KARACHI
APP51-290124
KARACHI
President Dr. Arif Alvi enquiring after the health of patients during his visit to the Sundas Foundation Karachi Centre, providing blood and hematological services to patients
KARACHI
President Dr. Arif Alvi inaugurating the Sundas Foundation Karachi Centre for providing blood and hematological services to patients
KARACHI
APP49-290124
KARACHI
NEC directs priority financial allocations for merged, backward districts
ISLAMABAD, Jan 29 (APP):National Economic Council (NEC) Monday here directed that the development targets for all new merged and backward districts should be met on priority basis with appropriate financial allocations in the next budget.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar was chairing meeting of the council.
Federal ministers Dr Shamshad Akhtar, Sami Saeed, Shahid Ashraf Tarar, Chief Ministers Justice ® Maqbool Baqir, Justice ® Syed Arshad Hussain Shah, Sardar Ali Mardan Domki and high level officials attended the meeting.
The meeting was told that in the next financial year instead of including provincial projects in the national development budget, only projects of newly merged border districts of erstwhile FATA and 20 backward districts would be included in the federal development budget. The proper financial allocations for these areas would ensure provision of jobs to the people and economic progress.
The PM directed that the standard for compiling list of backward districts should be reviewed so that inclusion of all such areas should be ensured.
Speaking during the meeting, the PM said tax money belonged to the people and the focus of all development projects should be welfare and well being of the people. He urged that work on the national level development projects should be speeded up and their completion in the stipulated time should be ensured. He expressed satisfaction that the caretaker government achieved substantial success in securing development targets in its short tenure.
The PM said despite immense economic challenges, national progress could only be ensured by completing public welfare projects on priority basis.
The NEC comprising the federation and provinces was the highest constitutional body for economic decision making, he said adding the federal government gave vital importance to consultation with provinces while taking decisions about the development projects. In the development budget, the council decided that special importance should be given to the progress of basic communication infrastructure, hydel projects, water reservoirs, industry, information technology and the development of human resources particularly youth. The overall economic situation of the country was reviewed in detail during the meeting.
While reviewing the six point agenda of the meeting, priorities and guiding principles for the national development budget 2024-25 were presented for approval. The meeting was told that according to the new guiding principles, the development projects of national importance which were 80 percent complete, would get priority allocation in the budget.
While for new projects of national significance, only ten percent amount would be allocated.
The NEC directed that while including new projects in the development budget, it should be determined that only projects of solid developmental value were chosen. The meeting also reviewed the pace of the current development projects under the Public Sector Development Programme (2023-24).
In this regard, the recommendations of the Apex Committee of the Special Investment Facilitation Council were presented. While approving the recommendations of the apex committee, the PM directed that Youth Development Programme especially Skill Development Programme and Youth Endowment Scholarship for Talented Students should be continued robustly in the federal development budget and funding for them should be ensured.
The Council was informed about the priorities of the 13th five-year development programme. The meeting was told that under the five year programme, the optimum focus would be on development of different areas of the country, environment, climate change, tourism, agriculture, industry, energy, governance, foreign investment, incentives to small and medium enterprises, improvement in governance and steps for use of technology in government affairs and service delivery. While giving assent for a renewed focus on these areas, the council directed that the draft for the five-year programme should be finalized and presented for approval. The reports of Public Investment Management Assessment and Climate Investment Management prepared in collaboration with international financial institutions were presented.
The meeting was also informed about the recommendations prepared in line with these reports.
The Council also directed that the approved strategy for protection against the adverse effects of climate change and for tackling natural disasters should be improved according to new international standards.
The NEC also reviewed the growth targets for the current financial year. The meeting was apprised that in the first quarter the rate of economic growth was 2.1 percent against the yearly target of 3.5 percent.
It was told that due to the solid steps of the caretaker government for economic revival, the national economy was improving and trade deficit was reduced. During the current FY, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) collected more tax than its target in the first six months of the financial year from July to December 2023. The value of rupee stabilized because of the steps taken against the illegal business of foreign currency and anti-smuggling. The remittances from overseas Pakistanis also increased. While expressing satisfaction at the steps taken for achieving economic targets, it was reaffirmed that measured for economic growth should be intensified.
The report of the sub-committee of the NEC on Sustainable Development Goals was presented. It was stressed that climate finance should be focused as Pakistan was among those countries which were most affected by climate change. The Council also directed that a multiple indicator cluster survey should be held in collaboration with the provinces for a true depiction of the projects of public welfare and economic progress in the country.
Terrorist Naikman Ullah killed in N Waziristan IBO
RAWALPINDI, Jan 29 (APP): The security forces on Monday killed an active terrorist amid an intense exchange of fire that occured between the Army troops and the terrorists during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) conducted in North Waziristan District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
The killed terrorist was identified as Naikman Ullah, an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release said.
The killed terrorist remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities including target killing of innocent civilians.
However, weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from the killed terrorist.
“Sanitization operation is being conducted to eliminate any other terrorist found in the area. Security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country,” the ISPR said.
