mechanism, enhanced data integration and inter-departmental coordination for anti-smog measures across the province.
The representatives of concerned/respective departments briefed the chair about the progress of their Smog mitigation action plan 2025-26.
The representative of the Transport Department highlighted important reforms in the transport sector, one of which is the Punjab Digital Transport Governance System, which is helpful in preventing smog by conducting real-time monitoring, while the Private Vehicle Inspection System will control vehicle pollution.
Moreover, he also informed that thousands of e-bikes have already been distributed by the Punjab government to promote eco-friendly mobility, and hundreds of electric buses are being inducted into the transport sector in Punjab.
The agriculture representative informed that due to unanimous efforts of the agriculture department, this year 25% reduction in stable burning achieved. Under the CM initiative,4703 out of 5000 supper seeders delivered across the Punjab and under the Punjab Clean Air Program (PCAP), farmers will get financial assistance for 3000 super seeders.
Furthermore, the representative of the Environment Department told that AQI (Air Quality Index) display screens in Lahore are proving helpful in creating awareness about smog among the public.
Similarly, the Health Department has ensured the establishment of smog centers in hospitals, awareness campaigns at the district level, and provision of specific facilities to deal with smog-related diseases.
The Secretary, P&D Board Rafaqat Ali said that this upgraded dashboard will be helpful in real time monitoring mechanism of the Smog Mitigation activities of the different departments. He emphasized on the public awareness and directed all departments to intensify messaging through print, electric and social media platforms.
He stressed that continuous and targeted communication is essential for encouraging responsible public behavior and ensuring collective action against smog.
Furthermore, the chair raised some observations about the performance of some departments and instructed them to improve their working and upload their Smog related activities on the established Dashboard, for the information of all concerned authorities.

Pakistan wins three-match ODI series 2-0 against Sri Lanka

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Nov 14 (APP): Pakistani batters showcased their prowess in the second ODI, securing an emphatic 8-wicket victory over Sri Lanka and sealing the three-match series 2-0 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on late Friday.

Chasing a target of 289 runs, Pakistan’s openers set the tone with a solid start. Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub (33) provided a 77-run partnership for the first wicket, laying the foundation for Pakistan’s comfortable chase. Ayub’s dismissal by Dushmantha Chameera, caught by Charith Asalanka, did little to deter Pakistan’s momentum.

Zaman (78 off 93 balls, 8x4s, 1×6) and Babar Azam then stitched a 100-run partnership for the second wicket, propelling Pakistan towards victory. Zaman’s dismissal, courtesy of Dushmantha Chameera’s superb catch by Janith Liyanage, was a mere blip on the radar.

Azam’s (102 off 119 balls) 20th ODI century, paired with Mohammad Rizwan’s 51 off 54 balls, ensured Pakistan’s comfortable win. The duo’s unbeaten 112-run partnership for the third wicket sealed Pakistan’s 8-wicket triumph. Babar Azam was declared player of the match.

Earlier when put into bat, Sri Lanka’s batting efforts yielded a competitive total of 288 for 8 in 50 overs. The Lankan openers, Pathum Nissanka (24) and Kamil Mishara (27), provided a solid foundation with a 51-run partnership for the first wicket.

Janith Liyanage led the charge with a gritty 54 off 63 balls, featuring two fours and a six, while Sadeera Samarawickrama contributed 42 off 52 balls.

The partnership of 73 runs between Liyanage and Kamindu Mendis (44 off 38 balls) laid the foundation for Sri Lanka’s innings, helping them recover from an early setback.

Wanindu Hasaranga’s late surge, remaining unbeaten with 37 off 26 balls, further bolstered their total, setting Pakistan a challenging target to chase. Pramod Madushan also added 11 not out runs to the total.

Pakistan’s bowlers, however, kept Sri Lanka contained, with Haris Rauf claiming three wickets for 66 runs while Abrar Ahmed taking as many for 41 runs. Mohammad Wasim also chipped in with 1 wicket for 50 runs.

10th Pakistan Banking Awards: SBP Governor offers futuristic transformation blueprint to banking system

By
Kamran Muraad
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KARACHI, Nov 14 (APP):The Governor State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Jameel Ahmad, offering a blueprint for futuristic transformation of the banking system driven by innovation, inclusion and responsibility on Friday, stressed on banks to reorient business models to serve the needs of the private sector, especially SMEs and small depositors.
He was addressing the 10th Pakistan Banking Awards ceremony, organized by the National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF) Pakistan in collaboration with DAWN Media and A.F. Ferguson & Co for promoting excellence, innovation, and integrity in the banking sector, said a statement issued here.
The SBP Governor presented the prestigious Best Bank Award to Meezan Bank, recognizing their outstanding performance and commitment to excellence. Bank of Punjab grabbed three Best Bank awards for Women Inclusion, SMEs and Agriculture Inclusion; Bank Alfalah topped in Digital Excellence and Customer Engagement while HBL, Faysal Bank and Kashf Foundation were declared as best among the banks for ESG, Mid-sized Banks and Microfinance Institution respectively.
The governor SBP, in his address, observed the important role of these awards in helping raise the standard of banking in the country and in this context, offered a blueprint for the needed transformation of the banking system for the next decade, driven by innovation, inclusion and responsibility.
This transformation would not be possible unless banks reorient their business models towards serving the financial needs of the private sector, especially SMEs and small depositors, he observed, adding “Banks that continue to rely on easy returns from lending to the government will eventually be left behind by institutions that are mobilizing deposits and meeting the growing credit needs of the underserved segments.”
Elaborating on the way forward, Governor SBP encouraged banks to focus on four main areas- digitalization, utilization of AI and tailor-made easy financial products, integration of climate risk, and realignment of business models.
He asked the banks to embed digitalization into everyday digital experiences of their customers and their own business operations, including mobile commerce, agriculture supply chains, credit scoring, and risk management. Second, banks should put in place artificial intelligence and machine learning tools to build smarter risk models incorporating alternative information furnished by AI; and design tailor-made financial products for small firms, start-ups, and entrepreneurs who may lack conventional documentation, he added.
Jameel Ahmad also underscored the need to integrate climate risk into banks’ credit decisions, set clear sustainability targets, and develop green bonds and sustainability-linked loans for climate financing. And finally, banks should reassess their priorities and strategically realign their business model to better facilitate and strengthen Pakistan’s exporters, he urged.

