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Senate by-polls scheduled: Punjab votes July 21, KP on July 31

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NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 4 (APP): The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has announced the schedule for Senate by-elections due to passing of Professor Sajid Mir and other vacated by Sania Nishtar with the polling to be held on July 21 and July 31 respectively.

Polling for the seat vacated after the passing of Senator Prof. Sajid Mir will now be held on July 21, 2025, at the Punjab Assembly. This election, previously delayed due to an incomplete electoral college, will proceed with a revised list of candidates to be published on July 15. Nomination withdrawals can be submitted until July 16, and the polling will take place on July 21.

The seat vacated by Ms. Sania Nishtar will be contested on July 31, 2025, in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly. According to the official schedule, a public notice will be issued on July 9. Nomination papers are to be submitted on July 10 and 11, followed by scrutiny on July 16.

Govt striving to adopt PPP model for investment, provision of better services: Finance Minister

By
Muhammad Zubair
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QUETTA, Jul 04 (APP):Balochistan Minister Finance and Mineral Mir Shoaib Nosherwani said that the government is working hard to effectively adopt the public-private partnership (PPP) model for investment, employment, and provision of better services so that the life system of the major cities of the province could be modernized.
He said this while chairing a meeting of the seventh of the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Board here on Friday.
The meeting was attended by Balochistan Investment Board Chairman Bilal Kakar, Additional Chief Secretary Planning and Development (P&D) Zahid Saleem, Additional Chief Secretary Home Muhammad Hamza Shafqat, Secretary Finance Imran Zarkoon, Secretary Law Dr. Pervaiz Ahmed Nosherwani and Senior Vice President of Chamber of Commerce and Industry Quetta Haji Akhtar Kakar, among other relevant officials.
Addressing the participants of the meeting, Mir Shoaib Noshirwani said that service delivery could be done better under Public Private Partnership and along with this, it could become a means of increasing the revenue of the province. He said that therefore our government prefers to run projects under Public Private Partnership because in front of us, developed cities of our country and the world have developed under Public Private Partnership.
In the meeting, a proposal was presented to run the S&GAD Officers Club under the PPP model for a specific period so that it could be reformed and implemented in a modern way.
Similarly, a proposal to expand the Safa Quetta project to 9 union councils and provide garbage collection facilities from there was also considered.
In the meeting, a detailed discussion was held among the participants of the meeting regarding the service rules of the Public Private Partnership Unit and Authority and it was recommended to form a sub-committee for further work on it.
It was decided in the meeting that the department shops and commercial areas managed by local governments would be handed over to the private sector under the public-private partnership mode, so that these assets can be used effectively and the province’s revenue would be increased.
Along with this, a proposal was also made to bring private partnership through the Board of Investment to promote investment in Lasbela district, through which industrial development and local employment will improve.
On this occasion, Provincial Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Noshirwani said that partnership with the private sector is necessary to achieve development goals in Balochistan.

Global media team visits China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Area in Qingdao

By
NNPS Desk
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QINGDAO, July 4 (APP): The Global media team visited the core area of the China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Area commonly known as SCODA in Qingdao, China.

Journalists from mainstream media of SCO member states and countries along the “Belt and Road Initiative” as well as authoritative domestic media outlets conducted in-depth research centered around the theme of “Innovation · New Momentum for Economic and Trade.”

The media delegation conducted on-site inspections of three core platforms: the “Silk Road E-commerce” Comprehensive Service Platform, the China-SCO Institute of Economy and Trade, and the SCO Economic and Trade Comprehensive Service Platform.

Through professional explanations by relevant platform operators and on-the-spot exchanges with international students on campus, they gained in-depth insights into the SCODA’s innovative breakthroughs in areas such as the digital transformation of cross-border trade, the cultivation of international talent, and the facilitation of cross-border services.

They also witnessed firsthand the comprehensive strength and development vitality of the SCODA as a national strategic platform.

Among them, the digital trade ecosystem created by the “Silk Road E-commerce” platform, the multinational joint talent cultivation system established by the China-SCO Institute of Economy and Trade, and the pioneering one-stop cross-border service model of the SCO Economic and Trade Comprehensive Service Platform collectively serve as innovative engines driving regional economic and trade cooperation, providing practical models for deepening multilateral cooperation within the SCO framework.

