Epaper_23-10-2 ISB

B a lo c h i s Ta n d e c l a r e s ‘ a l l - o u T

wa r ’ a g a i n s T T e r

TW O days after the deadly Mastung suicide bombing that claimed 60 lives Caretaker Balochistan Information Minister Jan Achakzai on Sunday said enough is enough and declared an all-out war”, reiterating the resolve the state would defend each and every inch of its territory with “an iron fist ”

Addressing a press conference here Jan Achakzai asserted that terrorist incidents were occurring in all of the country daily and it has a set pattern”, questioning why such attacks were only happening in Pakistan and not other regional countries

This means there is a mastermind behind it who is systematically destabilising us Enough is enough

Now there will be no appeasement or concession we declare all-out war on these terrorists ”

During a press conference in Quetta on Sunday Jan Achakzai was asked about any grand operation in the wake of terrorist attacks in the province The minister said he could not comment on that but reassured that the state would defend each and every inch of its territory and carry out intelligence-based operations if needed

On the other hand the death toll from the Mastung suicide blast rose to 60 on Sunday with four victims are still said to be in a critical condition

It has been reported that 18 victims are still admitted to Combined Military Hospital (CMH) and three others are getting treatment at Civil Hospital

The Quetta s Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) registered a first information report (FIR) of the case A powerful suicide blast had rocked Balochistan s Mastung district on Friday

On Friday, a suicide bomber ripped through a procession celebrating the birth of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) on 12 Rabiul Awwal in Mastung killing a police officer religious leaders and children among dozens with the death toll at 59 No militant group, however, has claimed responsibility for the bombing, prompting claims from the government that the Indian intelligence agency RAW was involved

The banned TTP in fact distanced itself from the carnage in a statement and the Counter-Terrorism Department registered a case against unidentified persons

A day earlier Chief of Army

Staff General Asim Munir had said terrorists and facilitators behind the attacks on 12th Rabiul Awwal were proxies of the enemies of Pakistan and its people

He further said: Pakistan s resolve is very important It (Mastung incident) is such a case where we won’t say that we will go after [only terrorist] operatives and foot soldiers

We will go after their masterminds the lynchpins managing all these proxies and will ensure that we will go wherever they are holed up, drag them out and take revenge for each and every martyr ”

He said the state’s resolve to combat terrorism was strengthened by 1000 per cent after the Mastung carnage, adding that the state was ready to go to any extent required “If there is a need to do operations in

i

every inch of territory then we will do them ” Achakzai said

“If there are links [to terrorism] in Pakistan with our neighbouring country and it seems [that way because] we have clear evidence of Indian state terrorism in Balochistan in the recent past “If these links are found there [in Balochistan] today as well then we will make sure that our enemies are cut by thousands

The information minister also said the families of the martyrs would be provided financial aid and not left disappointed Detailing the financial package for the victims Achakzai said every martyr’s family would be given Rs1 5 million Rs0 5m would be distributed to the critically injured and Rs0 2m to the nominally injured by the provincial government

Department (CTD) managed to thwart an attack led by 12 to 15 terrorists during which Head Constable Haroon Khan was martyred

Two terrorists were killed and a police constable embraced martyrdom during a more than four-hour-long operation after a group of terrorists attacked the Punjab Highway Patrolling Police (PHP) Post in Mianwali Punjab police chief Usman Anwar said in a statement

The personnel of Kundal Punjab Highway Patrolling Post, assisted by the Counter-Terrorism Department thwarted, in a daring operation the attack by 12 to 15 terrorists last night at approximately 23:45 hours it stated

A third terrorist sustained severe wounds and was caught in injured condition According to a Punjab Police spokesman, a group of more than 10 terrorists attacked PHP’s Kundal patrolling post in Eisa Khel Mainwali in the wee hours of Sunday

The attack ensued a gun battle that lasted more than four hours and PHP officials repulsed the attack, foiling the terrorists attempt to enter the patrolling post’s building

The firing left two suspects dead and PHP head constable Haroon Khan martyred Khan suffered bullet wound in his eye

The spokesman further said the gun battle ensued for about four hours and PHP officials repulsed the attack

According to a statement issued by law enforcement authorities, the Punjab Counter-Terrorism

“Multiple suspected terrorists were injured and at least two were killed in the operation which started at around 11 45pm on Saturday night and concluded at around 7 45am on Sunday morning”, the statement said

‘Terrorists identified’

The CTD identified one of the deceased terrorists as: Zubair Nawaz brother of Arshad Nawaz the ameer of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan s (TTP) Tipu Group of Lakki Marwat

The identification process was completed with the aid of CTD’s database and local intelligence Zubair Nawaz was a high-priority suspect who was on the mostwanted lists in both Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) provinces due to his involvement in the killings of police officers and Shia community members besides dacoities and extortion activities according to law enforcement authorities Meanwhile, the second deceased suspected terrorist was identified as a “dedicated member of the group who proved to be even more dangerous than Zubair ” read the statement

His identification was carried out through exhaustive efforts, including assistance from NADRA, various intelligence agencies and advanced software used by the CTD

Two ter rorists killed, cop mar tyred in attack on Mianwali patrolling post

UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS CALL ON HEC TO ADDRESS

KEY ISSUES FACING TENURE TRACK TEACHERS

ISLAMABAD

G h u l a M a b b a S

TH E All Pakistan Tenure Track Association (APTTA) convened a crucial meeting in Islamabad, where they issued a stern call to the Chairman Higher Education Commission (HEC) to address the pressing challenges encountered by Tenure Track Teachers (TTS) across the country

As per details in the spirited gathering, APTTA members highlighted several critical issues plaguing the TTS community Biggest among the issues were the prolonged stagnation of salaries perceived discriminatory treatment in the proposed Version 3 of the Tenure Track System (TTS), and concerns regarding the discrim-

Multinational special forces drill ‘Eternal Brotherhood-II’ concludes

RAWALPINDI

S ta f f R e p o R t

inatory publication policy of the Higher Education Journal Ranking System (HJRS) concerning TTS members

Te n u r e Tr a c k Te a c h e r s w h o p l a y a pivotal role in Pakistan s higher education system voiced their frustration over the absence of any salary increase in the past two years This financial stagnation

has placed a significant burden on TTS

m e m b e r s i m p a c t i n g t h e i r m o r a l e a n d motivation APTTA expressed deep reservations about certain provisions within the proposed Version 3 of the TTS, which they believe might undermine the rights and benefits of TTS members The association called for a thorough review of these provisions to ensure fairness and equity

The discriminatory publication policy of the Higher Education Journal Ranking System (HJRS) with regard to Tenure Track Teachers was another point of contention APTTA argued that this policy has hindered the recognition and professional growth of TTS members APTTA representing the collective voice of Tenure Track Teachers categori-

Pakistan’s first female astronaut arrives in US for space travel

cally rejected any form of discrimination in the proposed TTS Version 3 and the publication policy of HJRS They warned the Chairman of HEC to take immediate steps to address these concerns In a clear message, APTTA stated that should the HEC fail to resolve these issues promptly, they would not hesitate to resort to various forms of peaceful protest including sit-ins and legal actions to secure justice for their members To reinforce their demands and concerns, APTTA penned a robust letter addressing the Chairman of HEC and relevant authorities This letter underscored the urgency of addressing the issues raised in the meeting and called for swift action to alleviate the grievances of Tenure Track Teachers

