KARACHI: July 15 –
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KARACHI: July 15 – Turkish Counsel General Cemal Sangu distributes bags among members of the Pakistan Association of Press Photographers (PAPP) at the Karachi Press Club. APP/SDQ/MAF/FHA
Turkish Counsel General Cemal Sangu addresses the bag distribution ceremony organized by the Pakistan Association of Press Photographers (PAPP) at the Karachi Press Club.
KARACHI: July 15 –
A vendor selling balloons at a roadside.
KARACHI: July 15 –
CM establishes health vigilance squad to monitor public-sector hospitals
LAHORE, Jul 15 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the establishment of the CM Health Vigilance Squad aimed at improving monitoring and accountability in government hospitals throughout the province.
Initially, three squads will begin functioning as a pilot project. These squads will include doctors, pharmacists, biomedical engineers, budget and accounts officers, data experts, and other relevant personnel. They will be responsible for inspecting the availability of medicines, reviewing duty rosters, evaluating clinical services, checking biomedical equipment, and monitoring various hospital operations.
Chairing a comprehensive meeting to review the ongoing health related initiatives, here on Tuesday, the CM directed that swift action be taken within 24 hours based on the inspection reports submitted by the squads. She also ordered the preparation of a detailed checklist to guide the surveillance process. In addition, she approved the creation of a dedicated Directorate of Monitoring under the Health and Population Department. This new directorate will consist of specialized units for district and tehsil hospitals, as well as primary health centers. A surveillance room within the directorate will operate round the clock to ensure continuous oversight.
During the meeting, it was decided that gastroenterology services would be introduced across government hospitals in Punjab, with a dedicated center to be established at Services Hospital. Emergency wards are set to be upgraded, and trauma centers will be developed in both tehsil and district-level hospitals. A special trauma center will be constructed at Faisal Masood Teaching Hospital in Sargodha, while a cardiology ward will be set up at the teaching hospital in Gujranwala. Four operation theaters equipped with modern medical technology will be made functional at the Cardiology Institute in Multan. In addition, nurses holding BSN degrees will be offered paid internships in government healthcare facilities.
CM Maryam Nawaz reiterated the continuation of free medicine announcements in all hospitals and instructed that strict action be taken against staff who fail to comply. The meeting also approved the establishment of cath labs in eight district hospitals, with a deadline of December 2025 for starting procedures. The CM directed the relevant authorities to ensure that doctors’ residences in remote areas are fully furnished to provide them with a suitable living environment.
The CM requested a detailed report on the availability of ventilators in government hospitals. She also ordered the development of patient waiting areas with shaded seating, cold drinking water, and fans to improve patient comfort. The revamping and outsourcing of the Maryam Nawaz Health Clinic was directed to be completed at the earliest. She also instructed the Health Secretary to conduct re-interviews and appoint Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and Medical Superintendents (MSs) in hospitals based on performance.
It was shared during the briefing that patient visits to government hospitals have increased by 23 percent, with 70 percent of the population in Punjab relying on public hospitals for treatment. The availability of free medicines in most government hospitals stands at 98 percent. More than ten million patients have benefited from mobile clinics and field hospitals launched under various public health programs. Additionally, 2,541 insulin kits have been provided to Type 1 diabetes patients, while 7,458 hepatitis patients and 8,107 tuberculosis patients have received free medicines across the province.
Officials also noted that patients from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are seeking treatment at the Maryam Nawaz Health Clinic in Murree.
The CM stressed that the majority of people depend on government hospitals and that it is the state’s responsibility to provide them with free healthcare services. She expressed deep concern over reports that some patients are still being forced to purchase medicines externally despite their availability in hospital pharmacies, calling the situation unacceptable.
CM Maryam Nawaz also chaired a meeting to review the progress of the Nawaz Sharif Medical District Project and was briefed on the development of the Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cardiology in Sargodha.
ECP disqualifies MNA Jamshed Dasti over fake degree
ISLAMABAD, Jul 15 (APP):The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday disqualified Member of the National Assembly Jamshed Dasti on grounds of possessing a fake academic credentials.
The commission accepted a reference sent by the Speaker of the National Assembly along with two petitions seeking Dasti’s disqualification.
A three-member Election Commission bench, led by ECP Member (Sindh) Nisar Durrani, heard a petition filed by Ameer Akbar concerning the assets and liabilities of MNA Jamshed Dasti.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) member of the Election Commission questioned whether MNA Jamshed Dasti possessed any undisclosed property.
In response, the petitioner’s lawyer argued that Dasti had listed an FA (Intermediate) qualification on his nomination papers, despite not having completed his matriculation.
