Home Blog Page 8449

Chairman NPC emphasizes educating youth about struggle behind creation of Pakistan

0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 11 (APP):Chairman Nazaria-i-Pakistan Council (NPC), Mian Mohammad Javed Sunday highlighted the need to educate the younger generation about the sacrifices rendered by our forefathers and national heroes for acquiring a separate homeland.
He said, “Transferring the legacy of our forefathers to the younger generation is our national responsibility.”
“I belong to the generation who has witnessed the creation of Pakistan, enthusiasm and countless sacrifices of lives, property and honour for the sake of the country. Women and children were even part of this struggle who fearlessly used to raise the slogans “Ley Key Rahain Gey Pakistan” and “Ban Key Rahey Ga Pakistan”, he said.
In an interview in connection with the Independence Day, falling on August 14, Prof. Javed said, “Independence Day is a perfect time to acknowledge the numerous sacrifices rendered by our forefathers who gifted this homeland, it is our utmost responsibility to make this country strong, invincible and prosperous for the next generations”.
He pointed out, “One thing shall be remembered that Pakistan was established through a mass movement under the leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah as per the vision of Allama Muhammad Iqbal to enable Muslims to live with religious and ideological independence.
“It is heartening to see that still people have the same enthusiasm and patriotism about running our country according to the principles described by the founder of Pakistan in his speeches however the only need is to foster unity and work for the betterment of country”, he said.
Prof. Javed said that Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in his speeches, has always advocated the principle of equality and justice to ensure the basic rights and well being of humanity. “Quaid-i-Azam’s thoughts to implement an Islamic democratic system based on equality, justice and human values for all are the beacon of light for the nation”, he said.
“Our forefathers have sacrificed their lives to acquire this homeland on the basis of an ideology and now it is our responsibility to transfer this heritage and ideology to the future generations to make this country a prosperous one”, he said.
The chairman urged the nation to follow the guiding principles of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and promote the ideology of Pakistan in real spirit.
About the NPC activities, the chairman said, “The council is diligently working on the promotion of the ideology of Pakistan through conducting programmes in educational institutions besides using social media networks in line with modern requirements.”
“NPC intends to project the image of our leaders and national heroes through educating the youth about their struggles and achievements to enlighten them. “The character building of youth is our national responsibility, as per Quaid’s vision, without which we cannot make them useful citizens”, he added.

Shahid Afridi leads KSL trials, new dates announced for aspiring cricketers

0
Shahid Afridi

ISLAMABAD, Aug 11 (APP):The organizers of the Kashmir Supreme League (KSL), the most prestigious and eagerly anticipated cricket league in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, have announced a revised schedule for their upcoming trials, taking into consideration the recent changes in weather conditions.

The trials are now set to begin on August 17 at the iconic Muzaffarabad Cricket Stadium, according to a press release issued here on Sunday.

The first phase of trials will be conducted on August 17–18 at the Muzaffarabad Cricket Stadium for aspiring cricketers from Muzaffarabad and Neelum districts.

Following this, the trials for Bagh and Jhelum Valley districts are scheduled for August 20 at Bagh Cricket Stadium. On August 22, Rawalakot Cricket Stadium will host the trials for Haveli and Rawalakot districts.

The cricket action will then move to Kotli on August 24, where the trials for Kotli and Pallandri districts will be held at Kotli Cricket Stadium. Finally, the trials will conclude on August 26 at Mirpur Cricket Stadium for participants from Mirpur and Bhimber districts.

Shahid Khan Afridi, a globally celebrated cricketer and former captain of Pakistan’s national team, continues to be the brand ambassador for the Kashmir Supreme League. His involvement has added significant prestige to the league, attracting widespread attention from both local and international cricketing communities.

Legendary wicketkeeper and former captain Moin Khan is also deeply involved in the league’s operations, ensuring that the KSL is managed with the highest standards of professionalism and excellence.

The Kashmir Supreme League is more than just a sporting event; it is a significant opportunity for the region’s emerging cricket talent to showcase their skills on a grand stage.

The league is expected to feature some of the most distinguished national and international cricket stars, who will not only compete but also mentor the young talent from Kashmir, sharing their vast experience and knowledge.

Beyond the cricketing realm, the league is expected to draw prominent figures from various fields, both nationally and internationally. The presence of such esteemed personalities underscores the league’s broader mission to promote mutual relations, tourism, and sports activities within Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Since the league’s announcement, there has been a palpable wave of excitement among the youth of Kashmir. Young cricketers from across the region have been diligently preparing for the trials, eager to earn their place in what promises to be a historic cricketing event.