Faith leaders come together against extremism, terrorism at Seerat Conference

LAHORE S ta f f R e p o R t

A two-week multinational exercise involving special forces from Pakistan Turkiye Kazakhstan Qatar and Uzbekistan concluded in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa on Sunday, the military said in a statement The InterServices Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing said the “Eternal Brotherhood-II” exercise began on September 17 in Brotha Corps Commander

11 Corps attended the closing ceremony as chief guest along with Director General Military Training and General Officer Commanding Special Service Group Besides the exercising troops, the statement added that officers from the friendly countries also witnessed the closing ceremony Special forces of participating countries displayed their professional excellence on the final day The exercise was aimed at further harnessing the historic military-to-military relations amongst brotherly countries and helped nurture joint employment concepts against counter terrorism besides; identifying areas of mutual interest for future military collaborations

R a d i o P a k i s t a n c e l e b r a t e s S i l v e r

F M - 1 0 1 c h a n n e l

ISLAMABAD

S ta f f R e p o R t

The Radio Pakistan on Sunday celebrated the Silver Jubilee of FM-101 channel The FM101 was simultaneously launched from Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi on this day in 1998 Being the pioneer in the FM industry, the prime focus of this channel was to provide an effective platform to the youth where they can improve their communication skills and generate revenue for Radio Pakistan

With the blessing of Allah Almighty FM-101 has been successful in providing its platform to youngsters, who are now excelling in the mainstream media industry as well After 25 years its transmissions have been expanded from three to 20 stations with a relaying station at Kallar Kahaar Being the largest FM network in Pakistan this channel provides coverage to 70 percent area of the country

Besides, transmissions of FM-101 are accessed abroad through web streaming with a massive following Comments and appreciation on social media about the presentation and content of FM-101 programmes prove that its transmissions are not only appreciated in the entire world but also receive commendation from the neighbouring country It is pertinent to mention that FM-101 gives special focus to programmes pertaining to children women youth sports senior citizens religion health business technology climate change and music Providing career counselling to youth and encouraging budding artists in the realm of music is another hallmark of FM-101 programmes

The leaders from diverse religious backgrounds and schools of thought on Sunday convened at the Seerat Rahmatul-lil-Alameen Conference and denounced the pervasive threats of terrorism and extremism plaguing Pakistan

The conference organized by the Pakistan Ulema Council here at the Al Hamra Hall was attended by over 500 scholars religious leaders political figures, and representatives from all walks of life in a powerful display of unity

The event was chaired by PUC Chairman and International Interfaith Harmony Council President Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi

They particularly highlighted the tragic events in Mastung and Hangu on Friday, 12th Rabiul Awwal, and expressed their unified stance that terrorists aimed to sow chaos and harm innocent lives

They alleged that these criminal networks received support from anti-Pakistan forces and India

The religious and political leaders pledged unwavering support to Pakistan in its fight against terrorism, extremism, and sectarian violence They emphasized the need to thwart inter-religious conflicts and plots of violence and offered their full cooperation in achieving these goals Addressing a critical issue within Pakistan, the leaders stressed the importance of referring to non-Muslim Pakistanis as such, rather than using the term ‘minority’

They underscored the state s responsibility to safeguard the lives property dignity and honor of non-Muslim citizens and their places of worship To ensure regional stability and peace, the leaders called for strengthened relations between the Afghan interim government and Pakistan

They emphasized that both countries should collaborate to eradicate terrorism and prevent its resurgence They firmly believed that peace in Afghanistan was intertwined with the peace of Pakistan

The leaders presented evidence of Indian involvement in acts of terrorism not only in Pakistan but also in C a n a d a a n d o t h e r c o u n t r i e s T h e y called upon the international community to take an action against India to

ISLAMABAD S ta f f R e p o R t

Pakistan s first female astronaut, Namira Salim, has reached the United States for her space journey from the Virgin Galactic commercial space liner Namira Salim who had hoisted Pakistan’s flag at the North Pole in 2007 will begin her celestial expedition on October 5 Ms Salim arrived in Dallas, Texas from Karachi On this occasion, she said, I am very grateful that my country has supported me a lot I will take the flag of Pakistan into space with great pride ” Dubai-based lady is first Pakistani astronaut who hoisted the Pakistani flag at the North Pole in 2007 and South Pole in 2008 At the end of June this year, Virgin Galactic succeeded in taking the first commercial flight to space but this flight carried experts from Italy instead of ordinary tourists In August and September the company launched the first space flight for tourists into space This time Ms Salim will be part of the mission and she will have her seat in the cabin of the company s VSS Unity spacecraft She is also among 100 people who purchased tickets of this American company for the space tourism She had bought the ticket for this trip in 2006 and now she is getting a chance to visit space

PHA begins work to give The Mall a facelift ahead of winter

LAHORE S ta f f R e p o R t

address this issue In a joint declarat i o n o f t h e c o n f e r e n c e t h e r e l i g i o u s and political leaders presented several significant resolutions and demands T h e y f u l l y s u p p o r t e d t h e P a k i s t a n Army security agencies and government initiatives to ensure the security and stability of Pakistan

T h e y d e c r i e d r e c e n t i n c i d e n t s a s part of a conspiracy to revive the war o n t e r r o r a n d c a l l e d f o r u n i t y i n o pposing such acts The leaders emphasized that the Constitution of Pakistan protected the rights of followers of all religions and sects T h e y c a l l e d f o r u s i n g t h e t e r m n o n - M u s l i m P a k i s t a n i s f o r n o nMuslims and urged the government to resolve issues related to non-Muslim p l a c e s o f w o r s h i p T h e y u rg e d t h e government to sit down with the Qad i a n i g r o u p a n d d e c i d e t h e d e s i g n with reference to their places of worship and register their places of worship like other religions The leaders announced plans for joint gatherings across the country against terrorism extremism and intolerance in Karachi Quetta Peshawar and Islamabad during October They declared suicide attacks the killing of innocents, and armed struggle against the state as Haram (forbidden) and affirmed the state’s right to take an action against those involved They condemned the Khawarij a group responsible for re-

cent attacks in various parts of Pakistan for their disregard for Islamic teachings and human life They expressed the nation s unified stance against such groups

They expressed solidarity with oppressed Palestinians and Kashmiris urging global support for their rights and resolutions of their issues The leaders commended efforts to combat hoarding and reduce the value of the dollar in Pakistan

They called for intensified crackdowns against electricity gas thieves hoarders and corrupt individuals

They supported Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa s efforts to improve the justice system

They urged swift trials in cases related to blasphemy and other matters

The leaders condemned the suicide attack in Ankara Turkey expressing full cooperation and solidarity with the Turkish people They strongly condemned the desecration of the Holy Quran in Sweden, Denmark, and other places They called on the European Union and the United Nations to take an action against such acts and advocated for global legislation to protect religious sanctities The Seerat Rahmatul-lil-Alameen Conference highlighted the unity of Pakistan’s diverse religious and political leaders in their commitment to combatting extremism promoting peace and safeguarding the rights of all citizens

FIA offloads eight ‘ beggars ’ from S audi Arabia-bound flight at Multan airpor t

