ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (APP): The Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety has planned to launch a new Rs39 billion Poverty Graduation Programme, aimed at expanding Pakistan’s efforts to move deserving families from cash assistance to sustainable livelihoods.
The four-year programme, running from 2026 to 2029, will be implemented in 25 districts across the country with a strong focus on transparency, accountability and measurable impact.
The Ministry also revealed the successful completion of the National Poverty Graduation Programme in 21 underdeveloped districts across all four provinces, which facilitated the transition of vulnerable families from Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) cash support to dignified and sustainable sources of income.
Under the completed programme, beneficiaries were provided productive assets, interest-free loans, livelihood training and skills development, resulting in the creation of 179,000 new employment opportunities, while 96,000 families permanently graduated out of poverty, according to the ministry.
The Ministry said that the new initiative would be monitored through independent evaluations, third-party audits and an effective grievance redressal system to ensure credibility and transparency.
It said that in collaboration with the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, a Digital Social Protection Dashboard had been developed to strengthen reporting, transparency and evidence-based policymaking at federal and provincial levels.
The coverage of the Benazir Income Support Programme has been expanded to 10 million families nationwide.
Under the ongoing Dynamic Registry Survey, four million families have exited the Kafalat programme after showing financial improvement, while 3.6 million newly eligible families have been included.
In line with the Prime Minister’s vision of a cashless economy, payments through digital wallets have been initiated, significantly improving transparency, reducing leakages and ensuring timely disbursements.
Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal has also digitised its individual financial assistance system and enhanced support for orphans, women, persons with disabilities and labourers. To further strengthen accountability, a biometric payment system is being introduced.
It said the wide-ranging reforms have produced verifiable results, strengthened public trust, and ensured that poor and vulnerable families are receiving assistance with dignity, transparency and accountability.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to further expanding social protection initiatives and ensuring comprehensive support reaches deserving segments of society.

ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (APP): Speakers at a seminar hosted by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) stressed that multilateralism is no longer a matter of choice but a strategic necessity to safeguard global peace and stability amid an increasingly fragmented international order.

The seminar, titled “Protecting Shared Interests through Multilateralism: An Imperative for Global Peace and Stability,” was organized by the China Program at IRS to examine the importance of reinforcing multilateralism amid an increasingly fragmented global order, said a press release.

In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, President of IRS, highlighted the growing trend among traditional powers toward unilateral actions, protectionism, conditional diplomacy, and transactional approaches, which he noted are undermining international law and the rules enshrined in the UN Charter. Referring to India’s proclivity for military aggression as reflective of this trend, he emphasized that the protection of shared interests cannot rest on the discretion of a single power. Instead, it requires global cooperation and adherence to multilateral mechanisms. In this context, he noted that China’s expanding institutional engagements are rooted in a quest for shared prosperity and reflect concrete contributions toward strengthening the UN-based international order.

In the keynote address, Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed underscored the centrality of multilateral engagement in safeguarding global peace and stability. He praised China’s various global initiatives, describing them as core frameworks for protecting shared interests within the existing international system. Calling China a flag bearer of multilateralism and globalization, he cited the broad participation of countries in the Belt and Road Initiative as evidence. He further noted that Pakistan has consistently advocated mediation and dialogue as tools for conflict resolution, emphasizing that multilateralism has been a foundational pillar of Pakistan’s foreign policy since its inception. He concluded by stating that multilateralism is no longer a policy option, but a strategic necessity.

Highlighting the erosion of the contemporary international order, Ambassador Naela Chohan cited unilateral actions such as Indian military aggression against Pakistan, the Russia–Ukraine war, U.S. actions in Venezuela, and ongoing tariff wars as stark examples of decisions that have destabilized peace and security. She observed that the current global order is under severe strain and viewed Chinese-led alternatives as more inclusive, noting their role in strengthening regional and international institutions and revitalizing multilateral diplomacy.

Professor Zafar Nawaz Jaspal, Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Quaid-i-Azam University, expressed concern over intensifying strategic and great-power competition, warning that its impact is increasingly spilling over into middle powers. Against this backdrop, he highlighted the significance of China’s initiatives in promoting peaceful dialogue and multilateral cooperation.

Presenting a Chinese perspective, Professor Qian Feng, Director of the Research Department at the National Strategy Institute, Tsinghua University, stated that China’s approach seeks to accommodate diverse viewpoints and promote equity-based global governance frameworks. He emphasized that China’s position on multilateral institutions is grounded in the principles of universal security, inclusivity, and building a shared future for mankind, in contrast to unilateralism and protectionism.

Addressing multilateralism from the standpoint of the Global South, Dr. Manzoor Khan Afridi, Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the International Islamic University, Islamabad, noted that platforms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and China’s development initiatives demonstrate a cooperative approach to international relations. He asserted that the Global South has benefited significantly from these initiatives, contributing to sustainable and long-term development.

