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Pakistan’s remittances hit $3 billion, up 48% year-on-year

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NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 10 (APP): Inflow of overseas workers’ remittances clocked in at nearly $3 billion in July, a massive 48 percent higher on a year-on-year basis when compared with $2.03 billion in the same month of the previous year, showed data released on Saturday by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

According to the report in the first month of the current fiscal year, overseas Pakistanis remitted a whopping $3 billion. This represents a significant 48 percent increase in remittances compared to July 2023.

Overseas Pakistanis in Saudi Arabia remitted the largest amount in July 2024 as they sent $760 million. The amount declined by 6 percent on a monthly basis but was 56 percent up than the $487 million sent by the expatriates in the same month of the previous year.

Inflows from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) totaled $610 million in July.

On a yearly basis, remittances improved by 94 percent, compared to $315 million reported in the same month last year.
United Kingdom contributed $440 million; remittances in July 2024 saw a slight decline of 5 percent compared to June 2024.

The overall inflow of funds from overseas Pakistanis is a crucial component of the country’s economy, offering significant support amid ongoing economic challenges.

Meanwhile, the State Bank has announced an increase in the country’s foreign exchange reserves, reflecting a positive trend in the financial scenario.

According to the latest data, total foreign exchange reserves rose by $8 million, reaching $14.047 billion. The State Bank’s reserves saw a notable increase of $511 million, bringing the total to $9.15 billion. Additionally, deposits in commercial banks grew by $291 million, now totalling $5.31 billion.

FBR clarifies no tax on Arshad Nadeem prize money

By
Ali Ali
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FBR
ISLAMABAD, Aug 10 (APP):The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) on Saturday categorically denied rumors circulating on social media that it plans to tax the prize money won by Pakistan’s Olympic gold medalist, Arshad Nadeem.
It is clarified that Arshad Nadeem is our National Hero who has not only elevated Pakistan’s image in the whole world but has made the whole Pakistani nation overjoyed by winning a Gold Medal after 40 years in the olympics, said a FBR news release.
FBR also clarified that there is no withholding tax on his prizes and the government and FBR are determined to make his income exempt much before he files his return in September, 2025.

Azadi Float inaugurated, leaves for Lahore

By
Ali Ali
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Azadi floats
RAWALPINDI, Aug 10 (APP):The Azadi float has been formally inaugurated in a colorful ceremony held here at Double Road, Rawalpindi on Saturday.
The float was inaugurated by Hanif Abbasi MNA and PM’s Advisor on Law, Barrister Malik Aqeel. The float, decorated with models of important buildings of all provinces of Pakistan, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan will reach Lahore on August 14, with stopovers at various big cities.
MPAs Shazia Rizwan, Zebun Nisa Awan, Rifat Abbasi, Asma Abbasi, Malik Ifthar and Malik Mansoor, besides Executive Director Punjab Councils of Arts Ghulam Sagheer, DC Hasan Waqar Cheema and people from different walks of life participated in the opening.
Speaking on the occasion, Hanif Abbasi said that this float is a symbol of national unity representing all provinces and federating units.
He said that whenever the PML-N has come to the government, it has played the role for national unity and development.
PM’s Advisor on Law, Barrister Aqeel Ahmed on the occasion said that the country was in dire need of harmony and brotherhood.
“The float prepared on the instruction of CM Maryam Nawaz, and it should be warmly welcomed”, he said.
Apart from Minar e Pakistan, models of Quaid’s Residency, Khyber Pass of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Quaid’s masoleum in Sindh, Legislative Assembly of Azad Kashmir and Bomburit Masjid in Gilgit-Baltistan have been built on the float.
According to the details the float will reach Gujar Khan on the morning of August 11 and will stay at Jhelum on the night of August 11.  After a one-night halt at Jhelum, the float will reach Gujarat on August 12 and Gujranwala on August 13 from where it will reach Lahore on August 14.
After the stunning inaugural ceremony, a musical night was organized on this occasion in which famous singers Humera Arshad, Dr. Mubashera Hafeez, Mohsin Pasha and local artists performed.

Islamabad prepares for grand Independence Day celebrations

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 10 (APP):Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, visited F-9 Park on Saturday to review preparations for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations, dubbed AzadiFest.

The event promises to be an extravagant display of patriotism, entertainment, and community engagement.

Various programs have been arranged in F-9 Park, including a musical concert, fireworks, and Islamabad’s first-ever drone show.

A tree planting area will also be designated, allowing families, youth, and children to participate in the festivities.

Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa emphasized the importance of inclusivity, ensuring that the celebrations cater to all segments of society.

He also stressed the need for a comprehensive traffic plan, efficient parking arrangements, and separate entry gates for families, children, and youth to minimize congestion.

Security arrangements will be foolproof, with Islamabad Police instructed to take necessary measures. The media will have designated areas to cover the events and fireworks.

Deputy Commissioner Islamabad will oversee the overall arrangements for AzadiFest-related activities at F-9 Park. With these preparations in place, Islamabad is set to celebrate Independence Day in a grand and memorable manner.