The Kashmir Supreme League has already captured the imagination of cricket enthusiasts, and the upcoming trials are expected to further elevate the anticipation and excitement surrounding this landmark event.

Mohsin Naqvi meets Turkish ambassador Dr. Mehmet Paçaci

0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 11 (APP): Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with Turkish Ambassador Dr. Mehmet Pacaci at the Ministry of Interior.

During the meeting Pakistan-Turkey bilateral relations and matters of mutual interest were discussed in detail.

Furthermore, both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in the fields of security, police, and civil armed forces. It was also decided to send Pakistani police officers to Turkey for training under the exchange program.

On the occasion, the minister said that from August 14 this year, Turkish citizens will be able to obtain free online visas. He added that this step will make it much easier for Turkish brothers and sisters to visit Pakistan.

He stated that he will visit Turkey in October at the invitation of the Turkish Government, where productive steps will be proposed to increase mutual cooperation.

The minister mentioned that Pakistanis consider Turkey as their second home. “Both countries have long-standing religious, cultural, and trade ties and we are desirous of further strengthening these relations”, he added.

The release of Pakistani prisoners in Turkey was also discussed in the meeting and it was agreed to soon finalize the agreement in this regard.

Turkish Ambassador Dr. Mehmet Pacaci said that Turkey renders huge importance to the brotherly relations with Pakistan and will continue the cooperation with Pakistan in various fields.

Federal Secretary Interior Khurram Ali Agha and Additional Secretary Interior Riffat Mukhtar Raja were also present on the occasion.

IFA tightens grip on food quality at ICT’s recreation spots

0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 11 (APP):The Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) teams have carried out inspections at food stalls across the city’s popular entertainment spots to ensure public health.
Talking to APP, Deputy Director Operations (DDO) of IFA, Dr Tahira Saddique said, “The authority has begun inspections of food stalls at recreation venues around the city. Over the weekend, officials carried out checks to ensure that the food being sold meets health and safety standards.”
Dr. Tahira Saddique confirmed that food stalls at various leisure spots were thoroughly inspected.
“The inspections were conducted to safeguard public health by making sure that the food offered at these places is safe for consumption,” she added.
She said that the goal of these inspections was to provide citizens with healthy food options while they enjoy their time at these venues.
The authority aimed to maintain strict oversight over food quality to prevent any potential health risks to the public, she added.
This initiative was part of a broader effort by the Islamabad Food Authority to ensure that all food outlets, particularly those in high-traffic areas, comply with food safety regulations, she concluded.

Exploding Lithium batteries of solar panels erupted H-9 inferno: Report

0

Ali Jabir

ISLAMABAD, Aug 11 (APP): The H-9 inferno erupted on July 10th that turned a large number of shops, makeshift stalls, pushcarts, and merchandise to ashes, occurred due to exploding Lithium batteries attached to solar panels after it got overheated owing to excessive charging.

The Directorate of Emergency and Disaster Management of Municipal Corporation Islamabad (MCI) in its report submitted to the Parliamentary Committee, revealed that there was no electricity supply to the Bazaar as it was a one-day operations trading hub.

The report revealed that as many as 625 stalls were affected out of the total 2,743 in almost all the sections of the Bazaar, even though there were trained individuals capable of undertaking fire fighting efforts the massive scale of fire left all helpless.

The remaining 2,118 stalls were saved due to effective fire fighting operations conducted by the authorities that involved 31 fire tenders, 255 firefighting staff including 12 from MCI, four from Rawalpindi Administration, four from Pakistan Navy, two from Pakistan Air Force, nine from other departments and 16 water tankers in the entire operation.

An official from the Directorate of Emergency and Disaster Management, MCI claimed that the department was working out proper solutions to address fire risks and was mulling over a centralized electricity supply system or complete wrap-up of operations at night to be ensured.

Moreover, he said that a committee of the vendors was formed to ensure localized awareness and mitigation efforts against fire hazards in the bazaar.

The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration official claimed that the Rescue 1122 and the Emergency and Disaster Management wing of MCI had 10 fire brigades to manage the entire federal capital which was insufficient to manage the present scale of the metropolis’ population and sprawling infrastructure. However, in 2022, two episodes of mass fire in H-9 Bazaar had occurred after the UPS batteries had blown off, he added.

