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KP Governor vows to promote traditional sports in province

By
Kamran Muraad
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GUJRAT, Nov 10 (APP):Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi attended the final of the three-day Zain Parvaiz Tent Pegging Championship held in Tareerwanwala, District Gujrat.
He was accompanied by Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, former Federal Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira, and local leadership of the Pakistan Peoples Party.
During the ceremony, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, along with Governor Punjab and Qamar Zaman Kaira, distributed trophies and prizes among the winning team of the championship.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Kundi praised the spirited and traditional tent pegging competitions, calling them “a proud symbol of Punjab’s cultural heritage.”
He said such events not only keep regional traditions alive but also promote healthy recreation and sportsmanship among the people.
He further expressed his delight that teams from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also participated in the championship, saying that the event ensured representation from all provinces of Pakistan.
Governor Kundi said he aims to make Khyber Pakhtunkhwa a hub for sports, including tent pegging and other traditional and modern games.
“The people of our province are passionate about sports. By revitalizing sports grounds, we will soon host the country’s biggest sporting events in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” he added.

27th Amendment Bill to strengthen national defence: Raja Pervaiz Ashraf

By
Kamran Muraad
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Pervaiz Ashraf
ISLAMABAD, Nov 10 (APP):Former Speaker of the National Assembly Raja Pervaiz Ashraf on Monday said that the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill would further strengthen the country’s defence.
Speaking on the floor of the House, he said a strong army ensures a strong Pakistan and said that the incidents of May 9 had caused deep pain to the nation.
He recalled that it was former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto who had given Pakistan its Constitution.
Referring to the issue of presidential immunity, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf questioned whether the president holds executive powers.
He said President Asif Ali Zardari had been kept behind bars for long periods without any crime and was denied visits and basic facilities. “Asif Ali Zardari faced those hardships with courage and dignity,” he added.
He further claimed that the PTI had never worked for the welfare of the people and called for exemplary punishment for those involved in the May 9 incidents.

PPP always stands with deprived, vows to fight for farmers’ rights: CM Sindh

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
LARKANA, Nov 10 (APP):Chief Minister (CM) Sindh Murad Ali Shah, on Monday, said the Pakistan Peoples Party has always struggled as the voice of the deprived classes. We have fought for the rights of farmers and will continue to do so. Our history has been written in the fields and villages of Sindh.
He was speaking to farmers at the Wheat Support Program ceremony in Larkana.
He said, “I welcome Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, assembly members, party workers, and our hardworking and courageous farmers to the ceremony. Today, we stand in the heart of Sindh, Larkana, under the shadow of the legacy of the martyred Bhutto family.”
He added that Martyr Zulfikar Ali Bhutto first introduced agricultural reforms, and Martyr Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto raised her voice for the rights of farmers and agricultural development. “Pakistan Peoples Party has always ensured the constitutional protection of farmers’ rights,” he said.
Reflecting on the seventeen years of performance, CM said the seventeen-year government of the People’s Party in Sindh is a reflection of development and stability. Sindh has achieved significant progress in economic, social, and cultural fields. “Agriculture is the backbone of the province’s economy and a source of livelihood for millions,” he said, adding that special attention has been given to providing education, health, and basic facilities in rural areas.
He stated that peace, tolerance, and cultural revival have been promoted in Sindh. The Sindh government has launched the Support Program 2025 for wheat cultivators. “The People’s Party government has allocated a subsidy package of 55.9 billion rupees for farmers,” he said, adding that small cultivators are being provided direct financial assistance.
A digital registration and verification system has been introduced, and transparency, accountability, and timely assistance are among the government’s priorities, he informed. “The Benazir Hari Card is the fulfillment of the dream of Martyr Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto,” he said, adding that through the Hari Card, thousands of cultivators are being provided financial assistance, agricultural facilities, and social protection.
“Aid is reaching the deserving farmer directly, with no middleman,” he said, stating that all agricultural subsidies will be provided through the Benazir Hari Card in the future. Eligible farmers should register and obtain their Benazir Hari Card, he urged. “The prosperity of farmers is the top priority of the People’s Party’s Sindh government,” he affirmed.