APC organized awareness seminar and Blood donation camp

By
Ali Ali
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KARACHI, Aug 10 (APP):Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi’s Medical and Social Welfare Committee in collaboration with the Patient Welfare Association, organized a seminar titled “Aatiya-e-Ummid” (Gift of Hope) at the Haseena Moin Hall.
The seminar focused on raising awareness about blood donation and thalassemia. Several prominent medical professionals, including Chairman of the Medical and Social Welfare Committee Dr. Qaisar Sajjad, Consultant Hematologist Noor ul Ain, Chief Oncologist and Pediatric Oncologist Dr. Uzma Imam, Gastroenterology and Hepatitis Specialist Dr. Huma Qureshi, Expert in women’s health Prof. Dr. Riffat Jaleel, and Shariah Advisor Maulana Mufti Hussain, shared their insights.
Dr. Qaisar Sajjad emphasized the importance of health, stating, “Health is wealth, and it is heartening to see the enthusiasm of the participants today.” He acknowledged the common perception that the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi only hosts cultural programs like dramas, music, and dance.
However, this institution also addressed health related issues. He highlighted that the council’s Medical and Social Welfare Committee has been active in providing significant support during crises such as floods, earthquakes, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Sajjad credited the success of these initiatives to the personal interest and tireless efforts of the President Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi Muhammad Ahmad Shah.
He also mentioned that the council has established a clinic where members can receive free check-ups. During her speech, Dr. Noor ul Ain emphasized the importance of good health for blood donation, noting that donors should weight more than 50 kg and have a hemoglobin level of at least 12.5.
She dispelled the misconception that women cannot donate blood, explaining that women can donate if they are healthy and free from any illness, although they typically have lower hemoglobin levels than men.
Maulana Mufti Hussain addressed the religious perspective on blood donation, clarifying that individuals are not the sole owners of their blood and that helping others by donating blood is a virtuous act. He added that a husband can donate blood to his wife.
Dr. Uzma Imam highlighted that cancer patients often have reduced bone marrow capacity to produce blood, making them dependent on blood donations.
She advised that before any surgery, the patient’s hemoglobin level should be at least 10. Prof. Dr. Riffat Jaleel advocated for premarital thalassemia testing to prevent the disease, noting that such tests can also be conducted during pregnancy.
She stressed the importance of ensuring that children are born healthy to avoid future hardships for both the child and the parents.
Dr. Huma Qureshi mentioned that the Thalassemia Act has been in effect in Sindh since 2013, but there is a need for more practical implementation.
She warned that improper blood transfusions are a major cause of hepatitis, underscoring that while blood donations save lives, they can also transmit diseases. The blood donation services continued from 11 AM to 5 PM, with a large number of men, women, and young people participating. The event concluded with Dr. Qaisar Sajjad receiving a shield from the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi in recognition of his contributions.

THQ hospital Mian Channu named after Olymoian Arshad Nadeem

By
Ali Ali
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LAHORE, Aug 10 (APP):Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved renaming of the Tehsil Headquarters Hospital (THQ) Hospital Mian Cahnnu as Olympian Arshad Nadeem to acknowledge his record-smashing feat on Javelin during the Paris Olympics 2024.
Javelinist Arshad Nadeem made the country proud when he broke the 118 years old Olympics record in Men’s Javelin Throw finals and recorded an astonishing throw of 92.97 meters. His feat won him the gold medal at  the Olympics and the world-wide acclaim.
In a notification issued by the Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department, Punjab, the THQ hospital in the athlete’s home town has been renamed. The notification read: “Consequent upon the approval of the competent Authority, THQ Hospital Mian Channu (100 Bedded) is hereby renamed as ‘Olympian Arshad Nadeem THQ Hospital, Mian Channu, District Khanewal’.

Key member of bike lifter gang arrested

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 10 (APP):Islamabad Capital Police Noon Police team have arrested a Key member of an inter-provincial bike lifter gang involved in numerous bike theft activities and recovered seven stolen motorbikes and arms along with ammunition from his possession.
An ICP public relations officer said on Saturday that, following the special directions of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Islamabad Police Syed Ali Raza the Islamabad Capital Police had categorically started a crackdown against criminal elements in order to save the precious lives and property of citizens.
Following these directions, the Noon Police team used technical and human resources and succeeded in apprehending a key member of an inter-provincial bike lifter gang involved in numerous bike-lifting activities.
The accused was identified as Asif Khan.
Police team also recovered Stolen 07 motorcycles and arms along with ammunition from his possession.
He said other facilitators of the accused will also be arrested soon.
The accused will be challaned to the court with concrete evidence and will be punished, said DIG Islamabad.
Protection of life and property of citizens is the first responsibility for which Islamabad Police is always engaged, said DIG Islamabad Syed Ali Raza.