The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) Lahore has begun work to refurbish The Mall, one of the principal roads in the provincial capital, ahead of the winter season, a spokesperson said Sunday As part of the renovation campaign PHA has installed grass on a six-kilometer-long and 30-feet-wide stretch from Faisal Chowk to the Mian Mir Bridge according to the spokesperson We are also in the process of planting new trees and colorful flower beds to liven up the street,” he said He also emphasised the importance of preparing winter flower beds as a measure to combat smog by reducing dirt concentrations in the air The makeover of The Mall was ordered by the authority s director general Muhammad Tahir Wattoo to improve the quality of the streetscape and green areas along one of Lahore’s oldest roads Under the project PHA will also install new Multani tilestyle planters from Club Chowk to Anarkali Bazaar Chowk the spokesperson added PHA is also actively working to open Lahore s largest government-owned commercial nursery at Gulberg Main Boulevard Spanning more than four acres, the facility will house a wide array of seedlings, saplings, trees, shrubs and other plant materials It will also cater to various needs including home decor office landscaping and agricultural purposes the spokesperson said Plants grown and nurtured at this nursery will be offered to both government organisations and the general public,” the spokesperson said Furthermore, the staff will guide customers on repurposing household items for plant cultivation Through this initiative PHA aims to cut horticulture procurement expenses which make up a substantial portion of its development budget PHA aims to make this nursery Punjab s best in a period of three years,” concluded the spokesperson MULTAN

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) claimed to have offloaded eight alleged beggars travelling to Saudi Arabia under the garb of Umrah pilgrims at Multan airport

According to a statement issued by FIA, during immigration it transpired that the group was travelling to Saudi Arabia for the purpose of begging

The agency said the group handed over

an amount of Rs185,000 to a man namely Mr Javed, who got their visas processed “They said they would beg there and half of the begged amount would be handed over to the sub-agent ” the FIA statement said adding that statements of the group along with their passports were seized and the said passengers were sent to FIA s Anti Human Trafficking and Smuggling Wing in Multan for further legal action

“A case is being registered against the culprits under Trafficking in Persons Act

Blindness in the time of pinkeye

a number of other organs

ON E of the biggest problems with the theory of evolution is the eye, and the one most often quoted by creationists The problem is this: if any one part of the eye is abstracted then the whole is rendered useless So how did the parts evolve? Like the retina, or the cornea or the lens? The basis of the theory of the theory advantage is supposed to be the survival of the fittest: the fittest organism survives to breed and pass on the characteristic that has been produced by some random mutation But what is the advantage of a retina but no cornea, or an iris without a lens?

Creationists argue that the eye had to develop in the organism whole and that could happen only if the eye (and thus whole organism) had been created consciously by design in short by the Almighty Creationism has got a bad press generally, but apart from the eye, it has got similar queries about

But let s stick with eyes One of the worrisome factors about diabetes is that one of the things that happen is that one can go blind, because it can cause retinopathy, or death of the retinal cells Yeah, sure, you may need to have limbs amputated because gangrene sets in but blindness is one very good reason to keep your sugar under control

Medicines have been developed to stop this, but the problem is that they can t be taken in the form of a sugar-coated pill, but have to be injected Not a shot in the arm or a jab in the bum but injected right in the eye

Of late such injections have been making patients go blind It s a cruel irony

These are not young patients They ve been used to being sighted all their lives They ve depended on their eyes literally since before they can remember, ever since they were born They’ve become scared at the idea of losing their sight so scared that they’ve overcome the very natural fear of having someone poke a needle in their eyes And for that injection to make them blind They have been diagnosed as suffering from endophthalmitis, which means either the place

where the injection was administered was dirty or the medicine itself was contaminated With cases widely separated it couldn t be the hospitals, so it must have been the medicine itself, which is imported, and then distributed by a single company Two distributors have been arrested but that won t restore anyone s vision

Something that doesn t normally cause blindness even if it affects the eyes is pinkeye, of which there has been an epidemic lately, so virulent that they have closed the schools in the hope that this will break the chain of infection It’s a disease that begins as an irritation in the eyes and the best way of dealing with that is to resist the temptation to rub one s eyes Forbidding a child to do that is probably the surest way of ensuring that he or she does do so That s how the infection spreads From eye to hand to

2018, the FIA added

The agency has launched a crackdown against alleged beggars travelling abroad

Two days ago, FIA offloaded 16 alleged beggars in the disguise of Umrah pilgrims from a KSA-bound flight at the same airport

The group comprised of 16 persons including a child, 11 women and four men They had revealed that they would have to give half of their earnings from begging to the agents involved in their travel arrangements

The arrests came after the Ministry of

Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development disclosed to the Senate Committee on Overseas Pakistanis that a significant proportion of beggars were trafficked abroad through illegal channels

The ministry s secretary revealed to the Senate panel that a staggering 90 per cent of beggars apprehended in foreign countries belong to Pakistan

“Both the Iraqi and Saudi ambassadors have reported overcrowded jails due to these arrests ” he had said

Meanwhile

Farid Maneka

a lot of criticism on his ex-wife, Bushra Bibi, who is Imran s wife these days Some are wondering at how both of those who have been her husbands are in jail There is clearly some next-level stuff going on that I don t want to get into

FIA reGIsters FIr AGAInst PAkIstAnI BusInessmen

For deFrAudInG ChInese Investor

Pakistani law

G

OGDCL in 2015 To facilitate the project, Li, along with his Pakistani partners, established M/s NASYS International Co (Pvt ) Limited, with Li holding 45% shares and Naveed and Rehan at 45% and 10% respectively

T

400 Afghans taken into custody during joint operation in Capital

ISLAMABAD

S ta f f R e p o R t

As many as 400 Afghan nationals were taken into custody during joint operation of the counter-terrorism department (CTD) and intelligence agencies in different areas of the federal capital on Sunday According to the CTD officials, the LEAs conducted joint operation against Afghan nationals in Bhara Kahu, Tarnol, Mehr Abadian, Golra, Shams Colony and other areas of Islamabad During operation, 800 Afghan nationals were held but 400 were set free after they provided proofs of their residence Of the under custody Afghan nationals 375 did not have documents with them while 25 others will remained in custody till verification of their documents The CTD officials said that before launching operation, lists of the Afghan citizens, having a criminal background had been compiled Several criminals were also arrested during the operation they said adding such operations would continue in future also

Germany announces €2mn aid for Pakistan

KARACHI

S ta f f R e p o R t

German Consul General in Karachi Dr Rudiger Lotz said that Germany will provide €2 million in aid to Pakistan till 2027 under the World Food Program German Consul General in Karachi Dr Rudiger Lotz was addressing a book launch event organised by GermanPakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GPCCI) here in Karachi The book launch event titled, “Landmarks of Pakistan” contained pen and ink drawings of historical places of Pakistan by a German Painter Ms Ute Elpers German Consul General in Karachi Dr Rudiger Lotz said Tonight it is an event where we do not talk [about] politics or business but about culture The book has landmarks covering the country, all four provinces of Pakistan We have in the book the Faisal Mosque in Islamabad and the Quaid-i-Azam Mausoleum in Karachi and so on What I found particularly charming is the old who loved this country its people and culture and started to take her ink and pen to draw these buildings and the love of the country which she had never seen Speaking at the event caretaker Tourism Minister Arshad Wali Mohammad said “Today we have gathered to celebrate a remarkable fusion of art culture and international cooperation exemplified by this coffee table book, an initiative of the German Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) This project underscores the enduring ties between Germany and Pakistan highlighting cultural exchange and fostering

mutual understanding

W H O WA S U T E E L P E R S? Ute Elpers (1935-2019) was a highly gifted artist trained as a porcelain and ceramic painter who worked as a technical drawer in road and bridge construction She also learned the art of using special ink pens In 2003 Ute became a member of the Humanity Care Foundation based in Muenster Germany She was encouraged by Col Folker Flasse (retd) President of Humanity Care Foundation, a charitable organization registered in Germany and Pakistan, to support its humanitarian work in Pakistan In 2005 Ute started her pen and ink drawings of historic buildings monuments mausoleums shrines and landscapes She portrayed through her pen and ink drawings the rich and diverse architectural and cultural heritage of Pakistan

