NA offers fateha for Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq Haqqani, terrorism victims

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ISLAMABAD, Mar 11 (APP):The National Assembly on Tuesday offered Fateha for former Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq Haqqani and others who were martyred in various incidents of terrorism.

The House also offered Fateha for the sister of MNA Asif Khan, as well as for those martyred in recent terrorist attacks in Khuzdar, Bannu, and North Waziristan.

The Fateha was led by Minister for Science and Technology, Khalid Hussain Magsi.

Law Minister emphasizes parliament’s supremacy

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Shahzad Ahmad

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ISLAMABAD, Mar 11 (APP):Federal Minister for Law, and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar, has emphasized that the Parliament is the highest institution in the country, and all state institutions derive their power from it.

Addressing the Senate session on Tuesday, he stated that the Parliament comprises approximately 450 members, making it impractical to assign them a specific rank in the hierarchy.

He further elaborated that top appointments in the country are made through the Parliament, reinforcing its supreme status. “Being a member of Parliament itself is the highest honor, and decisions regarding their position in the hierarchy should not be made in an open session,” he asserted.

The Law Minister suggested that the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chairman of the Senate should hold a closed-door meeting to discuss this matter, expressing his willingness to participate along with other relevant officials.

Azam Nazeer Tarar underscored the importance of upholding the Parliament’s authority, dignity, and respect. “Both Houses—the National Assembly and the Senate—represent the people of Pakistan, and their honor must be upheld by all,” he stressed. He urged every citizen, institution, and government official to respect these legislative bodies wholeheartedly.

Reaffirming the Parliament’s supremacy, the Minister concluded that its status should never be disregarded at any level.

Accused arrested involved in human trafficking

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Shahzad Ahmad

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MULTAN, Mar 11 (APP):The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) arrested an accused involved in human trafficking here on Tuesday.

According to FIA spokesman, the accused, Asghar Ali of Tehsil Mailsi, apprehended

during a raid who had extorted Rs 600,000 from Muhammad Sajid for visa of Dubai.

Pakistan seeks deeper cooperation with China in economy, technology

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Shahzad Ahmad

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BEIJING, Mar 11 (APP):Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, highlighted the key takeaways from China’s annual Two Sessions, emphasizing economic confidence, technological innovation, and Pakistan-China cooperation under CPEC Phase II.

Speaking with China Economic Net about the Chinese government’s work report, Ambassador Hashmi pointed out that China’s sustained 5% economic growth is a remarkable feat. He noted that China’s focus on “new quality productive forces,” green technology, and digitalization will drive future development.

“I think of two words: economy and technology. China is a major power, and its domestic policies have global implications. China has a very generous approach toward the Global South and developing countries,” the ambassador stated.

Pakistan aims to strengthen collaboration in AI, blockchain, and next-generation communication technologies. With China leading in patent filings and breakthroughs in renewable energy, electric vehicles, and AI, there is immense potential for joint research and application-based initiatives.

“Under CPEC Phase II, Pakistan is prioritizing government-to-government (G2G) and business-to-business (B2B) cooperation. Sectors such as agriculture, IT, and manufacturing are being actively developed, with 45 new MOUs worth over $600 million signed in recent months,” he added.

Ambassador Hashmi highlighted efforts to enhance education and technical training, linking research with commercial implementation. With Pakistan’s first astronauts set to join a Chinese space mission, space collaboration is another promising area.

“China’s high-level opening-up policy presents opportunities for Pakistan in trade, tourism, and investment. Streamlining visa procedures remains a priority to boost travel and people-to-people exchanges,” he added.

The ambassador said that with a strategic focus on eight key sectors this year, Pakistan is committed to mobilizing investment from China, further solidifying the ironclad friendship between the two nations.

Experts believe that greater cooperation between the two countries under CPEC Phase II offers outstanding advantages for China. It provides China with strategic access to South Asian markets and facilitates diversification of trade routes.

They further stated that collaborative efforts in agriculture and manufacturing can enable Chinese enterprises to expand their global footprint. Joint initiatives and ventures in fields such as IT, artificial intelligence, robotics, and blockchain are expected to foster innovative advancements through shared research and development. This cooperation further strengthens China’s position as a key partner in driving development across the Global South, enhancing its regional influence and economic connectivity.

PM condemns Israel’s suspension of humanitarian aid to Palestine

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Shahzad Ahmad

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ISLAMABAD, Mar 11 (APP):Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday strongly condemned Israel’s latest suspension of humanitarian aid, including food and medicines from entering Palestinian Territories and cutting off power supply that threatens to limit water supplies in the area.

“Such repressive measures during the holy month of Ramadan are highly condemnable as they endanger the lives of millions of innocent Palestinians including women and children,” the prime minister said in his social media post on X.