The petitioner’s lawyer added that Jamshed Dasti had only submitted his matriculation certificate from the Karachi Board in response. Upon hearing this, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) member of the Election Commission remarked that the ECP held the authority to disqualify him.
The decision followed the approval of two petitions against him, one of which was a reference filed by the National Assembly Speaker seeking his disqualification.
The Election Commission has also directed authorities to initiate legal proceedings against Jamshed Dasti.
In May, the Election Commission decided to have Jamshed Dasti’s academic credentials authenticated by the Karachi Education Board.
Jamshed Dasti, elected from NA-175 Muzaffargarh in the previous general elections, faced legal proceedings under Articles 62 and 63, as well as Sections 4, 9, and 137 of the Elections Act, 2017. Petitions seeking his disqualification were filed by Ameer Akbar, Zulfiqar Dogar, and Sardar Faizul Hassan.
Meanwhile, the ECP rejected opposition leader Omar Ayub’s request to drop the assets-related case, and adjourned the hearing until July 29.
A five-member bench, led by the Chief Election Commissioner, convened to hear the case concerning Omar Ayub’s assets.
Representing the PTI leader and Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, his lawyer contended that asset and liability details are mandated to be submitted by December 31.
According to the rules, the Election Commission is authorized to initiate a complaint against a Member of the Assembly within 120 days of receiving inaccurate asset declarations. However, in this instance, the Commission issued the notice after April 29 this year.
Omar Ayub’s counsel contended that the Election Commission’s notice violated procedural rules and urged its withdrawal. However, the Commission dismissed the request.
Election Commission member Shah Mohammad clarified to Omar Ayub’s legal counsel that the initial notice was issued within the prescribed timeframe and affirmed that the Election Commission had ensured the provision of a fair trial.
PTCL Group, TPL Corp form partnership to boost digital infrastructure
ISLAMABAD, Jul 15 (APP):Pakistan’s largest telecommunication and digital services provider, PTCL Group (comprising PTCL & Ufone 4G), has entered a landmark partnership with TPL Corp, a tech conglomerate with investments across various industries.
This collaboration covers the deployment of Machine-to-Machine (M2M) devices, secure Data Centre hosting, and managed network connectivity across TPL Corp and its operating companies.
The agreement was signed by Asif Ahmed, Group Chief Business Solutions Officer (GCBSO), PTCL & Ufone 4G, and Ali Jameel, CEO, TPL Corp, during a ceremony held at TPL Corp’s headquarters in Karachi. Senior leadership from both sides attended the event.
Through this alliance, PTCL Group will deliver integrated technology solutions that support TPL Corp’s operational scalability, strengthen its digital infrastructure, and enable smarter business operations nationwide.
Speaking at the signing, Asif Ahmed, Group Chief Business Solutions Officer, PTCL & Ufone 4G, said, “PTCL Group is committed to empowering Pakistani enterprises with future-ready ICT services. By leveraging our extensive network, enterprise-grade Data Centers, and managed services, we aim to accelerate TPL Corp’s journey toward greater efficiency and innovation. We are proud to serve as their trusted technology partner.”
Ali Jameel, CEO, TPL Corp, shared, “At TPL, we continuously seek innovation and efficiency in everything we do. Partnering with the PTCL Group enables us to unlock new levels of operational capability through reliable, secure, and intelligent digital infrastructure. This alliance aligns with our strategic objective to lead the market with technology-first solutions, and we look forward to a long and impactful journey together.”
The partnership reflects both organisations’ shared ambition to advance Pakistan’s digital future by delivering smart, secure, and scalable solutions that help transform industries and elevate national competitiveness.
PFA seals store, imposes fine
LAHORE, Jul 15 (APP):Punjab Food Authority (PFA) conducted a grand food safety operation on Lahore-Sheikhupura Road, targeting unhygienic and non-compliant food businesses.
As part of the operation, 16 food points and production units were inspected, resulting in one grocery store being sealed, 11 businesses fined a total of Rs328,000, and an FIR lodged against a serious violator.
PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid told media on Tuesday that several food outlets were penalized for using substandard cooking oil and washing utensils with non-food-grade detergents. The inspection teams also observed foul-smelling freezers, poor hygiene conditions, and a lack of medical and training certificates for food handlers. He said that round-the-clock inspections are being carried out across Punjab to ensure the availability of safe and healthy food for the public. Strict action, including sealing and legal prosecution, will be taken against violators of food safety regulations.
The DG added that surprise inspections are also being conducted at both small eateries and upscale food outlets, particularly in posh areas.
He urged the public to report any food safety violations by calling the PFA helpline at 1223.
Punjab, Egypt to collaborate on food safety: Minister Kirmani
LAHORE, Jul 15 (APP):A high-level delegation led by Punjab’s Minister for Agriculture, Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani, visited the headquarters of the National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) in Egypt, where both sides held detailed discussions on mutual interests, including food protection and food safety.