Patras Bukhari remembered on 124th bir th anniversar y

ISLAMABAD: Renowned humorist, educationist man of letters diplomat and writer Patras Bukhari was remembered on his 124th birth anniversary on Sunday Patras

is

The Chinese Embassy

A N P l e a d e r s h o t d e a d i n Swa b i

SWABI S ta f f R e p o R t

A member of Awami National Party

(ANP) provincial council was shot dead by two unidentified motorcyclists here

Javed Khan 55 was the eldest son of Sher Hassan a retired police officer and a member of Khan Abdul Ghaffar

Khan s Caravan DSP Jawad Khan said that preliminary investigation made clear that the ANP leader was shot at from a very close range by the assailants They moved close to him and opened firing on him he added Abbas Khan, a son of the deceased, told police that he was buying essential commodities for home in Swabi city when he received the bad news He said that his father was lying dead near Swabi graveyard in Qasimkhel area

He said that he was told by locals

that two unidentified motorcyclists suddenly appeared and opening fire on him with a pistol, killing him on the spot

The attackers managed to escape ANP district general secretary Nawabzada when contacted said that

no appeasement or concession:

it was not clear whether it was an incident of terrorism or enmity

However DSP Jawad claimed that it was not an incident of terrorism and it seemed that he was targeted by his relatives with whom his family was having a blood feud The deceased was buried at his ancestral graveyard His funeral was attended by ANP leaders and people belonging to all walks of life

Meanwhile a mentally retarded man was allegedly shot dead by his father in a fit of rage in Kalu Banda area of Yar Hussain on Saturday The mother of the deceased told police that her 24year-old son Abu Zar was mentally ill and used to abuse other members of the family He often became violent and was out of control, she said She said that on Saturday, he started abusing family members that infuriated her husband Saeed Khan, who opened firing on him He was killed on the spot

Two terrorists killed, cop mar tyred in attack on Mianwali patrolling post

AV

O F L E A S’ Punjab Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr Usman Anwar visited the patrolling post and met the personnel of patrolling police He showered praise on the jawans for their courage and bravery Speaking on the occasion the IGP said the operation was a testament to the unwavering commitment and bravery of our security forces and reaffirms our collective determination to ensure the safety and security of our citizens”

“We remain resolute in our fight against terrorism Such acts of terror will not deter our pursuit of peace and justice he added Dr Usman Anwar said the killed suspects had been involved in terror activities across the country, adding that hunt had been launched to trace the runaway suspects

He said Punjab police along other security forces were fighting the terrorists adding CTD has so far conducted 130 intelligence-based operations The Punjab police were put on high alert to protect life and property of the masses the Punjab IG said

C O N D E M N AT I O N S: Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi in a statement, commended the provincial

police force for foiling the impure intentions of terrorists Haroon, the martyred officer, is a national hero,” he said, vowing to provide all the possible assistance to the slain cop s family

Former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack in a post on social media platform X He paid tribute to the martyred officer and extended condolences with his family “In the war against terrorism Punjab Police is playing the role of vanguard whose officers and men have foiled several terrorist attacks by risking their lives salute your bravery and commitment, he said Interim Interior Minister Safaraz Bugti also strongly condemned the attack asserting that the “cowardly acts” of terrorists could not weaken the morale of the security forces Enemies of the country are trying to sabotage peace and development in Pakistan, the sacrifices of police and law enforcement agencies in the war against terrorism are unforgettable ” he added

S P I K E I N T E R R O R AT TA C K S: Sunday s attack comes a day after a suicide attack rocked Balochistan, claiming the lives of 60 people

On Friday, a suicide bomber ripped through a procession celebrating the birth of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) on 12

Balochistan declares ‘all-out war’ against terrorists: Achakzai

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

Rabiul Awwal in Mastung a town about 60km southeast of the provincial capital, killing a police officer, religious leaders, and children among dozens

No militant group has come forward to claim responsibility for the bombing prompting claims from the government that the Indian intelligence agency RAW, was involved The same day, at least five people were killed in twin bombing at a mosque inside a police station in KP’s Hangu

Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities in recent months especially in KP after the Tehreek-i-Taliban

Pakistan (TTP) ended its ceasefire with the government in November last year

Earlier this month, data compiled by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) said the number of militant attacks in August was the highest tally for monthly strikes in almost nine years There were 99 attacks across the country, the highest number in a single month since November 2014, the report had said

A day earlier Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Asim Munir had asserted that the law enforcement agencies won t rest until the menace of terrorist was rooted out from the country These terrorists and their facilitators, having no link to religion and ideology, are proxies of the enemies of Pakistan and its people ” the army chief had said in a statement

He said the Balochistan government was also in talks with the Centre to improve the package The interim minister also said that security protocols were being revisited in the wake of the incident and any loopholes would be plugged to ensure no security lapse occurs There is an important Apex Committee meeting scheduled in Islamabad for October 3 in which very critical decisions will be taken with a later provincial apex committee meeting on Oct 10 in which highly decisive decisions and actions will be recommended”, he told the media persons The information minister’s declaration of concerted efforts against militancy and foreign elements comes a day after similar calls from other civil and military leadership Shutter down strike across Balochistan: A shutter down strike was observed on Sunday throughout the province on the call given by the Etihad Ahl-e-Sunnat, Balochistan against the Mastung tragedy All markets and trade centres are closed in Quetta Mastung Ziarat Kalat and other cities and towns of Balochistan Rallies are being taken out to condemn the attack and offer Fateha for the victims Political parties and various business organisations have announced their support for the strike On Saturday, the Ittehad gave call for a shutter down strike across the province on October 1 and demanded that the mastermind of the Mustang tragedy be brought to justice

Country not in position to accommodate any more political par t y: rana tanveer

SHEIKHUPURA: Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N) senior leader and former federal minister Rana Tanveer Hussain has said that the country was not in position to accommodate any more political party as there were already a lot of political parties in the country He expressed these views while talking to media persons in Sharqpur Sharif Sheikhupura on Sunday Rana Tanveer claimed that the only political party which was making efforts to serve the country and masses was the PML-N He further stated that Shahid Khaqan Abbasi should stay in his party which honored him and made him the prime minister He said that the PML-N workers and leaders would extend warm and historic welcome to party supremo Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif upon his return to home S ta f f R e p o R t

Pakistan too vulnerable to water shor tage amid depleting snags

Pakistan has become too vulnerable to the disastrous issue of water shortage due to tree loss resulting in declined rainfall as the Forest Department in the north of the country is rapidly removing snags under the garb of dead infected and dried up trees

Senior biodiversity expert and Chairman Scientific Committee of the Islamabad Widlife Management Board, Prof Dr ZB Mirza told APP on Sunday that the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Forest Department was removing snags from the forests under a false excuse of removing the diseased dead and dried up forest trees (3-Ds)

The fact is that often the tallest trees, such as Silver Fir and Deodar in a forest are killed by lightning of storm clouds