PM reveals plan to build Daanish University using £190 mln from UK’s NCA

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Shahzad Ahmad

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ISLAMABAD, Mar 11 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday announced to construct Daanish University of Applied and Emerging Sciences in Islamabad utilizing £190 million amount that was transferred from the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) to the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s account.

The prime minister, while chairing the Steering Committee meeting for the establishment of Daanish University of Applied and Emerging Sciences expressed his gratitude to the Chief Justice of Pakistan for ensuring the smooth transfer of the £190 million to the federal government account.

The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) had returned £190 million to Pakistan, which has been transferred from the Supreme Court to the federal government’s account. As per the vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, this amount will be utilized for building a state of the art Daanish University.

Speaking on the occasion, the prime minister highlighted that Daanish University would be an institution where deserving and talented students will receive high-quality research-based education.

He directed the early completion of legal formalities for acquiring land in Islamabad for the university.

The prime minister also instructed the swift finalization of the university’s charter and other legal matters. Furthermore, he emphasized that Daanish University should be developed as an international-standard technical and applied sciences university.

He further directed that the university’s architecture should reflect simplicity, with buildings constructed using red bricks and avoiding unnecessary expenditures to minimize costs.

He also instructed to recruit highly qualified faculty and teachers for the university, which would be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and advanced research facilities.

PM Shehbaz said that the university’s curriculum should be prepared as per the international standards. He further directed to form a committee for the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor and a committee for nominating the Board of Trustees.

During the meeting, a briefing was given on Daanish University and Daanish Schools and it was highlighted that the prime minister would be the patron of Daanish University, which will be registered as a Section 42 company, with all necessary formalities to be completed within a few days.

The university’s land has been selected in Sector H-16. Daanish University will operate under the Daanish Trust to ensure financial independence and minimal government intervention.

Additionally, it was announced that Daanish Schools would soon be established in Shigar, Gilgit, and Bagh, as well as in Neelum Valley (AJK) and underprivileged areas of Karachi.

The meeting was attended by Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Minister for Education and Vocational Training Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and senior government officials.

ICT admin price checks in Ramazan: 535 raids, 100 arrests, Rs 157,000 fines in a day

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Shahzad Ahmad

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ISLAMABAD, Mar 11 (APP):The Islamabad district administration escalated its crackdown on overpricing during Ramazan, conducting 535 inspections and arrested 100 shopkeepers, imposed fines exceeding Rs 157,000, and sealed one store for violating government-mandated prices.

Meanwhile, 20 subsidized fair-price shops and six Ramazan bazaars reported record sales in the first nine days of the holy month, with citizens praising the measures.

According to the spokesman of ICT administration here, eight Assistant Commissioners (ACs) and 30 Magistrates accompanied by district administration teams present in markets for price checks.

On Tuesday, district teams launched targeted raids across markets to curb overpricing. Authorities sealed a shop in a prominent commercial area for selling essentials above official rates, marking the strictest action this Ramazan. Price Control Magistrates issued fines totaling Rs 157,000 to violators, while 100 retailers faced arrests for repeated breaches.

On the occasion, residents expressed relief as subsidized stalls and Ramazan bazaars maintained stable prices. Over 20 government-run fair-price shops and six seasonal markets witnessed unprecedented footfall, with officials attributing the surge to strict price monitoring. “The administration’s visibility has deterred overcharging,” said a customer at a Ramazan bazaar.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Islamabad, Irfan Memon, led daily inspections of markets, directing staff to resolve complaints immediately. “No grievance will be deferred to tomorrow. Action must be instant,” he stated. All Assistant Commissioners and Price Control Magistrates remained on-site across zones to enforce compliance.

The DC warned that no exceptions would be made for overpricing. “Legal action will continue indiscriminately,” he emphasized. Teams were instructed to prioritize public complaints, with a dedicated helpline operational 24/7.

The administration highlighted its commitment to providing affordable essentials during Ramazan. Over 6,000 price checks have been conducted since the month began, with fines totaling over Rs 1.2 million. Officials confirmed that subsidized flour, sugar, and cooking oil remained available at fixed rates in designated outlets.

Residents were encouraged to contact the district helpline or use a mobile app to report overpricing. The DC assured that all claims would be addressed within hours, with follow-up inspections to ensure compliance.

PM for zero tolerance against profiteers for maximum public relief in Ramazan

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NNPS Desk

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ISLAMABAD, Mar 11 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed the Islamabad administration to ensure zero tolerance against profiteers as the federal government was committed to maximum relief to the people during holy Ramazan.