The delegation included Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture Usama Khan Leghari, Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo, Directors General Agriculture Ch. Abdul Hameed and Naveed Asmat Kahloon, progressive farmer Hassan Raza, and other key officials.
The delegation was warmly received by Chairman of Egypt’s NFSA, Tarek El-Houby.
Minister Kirmani briefed the Egyptian officials on the measures taken by Punjab government regarding food safety and also appreciated Egypt’s successful model. Both parties agreed to promote bilateral cooperation in the field of food safety and expressed willingness for future collaboration through exchange of experiences, joint planning and long-term partnership.
The minister remarked that, just like food security, food safety is equally important, as healthy food is essential for a healthy life.
He added that the government of Punjab is fully committed to establishing a distinct status for the province in terms of food safety and is utilising all possible resources to achieve the goal. He also noted that practical steps are being taken to improve crop quality and productivity in Punjab, while international standard methods are being adopted to ensure minimal and safe use of agricultural pesticides on food crops.
Kirmani further said that an effective awareness campaign on food safety is currently underway in Punjab, which is yielding positive results.
During the meeting, officials from both countries reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing mutual cooperation in the area of food safety.
CM meets PA Speaker, discusses political and administrative affairs
LAHORE, Jul 15 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met with Punjab Assembly (PA) Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan to discuss the overall political and administrative situation of the province, here on Tuesday.
During the meeting, the Speaker commended the Chief Minister for establishing the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA), terming it a landmark initiative to combat inflation, hoarding, profiteering, encroachments, and land grabbing. He also appreciated the Punjab government’s timely and effective relief measures during the ongoing monsoon season.
Talking on the occasion, CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif said that the establishment of PERA is aimed at providing direct relief to the common citizen. “The welfare of every individual in Punjab is my top priority,” she said, adding that “this vision drives every major decision taken by the provincial government. Ensuring access to basic facilities is a commitment I stand by.”
The Speaker praised the Chief Minister for serving the people beyond political affiliations, stating that citizens across all segments of society are expressing satisfaction with the government’s performance.
He added that, for the first time, development is being equally prioritized in both urban centers and underdeveloped regions of Punjab.
Gilani constitutes three member panel to address media concerns
ISLAMABAD, Jul 15 (APP):Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, on Tuesday, formed a three-member liaison committee tasked with maintaining formal and informal communication with media professionals to address their concerns at the highest level.
The committee includes Senators Irfan Siddiqui, Sherry Rehman, and Ali Zafar, who will ensure ongoing engagement with the media.
The Chairman has referred the complaint regarding the alleged manhandling of Rawalpindi Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ) President Tariq Virk by Rawalpindi police to the concerned Senate Standing Committee for further investigation and inquiry.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui, tasked by the Chairman to engage with protesting media representatives, met with journalists who had staged a walkout from the Press Gallery in response to alleged police manhandling.
He said the media demanded that the incident involving RIUJ President Tariq Virk and the Rawalpindi police be referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Interior for investigation. They also called for the permanent formation of a liaison committee comprising senators and media professionals to facilitate ongoing resolution of press-related issues.
State Minister for Interior, Talal Chaudhry, stated that on the night of the said incident, he had established contact with the concerned police officials in Rawalpindi around midnight.
He remained in communication with senior police authorities and mentioned that two to three days would be needed to resolve the matter.
DMO Tashfeen Israr sheds light on right to Service Act
KOHAT, Jul 15 (APP):District Monitoring Officer (DMO) Tashfeen Israr participated in a special live program of Pakhtunkhwa Radio Kohat, where during an interview hosted by Engineer Sadiq, detailed light was shed on the “Right to Service Act 2014 (RTS)” and the notified services provided under it.
During the conversation, Tashfeen spoke in detail about the timely and transparent delivery system of public services and explained how the RTS Act gives citizens the legal right to receive services from government institutions within their stipulated time, APP correspondent reported this.
He said that this act not only promotes institutional accountability but also empowers the common man.
Public interest issues related to the Public Service Commission were also discussed during the interview, in which transparency, merit-based appointment and grievance redressal system were highlighted.
The most prominent aspect of the program was the interactive question and answer session, in which citizens directly asked questions to the DMO.
The session not only provided information to the audience but also provided them with an opportunity to convey their complaints and concerns directly to the concerned authorities.
The DMO urged the citizens to avail the benefits of the RTS Act, and lodge complaints at the designated forums in case of non-delivery or delay in government services.
This special broadcast was part of Pakhtunkhwa Radio’s public awareness campaign, which aims to create awareness among the citizens about their rights, and promote transparency and accountability in public services.