“It is not understandable how can one tallest single tree in a dense forest can suddenly die due to a disease? A dead tree is called a Snag in language of forestry

As a snag stands for years and it rots very slowly by the microbes and insects The dead tree loses its dense canopy of leaves and the dried branches remain The sunlight reaches the ground This gives the opportunity to the seeds of surrounding flora to germinate around it covering the soil, Prof Mirza said Mostly, the moist Temperate forests of the Himalayan slopes have snags

These stand along with live trees to protect the precious top soil of the forest from erosion Heavy rainfall even cloud burst cannot erode the soil for the simple reason that close-pack tree trunks, undergrowth of shrubs, bushes, herbs and densely growing long grasses do not let the rain water flow fast, at least at the floor of the forest to wash down the soil Water

may come down the slopes rushing and gushing but it is above the slow-moving water close to the ground cover

Why call forest topsoil, precious? Simply, because forests cannot grow again on eroded slopes of the mountains Soil can be formed again, with the rubbing and crushing action of nature It may take thousands and millions of years to cover the rocks with soil Try making a tea spoon full of soil by rubbing two stones and then imagine how much time nature might have taken to form billions and trillions of tons of soil on the rocky slopes of mountains

He said topsoil covered with flora is fertile because the dead leaves that form the covering layer function as an insulating layer that retains moisture The moisture favours the growth of Microbes (bacteria and fungi) The moist dead leaves below the dried upper insulating layer, get rotten by the soil microbes which also need solar energy trapped in the biomass of dead leaves

This activity forms the compost for the trees The trees get the nutrients from the

even today S ta f

applicable

compost with the help of mycorrhiza or root fungi The trees cannot live without the help of these microscopic creatures and the microbes cannot live without decomposing the fallen leaves We all know that during timber harvesting, the roots of the trees are also removed as fuelwood Uprooting loosens the forest’s fertile soil which is eroded from the slopes of the mountains during the first rainfall With that, the soil biodiversity is also lost The soil biodiversity includes microbes, macroinvertebrates and vertebrates Not only do these creatures create nutrients from the dead organic matter of the fallen leaves but also their mobility increases the porosity of the soil This enhances the rainwater absorption capacity of that soil The subsoil aquifers are replenished and the springs flow in the valleys, even in the dry season,” Dr Mirza said Woodpeckers make holes in the snags to eat wood borers and to make nests A snag has many such cavities which are occupied by several cavity-nesting birds during breeding season These

holes are also niches of invertebrates small reptiles and small mammals Under the wildlife protection Ordinances and Acts of the provinces it is illegal to destroy the breeding places of wildlife In spring and early summer, the insect infestation of forests takes place The larval stage of insects is harmful to the foliage of the forests

The breeding season of the cavity-nesting birds coincides with insect infestation Insectivorous birds and some grainivorous birds as well, feed their nestlings on insect larvae, which constitute a high protein diet for faster growth of the nestlings and fledglings The stress of the forest is reduced with the reduction of insect larvae which are voracious eaters of soft leaves and buds of the forest flora Therefore the ecological role of the snags is vital for forest health Forests cause rain in the monsoon period Thermal air currents rise along the southern slopes of the mountains As these air currents pass through the forest evaporation from stomata under the leaves produce cool

This cool air when it meets the warm and moist monsoon clouds, the phenomenon of rainfall starts The streams and tributary rivers of Indus flow We grow food crops fruits vegetables cotton livestock and poultry and our entire living system runs for our happy living We should thank woodpeckers for making holes in the snags

The snow lying in a mountain forest melts slowly for the sustainable supply of water to lower ecosystems Its moisture is absorbed by the soil There are many more eco-linkages with many socio-economic benefits Imagine the harm that our nation will suffer for this meager benefit from the sale of snags

COMMENT

Oil price conundrum

The dip in the oil may not be sustainable

AS expected, fuel prices came down, something which members of the caretaker Cabinet had been boasting about as if it was the result of some piece of economic sleight of hand by them, or the result of dome extraordinary virtue that they possessed The dip was made inevitable by the decline in the dollar, rather than in international oil prices, which meant that it was not the result of some fundamental shift, but of an essentially temporary market condition The decline in the dollar is likely to continue for some time, and if oil prices hold steady internationally, that alone will bring about a decline in oil prices, expressed in rupees It is perhaps unfortunate that the outlook for oil prices internationally is upward, especially with the predicted higher heating needs of winter in the Northern Hemisphere

The fuel price is key to inflation at more than one point Most directly, petrol and diesel prices determine transport fares They also add to the cost of production of anything that has to be moved by road or rail However, most crucially, they also decide what happens to the fuel adjustment charges in electricity bills Since the country erupted into protests because of the bills month before last, that component, already sensitive, carries an even greater responsibility It seems against the grain for a caretaker government to care about public opinion, but even though caretakers do not have to contest public opinion, they do want to be torn to pieces by angered mobs, and so do not wish public discontent to rise to too high a pitch

Part of the problem might well be the IMF s insistence on punishing conditions for its loans, but as IMF MD

Kristalina Grigorieva told caretaker PM Anwarul Haq Kakar at their recent meeting, the rich should be taxed, not the poor However, changing the taxation system is not something that caretakers are even mandated to do, even if they were inclined to Only an elected government, and that too with a clear mandate, can carry out such a transformative scheme It is not only a matter of soaking the rich; there are basic structural changes to the economy that must be carried out if the economy is to progress, which can only be carried out by an elected government

Even the present decline in the dollar has been carried out by administrative measures whose effects cannot last The country s fundamental problem is that it imports more than it exports That cannot be fixed by caretakers

Dedicated to the legac y of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late)

Founding Editor

Yousaf Nizami Editor

M A Niazi

Joint Editor Umar Aziz Executive Editor

China’s white paper on global communit y

Dr IMrAN KHALID

In a strategic move the Chinese government unveiled a groundbreaking white paper - a comprehensive blueprint for a global community of shared future In this visionary document entitled “A Global Community of Shared Future: China s Proposals and Actions China defines the way towards a world order characterized by greater harmony and cooperation

Amidst a global landscape undergoing profound transformations, China s articulation of its vision challenges the prevailing hegemonic ambitions of a few select nations The paper underscores the critical necessity to transcend the outdated and counterproductive zero-sum mindset which only serves to undermine global stability China s vision for a global community of shared future offers a refreshing alternative, emphasizing cooperation, mutual benefit, and a commitment to solving the unprecedented challenges confronting humanity By embracing this perspective the world can forge a path towards a more equitable and prosperous future In this pivotal moment in history the world finds itself at a crucial juncture facing the ageold dilemmas of unity versus division, openness versus isolation, and cooperation versus confrontation, as articulated in the white paper ’ It prompts the global leaders to reflect on the essence of the global community of shared future and how nations can collaborate effectively in its construction These questions challenge the collective wisdom of countries worldwide inviting them to seek common ground and shared solutions in order to navigate the complex challenges of our time

Certain nations, regrettably, remain entrenched in a self-defeating pursuit of absolute dominance and monopolistic advantages This approach as elucidated in the white paper not only hinders their own long-term progress but also poses a grave threat to global security and prosperity

A mere decade ago, China articulated its vision for international relations, encapsulated in the concept of a “community of shared future for mankind” or in contemporary terms a “global community of shared future Today we witness the remarkable realization of a world characterized by global cooperation, security, prosperity, and the flourishing of inter-civilizational dialogue In a rather short span, this vision has blossomed into reality

