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Kerb currency market

By
NNPS Desk
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0

KARACHI, Jan 19 (APP): Following were the Opening Rates of foreign currencies in the kerb market issued by the Forex Association of Pakistan (FAP), here on Friday.

F.C. BUYING SELLING
INTER BANK 280.00 280.05
USD 278.50 280.75
EURO 302.80 307.80
GBP 353.80 358.00
JPY 1.88 1.95
AED76.25 77.00
SAR74.40 75.10
CAD 205.30 208.30
AUD 181.30 184.30

 

ANF seizes 155 kg drugs in seven operations

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
Drugs
RAWALPINDI, Jan 19 (APP): Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) while conducting seven operations across the country managed to recover 155 kg drugs and arrested eight accused, said an ANF Headquarters spokesman here on Friday.
He informed that 2 kg heroin was recovered from a parcel booked for the UK at a cargo office at Allama Iqbal Airport while an accused was also arrested.
In the second operation, 102 kg of hashish was recovered from the Kuchlak bypass area in Quetta.
In the third operation conducted at Karkhano market Peshawar, 30 kg charras were recovered.
14 kg hashish was recovered from two accused rounded up from Jail Road Haripur area while 5 kg hashish was recovered from Theera Orakzai area.
In the sixth operation, 1 kg of hashish was recovered from three accused arrested from the Pirwadhai Mor area in Rawalpindi.
In the seventh operation, 300 intoxicated tablets (ecstasy) were recovered from the possession of two accused netted in the Bahria Town Phase-4 area in Rawalpindi.
Cases under the Anti-Narcotics Act have been registered against the arrested accused and further investigations are under process.

Islamabad Police to ensure foolproof security arrangements in high-security zone

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
Islamabad police
ISLAMABAD, Jan 19 (APP): The Islamabad Capital Police is constantly engaged to ensure effective security arrangements and deal with any untoward incidents during the protests of religious and political parties in the high-security zone.
According to the details, following the special directives of Islamabad Capital City Police Officer (ICCPO) Dr Akbar Nasir Khan, the Islamabad Capital Police is constantly engaged to maintain the law and order situation in the federal capital, ensuring the safety of lives and property of the citizens.
In this regard, the officers and officials of the Islamabad Capital Police are performing their duties effectively to ensure security arrangements and deal with any untoward incidents during the protests of religious and political parties in the high-security zone.
The senior police officers issued instructions to the officers and personnel posted on duty and said that the protection of all public and private offices and embassies located in the high-security zone is of utmost importance.
Islamabad Capital Police is using all resources to maintain the law and order situation in the federal capital.
The citizens are requested to call “Pucar-15″ or report via the “ICT-15 App” regarding any suspicious person or activity.
The protection of life and property of citizens is among the top priorities of the Islamabad Capital Police.

SFJ defies threats, plans peaceful Khalistan Freedom Rally in Rome on Jan 26

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Jan 19 (APP): Gurpal Singh, a Pro-Khalistan activist of Sikh For Justice (SFJ) in Italy, stands firm in his determination to organize a peaceful Khalistan Freedom Rally in Rome on January 26, despite facing threats from India.
Gurpal Singh, SFJ Coordinator in Italy, claims that individuals linked to the Indian High Commissioner in Italy have warned him to stop advocating for the Khalistan Referendum or else be ready to face consequences.

Gurpal Singh reports a threatening call, expressing opposition to the Republic Day protest in Rome. The caller warned of consequences, urging Singh to stay home with his children. Authorities are investigating the incident.

“I won’t be deterred by death threats, and I will persist in my peaceful and democratic campaign for the Khalistan Referendum to free Punjab from Indian occupation.”

In an oral complaint filed on January 18, 2024, Gurpal Singh, Coordinator of the “Sikh For Justice” group, reported a threatening call received on January 16. The caller, with an Indian accent, inquired about an upcoming protest in Rome against the Indian Republic Day. Singh claims the caller expressed opposition to the demonstration and warned of consequences, stating, “YOU’D BETTER STAY AT HOME AND THINK ABOUT YOUR CHILDREN.” Singh urged him to file a complaint if he disagreed. Authorities are investigating the incident as the Sikh community plans a demonstration on January 26.

