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DRO orders crackdown against election code of conduct violators

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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MUZAFFARGARH, Jan 29 (APP):District Returning Officer (DRO), Deputy Commissioner Mian Usman Ali Monday directed crackdown against violators of election code of conduct without any discrimination.
 He said that monitoring teams had been directed to visit all areas of the district to monitor election code of conduct implementations.
Taking action on the directives of the DRO, the monitoring teams took various panaflex from different national and provincial constituencies. The teams also issued warning notices to the candidates over violations.
The DRO said that there would be no compromise on implementations of election code of conduct and warned of stern action over violations.

IXP & date center set up to boost reliability of internet connectivity: Dr Saif

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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Dr. Umar Saif
ISLAMABAD, Jan 29 (APP):Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Dr. Umar Saif, Monday said that Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has established its first-ever carrier-neutral Internet Exchange Point (IXP) and Data Center to boost the reliability of internet connectivity in the country.
                 Addressing at the operational ceremony of ‘Pakistan Internet Exchange (PIE) powered by DE-CIX’, the first carrier- neutral IX in the country, Dr. Saif underscored the significance of the telecom and Information Technology industry in Pakistan. He said:  “Today is a monumental day for the Pakistan telecom and IT industry.”
          Three important milestones have been achieved today in collaboration with PTCL, SCO, PTA, De CIX, PEACE Cable, and China Mobile, he added.
             The minister said, we have reached an agreement with China to route its Internet traffic through Pakistan, thereby making Pakistan a regional hub for connectivity. This strategic move is expected to generate substantial revenue for Internet transit traffic in Pakistan, he added.
          Dr. Saif revealed that PTCL would be collaborating with DE CIX, a German data center, and IXP operator, to manage the operation of this new data center. He emphasized that partnering with a world-class data center operator would enable Pakistan to introduce super-scaling cloud services such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure to the country.
          Additionally, it would serve as a local content hub for popular services like YouTube, TikTok, and Netflix.
with these advancements, the minister expressed optimism that Pakistan’s internet users could now access services locally, positioning the country to become a hub of regional connectivity.
         Over the past few years, he said, we have made significant strides in advancing fiber connectivity. We got two fiber loops from Kashgar to Rawalpindi, further extended to Karachi by PTCL, he added.
         Moreover, he said multiple submarine cables making landfall in Karachi that further enhancing our connectivity.
Now, PTCL Business Solution’s carrier neutral data center, managed by a tier 1 data center operator, DE-CIX is up and running and generates exciting prospects for localized content hosting from leading platforms like YouTube, Netflix and TikTok. The content cached and routed from Pakistan can seamlessly reach other markets, positioning us as the regional digital connectivity hub.  It can generate annual revenue, ranging from $200-400 million through transit traffic to substantially add to our economy, he said. Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), is the largest integrated Information Communication Technology (ICT) company of Pakistan and DE-CIX, is the world’s leading Internet Exchange (IX) operator.  Housed in the PTCL data center in Karachi, the IX is operated by DE-CIX under the DE-CIX as a Service (DaaS) model and built on DE-CIX’s award-winning interconnection infrastructure.
       The interconnection platform offers local peering, as well as remote access to DE-CIX Frankfurt (Germany), one of the largest IXs in the world. PIE powered by DE-CIX is set to serve as a hub for regional connectivity, enabling local networks low-latency interconnection and the localization of global content, while increasing network stability, scalability, and security.
          “We are thrilled to collaborate with DE-CIX to bring this state-of-the-art interconnection facility to Pakistan,” said Zarrar Hasham Khan, Group Chief Business Solutions Officer at PTCL & Ufone 4G.
           He further said, “As the largest integrated ICT company in Pakistan, we are committed to advancing the country’s digital infrastructure to support widespread digitalization, and this collaboration is a significant step forward in achieving that goal.”
            The country’s nationwide network and DE-CIX’s interconnection infrastructure will serve as a foundation to enhance the Internet experience of our customers while facilitating the local hosting of content by international platforms, he said.  “We believe this partnership will not only drive digital enablement across the country but also help accelerate the growth of Pakistan’s digital economy, ” he said.
            “As one of the most populous countries in Asia and with Internet usage growing extremely fast, Pakistan needs local interconnection. The Pakistan Internet Exchange powered by DE-CIX will prove itself to be key to unlocking the economic potential of excellent Internet connectivity for the country.
         The IX will enable national networks to serve world-class Internet connectivity and attract more international Internet and cloud service providers to do business in Pakistan, allowing the development of a vibrant local digital ecosystem, ” commented Ivo Ivanov, CEO of DE-CIX.
          “In this way, the people in Pakistan can enjoy the best access to local and international information, content, and services. We at DE-CIX want to serve this great demand for high speed, high quality, stable, and resilient Internet connectivity to guarantee a seamless experience for end users and businesses across the country,” Ivanov said.
         Pakistan Internet Exchange will be joining such success stories as the UAE-IX powered by DE-CIX in Dubai, whose growth and success over the last twelve years has led to it being recognized as an important international Internet hub.
         The DaaS program include a set of services – such as installation, maintenance, provisioning, marketing, and sales support – designed for digital infrastructure operators to create their own IX and interconnection platform, fully operated by DE-CIX. It delivers the technical set-up needed for an Internet Exchange as a fully pre-configured and standardized “DE-CIX in a box” solution.