BoD of OIC’s Ombudsman Institutions held in Pakistan
ISLAMABAD, Jan 29 (APP):Ombudsman institutions from member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) gathered in Pakistan for the 10th Board of Directors’ Meeting, showcasing unity and collaboration in addressing shared challenges.
Representatives from OIC nations, including Turkiye, Bahrain, Morocco, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, and Bulgaria, actively participated in events hosted by Pakistan on Monday.
During a media interaction, President Seref Malkov of the OIC Ombudsman Association expressed the association’s commitment to expanding its membership and collectively combating human rights violations prevalent across Muslim countries.
The Secretary General of Ombudsman of the Ministry of Interior Bahrain, Gada Hameed, emphasized that the OICOA has successfully united Muslim countries in the fight against the common issues of maladministration and human rights violations.
Mediator Mohammed Benalolou of the Kingdom of Morocco highlighted the positive impact of OICOA meetings, stating that they contribute to the strengthening of good governance among Muslim nations.
Human Rights Commissioner for Azerbaijan, Sabina Aliyeva, stressed the need to fortify the concept of ombudsmanship.
She acknowledged that regular OICOA meetings provide member countries with a platform to exchange ideas for better governance.
General Secretary of OICOA, Dr. Asif Mahmood Jah, condemned the brutalities of Israel against Muslims, emphasizing the forum’s role in enhancing collaboration among member nations.
Executive Secretary of OICOA, Almas Jovindah, stated that the 10th meeting aims to enhance the capacity of member countries and extend membership to additional Muslim nations, further strengthening the collective efforts for just and rights-focused governance.
The OIC Ombudsman Association remains dedicated to fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and collectively addressing challenges faced by member countries in the pursuit of human rights and good governance.
The OIC Ombudsman Association is a collaborative platform of Ombudsman institutions from member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Dedicated to upholding human rights and promoting good governance, the association fosters cooperation and exchange of ideas among its diverse members.
PML-N to win elections with thumping majority: Shah
QUETTA, Jan 29 (APP):General Secretary of Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) Balochistan and candidate constituency NA-263 Quetta Jamal Shah Kakar on Monday said that party would win the upcoming election with a thumping majority from Quetta and Balochistan.
He also termed the announcement of the withdrawal of independent candidate Sardar Idris Taj from PB 43 Quetta in favor of PML-N nominated candidate Naseemur Rehman Khan positive sign for the development of the area.
He expressed these views while addressing a press conference at the Quetta Press Club on the occasion of the withdrawal of Saradar Idris Taj PB 43 Quetta in favor of Naseem-ur-Rehman Khan.
Saradar Idris Taj said that the Nawaz Sharif made the Pakistan ‘Asian Tigers’ and due to his leadership skills load shedding was ended in the country, but Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has turned the country into ruins.
On the order of the party leadership, Sardar Idris said he announced the withdrawal in favor of the candidate of the Muslim League-N.
The PML-N’s candidate from PB-43 Naseem-ur-Rehman Khan thanked Sardar Idris Taj and said that in case of success in the election, he would play his key role from the platform of PML-N to solve the problems of Quetta city.
PPP playing vital role for development of country: Rozi Kakar
QUETTA, Jan 29 (APP):General Secretary of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Balochistan and candidate from NA 263 Rozi Khan Kakar, and candidate from PB 43 Syed Hasnain Hashmi, Provincial Deputy Information Secretary Qasim Khan Achakzai, Aziz Longo said on Monday that the party was playing an important role for the development of the country and providing basic facilities to masses.
They said that the party introduced the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) to help the people of the country and appeal to people to vote for the party on February 8 to make them successful in the election.
They expressed these views while addressing various corner meetings and gatherings held at respective areas including Khalid Bin Waleed Society, Joint Road, Ahmadzai Colony and Killi Bareachabad.
Other leaders including Aziz Longo, Khan Mohammad Bareach, Haji Bustan, Jahangir Shah, and Jalaluddin also addressed the events.
IGP meets delegation of private welfare organization
LAHORE, Jan 29 (APP):Inspector General Police Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar met a delegation of a private welfare organization at the Central Police Office, here on Monday.
The delegation from Okara, led by Rana Muhammad Imran, included female students receiving training in entrepreneurship and business start-up. On behalf of the private welfare organization (Crystal View), the head of the delegation invited the Punjab Police Women Cricket Team for a fund raising cricket match for start-up trainings.
IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar directed DPO Okara to organize a women’s cricket match with the student team. He said that the private organization has also conducted short courses on business start-up for women in collaboration with Tahaffuz Markaz Okara, through which the students have gained awareness about digital working.
Dr. Usman Anwar directed that steps should be enhanced with regard to the vocational training of women in collaboration with the private organization and Tahaffuz Markaz Okara so that more and more women can receive modern training.
He said that all possible support and assistance is being provided to women, children and transgenders who are facing social problems from the platform of Tahafuz Markaz.
Alvi urges public-private sectors’ collaboration in jobs creation for special persons
KARACHI, Jan 29 (APP): President Dr Arif Alvi on Monday emphasized the imperative for both public and private sectors to collaborate in jobs creation for special persons.