The emergence of multipolar and multilateral global partnerships and organizations such as BRICS the Group of 77 the Shanghai Cooperation

Pakistan’s Juvenile Justice System needs reform

CHANgezI SANDHu

PA K I S TA N S criminal justice system is lagging behind the rest of the world in the protection of the rights of juvenile offenders They were being treated as hardened criminals because of the absence of special laws regarding the separate treatment of juveniles from adult offenders the establishment of juvenile courts for trial separate detention centres or prisons, determination of the age of a juvenile, and special treatment of juveniles for their uplifting till 1999

However the Juvenile Justice System Ordinance 2000 was incorporated into the criminal justice system of Pakistan to bring reforms regarding juvenility following international commitments under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the Nelson Mandela Rules, and the Beijing Rules

The ordinance was full of flaws and contradictory with other laws in divergent aspects that created legal complications Meanwhile the Juvenile Justice System Ordinance 2000 was annulled by the Lahore High Court

Later on, the Juvenile Justice System Act of 2018 was enacted by the federal government for the purpose of overcoming the shortcomings of JJSO 2000 No doubt the new act backed up Pakistan’s criminal justice system with more refined laws regarding juvenility The act also provided special procedures for the arrest investigation, bail, trial, detention, and rehabilitation of juvenile offenders

The major aim of the act was to protect juvenile offenders from the maltreatment and defects of the system However the act is not perfect as it has yet room for improvement and there is a constant challenge of fair implementation of certain laws of the act

According to section 4 of the Juvenile Justice System Act of 2018, the government is supposed to establish separate juvenile courts in each district to ensure separate trials and other court proceedings to avoid the appearance of juveniles in adult courts However only a few districts have juvenile courts These courts have not been set up in all districts of Pakistan This blatant violation is having a bad impact on the psychological health of juveniles

The government with the help of high courts should focus on the establishment of juvenile courts in all districts so that the rights of children could be protected and they could be saved from the terrible and torturous environment of adult courts The separation will also play a role in saving juveniles from interaction with adult criminals and habitual offenders so that they cannot be influenced by adult offenders to become habitual offenders The rights of juveniles are also violated in prisons They are

sexually abused and maltreated in prisons Juvenile prisons lack a comprehensive monitoring mechanism There is also no proper monitoring of juvenile cells Section 20 of the Juvenile Justice System Act of 2018 devises the establishment and certification of observation homes and Juvenile Rehabilitation Centres including separate centres for female juveniles But Juvenile Rehabilitation Centres have not been set up yet throughout the country to ensure the welfare and betterment of juveniles so that they can be guided rightly to be good citizens Separate centres for female juveniles have not been set up yet in all provinces too No doubt the JJS Act of 2018 is a landmark legal instrument in the criminal justice system of Pakistan However, such great efforts are frustrated by the constant challenge of implementation There is always a gap between the-

Organization, and ASEAN, stands as a testament to this transformation China has been playing an active role in supporting and nurturing these entities to carve a new world order founded on the principles of harmonious coexistence among all nations

The vision of a global community of shared future aligns with the course of history and human advancement It offers a fresh paradigm for international relations, innovates global governance concepts fosters international collaboration and sketches a promising blueprint for a more prosperous world as outlined in the white paper

The concept of a global community of shared future is deeply rooted in China s rich cultural heritage and its unique experience of modernization

It represents an evolution of China’s diplomatic traditions, drawing inspiration from the remarkable achievements of various civilizations Furthermore it embodies China s enduring historical customs reflects the spirit of our times and encompasses a wealth of humanistic values The white paper outlines a clear path for building this global community of shared future It emphasizes the importance of advancing a new form of economic globalization where nations must champion openness while vehemently opposing protectionism the erection of trade barriers unilateral sanctions and aggressive maximum-pressure tactics

Such an approach aims to foster economic interconnectivity and jointly cultivate an open global economy, emphasizing collaboration over competition The white paper lays out a comprehensive

In the last decade , China has wholehear tedly devoted its resources and resolve to foster a global community of shared future During this period, the vision of such a community has garnered wider endorsement Countries and individuals increasingly recogniz e that this vision aligns with the collective well-being of humanity

ory and practice in Pakistan Governments formulate laws, but no further encouraging steps are taken for fair implementation of these laws to uphold the rule of law

Federal and provincial governments should play their role in the fair implementation of the JJS Act of 2018 so children s rights can be protected under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) Nelson Mandela Rules and the Beijing Rules Pakistan should also fulfil its international legal obligation regarding the implementation of such laws The judiciary should also play its role in protecting the fundamental rights of children under these laws so that our criminal justice system can provide a constructive environment to juvenile offenders to make them good and productive citizens despite being criminals and habitual offenders

Changezi Sandhu is a Lahore-based practicing lawyer and human rights activist He is a researcher on criminal & Juvenile Justice System of America & Pakistan

The judiciary should also play its role in protecting the fundamental rights of children under these laws so that our criminal justice system can provide a constructive environment to juvenile offenders to make them good and productive citizens despite being criminals and habitual offenders

roadmap that includes embracing a peaceful development strategy nurturing a novel approach to international relations championing authentic multilateralism and advancing the shared values of our global community Over the last decade, China has demonstrated unwavering commitment and concrete actions in contributing to the establishment of a global community of shared future

A telling example of this commitment is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which by July 2023 had garnered support from over three-quarters of nations worldwide and more than 30 international organizations While the BRI originated in China, its benefits are extended to the entire world This initiative prioritizes economic cooperation over geopolitical or military alliances and maintains an open inclusive process that welcomes all without discrimination as highlighted in the white paper

In addition to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) China s Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative have emerged as pivotal pillars for constructing a global community of shared future These initiatives present China’s innovative approaches to addressing the critical issues of peace and development that confront humanity Confronted with persistent hotspots across the globe China has remained dedicated to its role as a responsible major player, actively advocating for the resolution of international and regional flashpoints, including but not limited to the Korean Peninsula Ukraine conflict Palestine the Iranian nuclear question Syria and Afghanistan as outlined in the white paper China does not just talk the talk; it walks the walk by translating its proposals into concrete actions, yielding significant global accomplishments, as evident by recent SaudiIran détente

In the last decade, China has wholeheartedly devoted its resources and resolve to foster a global community of shared future During this period the vision of such a community has garnered wider endorsement Countries and individuals increasingly recognize that this vision aligns with the collective well-being of humanity It echoes the universal desire for peace, justice, and advancement, and promises to harness the combined strength of all nations to construct a superior world as emphasized in the white paper

The writer is a freelance columnist

E d i t o r ’ s m a i l

Send your letters to: Letters to Editor Pakistan Today 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah Lahore Pakistan E-mail: letters@pakistantoday com pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively

Wasting youth

W I T H the arrow of hyperinflation constantly moving up on the graph, one can only wonder how poor families manage their domestic needs amid such harsh economic conditions that the country has been grappling with Apart from the people lying at the lower stratum there has been a specific group of people who have been undergoing hardships The young and hardworking youth who could say somehow manage their higher education are now in a dire need of a livelihood to sustain their lives