He informed that there was no insurance for the solar panels of shops that got impacted by fire and since it was a temporary bazaar, all electricity connections were removed after repeated fires.

The Capital Administration was preparing a summary to place Rescue 1122 under the Capital Development Authority (CDA) with a complete autonomous Director General that would also involve a complete beef up in resources, capacities and personnel. Moreover, revalidated standard operating procedures (SOPs) for fool proof fire prevention arrangements as a professional team was engaged to create the system, the official said.

Students to get opportunity to explore universe through telescopes

0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 11 (APP): Students of the educational institutions run by Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) will be able to explore celestial objects through the use of telescopes and stimulate their interest in the space sciences.
In this regard, the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training (MoFEPT) and FDE are launching an initiative to promote astronomy and STEM education among students.
According to an official source, the Ministry of Education and Professional Training through FDE will provide support to the schools to purchase telescopes.
The initiative will help promote STEM education and inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers.
This initiative is a significant step towards nurturing scientific curiosity and interest in astronomy among students.
The knowledgeable staff member will supervise students during telescope use while the staff and students are being trained on telescope operation and safety.
The regular observation sessions will be held even during significant astronomical events. The students are supposed to maintain an Observation log during the Observation Sessions, the source said.
The regular cleaning and inspections of the telescopes will be maintained to prevent damage.
The telescope use will be integrated into science curriculum and research projects and astronomy clubs will be encouraged. The resources will be utilized from Kainat Studios, PakAstronomers and Pakistan Science Club.
The objective behind this initiative is to inspire passion for astronomy and scientific discovery among students and foster a generation of curious, informed, and enthusiastic scientists.
About the implementation of this initiative, the official source said that the school principals have to utilize allocated funds judiciously and ensure telescopes are used to their fullest potential to enrich students’ educational journeys.

PFC chief for adopting Chinese model for economic growth

0
LAHORE, Aug 11 (APP):Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) Chief Executive Officer Mian Kashif Ashfaq said on Sunday that Pakistan, grappling with economic challenges, could learn from China’s experience by prioritizing quality over quantity in its growth strategies.
Talking to a delegation of leading architects led by Mohsin Ali Mughal here, he added that
investing in human capital, enhancing technological capabilities, and promoting industrial
modernization were crucial steps. He said strengthening governance and implementing
effective regulatory frameworks could attract foreign investment and foster a business-friendly environment.
Pakistan could benefit from adopting sustainable practices in its energy and infrastructure
sectors, mirroring China’s green growth initiatives. By focusing on innovation, education,
and sustainable development, Pakistan could create a resilient economy capable of withstanding global challenges, he maintained. Collaboration with China through initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) could further accelerate Pakistan’s economic transformation, helping it reach new heights in economic growth and development.
On this occasion, Mohsin Ali Mughal said China’s shift to a quality growth model offers
valuable lessons for Pakistan as it seeks to elevate its economy.
Over the decades, China transitioned from rapid, quantity-focused growth to a more sustainable and inclusive development strategy. This model emphasizes innovation, technology, and green growth, aiming to boost productivity and improve living standards. The focus on high-quality infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and digital economy had allowed China to maintain robust economic growth while addressing environmental concerns and reducing inequality, he added.

Agri development vital for economic future : Ahsan Iqbal

0
LAHORE, Aug 11 (APP):Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said on Sunday that agriculture development was crucial for securing Pakistan’s economic future.
Talking to the media at 16th International Food, Hospitality & Beverage Industry
Exhibition and Conference here at Expo Center, he extending congratulations on
the successful organisation of the 16th Food Asia International Trade Fair and
highlighting the country’s potential to significantly boost its resources through
agricultural exports, which could amount to billions of dollars.
The planning minister emphasized that agriculture development was the only way
to effectively address the current challenges faced by the country. He detailed plans
for a transformative “Green Revolution,” which would leverage technological
advancements to enhance agricultural productivity and drive national development.
Ahsan Iqbal pointed out that Pakistan had significant growth potential across various
sectors. He stressed the need for enhancing exports to advance economically
and noted that with thousands of agro-processing units already operating, Pakistan
should capitalize on global trends by developing its national brands to foster growth
and increase revenue. He also underscored the importance of improving product
quality to meet international standards.
Drawing inspiration from athlete and the javelin superstar Arshad Nadeem, who
succeeded despite limited resources, the minister suggested that Pakistan, with
its abundant resources, should also be able to achieve substantial progress.
Reflecting on recent challenges, he acknowledged the impact of political instability
and policy deficiencies on the country’s trajectory.
The planning minister stressed the need for unity and focused efforts to overcome
these obstacles and steer Pakistan towards progress and development.
Recalling the government’s past achievements, he noted the successful resolution
of the energy crisis in 2013, which improved public welfare and supported industrial
growth. He reiterated the ambitious goal of increasing Pakistan’s exports from $30 billion
to $100 billion.
He highlighted the importance of creating a strong “Made in Pakistan” brand focused on quality.
To a question, the minister said the Punjab government had introduced a farmer’s package
and revealed plans to send a thousand agricultural professionals and researchers to China
for training in advance agri sectors in September.
Ahsan Iqbal acknowledged Pakistan’s low productivity levels and stressed that improving
production, particularly in dairy, was essential for alleviating farmers’ difficulties. He emphasized that with sustained peace and stability, Pakistan could advance towards becoming a more prosperous and robust nation.