Journalists from the media delegation also visited cutting-edge projects such as the Haier COSMOPlat Industrial Internet Ecological Park, focusing on the SCODA’s new practices in driving open development through scientific and technological innovation.

Governor directs to implement foolproof security during Muharram in Quetta

By
Muhammad Zubair
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QUETTA, Jul 04 (APP):Balochistan Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhel on Friday directed all district administrations to implement strict security arrangements during Muharram and make planning to increase security around places of worship, Imambargahs and processions in the provincial capital Quetta and raise coordination between the relevant agencies.
He said that the district administration and police officers should be alert at all times to resolve any potential issues immediately and should closely monitor the security arrangements themselves so that a safe environment could be ensured for Ashura celebrations and processions.
The Balochistan Governor expressed his expectation that security measures would be further tightened by deploying additional personnel to protect Ashura gatherings and processions on 8th, 9th and 10th Muharram.
Governor Mandokhel stressed that the district administration and police officers should remain active and alert to ensure the safety and security of the public during Muharram.
He praised the performance of all law enforcement agencies on security arrangements and said that no negligence would be tolerated in the security arrangements, especially the protection of lives and property of the public.

KP police appoints martyrs’ children in Bannu under welfare initiative

By
Muhammad Zubair
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PESHAWAR, Jul 04 (APP):The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police has appointed children of martyred officers to departmental positions under its welfare program.
The appointments, made purely on merit, aim to support families of personnel who sacrificed their lives in service.
During a ceremony at Bannu Police Lines, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Sajjad Khan personally handed appointment letters to the new recruits. Families of the martyrs thanked police leadership for the gesture.
“This can never compensate for your loss,” said the DIG, “but we hope it honors your loved ones’ legacy.” The initiative ensures financial stability for martyrs’ families while keeping their service in active memory.
The KP Police reaffirmed its commitment to standing with martyrs’ families through concrete support measures. Similar merit-based appointments are planned across other districts.

ITP issues traffic plan for 8th Muharram procession in G-7/2

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 04 (APP):Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) have finalized special traffic arrangements for the 8th Muharram procession scheduled for Friday in Sector G-7/2 to ensure smooth traffic flow and public convenience.
ITP issues traffic plan for 8th Muharram procession in G-7/2
A spokesperson told APP that the procession will start from Ali Masjid, Street No 9, G-7/2, and will pass through Luqman Hakeem Road and Street No 35 before concluding at the same starting point, Ali Masjid.
He said traffic will remain suspended on G-7/2 service road towards Khyber Plaza Chowk and Street No 7A of Fazal Haq Road during the procession.
He said the road from School No 9, G-7/2 towards Awami Market will also be closed for traffic during the procession hours.
He said commuters may use Margalla Road, Jinnah Avenue, and 7th Avenue as alternate routes during the event.
He urged the public to avoid illegal parking near the procession route and park vehicles only in designated areas.
He said citizens are requested to cooperate with traffic police personnel deployed to manage the event.

Muqam pays glowing tributes to martyred AC, lays flowers wreath on his grave

By
Muhammad Zubair
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PESHAWAR, Jul 04 (APP):Federal Minister for SAFRON, Giligit Baltistan and Kashmir Affairs and President of Pakistan Muslim League (N) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Engineer Amir Muqam, visited the grave of Assistant Commissioner (AC) Bajaur Shaheed Faisal Ismail — a native of Odigram, Swat — who was martyred in the Bajaur bomb blast.
On behalf of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and himself, he laid a floral wreath and offered prayers (Fateha).
Federal Minister Amir Muqam paid rich tribute to the supreme sacrifice of the martyr. On this occasion, a smartly turned-out police contingent presented a guard of honour to the national hero.
Engineer Amir Muqam expressed deep sorrow and condolences to the family of the martyr.
He paid glowing tribute to the bravery and sense of duty of Shaheed Faisal Ismail, stating that martyrs are making tremendous sacrifices for the safety, defense, and protection of the people of Pakistan.
He said, “Shaheed Faisal Ismail gave his life for the nation. The nation salutes his courage, determination, and spirit.
“We stand with the bereaved family and assure them that the government will not let the sacrifices of the martyrs go in vain. Terrorists are being eliminated. With unity and resolve, we will put an end to terrorism.”
The Federal Minister also reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the fight against terrorism and ensuring the safety of citizens. He praised the role of civil officers and law enforcement agencies in maintaining law and order in the region.
Local officials, administration, and senior police officers were also present at the occasion.