Similarly, Dr. Noor Fatima, Associate Professor and Chairperson of the Department of Politics and International Relations at the International Islamic University, Islamabad, emphasized that China’s initiatives prioritize human security and development rather than ideological or geographical considerations. She highlighted the people-centric and inclusive nature of these initiatives, noting that they lend legitimacy to China’s advocacy for multilateralism and reforms in global governance amid shifting power dynamics. She further observed that China’s approach is pluralistic and outcome-oriented, promoting participation, capacity building, and tangible results.

Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director of the China–Pakistan Study Centre at the Institute of Strategic Studies, Islamabad, described China’s inclusive governance model and its four major global initiatives — the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), and Global Governance Initiative (GGI) — as deeply rooted in the principles of multilateralism. He argued that the erosion of trust due to veto politics and selective engagement necessitates the reinvention of mediation mechanisms that are inclusive and preventive rather than reactive, stressing that mediation is a collective responsibility.

Concluding the seminar, Mr. Wang Shengjie, Counsellor at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Islamabad, outlined China’s comprehensive and viable alternative to unilateralism. He noted that violations of sovereignty and exceptionalism are among the most alarming realities of today’s world. In an era marked by “my interest first” approaches, he stated that China envisions a world based on shared interests. He explained that China’s multilateralism rests on the principles of sovereign equality, openness and inclusiveness, opposition to cliques and exceptionalism, and a focus on tangible outcomes, all of which complement the UN-based international order. Highlighting Pakistan–China relations as an example of mutual trust and shared well-being, he concluded by noting that multilateralism is a collective journey grounded in equity, shared responsibility, and cooperation — and that as a middle power, Pakistan offers a constructive middle path.

PESHAWAR, Jan 25 (APP): A fresh spell of snowfall transformed the lakes of Malakand and Hazara divisions into glittering winter wonderlands, drawing a surge of tourists who braved the cold to soak in nature’s icy splendor over the weekend.

From the legendary Saiful Malook Lake in Kaghan Valley to Ansu and Dudipath lakes in Upper Kaghan and famed Mahudhand lake in Upper Kalam, snow-covered shores, frozen trails and mist-wrapped peaks created postcard-perfect scenes that left visitors spellbound.

The dramatic hide-and-seek between the winter sun and drifting clouds above the towering Malika Parbat added to the magic at Saiful Malook, where the oval-shaped lake lay cloaked in snow, its crystal greenish-blue waters shimmering beneath a pale winter glow. The spectacle struck both eyes and hearts, offering tourists a rare blend of thrill, peace and quiet ecstasy.

Renowned for its folklore and fairy tales, Saiful Malook continues to transport visitors into a dreamlike realm. Spread over 1.06 square miles, with a depth of 113 feet and located at an altitude of 3,224 meters above sea level, the lake rewards travelers who endure the long and tiring journey from the plains with unmatched serenity and natural grandeur.

Named after the Persian prince Saiful Malook, the lake is fed by icy waterfalls cascading from the glaciers of Malika Parbat to its northeast. These frozen waters leave a lasting imprint on the souls of the hundreds of thousands of tourists and nature lovers who visit every year.

The romance of the lake is immortalized in the famous work “Saiful Malook” by renowned poet and historian Mian Muhammad Bakhsh, who narrated the legendary love story of Prince Saiful Malook and fairy princess Badri-ul-Jamala, believed to have blossomed during the prince’s visit to the lake.

“I have visited many lakes across Pakistan, but the gripping beauty, unique oval shape and clean greenish-blue water of Saiful Malook impressed me the most,” said Gulzar Rehman, a retired conservator of forest from Dir district, while speaking to APP.

Calling Saiful Malook his ideal tourist destination, he cited its folklore, breathtaking scenery and relatively better road connectivity. “This is my second visit. Families can easily come here, relax in its peaceful environment and then explore nearby lakes such as Ansu and Dudipatsar lake through jeep rides and horse trekking, which add to the fun and excitement,” he added.

Beyond Saiful Malook, the region boasts a treasure trove of alpine lakes that captivate adventure seekers. These include the tear-shaped Ansu lake, considered among the highest in the Himalayan region at 4,126 meters, Payala lake (2,895 meters), Pyala Lake (3,410 meters), Siri Lake (2,590 meters), Dudipatsar lake (3,800 meters) and Dudibach Star lake, each offering its own brand of wilderness and wonder.

“Saiful Malook is the identity of Pakistan,” Rehman said, expressing concern over garbage and polythene bags scattered by visitors. “It is the collective responsibility of the Kaghan Development Authority, Wildlife Department and district administration to keep these lakes clean and pollution-free.”

Citing international practices, he stressed the need to restrict vehicle access near lake premises and develop parking areas at a distance to protect fragile ecosystems from plastic pollution.