Businessman community honored commendation certificate for meritorious services

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
PESHAWAR, Jan 29 (APP):A noted businessman from Peshawar, Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi has been honoured with the awarding of a commendation certificate by the Chairman Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Amjad Zubair Tawana on the occasion of International Customs Day observed on January 26.
The certificate has been awarded to Zia Sarhadi for his outstanding and meritorious services for the cause of promotion of trade in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and at the regional level between Pakistan, Afghanistan and Central Asian Republics (CARs).
On the occasion, Zia Sarhadi also received the honourable title of Baba-e-Customs for his decades-long services in custom clearing, shipping and goods forwarding fields. Zia Sarhadi presently holds the office of Coordinator Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI) and has vast experience of around five decades in import, export, shipping and customs clearing.
He is also serving as President Frontier Custom Agents Association (FCAA) and has performed his services in Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) twice as Senior Vice President. Apart from business-related activities, Zia Zarhadi has also contributed columns in different newspapers for the last several decades under the title of `Yaqeen-e-Mohqam’.
He is a pioneer of the Khyber Writers Club and is presently serving as President Abaseen Column Writers Association.
He has also penned a book on religious personalities of the region which is also been translated in Hindko language. Another book comprising columns contributed by Zia Sarhadi is also available in the market.
Due to his vast experience in Pak-Afghan trade, Zia Sarhadi’s point of view is regularly published and broadcast by national as well as international news organizations. Zia Sarhaid thanked Chairman FBR and other officials of Pakistan Customs for honouring him with a prestigious certificate and title.
He expressed the resolve to continue his services for the promotion of commerce and trade to create a maximum number of livelihood opportunities for people in the whole region.

PESCO Hazara-1 circle issues warning against election advertisements on electric poles

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
PESCO
ABBOTTABAD, Jan 29 (APP):The Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) Hazara-1 Circle Monday has issued a public advisory regarding the general elections campaign, cautioning against the placement of banners on electricity poles and transformers.
The candidates contesting in the elections are utilizing electrical infrastructure for advertising purposes, resulting in significant damages being reported.
PESCO has urged to refrain from using electricity poles and transformers for election-related advertising to prevent any untoward incidents and potential financial liabilities.

“Ab Gaun Chamkain Gey” programme in full swing

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
FAISALABAD, Jan 29 (APP):The 3rd phase of a programme “Ab Gaun Chamkain Gey” is in full swing in the district.
According to official sources, the staff of local government and community development has marked numbers at the homes in addition to cleanliness of bazaars in villages.
The officers concerned have been directed to speed up measures for model villages.
Deputy Commissioner Abdullah Nayyar Sheikh has also warned that the negligence in removing debris and cleanliness of the village will not be tolerated and stern action will be taken against responsible staff. He directed for achieving 100 percent targets of the programme.
The DC also visited Iqbal stadium and reviewed the measures for its up-gradation. He said that organizing cricket matches at international level in the stadium is a priority while planning is also in the pipeline to facilitate the cricket lovers in the stadium.
Officers of various departments were also present.