River Chenab likely to experience medium flood in next 24 hours: FFC

0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 11 (APP): The Federal Flood Commission (FFC) has said that medium flood is expected in River Chenab and medium to high level flows also likely in nullahs in catchments of rivers Ravi and Chenab in next 24 hours.
According to daily FFC report on Sunday, at present River Indus is flowing in “Medium Flood” in Taunsa-Guddu reach. It is in “Low Flood” in Tarbela-Kalabagh reach and at Sukkur Barrage while River Kabul continues to flow in “Low Flood” at Nowshera.
All other major rivers in the Indus River System i.e. Rivers Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej are discharging normal flows, the report said.
The current Combined Live Storage of the country’s major reservoirs (Tarbela, Mangla & Chashma) stands at 10.353 MAF (77.53% of the total live storage capacity of 13.354 MAF).
According to the Flood Forecasting Division (FFD), Lahore, Yesterday’s trough of Westerly Wave over northern parts of Afghanistan lies over northern parts of the country and yesterday’s upper air cyclonic circulation over central Jharkhand (India) lies over south Uttar Pradesh (India).
Active monsoon trough extends from Bay of Bengal to Northeastern Punjab. Moderate to strong moist currents are penetrating upper parts of the country from Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal up to 5,000 feet. Seasonal Low persists over northeast Balochistan.
According to FFD, Lahore scattered to widespread thunderstorm rain of Moderate to Heavy intensity with isolated Very Heavy Falls is expected over the upper catchments of all the major rivers along with Islamabad during the next 24 hours. Scattered thunderstorm rain of Moderate Intensity with Isolated Heavy Falls is expected over Punjab (Rawalpindi, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Lahore, Bahawalpur & D.G. Khan Divisions), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Peshawar, Kohat, Bannu & D.I. Khan Divisions) alongwith Isolated thunderstorm rain of Moderate Intensity over Balochistan (Zhob, Sibbi, Nasirabad & Kalat Divisions) during the same period.

PHA to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, illuminations

0
LAHORE, Aug 11 (APP):Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) will set the sky alight with fireworks and illuminations at Minar-i-Pakistan at midnight on August 14, to mark the Independence Day celebrations.
PHA Lahore Director General Muhammad Tahir Wattoo told the media on Sunday that the
PHA would organize several events for the day, including a flag-hoisting ceremony at Racecourse Park, an art competition celebrating Arshad Nadeem’s historic Olympic gold medal, and the distribution of plants at various locations across the city.
Minar-i-Pakistan will be illuminated in green and white colors of the national flag. In addition, over one hundred sky signs and billboards across Lahore would display the national flag, an activity that would continue until August 20.
The DG said that no invitations or passes would be required for entry to these venues.
Reflecting on the significance of the day, he said: “August 14 is a day to reaffirm our
commitment to the country”. He also highlighted the PHA’s efforts to increase Lahore’s
green cover, noting the authority was in the process of planting 25 million trees throughout the provincial capital.
The DG said the PHA recognizes the significance of Independence Day not just as a celebration of national freedom but also as a moment to renew dedication to the well-being of our environment and future generations.
Meanwhile, the PHA has lowered the surface level of 45 parks and greenbelts across
Lahore to match the road level, aiming to improve rainwater drainage and raise the
underground water table.
The initiative, ordered by the chief minister, was part of a project to enhance rainwater
drainage, which otherwise accumulates on roads, causing inconvenience to the public
and damaging infrastructure, he added.