Governor for constructing dams to improve groundwater level in Quetta

By
Kamran Muraad
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QUETTA, Nov 10 (APP):Governor Balochistan Jaffar Khan Mandokhel on Monday stressed that collective measures would be taken to construct dams and implement other necessary steps to recharge the groundwater table from all sides of Quetta city as it reached critical condition.
He said that unless the developed countries of the world take immediate and concrete practical steps to deal with climate change, the world would probably end due to climate change.
He said this while addressing a seminar on Climate Change organized by UNICEF.
UNICEF Representative Muhammad Humayun Amiri, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Khalid Hafeez and Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Mir Wais Kasi, along with many scholars and researchers, were present on the occasion.
The Governor said that declining groundwater level in Quetta city has reached a critical level and there is a risk of Quetta turning into a ghost city in the coming decade.
He said that the situation is similar in Kalat, Qila Saifullah and Chaman. Therefore, there is an urgent need to construct dams and implement other necessary measures to recharge the groundwater table from all sides of Quetta city. Jaffar Khan Mandokhel said that this seminar on climate change organized in collaboration with UNICEF is a timely reminder of our individual and collective responsibility. Now is the time for us to mobilize all our collective skills and resources.
He said that in this vast universe, all mankind has only one common home and that home is “Planet Earth”. Due to climate change, our planet is facing innumerable threats and concerns and now it is our responsibility to protect it.
He said that climate change is not just an environmental problem but it is also a social, economic and political challenge that urgently needs attention.
He said that as individuals and states, we have to recognize our responsibilities because concrete steps need to be taken to deal with these dangerous conditions regarding the environment.
He said that we should reduce pollution, invest in solar energy sources and adopt sustainable practices in our daily lives, saying that with certainty that we could ensure a secure future for the coming generations.
The Governor said that one of the virtues of the University of BUITEMS is that it organizes art exhibitions and other co-curricular activities from time to time to provide quality education, nurture young minds and bring out their hidden talents.
He also  congratulatd all the organizers and participants for organizing this timely seminar and hope that you would continue this series of knowledge and enlightenment in the future. Later, the Governor formally inaugurated the art exhibition held at BUITEMS University and inspected the artworks displayed there. Finally, he distributed prizes among the students who performed well in the exhibition.

Cambodian parliamentary delegation arrives in Islamabad ahead of ISC meeting

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Nov 10 (APP): A Cambodian parliamentary delegation has arrived in Islamabad on Monday to take part in the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers Conference (ISC), due to be held from 11 to 12 November.
The delegation is led by Suos Yara, chairman of Cambodia’s National Assembly Committee on Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Information, who will represent the country at the conference.
Senior officials from the Senate of Pakistan welcomed the delegation at Islamabad International Airport. The visit is expected to focus on strengthening parliamentary ties between Pakistan and Cambodia.
The ISC, themed “Peace, Security and Development”, will bring together parliamentary leaders from across the world.
It may be mentioned that the conference aims to promote dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect between parliaments, marking a new phase in parliamentary diplomacy.
Under Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, Pakistan is seeking to expand its international parliamentary engagement and host a platform for inter-parliamentary collaboration.

RCCI hosts Business Opportunities Conference in Tashkent to boost Pakistan-Uzbekistan trade, investment ties