To quote such an incident, I recently happened to have a rather gloomy interaction with one of my fellow colleagues whom I saw working as a helper in a private school Upon asking about her studies she informed me that she could not continue her studies because her family was unable to afford her education After listening to her story my memory transported me to the good old days when I could witness her excelling in academic and extra-curricular activities Unfortunately there are millions of competent and talented individuals having the same fate It is high time the government took comprehensive steps to overcome the issue and prevented youth from slipping down the drain MUQADAS PARVEEN BHAKKAR

Expensive, inefficient

I was seriously disappointed by the government s handling of the recent Haj pilgrimage The most distressing aspect of the entire experience was the complete lack of facilitation and support from the officials deputed during Haj

Instead of providing assistance and guidance to the pilgrims, the officials appeared helpless and evaded responsibility by shifting the blame on to Saudi officials Such an attitude not only showcases lack of accountability but also reflects the government s failure to ensure adequate arrangements and support for its citizens

Moreover the quality of food provided during the pilgrimage was far from satisfactory Most of the food was wasted This negligence was indicative of a systemic failure within the government s administrative structure Pilgrims complained many a time, but no action was taken They were forced to go out and eat on their own

The poor standard of hotels inadequate amenities and maintenance issues made for an uncomfortable and distressing experience for many Furthermore the state of washrooms lacking even the most basic amenities and cleanliness, was a clear reflection of the government s apathy towards the sanctity and dignity of the pilgrims This level of disregard for the wellbeing of the faithful was both disheartening and unacceptable

In addition there was lack of organised queues at hotels Mina Arafat and Muzdalfa and of proper travel management Instead of ensuring a smooth and streamlined process the absence of clear protocols resulted in chaos and unnecessary delays This inconvenienced the pilgrims and posed a risk to their safety and security

One of the missing elements of government-sponsored Haj scheme was the exclusion of well-versed scholars, or muallims, who accompany the pilgrims and provide valuable insights into the historical and religious significance of the sacred sites This enrichment enhances the spiritual experience and deepens the pilgrims connection with the journey

There should be a proactive and dedicated effort to ensure that all aspects of the pilgrimage are meticulously planned and executed Also, certain amount of money should be refunded to pilgrims with respect to non-availability of services despite the exorbitant charges the pilgrims were asked to dish out

The Haj pilgrimage holds immense religious significance for millions of Muslims and it is the government s duty beyond doubt to ensure a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience TARIQ HABIB

TH E life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) serves as a beacon for all of humanity His life lessons are not intended for any particular group but for all of humanity the path he advocated is indeed the path to success those who followed the path he prescribed prospered In today s age many people especially Muslims are suffering due to their forgetfulness of his teachings He enlightened us on every aspect of life, teaching us how to navigate difficulties and confront problems It’s not just Muslims who have benefited from his teachings; the entirety of humanity has gained from his knowledge success can be achieved by adhering to the sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH) In today s world where the distinction between pure and impure is blurred people have forgotten to prioritize their health the human body requires nourishment, just as machinery requires fuel to function However, one must exercise caution in one’s dietary choices; otherwise the human body may suffer from diseases Regrettably many individuals desire good health but lack knowledge about the secrets of maintaining it

In this regard the Prophet s sunnah provides us with invaluable guidance By following his sunnah we can lead healthier lives

Even modern science acknowledges that the diet advocated by the Prophet (PBUH), the one he preferred for himself is optimal for human health the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) never indulged in full meals and recommended the same to others He disliked filling his stomach completely and even referred to the stomach as the worst vessel to fill He consistently ate less than he was hungry and advised filling the stomach one-third with food, one-third with liquids, and leaving one-third empty

It is scientifically proven that excessive food intake leads to various disorders with obesity being a primary concern While there are multiple causes of obesity overeating remains the main culprit Excessive fat accumulation in adipose tissues leads to overweight conditions the Body Mass Index (BMI) is a method used to gauge body weight relative to height an individual’s weight should align with their height, and exceeding this measurement indicates obesity or being overweight

Obesity is directly or indirectly linked to several other diseases including coronary heart disease dia-

Healthy living through the wisdom of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

It’s all about being guided to living right

betes gallbladder issues hypertension respiratory ailments and various forms of cancer Obesity can also result in conditions like arthritis and lower back pain

Every country has its own culture and lifestyle a healthy lifestyle promotes better health, while an unhealthy one endangers human lives In developed or wealthy countries, the obesity rate tends to be higher than in developing nations mainly due to the abundance of rich food resources In the Usa for instance approximately 36 percent of the adults in the population of 339 million are obese the World Health Organization (WHO) reports indicate that 58 1 percent of the almost 240 million population in Pakistan is obese the rate of obesity in Pakistan is higher among individuals above the age of 40 compared to young adults studies reveal that after the age of 25 individuals tend to gain weight more rapidly when physical activity is restricted Urbanized lifestyles significantly contribute to the rising obesity rate, with major cities like Lahore and Karachi reporting higher obesity rates than rural areas Pakistani cuisine, rich in fats, carbs, and sugars, plays a significant role in the obesity epidemic Diabetes a major consequence of obesity is highly prevalent in Pakistan which ranks third globally in terms of diabetic patients additionally an unhealthy or poor lifestyle is a significant contributing factor People have adopted a

lifestyle with minimal physical exertion and their daily routines lack proper scheduling

Many individuals are unaware of when and how much to eat the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) beautifully taught healthy eating habits, which, if adopted, could lead to healthier lives

Fasting holds prime importance in Islam and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged fasting as a sacred practice He taught Muslims the concept of developing taqwa (fear of allah) through fasting Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) fasted every Monday and thursday, the 13th, 14th, and 15th days of the lunar calendar, the entire month of Ramadan, and the days of ashura, and the days leading up to both Eids

Fasting is not only a religious practice but also crucial for maintaining human health During fasting the body obtains energy from non-carbohydrate sources through gluconeogenesis converting fats proteins and lactates into glucose for proper bodily function Fasting aids in toxin removal and body cleansing, reduces blood pressure through an efficient basal metabolic rate (BMR), and plays a significant role in managing blood sugar levels and weight loss

It’s important to note that fasting places stress on body cells so the duration of fasting should be reasonable and safe short-term fasting is recommended for safety

Moderation in eating is crucial, but many people lack knowledge of what and when to eat Everyone should have basic knowledge about food and nutrition this is why the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) described overeating or consuming the wrong types of food as a major cause of disease He lived a simple and noble life

Pa k i s t a n , w i t h a 9 7 p e rc e n t M u s l i m p o p u l a t i o n , s h o u l d n o t t o l e r a t e fo o d w a s t a g e w h e n m a ny M u s l i m b ro t h e rs a n d s i s t e rs g o t o b e d h u n g r y i n t h e i r ow n c o u n t r y. I t i s t h e S u n n a h o f P ro p h e t M u h a m m a d ( P B U H ) t o b e g e n e ro u s t ow a rd t h e l e s s fo r t u n a t e . B y fo l l ow i n g h i s S u n n a h , w e c a n l e a d h e a l t hy, v i b r a n t l i v e s a n d ex t e n d o u r h e l p t o t h o s e w h o a r e d e s e r v i n g . T h e r e i s n o g r e a t e r ex a m p l e o f h u m i l i t y a n d g e n e ro s i t y t h a n t h e f a c t t h a t P ro p h e t M u h a m m a d ( P B U H ) n ev e r a t e a l o n e . T h i s b e a u t i f u l ex a m p l e t e a c h e s u s t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f c o n n e c t i n g w i t h p e o p l e a n d c a r i n g fo r t h e i r w e l l - b e i n g