Pakistan’s Norway envoy attends seminar on educational collaboration

By
Ishtiaq Rao
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0

ISLAMABAD, Jan 19 (APP): Ambassador of Pakistan in Norway Saadia Altaf Qazi and Deputy Head of Mission Rabail Mustafa Soomro on Friday visited the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) to attend a seminar on educational collaboration opportunities and projects between Pakistan and Norway.

The seminar was arranged by the university’s international office in collaboration with professors and students at NTNU and Sukkur IBA University of Pakistan, according to the embassy’s post on X.

The seminar also provided an opportunity to engage with the Norwegian Partnership Programme for Global Academic Cooperation (NORPART) and RAPID-Erasmus+ programs.

The RAPID project, supported by the European Commission under the Erasmus+ CBHE program, seeks to enhance the capacity of online education in Pakistan’s Higher Education Institutions.

SAPM Sohrab meets with Qatar’s Minister of State for Interior Affairs

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jan 19 (APP):Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (SAPM) Jawad Sohrab Malik met on Friday with Qatar’s Minister of State for Interior Affairs, Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Faisal Al Thani and both Leaders reviewed cooperation in the security fields.
A significant meeting was held between Jawad Sohrab Malik and Abdulaziz bin Faisal Al Thani, marking a momentous occasion for bilateral collaboration and economic development, said a press release.
During the meeting, the SAPM congratulated the Minister of State Interior, Qatar on the successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022. He emphasized the exemplary nature of the World Cup 2022 and its high standards, setting a benchmark for other countries to follow.
The SAPM highlighted the crucial role of the Pakistani diaspora in Qatar’s infrastructure development and expressed the intention to continue providing highly skilled and professional manpower to support Qatar’s economic modernization. To ensure the ongoing mobility of Pakistani workers to Qatar, the SAPM proposed the establishment of additional Qatar Visa Centers (QVCs) across Pakistan, particularly in Peshawar and Lahore in the initial phase. Additionally, the SAPM commended Qatar’s humanitarian efforts and commitments to the Gaza conflict, affirming Pakistan’s support for Qatar’s stance. He also extended an invitation for the Minister of State Interior to visit Pakistan.
The Minister of State for Interior, Qatar acknowledged the significant role of the Pakistani diaspora in Qatar’s development, emphasizing the shared values of Pakistanis and Qataris.
He highlighted the longstanding ties in trade, economy, and defence cooperation between the two countries. Regarding the QVCs, he mentioned that the proposal is under consideration, and a feasibility study is underway to determine the potential opening of additional QVCs in Pakistan. Moreover, topics of mutual interests and reviewed cooperation in security fields were discussed along with ways to support and develop them. During the meeting, the SAPM was accompanied by the Ambassador of Pakistan to Qatar and Community Welfare Attaches.

PML-N likely to unveil its written manifesto in next couple of days: Irfan Siddiqui

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jan 19 (APP):Senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Senator Irfan Siddiqui said on Friday that his party will unveil its written manifesto in the next two days.
 Talking to a private news channel, he said that his party would win the general elections based on its commendable performance.
PML-N would come to power with the help of public voters to resolve the issues of common people and remove the sense of deprivation among its people living in remote areas, he added.
He said that his opponents had performed poorly during their government in the past and they could not compete with PML-N again.
In response to a question, he said that if the voter turnout increases in this election, it will be a big success for all political parties where women, men and youth need to participate equally.

Illegal fuel recovered during  police crackdown in DI Khan

By
Iqra Yousaf Iqra Yousaf
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0
DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Jan 19 (APP):The district police have intestified crackdown against illegal fuel agencies across the district and recovered  890 liters of Diesel and petrol on Friday.
According to a police spokesman, following the directions of District Police Officer (DPO) Abdul Rauf Babar Qaisrani a crackdown has been launched against illegal fuel agencies across the district.
The police have registered cases against six persons involved in the business of illegal fuel in different areas of the district.
During the crackdown, the police also recovered 30 plastic cane and bottles.
DPO Abdul Rauf Babar Qaisrani said indiscriminate legal actions would be continued against the business of illegal fuel.