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
RAWALPINDI, November 10 (APP): The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) has organized the Business Opportunities Conference (BOC) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, for fostering international business linkages, enhancing connectivity, promoting investment, and exploring new avenues of trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
On the sidelines of the conference, several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between leading Pakistani and Uzbek companies, including: BIO LABS (Pvt) Ltd and Og’alar Biznes Pharm, Pak World Trade & Expo Centre and BMCA, Caraway Pharmaceuticals and Perfect Future Medicine, Neutrics Global (Pvt) Ltd and ANT Group, Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Sky Electric, RCCI and Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry, said a press release issued here on Monday.
Ambassador Ahmad Farooq, while addressing the participants, lauded RCCI’s efforts in choosing Uzbekistan for this year’s BOC and Awards Ceremony. He emphasized the importance of strengthening economic ties, promoting trade and investment, and building sustainable partnerships between the two countries.
The ambassador highlighted Pakistan’s strategic location as a trade corridor for Central Asian nations, noting that both countries are working toward enhancing bilateral trade to USD 2 billion in the coming years through a multidimensional approach. He also recalled Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to Uzbekistan, which included significant discussions with the Uzbek President on trade, connectivity, and people-to-people relations.
In his welcome address, RCCI President said Uzbekistan’s dynamic economy, growing steadily above 5%, combined with Pakistan’s vibrant market of 240 million people, presents immense opportunities for collaboration. “Currently, our bilateral trade stands at around USD 113 million, far below what’s possible. By expanding cooperation, improving logistics, and diversifying trade, we can easily multiply this figure,” he added.
Promising areas for future collaboration include: Textiles & Apparel: Combining Pakistan’s expertise with Uzbekistan’s rich cotton resources, Pharmaceuticals: With exports already exceeding USD 29 million, there’s strong potential for joint ventures, Agriculture & Food Processing: Opportunities to modernize and add value through collaboration, Information Technology: Harnessing Pakistan’s growing IT industry and Uzbekistan’s digital transformation, Tourism: Promoting cultural and heritage tourism to strengthen people-to-people connections.
Alisher Shaykhov, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce & Industry of the Republic of Uzbekistan, invited Pakistani businessmen to explore lucrative and business-friendly opportunities in Uzbekistan for joint ventures and investments across various sectors.
Speakers, including Group Leader Sohail Altaf and Event Chairman Shahraiz A. Malik, highlighted the investment, joint venture, and chamber-to-chamber networking opportunities.
Among the participants were Senior Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Fahad Barlas, former RCCI presidents, SCCI President Junaid Altaf, members of the Executive Committee, and distinguished business leaders from both countries. With over 200 delegates from diverse industries, the conference served as a dynamic platform for networking, business collaboration, and international recognition, paving the way for enhanced bilateral trade and investment between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

Universities success depends academic excellence, financial stability, observes KU VC

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
KARACHI, Nov 10 (APP):Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi emphasized that the success of universities is built upon two fundamental pillars: academic advancement and financial stability.
He mentioned that without these elements, sustainable progress in any educational institution is unattainable.
He shared that the University of Karachi has introduced a fee tracking system to improve financial management, which has yielded highly positive results.
He shared that through this system, the KU has collected Rs500 million as outstanding and semester fees in just one semester — a significant milestone in strengthening its financial position.
He expressed these views while addressing the Annual Function organized by the Karachi University Teachers’ Society at the KU’s Sheikh Zayed Islamic Research Centre Auditorium on Monday.
He noted that previously, many students paid fees at the time of admission but failed to complete payments even after obtaining their degrees, resulting in substantial financial losses for the KU.
He mentioned that the establishment of the Students Fee Tracking Cell has curbed this trend, ensuring a transparent and efficient fee collection process.
KU VC Professor Dr Khalid Iraqi stated that the meeting of statutory bodies’ likes selection boards, syndicate, and academic council sessions are now being held regularly and consistently at the University of Karachi to maintain transparency and continuity in administrative and academic affairs.
He said that the University of Karachi has entered an era where equal attention is being given to both academic standards and financial governance — a promising sign for the institution’s bright future.
On this occasion, the former KU VC and Professor Emeritus Professor Dr Zafar Saeed Saifi shared that his association with the University of Karachi spans nearly 64 years.
He mentioned that he is among the fortunate few who had the opportunity to see and hear Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi soon after independence.
Dr Saifi recalled that the Father of the Nation Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah emphasized the importance of education and hard work.
He remarked that Western nations recognized the value of education and acted upon it, establishing institutions of high-quality learning and research.
He concluded that had we adhered to Quaid-e-Azam’s principles, we would be standing shoulder to shoulder with the developed nations today.
Another former KU VC Professor Emeritus and Professor Dr Muhammad Qaiser, reiterated that a university’s identity is defined not by its buildings or infrastructure, but by its faculty.
He praised the University of Karachi’s dedicated and capable faculty, whose academic and research contributions have elevated the institution’s reputation.
Earlier, President of the KUTS Dr Mohsin Ali presented the annual performance report, stating that the society has served all faculty members without discrimination.
On this occasion, Professor Dr Muhammad Qaiser and Professor Dr Zafar Saeed Saifi were presented shield to acknowledge, recognize and celebrate their title of Professor Emeritus. Shields were also presented to faculty members who completed their PhDs in 2025, those who retired, newly appointed faculty, and authors of academic books.
The event was hosted by Dr Maroof Bin Rauf while the vote of thanks was delivered by Syed Ghufran Alam.