Meanwhile, Muhammad Ali Syed, General Manager of the KP Culture and Tourism Authority, told APP that Pakistan is home to numerous natural and man-made lakes, including Manchar Lake in Sindh, South Asia’s largest, as well as Paristan Lake in Skardu and Shimshal lake in Hunza, both located at elevations exceeding 4,200 meters, which attract large numbers of domestic tourists.

He said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa alone hosts around 100 small and large lakes, including Karambar Lake, the world’s 33rd highest natural lake, accessible through the scenic Broghal Valley in Chitral.

Syed described Swat as a future tourism capital due to its snow-clad peaks, rivers, waterfalls, trout fish and expanding road infrastructure. He highlighted Mahudhand lake in Ushu Valley, Kalam, famous for brown and rainbow trout, camping facilities and serene surroundings, along with Spin Khwar and Kundal lakes.

Other notable destinations include Khanpur lake in Haripur for water sports and paragliding, Tanda Dam Lake in Kohat for ecotourism and Tarbela Lake for adventure activities. Several small dam lakes—Tanda, Jalozai, Kundal, Chatri and Jangza—have been selected for development as recreational sites.

He said snow blanked Mahudhand lake would be developed into a model ecotourism resort, with a mega project planned to build walking tracks, wooden boats, huts, parking areas and camping pods. Small and medium lakes in its vicinity will be interconnected through arch bridges to enhance the area’s natural appeal.

The KP government is also developing four Integrated Tourism Zones at Mankiyal, Thandiani, Ganool and Madaklasht with World Bank assistance of USD 70 million, alongside new road links to Swat and Hazara motorways. Additionally, jeepable tracks across 16 districts and new camping facilities aim to make these scenic lakes accessible year-round.
Salahuddin Khan, Divisional Wildlife Officer, said Saiful Malook lake, spread over 12,026 acres, has been declared a national park under the 1975 Preservation Act.

A project has been approved to construct a parking complex, entry gate, wildlife offices and acquire cleaning machinery to preserve its alpine ecosystem.

Under the national.Protected Areas Initiative, KP has become the first province to offer structured national park services, ensuring long-term protection of wildlife habitats while allowing people to responsibly enjoy nature’s winter marvels.

ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (APP): Director General (DG) Punjab Public Libraries Kashif Manzoor on Sunday disclosed that, under the Punjab Chief Minister Mohtarma Maryum Nawaz Sharif’s vision to embrace the digital era, the province will feature e-libraries, children’s sections, digital preservation of historical texts, and dedicated Jinnah and Iqbal corners.
In an exclusive talk with PTV News, DG said the initiative will digitize significant historical works, establish dedicated corners for Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal, and encourage reading among young people to modernize the system while safeguarding Punjab’s rich heritage.
He stated that the library network will include 500 digital libraries across Punjab, aiming to bring modern learning resources closer to communities and strengthen access to knowledge in the digital era.
He added that children’s libraries are being actively promoted under the chief minister’s initiative, with expansion supported through collaborations with private organizations and volunteers.
Teams fluent in local languages will visit schools to conduct storytelling sessions, fostering a love for reading among students in today’s digital age, he added.
He said that all data, from English, Punjabi, Urdu and other languages, will be preserved online, creating a vast digital archive of the nation’s knowledge and heritage.
He added that over the next three years, this historical material will be fully transferred online, giving every citizen in the country unprecedented access to the country’s literary and cultural treasures.
Talking about accessibility, he said work is underway to introduce Braille resources in libraries. Two libraries have already been inaugurated, and they will feature storytelling sessions on big screens to engage children.
He added that from January to March, book exhibitions and special events will be organized for children with disabilities to encourage reading and make learning more interactive and enjoyable.
Responding to a query, DG said that while a lot has been accomplished, more work is needed, and the government, private sector, and volunteers must join hands to strengthen the reading habit and fully embrace the opportunities of the digital era.
Libraries, he added, should become centers of knowledge, learning, and inspiration for all.
He added that dedicated corners for Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal will be created across Punjab’s libraries, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire generations, while digital resources and modern initiatives transform the libraries into lively hubs of culture, education, and reading.

ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (APP): Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON and President Pakistan Muslim League (N) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Engr Amir Muqam, has commended the Pakistan Navy for its successful rescue operation in the open sea.
Amir Muqam appreciated the Pakistan Navy’s remarkable achievement in conducting a successful rescue operation nearly 1,500 kms off the coast of Gwadar, said a statement issued here Sunday.
The minister paid tribute to the professionalism and swift response of Pakistan Navy ships PNS Moawin and PNS Tabuk.
Amir Muqam said that the exceptional professionalism, discipline and dedication demonstrated by the officers and personnel of the Pakistan Navy were truly commendable.