Meeting discuss KP Cities Improvement Project

By
Muhammad Zubair
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PESHAWAR, Jul 04 (APP):A review meeting regarding Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Cities Improvement Project was held under the joint chairmanship of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Local Government Arshad Ayub Khan and Minister for Food Muhammad Zahoor Shah Toru.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Local Government Dr. Ambar Ali and officers from relevant departments.
 During the meeting, officials from the Local Government Department gave a detailed briefing on the project, highlighting various aspects of its implementation.
The meeting was informed that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Cities Improvement Project is being executed with the joint cooperation of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The aim of the project is to improve infrastructure and municipal services in major urban centers such as Abbottabad, Kohat, Mardan, Mingora and Peshawar.
 Under this project, initiatives in Mardan city include the development of a new drainage system, a sewage treatment plant, green space initiatives and solid waste management.
 Speaking on the occasion, food minister emphasized the need to accelerate the pace of the project so that the public can benefit from its outcomes as soon as possible. He expressed satisfaction over the progress and stated that such urban development initiatives would positively impact the province’s economy, environment, and the quality of life of its citizens.
The LG minister instructed that all ongoing projects must be completed in a timely and transparent manner. He also directed that household connections be included within the scope of the project to ensure a comprehensive and
effective system.
He stressed that no negligence would be tolerated in projects of public interest and that modern technology and the best administrative practices must be adopted at all stages

CM awards certificates to DCs for outstanding public service

By
Kamran Muraad
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QUETTA, Jul 04 (APP):Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, awarded certificates of excellence to Deputy Commissioner Gwadar, Hamood-ur-Rehman, and Deputy Commissioner Chaghi, Atta-ul-Munim, in recognition of their outstanding performance in public service and service delivery at the district level.
In a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, Sarfraz Bugti praised the two officers for their exemplary dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public welfare.
He emphasized that improving service delivery and ensuring good governance at the grassroots level remain among the provincial government’s top priorities.
“Officers who perform their duties with sincerity, integrity, and professional competence are truly commendable,” said the chief minister. “The government will continue to recognize and encourage such individuals who go above and beyond in serving the people.”
He further stated that the establishment of good governance in Balochistan is not possible without a strong and effective district administration. The chief minister urged other officers to adopt public service as their guiding principle and to uphold merit, transparency, and accountability in all matters.
Mir Sarfraz Bugti expressed hope that administrative officials across all districts would strive to improve their performance and make serious progress in addressing the challenges faced by the public. He reiterated that sustained development and prosperity in the province can only be achieved through committed and efficient governance at the district level.
This recognition is seen as part of the government’s broader initiative to strengthen institutional performance and promote a culture of accountability and excellence across the provincial bureaucracy.

KP govt launches good governance roadmap

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
PESHAWAR, Jul 04 (APP):Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtnkhwa, Ali Amin Khan Gandapur on Friday unveiled Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s ambitious good governance roadmap during a ceremony at the CM’s House, attended by cabinet members, senior officials, and development partners.
The two-year plan introduces comprehensive reforms across twelve sectors with strict performance-based evaluation systems.
Key governance reforms include merit-based appointments, a Provincial Action Plan for timely mega project completion, and priority funding allocation.
The roadmap particularly focuses on healthcare (upgrading 250 health centers for round-the-clock maternal care and ensuring full medicine availability), education (halving out-of-school children numbers), and disability inclusion (10,000 scholarships and assistive devices).
Economic initiatives feature four new economic zones, livestock vaccination programs, and agricultural development including 1,000 premium fruit orchards. Infrastructure projects include the D.I. Khan-Peshawar Motorway and modernized vocational training institutes.
The environmental package covers solar energy for 130,000 households and upgraded waste management systems.
Tourism receives special emphasis with 50 new resorts and a homestay program across seven districts.
Chief Secretary-led quarterly reviews and an independent monitoring mechanism will track implementation. “This roadmap delivers our promise of transparent, performance-driven governance,” stated Chief Minister noting all targets have clear timelines and accountability frameworks.
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