Bilawal commited to safeguarding rights of minorities

By
Ali Ali
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0
Bilawal
ISLAMABAD, Aug 10 (APP):Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights and fostering the development and empowerment of minorities in Pakistan.
He emphasized that the PPP will never compromise on these core principles.
In a statement issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, on the occasion of National Minorities Day, underscored his party’s long-standing dedication to championing minority rights.
He highlighted that the consensus Constitution of 1973, a testament to the political vision of Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, guarantees equal rights, religious freedoms, and protections for all citizens of Pakistan.
“My mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, envisioned a Pakistan where people of all faiths could coexist in harmony and with dignity,” he added.
Bilawal Bhutto also noted that the observance of National Minorities Day was instituted by President Asif Ali Zardari during his first tenure, with the aim of recognizing the vital role of minorities in the nation’s fabric and promoting tolerance and harmony in society.
“Our nation’s diversity is our greatest strength, and it is our collective duty to ensure that every citizen, irrespective of their faith or background, enjoys equal rights and opportunities,” he added.
He urged all Pakistanis to unite in the fight against discrimination and intolerance.
“As we observe National Minorities Day, let us renew our pledge to build a Pakistan that truly embodies the principles of justice, equality, and tolerance. Together, we can create a nation where every individual, regardless of religion or ethnicity, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to our country’s prosperity,” he concluded.

Bangladesh Men’s cricket team to reach Lahore on 13th

By
Ali Ali
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0
Naeem Niazi
LAHORE, Aug 10 (APP):The Bangladesh men’s cricket team will reach Pakistan four days prior to its original schedule on August 13 (Tuesday) to take part in the two ICC World Test Championship tests in Rawalpindi and Karachi between August 21 and September 3.
The amended schedule will provide the Tigers an opportunity to have extended practice sessions at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) at the Gaddafi stadium between August 14 and 16 and then move to Islamabad on August 17 and practice at the Rawalpindi stadium till the start of the first test on August 21 at Rawalpindi cricket stadium.
Earlier, the Bangladesh cricketers were scheduled to land in Islamabad on August 17 and practice during the next three days at the Rawalpindi stadium prior to the test match but the unforeseen circumstances in Bangladesh cut down team’s practice opportunities and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was obliged to extend an invitation to arrive early and have adequate and fair training opportunities ahead of the ICC World Test Championship matches.
Bangladesh are due to take part in two fixtures in Rawalpindi and Karachi from 21-25 August and 30 August-3 September respectively.
PCB Chief Operating Officer (COO) Salman Naseer said sports is not only about winning and losing, it’s also about comradery. I remain confident that the extra training sessions in Lahore will allow the players to showcase their best skills and talent on the global stage.
“We are delighted that the BCB have accepted our offer and we look forward to welcoming the Bangladesh men’s cricket team in Lahore on 13 August with our traditional hospitality. This will allow them to have three additional days of training and practice at one of our iconic venues before proceeding to Islamabad as originally planned.”
Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Chief Executive Nizam Uddin Chowdhury, in a statement said,
“We thank the PCB for giving the Bangladesh cricket team the opportunity to have additional training in Pakistan. This will certainly help the players to acclimate to the conditions and prepare better for the ICC World Test Championship series.”
This will be Bangladesh’s first tour of Pakistan since 2020 when they played three T20Is in Lahore and one-off Test in Rawalpindi. Bangladesh also played two ACC Asia Cup 2023 matches in Lahore against Afghanistan and Pakistan. Bangladesh is one of the seven sides that will feature in next year’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan. Other six sides are: Afghanistan, Australia, England, India, New Zealand and South Africa.

Provincial Law Minister Sohaib Ahmad Bherth, Shafaqt Abbas, Asim Naseer, Begum Safhia Ishaq, and others participate in the prize distribution ceremony for children who competed in Independence Day speech contests, organized by the Nazaria-i-Pakistan Trust.

By
Wajid
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0
APP19-100824 LAHORE: August 10 – Provincial Law Minister Sohaib Ahmad Bherth, Shafaqt Abbas, Asim Naseer, Begum Safhia Ishaq, and others participate in the prize distribution ceremony for children who competed in Independence Day speech contests, organized by the Nazaria-i-Pakistan Trust.
Provincial Law Minister Sohaib Ahmad Bherth, Shafaqt Abbas, Asim Naseer, Begum Safhia Ishaq, and others participate in the prize distribution ceremony for children who competed in Independence Day speech contests, organized by the Nazaria-i-Pakistan Trust.
APP19-100824
LAHORE: August 10 – Provincial Law Minister Sohaib Ahmad Bherth, Shafaqt Abbas, Asim Naseer, Begum Safhia Ishaq, and others participate in the prize distribution ceremony for children who competed in Independence Day speech contests, organized by the Nazaria-i-Pakistan Trust.

APP20-100824
LAHORE: August 10 – Provincial Law Minister Sohaib Ahmad Bherth, presenting shield to Asim Naseer at the awarding ceremony in connection with Independence Day organized by the Nazaria-i-Pakistan Trust.

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