Time to upgrade clean drinking water facility for Isoolites

By
NNPS Desk
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0
By Taimoor Jadoon
ISLAMABAD, Jan 19 (APP):With federal capital’s population surpassing two million, the natural resources available for the city are getting under severe stress as citizens have to face issues like water scarcity, waste disposal and roads infrastructure.
The citizens are worried about uninterrupted supply of water for domestic use especially clean drinking water as contaminated water in most parts of the country had already resulted in ailment of millions of Pakistanis with Hepatitis, Diarrhea and other stomach related diseases.
Although the Capital Development Authority (CDA) continuously remains on its toes to meet growing water demands of citizens, many residents of Islamabad believe to expand this network across the Capital Territory.
Keeping in view the density of the underground water, the Authority has installed water filtration plants at various locations to facilitate residents and save them from water borne diseases.
The Authority is presently operating over 100 filtration plants in settled sectors of Islamabad. But, the situation in some adjacent areas yet needs improvement where these plants are managed by the representatives’ local governments.
Despite scattered complaints about hygiene and cleanliness, overall situation is stated to be better than three, four years ago.
“This is a noble endeavor by CDA as clean drinking water is requirement of every individual,” said Kashif Munir, a resident of sector G-10. “But, the Authority needs to fully cognizant of fulfilling health and hygiene standards at these plants.”
Claiming about lesser efficiency of filtration plants in Sabzi Mandi, G-10/3 and I-9, Kashif drew attention of the Authority towards proper maintenance of these plants.
“Some plants are in poor condition with water leakage becoming a routine matter,” he said. “These plants need proper supervision and security and timely repair and maintenance to control water wastage and keep the places clean.”
As contaminated drinking water poses serious health hazards and ailment and death sometimes, there is dir need for policies to ensure clean drinking water for all.
Such initiative would not save the precious money of citizens being incurred on curing water borne diseases but also help save this precious resource for coming generations.
Qasim Khan, a resident of I-9 has also mentioned to problems like delayed repair of poorly performing plants as well as their capacity to cater the needs of people.
“The Authority must comply with the protocols of cleanliness, repair and upgradation of these plants to make the citizens fully benefit from this facility,” he suggested.
“Sometimes the ground staff keeps oblivious to maintenance that worsens the situation,” he said. “Therefore, periodical maintenance and checking water quality was imperative.”
He observed that at some plants the taps were insufficient to meet masses needs. “At such plants people have to wait for inordinate amounts of time to get water because of the lesser taps.”
On the other hand, the officials of Capital Development Authority claim that Water Supply Department of CDA takes all necessary steps to ensure supply of clean drinking water in the city.
“We are presently running over 100 filtration plants operated by designated staff. This figure is three times higher what we had on ground four years back,” the official claimed.
“With the construction of more filtration plants in Islamabad, we have ensured that clean drinking water is easily available to the citizens,” he remarked.
He informed that filtration plants in all sectors of Islamabad are operational and people are fully benefitting from this facility. “Our senior staff and officials randomly inspect these plants to monitor their performance. The area is cleaned and the filters are replaced in time.”
He said the tests of water supplied from these plants are conducted every month by PCRWR and the CDA laboratory to ensure that contaminants are properly removed and healthy and safe water is provided to citizens.
“To avoid rush at these plants, we have now started them operating round the clock,” he said. “Now it is up to their convenience as when can come to these facilities for getting water.”
He also mentioned to CDA’s collaboration with NGOs to continuously monitor water quality and proper maintenance of the plants. “The CDA has also appointed focal persons in every sector to address citizens’ complaints about these plants.”
Due to contaminated water resource in the catchment areas as well as heavy density of minerals in the ground water, there is an urgent need for regular testing and verifying of all drinking water sources through effective mitigation measures.
Simply by doing this, we can save extra money spent on water borne diseases, control wastage and conserve our precious resource to provide healthy environment to our people.