Security measures for 2024 general elections scrutinized in high-level meeting

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
KARACHI, Jan 29 (APP):A high-level meeting chaired by IGP Sindh Riffat Mukhtar Raja delved into police security arrangements and readiness for the upcoming 2024 general elections.
The officers received briefings and directives to conduct on-ground assessments of security measures and deployments in their respective areas.
IGP Sindh emphasized the importance of finalizing and implementing election preparations at the zone and district levels, considering past incidents. Riffat Mukhtar stressed the need for heightened security, especially during nighttime political events and gatherings, based on leaders’ confidence and recommendations.
The Sindh Police chief underscored the immediate reporting of any code of conduct violations to the Election Commission and urged strict legal action against individuals involved in weapon displays or disturbances in the areas.
The meeting saw participation from Additional IGP Karachi, DIGPs, and district SSPs, ensuring comprehensive discussions on election security strategies.

NP to gain success in elections with support of people: Sardar Bangulzai

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
QUETTA, Jan 29 (APP):National Party (NP)’s Central Vice President and former MNA Sardar Kamal Khan Bangulazai on Monday said that his party would achieve success on February 8, with support of people in general elections.
He expressed these views while addressing the participation and support program organized by National Party Tehsil Dasht in Killi Umar-Abad Bangulzai Dasht Matura under the leadership of Asadullah Bangulzai and Master Muhammad Umar Bangulzai.
Addressing at the program, Bangulzai said that the era of fixed stamping had passed, now people would make their decision with their votes.
He said that people would make successful their real representatives through their votes who were always present among them in difficult situation.
He said that the National Party was only party to believe serving of people, adding that therefore, the NP party was becoming large party in Balochistan because it was taking practical measures for development of the respective areas of the province.
Bangulzai said that he had started a number of development projects in Mastung in order to provide basic facilities to people of rural area of the district during tenure of his MNA.
On this occasion, Sardar Kamal Khan Bengalzai thanked the elders for joining and supporting the party.
Ealier, those people including Hikmatullah Muhammad Hassani, Liaqat Muhammad Hassani, Ali Murad Muhammad Hassani, Nazir Ahmed Sumalani, Naveed Ahmed Samulani, Riaz Ahmad Sumalani, Nazir Sumalani, Khuda-i-Reham Sumalani,
Sultan Sasoli, Lal Bakhsh Jatak, Mohammad Salim Bangulazai, Sanaullah Bangulazai, Mehrullah Bangulzai, Haji Saadullah Bangulazai, Waheed Ahmed Bangulzai, Mubasher Ahmad Shahwani, Basir Ahmad Shahwani, Zahid Banglazai and others along with their families, relatives and hundreds of colleagues announced to join the party.

PM reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to strengthen ties with Iran

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Jan 29 (APP): Foreign Minister of Iran Hossein Amir-Abdollahian on Monday called on Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar and discussed matters of mutual interest.

Underscoring close relations between Pakistan and Iran, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further consolidate bilateral ties.

PM reaffirms Pakistan's commitment to strengthen ties with Iran

He also emphasized the need to address common challenges through collaborative and cooperative approaches, rooted in the respect for international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter, in particular territorial integrity and sovereignty of both Pakistan and Iran.

The prime minister conveyed his warm sentiments for President Ebrahim Raisi and extended an invitation for him to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.