During the meeting with a delegation of the Employers’ Federation of Pakistan, headed by Majeed Aziz, at the Sindh Governor House, he underscored the crucial role of integrating differently-abled persons into economic activities for the nation’s progress.
Dr Arif Alvi highlighted the significance of creating a conducive workplace environment where the potential of differently-abled individuals could be fully realized.
He noted a growing awareness and participation of individuals with disabilities in various workplaces.
The president acknowledged the notable increase in the employment of women in recent years, attributing it to anti-harassment legislation and improved workplace environments.
He emphasized the immense potential of the information technology sector in jobs creation and revenue generation, urging the Federation to prioritize its development.
Dr Arif Alvi commended the National Skills Passport Programme for its role in facilitating the integration of skilled labour domestically and internationally.
He also lauded the Federation’s efforts in promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the workforce.
The delegation apprised the president of the establishment of the Business Disability Network and outlined the Federation’s contributions in areas such as occupational safety, gender equality, and women’s empowerment in the labour market.
NEC directs priority financial allocations for merged, backward districts
ISLAMABAD, Jan 29 (APP):National Economic Council (NEC) Monday here directed that the development targets for all new merged and backward districts should be met on priority basis with appropriate financial allocations in the next budget.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar was chairing meeting of the council.
Federal ministers Dr Shamshad Akhtar, Sami Saeed, Shahid Ashraf Tarar, Chief Ministers Justice ® Maqbool Baqir, Justice ® Syed Arshad Hussain Shah, Sardar Ali Mardan Domki and high level officials attended the meeting.
The meeting was told that in the next financial year, instead of including provincial projects in the national development budget, only projects of newly merged border districts of erstwhile FATA and 20 backward districts would be included in the federal development budget.
The proper financial allocations for these areas would ensure provision of jobs to the people and economic progress.
The prime minister directed that the standard for compiling list of backward districts should be reviewed so that inclusion of all such areas should be ensured.
Speaking during the meeting, the prime minister said tax money belonged to the people and the focus of all development projects should be welfare and well being of the people.
He urged that work on the national level development projects should be speeded up and their completion in the stipulated time should be ensured.
He expressed satisfaction that the caretaker government achieved substantial success in securing development targets in its short tenure.
The prime minister said despite immense economic challenges, national progress could only be ensured by completing public welfare projects on priority basis.
The National Economic Council comprising the federation and provinces was the highest constitutional body for economic decision making, he said adding the federal government gave vital importance to consultation with provinces while taking decisions about the development projects.
In the development budget, the council decided that special importance should be given to the progress of basic communication infrastructure, hydel projects, water reservoirs, industry, information technology and the development of human resources particularly youth.
The overall economic situation of the country was reviewed in detail during the meeting.
While reviewing the six point agenda of the meeting, priorities and guiding principles for the national development budget 2024-25 were presented for approval.
The meeting was told that according to the new guiding principles, the development projects of national importance which were 80 percent complete, would get priority allocation in the budget.
While for new projects of national significance, only ten percent amount would be allocated.
The NEC directed that while including new projects in the development budget, it should be determined that only projects of solid developmental value were chosen.
The meeting also reviewed the pace of the current development projects under the Public Sector Development Programme (2023-24).
In this regard, the recommendations of the Apex Committee of the Special Investment Facilitation Council were presented.
While approving the recommendations of the apex committee, the prime minister directed that Youth Development Programme especially Skill Development Programme and Youth Endowment Scholarship for Talented Students should be continued robustly in the federal development budget and funding for them should be ensured.
The council was informed about the priorities of the 13th five year development programme. The meeting was told that under the five year programme, the optimum focus would be on development of different areas of the country, environment, climate change, tourism, agriculture, industry, energy, governance, foreign investment, incentives to small and medium enterprises, improvement in governance and steps for use of technology in government affairs and service delivery.
While giving assent for renewed focus on these areas, the council directed that the draft for the five year programme should be finalized and presented for approval.
The reports of Public Investment Management Assessment and Climate Investment Management prepared in collaboration with international financial institution were presented.
The meeting was also informed about the recommendations prepared in line with these reports.
The council also directed that the approved strategy for protection against the adverse effects of climate change and for tackling natural disasters should be improved according to new international standards.
The NEC also reviewed the growth targets for the current financial year. The meeting was apprised that in the first quarter the rate of economic growth was 2.1 percent against the yearly target of 3.5 percent.
It was told that due to the solid steps of the caretaker government for economic revival, the national economy was improving and trade deficit was reduced.
During the current financial year, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) collected more tax than its target in the first six months of the financial year from July to December 2023. The value of rupee stabilized because of the steps taken against the illegal business of foreign currency and anti-smuggling. The remittances from overseas Pakistanis also increased. While expressing satisfaction at the steps taken for achieving economic targets, it was reaffirmed that measured for economic growth should be intensified.
The report of the sub-committee of the National Economic Council on Sustainable Development Goals was presented. It was stressed that climate finance should be focused as Pakistan was among those countries which were most affected by climate change.
The council also directed that a multiple indicator cluster survey should be held in collaboration with the provinces for a true depiction of the projects of public welfare and economic progress in the country.