APP/tmr/maz (APP Feature Service)

Olive oil production on rise in Hazara Division

By
NNPS Desk
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0
By Hamid Zaffar
ABBOTTABAD, Jan 19 (APP):During the last two decades or so the cultivating trend of olive plantation in some areas of Punjab, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has remained successful as it has led to rapid growth in the edible oil production.
Hazara division is one of the best and suitable regions for olive plantation where hundreds of formers have been attracted and started grafting olive on local breed named “Kaho” and within two to three years, they have also started to yield which has grown many folds with the passage of time. From district Haripur to Battagram more than 1000 hectors of area is dedicated to olive plants which continue to grow annually.
Sabir Sultan, a skillful farmer and olive cultivation specialist shared a remarkable journey of transforming the agricultural landscape in the area during the last 13 years. His expertise in olive grafting has not only led to the flourishing of olive trees but it has also resulted in substantial increase in edible oil production.
Talking to APP, Sabir Sultan said that his deep-rooted passion for olives took shape during his extensive traveling to approximately 25 countries. Drawing inspiration from international experiences, he dedicated himself to revolutionize olive cultivation practices in his home region.
Sultan said that the collaborative efforts of 52,000 successfully facilitated olive grafting on local breed Kaho trees across various regions, with an additional 50,000 individual grafts. He said that the yield from 200 kilograms of olives amounts to an impressive 15 kilograms of high-quality edible oil, underscoring the economic viability of olive cultivation.
Acknowledging the support from Turkey, Sabir Sultan has highlighted the installation of four cutting-edge olive oil extraction machines in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa where one has been allocated for the Hazara Division which is now operational at Abbottabad Potato Research Center, showcasing the integration of modern technology into traditional farming practices. Additionally, a state-of-the-art machine from Italy has been installed at the Tea Research Center in Shinkiari, further streamlining the olive oil extraction process.
During the last few years, the region has witnessed an olive boom, with hundreds of thousands of Kaho trees contributing to the region’s economic and agricultural prosperity. Sabir Sultan emphasized the growing interest among locals in olive cultivation and grafting, citing it as not only a source of edible oil but also an avenue for additional income through tea and pickles.
The olive cultivation success story in Abbottabad serves as an inspiration for farmers and agricultural enthusiasts, showcasing the possibilities when traditional knowledge meets modern innovation. Despite limited resources and technical support, especially in terms of olive oil extracting machinery in the Hazara division, the oil production is increasing in the region. This trend also reflects the farmers’ strong intent to actively participate in olive farming.
 According to the Agriculture Department statistics available from 2019 regarding olive oil production in Hazara division, over 100 farmers collectively produced only 90 KG of olive oil. However, in the following year, the production escalated to 600 KG. By the years 2022 and 2023, olive oil production surpassed 2 metric tons, providing substantial financial benefits to the farmers. This remarkable achievement also attracted many more farmers to engage in olive cultivation.
Agriculture department and National Tea and High-Value Crops Research Institute (NTHVCRI), Shinkiari are playing key role for the development of Olive farming in the region, for the year 2024, under the olive cultivation and development program, NTHVCRI also offers the subsidized rate for high-quality olive saplings for landowners Rs. 93 only. These saplings will be available from January 14, 2024, at the Shankiyari office.
Scientific Officer NTHVCRI Saeed uz Zaman said that during 2023, they have provided 30000 certified olive sapling at a subsidized rate of 93 rupees only. He said that the actual price of the sapling is 282 but government is providing 63 percent subsidy on the each plant to attract the farmers for more cultivation while the farmer has to pay only 37 percent of the total price.
He said that initially the agriculture department has started grafting of olive during 2013-15 with the help of Italy later NTHVCRI has started its operation for Olive plantation alongside its ongoing project of tea,
The scientific officer said that for the current year first plantation drive “we have 10000 olive saplings for the first plantation of the year and will demand more as we receive the requests from farmers.” He said that the institute also offers guidance to the farmers and interested persons and directed them to contact Dr. Bushra Hussain Shah, Senior Director and Project In-charge (Olive): 03315805066 and Saeed ur Rahman, Scientific Officer (Olive): 03023527451.
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