Strict adherence to election’s code of conduct to be ensured: Rizwan Qadeer

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
MULTAN, Jan 29 (APP):Deputy Commissioner Capt Retd Rizwan Qadeer Monday said that strict implementation on Elections’ code of conduct would be ensured across the district.
He was addressing a meeting attended by different candidates at Multan Arts Council.
Rizwan Qadeer informed that a total of 3.1 million voters would exercise their right to vote.
In district Multan, there are six national assembly seats and 12 provincial assembly seats where 327 candidates are contesting, he added.
The final preparations for the Elections are at last stages.
The process of distribution of different sort of material have commenced.
He directed candidates to install camps at a distance from the polling station.
Similarly, polling agents will also be monitored. Returning Officers will inspect expenditures on advertisement and other elections’ related activities. Law enforcers from Pakistan army will also be deputed to maintain peaceful environment. The main office of Election Commission will be established at Multan Public School, he maintained. The returning officers have been entrusted powers of magistrates. He urged candidates to cooperate with the administration.

MSF expresses concern over spike in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis cases across Pakistan

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
PESHAWAR, January 29 (APP):Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) also known as Doctors Without Borders, an international medical humanitarian organization, has expressed its concern over the increase in the number of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) cases registered at its facilities across Pakistan.
“The number of patients visiting MSF clinics across Pakistan has steadily increased over the years,” said Suzette
Kämink, MSF cutaneous leishmaniasis expert.
In a press release issued here on Monday, Suzette Kamnik said Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are the worst affected provinces, but this treatable neglected tropical disease is also found in Sindh, Kashmir, and central and southern areas of Punjab.
The press release is issued in connection with World Non-Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Day to be observed globally on Jan 30. The increase in the incidence of CL infection in 2022 to 2023 has been exceptional a 95 percent increase as recorded in Bannu and 75.5 per cent in Peshawar, the statement disclosed.
A similar trend is seen in  Balochistan, for example in Kuchlak, one of three CL clinics that MSF is supporting, we registered 69.9% more cases than the previous year, as well as CL being reported in areas where the disease was not normally present,” she added.
The skin disease is caused by a parasite, transmitted by the bite of the phlebotomine sandfly.  Although it is not life-threatening it causes ulcers on the face and open areas of the body, which can evolve into severe scarring and disfigurement, often leading to social stigmatization, discrimination, and emotional distress.
Major factors in the spread of the disease are poor living conditions; poor hygiene and housing, no proper waste management, and a general lack of awareness about the disease, combined with population movement, and changes in the climate.
“The increase in cases highlights the lack of knowledge about the disease and its prevention such as proper environmental waste disposal, reducing potential sandfly breeding and resting places, and the correct use of long-lasting impregnated nets (LLINs),” said Suzette Kämink.
“Early diagnosis and access to effective treatment is another way to control this neglected disease. CL is curable with the mainstay treatment of pentavalent antimonial drugs: meglumine antimoniate or sodium stibogluconate. Treatment is painful and consists of daily injections for 20 to 28 days. However, access to this treatment is a challenge,” she added.
In Pakistan, these drugs are often not available in public health centres and when found on the private market, they are expensive and generally unaffordable.  Besides ensuring a steady supply of medication, encouraging early healthcare-seeking behaviour, and increasing awareness through health education, better data collection and surveillance of CL would help provide more meaningful oversight of the disease.
In an effort to improve access to treatment, since 2022, MSF has been carrying out a clinical trial in Pakistan to look for other options besides the pentavalent antimonial drugs. So far, 386 patients have enrolled in the CL clinical trial in the two centres in Quetta. Another clinical trial site was authorized in Quetta in January 2024 and MSF is presently waiting for further approval from the Drug Regulatory Authorities Pakistan for an additional site in Peshawar.
With five dedicated CL centres and one satellite treatment clinic, MSF is one of the main providers of free-of-charge CL diagnostic and treatment services in collaboration with Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Ministry of Health.
In Dadu, Sindh province, in early 2022, MSF supported the MoH in controlling a reported CL outbreak, by providing the necessary CL health care services, and training in CL management. In December 2023, MSF handed over all CL services to the local health authorities including the donation of drugs.
Besides providing free medical care, in Balochistan, the centres are also providing mental health support and carrying out outreach activities to increase awareness about treatment and prevention.  In 2023, MSF treated close to 12,000 CL patients across the five dedicated CL centres. Since starting the CL programmes in 2008, over 51,000 patients have received services in MSF CL facilities.
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