The prime minister, chairing a meeting to review the performance of the committee formed to ensure sale of food items at affordable prices during Ramazan, instructed that no profiteer should escape punishment, according to a PM Office press release.

He praised the performance of the committee and Islamabad administration for controlling food prices during Ramazan and ensuring the availability of essential commodities at lower rates.

The prime minister instructed the elected representatives and federal ministers to visit Ramazan bazaars, Sahulat stalls, and other designated locations during the holy month.

He also directed for constant monitoring of the price control system to prevent any lapse.

During the briefing, Prime Minister Shehbaz was told that in Islamabad, 16 Sahulat stalls, five Ramazan bazaars, 18 fair price shops, and several other facilities had been set up during Ramazan. The food items like ghee, eggs, pulses, sugar, chicken, and others are being sold at prices lower than market rates.

Besides, DC counters have also been set up at departmental stores to ensure availability of 12 essential items.

The meeting was told that during Ramazan, the administration had so far carried out 4,915 inspections, arrested 785 people, and imposed fines amounting to Rs728,000 against profiteers.

Moreover, an online application is being used to monitor the performance of price magistrates. Iftar dinners have also been arranged for deserving people through the Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal at eight locations.

Federal ministers Dr. Ahsan Iqbal, Ahad Khan Cheema, Attaullah Tarar, Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Hanif Abbasi, Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, and senior government officials attended the meeting.

Pakistani Iftar tables remain incomplete without ‘Fruit Chaat’: Report

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Shahzad Ahmad

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ISLAMABAD, Mar 11 (APP):As the spiritual ambiance of Ramazan deepens, traditional Pakistani iftar tables are now filled with a variety of delicious dishes, with fruit chaat being a standout staple, providing a refreshing and rejuvenating treat for those who have fasted all day.

A report aired by a private news channel highlighted the significance of fruit chaat in Pakistani iftar traditions specially in cities of Punjab .

According to the report, fruit chaat vendors across major cities in Pakistan witnessed a significant surge in demand during Ramazan, with many vendors claiming to sell out their stock within hours of setting up their stalls.

This season, fruit chaat has become a sensation in many households, with housewives competing to create the most delicious and colorful fruit chaat.

“I love making fruit chaat for my family during Ramazan,” says a young housewife. “It is a great way to provide them with a refreshing and healthy snack after a long day of fasting.”

“I am obsessed with fruit chaat!” exclaims a college student. “My mom makes the best fruit chaat in town, and I look forward to it every day during Ramazan.”

Fruit chaat vendors in markets are also thrilled about the increased demand. “Ramazan is our busiest time of the year,” says a fruit chaat vendor in Lahore. “We work day and night to ensure that our customers get the freshest and most delicious fruit chaat.”

With its perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, fruit chaat has become an essential part of Pakistani iftar traditions. Whether it is homemade or bought from a vendor, fruit chaat is a treat that everyone looks forward to during Ramazan.

However, some parents expressed concerns about the rising cost of fruits, making it challenging to include fruit chaat in their iftar tables every day.

“Fruits are so expensive these days, but my kids love fruit chaat, so I try to make it for them at least twice a week,” says Sadia, a mother of three.

“Fruit chaat is a must-have in our iftar table,” says a father of two. “My kids get so excited when they see the colorful fruits, and it’s a great way to get them to eat healthy.”

Fruit chaat vendors in markets are also thrilled about the increased demand. “Ramazan is our busiest time of the year,” says a fruit chaat vendor in Multan. “We work day and night to ensure that our customers get the freshest and most delicious fruit chaat.”

With its perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, fruit chaat has become an essential part of Pakistani iftar traditions. Whether it’s homemade or bought from a vendor, fruit chaat is a treat that everyone looks forward to during Ramazan.

In Bahawalpur, fruit chaat vendors are making a killing, with plates selling for between Rs. 200 to 250. “It is our peak season, and we are selling out fast,” says a fruit chaat vendor in Bahawalpur. “People love our fruit chaat, and we’re working hard to meet the demand.”

Fruit chaat vendors in markets are also thrilled about the increased demand. “Ramazan is our busiest time of the year,” says a fruit chaat vendor in Lahore. “We work day and night to ensure that our customers get the freshest and most delicious fruit chaat.”

UOS organizes awareness walk

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Shahzad Ahmad

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SARGODHA, Mar 11 (APP):The department of Communication and Media Studies in collaboration with the Women Development Centre, University of Sargodha, organized an awareness walk regarding the World Women’s Day.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from faculty members, students, and distinguished guests, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for women.

The walk was led by Dr Mudassar Hussain Shah, Chairman of the Department of Communication and Media Studies, and Dr Nargis Abbas, Chairperson of the Women Development Centre. Prominent attendees included Ms Robina Mukhtar, entrepreneur and Executive Member of the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Sargodha, and Ms. Shazia Noreen, entrepreneur and philanthropist.