Governor Kundi encourages investors to explore KP’s untapped economic potential

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
PESHAWAR, Nov 14 (APP): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi has emphasized the need for joint efforts to address the challenges facing the province and to project a positive and soft image of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at the national and international levels.
He said the people of the province are highly talented and must be provided with greater opportunities to contribute to development and progress.
The Governor expressed these views while addressing the CEOs Summit organized by CEO Club Pakistan at the Governor House Peshawar, where he joined as the chief guest on Friday.
The event brought together leading business personalities, policymakers, diplomats and CEOs from across the country, including CEO Club Pakistan Founder and President Ijaz Nisar, U.S. Consul General in Peshawar Thomas Eckert, KP Finance Adviser Muzammil Aslam, Industrialists Association President Ayub Zakori, Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, President CEO Islamabad Zahid Latif Khan, President Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Junaid Altaf, and notable industrialist Adnan Afridi, among others.
The summit featured panel discussions and exchanges on business opportunities in various sectors in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Speakers including U.S. Consul General Thomas Eckert, KP Finance Adviser Muzammil Aslam, Bank of Khyber Managing Director Hassan Raza, and Al-Baraka Bank Pakistan CEO Muhammad Atif Hanif also addressed the gathering and praised Governor Kundi for his support to the business community.
During the ceremony, CEO Club Pakistan launched the book “100 CEOs & Diplomats of Pakistan”, as well as the Women CEO Club Peshawar Chapter and the CEO Club Peshawar Chapter.
Governor Kundi hailed these initiatives as historic and encouraging steps toward promoting entrepreneurship in the province.
Congratulating the organizers for holding the summit in Peshawar, the Governor said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa offers tremendous investment potential in tourism, energy, technology, minerals, agriculture and infrastructure.
He reaffirmed that the Governor House is fully committed to facilitating private-sector engagement and providing all possible support.
He said that national and international delegates who previously attended conferences at the Governor House gained a firsthand understanding of the province’s culture and historic sites, which helped reshape perceptions.
“Those who continue doing business here despite challenges deserve our appreciation,” he added.
The Governor highlighted that KP leads the country in tourism potential, natural minerals, oil and gas reserves, and low-cost power generation. “In reality, the province is not behind in any sector,” he said.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Governor Kundi presented shields to participating CEOs from various companies.

RDA seeks ECL placement of University Town owners; two officials suspended

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
RAWALPINDI, Nov 14 (APP):The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) on Friday requested the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to place the names of the owners of University Town on the Exit Control List (ECL) amid allegations of large-scale fraud and illegal activities.
Acting on the directions of the Secretary, Housing Urban Development and Public Health Engineering Department (HUD&PHED), Captain (Retired) Noor-ul-Amin Mengal, and under the supervision of RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza, the Authority initiated strict enforcement measures against the management of the housing scheme.
According to an RDA spokesperson, Director General Kinza Murtaza had formally written to the NAB Chairman and the FIA Director General, seeking ECL placement of Aziz Khan and Jameel Khan, owners of University Town (Pvt) Ltd. The move followed accusations of fraudulent practices, unauthorised sale and purchase of plots, cheating the public and non-payment of mandatory government dues.
“These violations not only inflict financial losses on citizens but also undermine the regulatory regime meant to ensure lawful urban development,” the Director General said.
In a parallel action, Director Town Planning Samiullah Niazi and Assistant Director Town Planning Shiza Tanveer were suspended for failing to curb unlawful activities associated with the scheme and for ineffective enforcement of the RDA’s regulations.
To ensure transparency in the process, the Director General also asked the Commissioner Rawalpindi to nominate an inquiry officer to examine the conduct and negligence of officials responsible for overseeing University Town.
The RDA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public interest, strengthening internal accountability and ensuring strict compliance with urban development laws, the spokesperson added.

WCLA hosts Sufi Night

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
LAHORE, Nov 14 (APP):The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) on Friday hosted a soulful musical evening titled “Sufi Night” featuring the renowned Sufi vocalist Tahseen Sakina.
According to a press release issued here, the event was held at the magnificent Shalimar Gardens in line with the directions of the Punjab  government for the promotion of Tourism and Culture. The purpose of the event was to celebrate the spirit of Sufi music and its timeless connection to Lahore’s cultural and spiritual fabric.
Tahseen Sakina’s melodious performance offered the audience a deeply captivating experience amidst the serene and historic ambiance of Shalimar Gardens.
Speaking on the occasion, Walled City of Lahore Authority Director General  Najmus Saqib said, “Under the vision of the Government of Punjab, the WCLA remains committed to preserving and promoting Lahore’s living heritage. Events like ‘Sufi Night’ allow people to experience the beauty of our historic monuments while connecting with the soulful traditions of Sufi music that form a significant part of our cultural identity.”
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