RUDA seals illegal housing schemes in Ravi city

By
Kamran Muraad
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LAHORE, Nov 10 (APP): In one month, authorities of Ravi City carried out several operations against illegal housing schemes, sealing more than 14 housing societies in Ravi City jurisdiction.
The operation was led by the Enforcement Wing of RUDA along with police personnel.
The RUDA enforcement team halted the sale and purchase of plots in the unauthorized locations in Ravi City.
The RUDA administration conducted crackdown and the offices of Ghausia Colony situated on Katarband Road in Ravi city jurisdiction were also sealed.
RUDA Enforcement officials warned that any housing scheme operating without proper approval would be declared illegal, and their offices would face demolition.

540 air pollution violations detected in Lahore, other districts: PSCA

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
LAHORE, Nov 10 (APP):The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has identified 540 violations related to air pollution in Lahore and surrounding districts over the past two days.
According to a PSCA spokesperson, more than 283 smoke-emitting vehicles were issued challans. Authorities also detected five sites of crop residue burning and ten industrial activities causing smoke emissions. Additionally, 13 violations by brick kilns were reported and forwarded to the relevant departments for action. Enforcement was also carried out against 160 vehicles spreading dust, dirt, sand, and other debris on roads.
The spokesperson said Safe City cameras help monitor smoke-emitting vehicles and immediately alert field forces for action. Citizens are urged to report smog-causing activities directly to Emergency 15, added spokesperson

Abbasi praises armed forces, denounces anti-state elements

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Nov 10 (APP):Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi lauded Pakistan’s armed forces and security institutions for their sacrifices and service, crediting them for enhancing Pakistan’s global standing and national pride.
Speaking in the National Assembly, the minister said that Pakistan enjoys a level of respect in the world today that it has not seen in its 78-year history.
“The dignity and honor that Pakistan holds internationally are a result of the sacrifices of our armed forces. We have earned a place in the world that was unimaginable before,” he added.
Calling for unity among all Pakistanis, Whether Pashtun, Punjabi, Sindhi, Kashmiri or Seraiki,” he stressed that the integrity of Pakistan must come before all else. “Anyone who even dreams of harming Pakistan cannot be accepted as a Pakistani nor allowed to live in Pakistan,” added.
Hanif Abbasi expressed concern over political elements who were trying to create “chaos, violence and instability” to achieve power. “I have never seen a leader who would openly talk about burning or breaking Pakistan just to reach power,” he said, referring to what he described as dangerous political tendencies undermining the country’s stability.
He paid tribute to the people of the province, calling them “a land of martyrs.” He said every village in KPK had made sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and that no region should be blamed for the menace.
He reiterated the government’s resolve to fight terrorism “wherever it exists,” even if it meant pursuing militants beyond Pakistan’s borders.
Highlighting Pakistan’s improved international relations, the minister praised the Prime Minister’s active diplomacy and recent engagements with major world powers. “Pakistan’s image has been restored across the globe,” he said, saying that “Pakistan Zindabad” slogans are being heard not only in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir but also in Bangladesh and other parts of the world.
Hanif Abbasi urged political leaders to act with restraint and prioritize the nation over personal ambition. “Think calmly and with a cool mind is Pakistan your first priority or not?” he asked.
He warned that attacks on state institutions or attempts to destabilize the country would have “serious consequences.”
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