The primary objective of the walk was to raise awareness among faculty, students, and staff about the importance of creating a safe, equitable, and empowering environment for women.

Fine imposed on nine food outlets

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Shahzad Ahmad

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MULTAN, Mar 11 (APP):The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) continued its rigorous inspections to ensure food safety during Ramadan.

Under the supervision of Director Operations Zubair Ahmad Ejaz, teams conducted surprise inspections at multiple food points during Sehar and Iftar, imposing fine to Rs. 335,000 on nine food outlets, including renowned restaurants.

During the operation, authorities confiscated 170 liters of rancid oil, 36 kg of substandard ingredients, 20 liters of expired cold drinks, and 10 kg of unsafe meat, all of which were immediately discarded.

The inspection were carried out at Model Town, WAPDA Town, Northern Bypass, Royal Orchard, Bahadurpur, and Mumtazabad. Several violations were identified, including poor hygiene, expired food products, and the use of low-quality cooking materials.

Four restaurants were fined Rs 50,000 each for using low-quality oil and substandard ingredients in food preparation.

Heavy fines were imposed on eateries storing food in unclean freezers, maintaining unhygienic kitchens and failing to ensure cleanliness.

A tuck shop was penalized Rs 50,000 for selling expired beverages and bread.

An oil supplier in Ahmadabad was fined Rs. 20,000 for storing and selling rancid oil.

A grocery store in a Katchi Abadi was fined Rs 25,000 for stocking unhygienic open spices and loose cooking oil.

PFA was actively patrolling markets and food outlets to eliminate substandard food items during Ramadan. Officials emphasized that there will be zero tolerance for negligence in food preparation and storage.

“Our food safety teams are working day and night to protect public health. Those compromising on food quality will face strict action,” stated the Director General PFA.

PPSC recommends 7,458 candidates for government jobs in 2024

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Shahzad Ahmad

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LAHORE, Mar 11 (APP):The Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) has released its annual recruitment report for 2024, revealing that 7,458 candidates were recommended for government jobs in various departments.

According to the report, in 2024, the PPSC advertised 12,800 positions in different departments as a total of 762,392 candidates submitted online applications. Out of these, 589,897 candidates appeared for the examination.

A total of 27,819 candidates who passed the examination were called for interviews, and ultimately, 7,458 candidates were recommended for recruitment in various departments.

Additionally, 1,163 positions remained vacant due to the unavailability of suitable candidates.

PM condemns Israel’s suspension of humanitarian aid to Palestine

By

Najam ul Hassan

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ISLAMABAD, Mar 11 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday strongly condemned Israel’s latest suspension of humanitarian aid, including food and medicines from entering Palestinian Territories and cutting off power supply that threatens to limit water supplies in the area.

“Such repressive measures during the holy month of Ramadan are highly condemnable as they endanger the lives of millions of innocent Palestinians including women and children,” the prime minister said in his social media post on X.

Two human smugglers arrested

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Shahzad Ahmad

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LAHORE, Mar 11 (APP):The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) conducted an operation, arresting two accused involved in visa fraud.

A spokesperson for the FIA said, the suspects, Talat Rizwan and Khurram Munir, were

apprehended during a raid in Bahria Orchard, Lahore.

The accused lured citizens with promises of sending them to South Korea and Canada, fraudulently collecting Rs 4.6 million.

The FIA teams are conducting raids to apprehend other accomplices.

CM, PWPA chairperson take notice of woman’s murder in Sargodha

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Shahzad Ahmad

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LAHORE, Mar 11 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Chairperson of the Punjab Women Protection Authority Hina Parvez Butt have taken notice of a murder of a woman in Sargodha, allegedly by her husband, and directed authorities to ensure strict punishment for the culprit.

According to details, on March 8, 2025, a man, Shahid, called emergency services (15) to report that his wife, Ayesha, had committed suicide. The police and forensic teams immediately arrived the scene. However, evidence from the crime scene suggested that the suicide claim was false.

A detailed forensic examination with post-mortem findings confirmed that it was a murder.

During the investigation, the police arrested Shahid who confessed to killing his wife.

The accused admitted that he murdered Ayesha and attempted to stage the crime as a suicide.

Hina Parvez emphasised that the Punjab government will not compromise on women’s safety and criminals would be brought to justice.

PM reveals plan to build Daanish University using £190 mln from UK’s NCA

By

Najam ul Hassan

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ISLAMABAD, Mar 11 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday announced to construct Daanish University of Applied and Emerging Sciences in Islamabad utilizing £190 million amount that was transferred from the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) to the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s account.