H o w t o f i g h t f a m i n e i n

t

h

e 2 1 s t c e n t u r y

Today, over a quar ter-billion people grapple with severe hunger and malnutrition, a 100% increase in just the past five years

According to Oxfam, 10 people on the planet today own more wealth than 200 million African women

Fa M I N E is back and the threat is real and not just in one or two countries but in multiple regions the good news is that we have the resources and skills to make famine a thing of the past But past strategies won t work

Until recently, success in the fight against global famine was one of humanity’s greatest achievements Between 1990 and 2019 the rate of chronic malnutrition around the world dropped from 38% to 7 9% However it is now again rising rapidly with devastating consequences today over a quarter-billion people grapple with severe hunger and malnutrition, a 100% increase in just the past five years

as aid workers, we have worked with communities who are on the front lines of this crisis From Haiti to somalia, and afghanistan to Yemen, we have heard from countless desperate mothers in too many nutrition wards and displacement camps

Growing hunger is fueled by a toxic mix of climate change armed conflict and a global economic crisis that has exacerbated poverty and inequality, exhausting the ability of many families and communities to cope the global food system, responsible for feeding billions of people, is under increased strain due to structural weaknesses repeated shocks and unsustainable use of the planet’s resources at a time when the world needs to come together to solve global challenges we are seeing rising political tension and fragmentation Current efforts are falling short, failing marginalized communities and lower-income countries as aid workers, we also see hope affected people and communities, when empowered with the right tools and knowledge are innovating in the face of disasters On a small scale with tools and cooperation the poorest and most impacted by climate change (and yet least responsible) are not waiting to be saved these communities are fighting poverty, deprivation and drought through climate smart agriculture, feeding their families and building a brighter, greener future But they need support

First and foremost we need to invest in climate adaptation as well as mitigation to help communities withstand the worst impacts of the climate crisis Recent research shows that climate change was the leading factor behind the deadly drought that killed thousands of people in the Horn of africa from 2020-2022 By directly impacting food, water, and energy supplies, climate change also leads to increased competition over natural resources and displacement fueling conflict and destitution should the global temperature rise two degrees Celsius by 2050 80 million more people will face hunger

Conversely climate adaptation initiatives through for example, using drought-resistant crops or more efficient irrigation techniques prove remarkably effective yielding high returns on investment For example, the

Haiti takes Root project leverages Haitian farmers knowledge to foster climate resilience strategies that adapt to changing weather patterns By planting fruit and hardwood trees alongside perennial food crops, the project boosts local agricultural production improves food security and restores biodiversity all of which strengthen the community by both supporting the economy and preparing for climate change such success stories need to be scaled up shared, and replicated secondly, we must address persistent poverty and inequality both within and between our countries according to Oxfam, 10 people on the planet today own more wealth than 200 million african women similarly our attention should extend to the global financial architecture described by the United Nations secretary-General as outdated dysfunctional and unjust It must be reformed External debt levels among low-income countries have more than doubled in the last decade, exacting a heavier toll on climate vulnerable nations some countries pay more to service public debt than for their education or health care systems leaving limited resources to support their people in times of crisis It is urgent to reform the global financial system and enable sustainable debt restructuring

While the climate and economic crises are increasingly driving food crises, we cannot overlook the fact that conflict and insecurity remain key drivers of famine Each of the seven countries – afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Haiti, Nigeria somalia south sudan and Yemen – where people faced famine-like conditions last year were affected by armed conflict or extreme levels of violence there is a moral imperative in redoubling our efforts to prevent reduce and end conflict, while at the same time, mitigating its impacts Programs such as the Black sea Grain Initiative, which allowed the export of millions of tons of grain and contributed to bringing down global food prices provides an example of how to mitigate the impacts of conflict even before peace is realized third we need to shift the way we work by investing in local actors and putting women and girls front and centre of the response It is clear that women are key to the solution they are the ones doing the bulk of the agricultural work and putting food on the table Yet, they are often excluded from ownership of land or access to credit and productive assets By bridging the gender gap in agriculture alone we could keep 100-150 million people from going hungry this would benefit not only women but their families, communities, and countries We have seen proof in countless examples in Niger, Kenya and elsewhere

Finally, it is about prioritizing prevention and forwardlooking risk management that requires the involvement not only of humanitarian actors but also development finance and private sector partners With a combination of improved early warning and early action communities are able to safeguard their livelihoods, hunger is kept at bay, and lives are saved

We cannot wait for another famine declaration before we take action the challenge is monumental but the good news is that we can turn this devastating trend around In the 21st century famine must be a red line for the world the red line where we come together and act

Ann Lee co-founded and leads CORE as CEO drawing on her experience in humanitarian response, and community development

La s t week saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammad bin salman al saud known as MBs told Fox News that everyday we get closer to normalizing ties with Israel, but it ultimately depends on a breakthrough with the Palestinians Left mostly unsaid is that a full peace with Israel probably also depends on a breakthrough with Iran above and beyond the China-brokered Iran-saudi rapprochement achieved earlier this year

FIRST STOP: RAMALLAH: Let s start with the Palestinian issue Last week, in the first such visit by a saudi official since at least 1967, saudi ambassador to Palestine and consul general to the city of Jerusalem Nayef bin Bandar al-sudairi visited Ramallah and reaffirmed the saudi commitment to a Palestinian state as reported by Daoud Kuttab in his must read al-Monitor Palestine Newsletter the visit comes during a flurry of diplomacy among Washington, Riyadh, and Ramallah Working closely with the Biden administration, MBs has offered to resume aid to Palestinian President Mahmoud abbas if the Palestinian authority (Pa) can crack down on radical armed groups in the West Bank the Pa in return is willing to go along with normalization if Israel gives up control in some West Bank towns and dismantles settlements these are all the right moves, reflecting a welcome sense of urgency about the deteriorating situation for Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza the potential saudi lifeline comes as abbas is initiating a makeover of Palestinian leaders to integrate a younger generation but his unpopularity remains as high as ever It may be too little, too late for abbas s increasingly slim hold on the West Bank, especially Nablus and Jenin, the new centers of resistance the demand for the Pa to crack down on the radicalized armed groups would come with a cost given its lack of confidence with many Palestinians

NEXT STOP: TEL AVIV: and that brings us to Israel where any baby step toward a two-state solution seems likely to hit a dead end Ben Caspit writes that the required Israeli concessions to the Palestinians are a non-starter for many members of [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu’s multiparty coalition who have been demanding and also carrying out unilateral measures to bury once and for all any prospect of an independent Palestinian state the only workaround, as Caspit explains, is if the saudi demand falls short of Palestinian statehood, or if Benny Gantz, the former defense minister and current head of the National Unity opposition party can somehow be lured into a revamped Israeli coalition government the former would be a letdown given the expectations to date including numerous saudi statements and the latter a near miracle, if Washington could pull it off

LAST STOP: TEHRAN: the saudi approach to normalization has always come with a hedge because of Iran Riyadh asks of the Us support for

Bibi ayesha (may allah be pleased with her) reported, “the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) never had two meals in one day unless one of them was dates ”

He never combined two different curries at the same time the Prophet s example is a powerful reminder for those who overindulge and waste food actions contrary to the sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) It is crucial to be familiar with his teachings and avoid such behaviors although the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had a fondness for meat he rarely had the opportunity to indulge in it

Even when he enjoyed his preferred foods he consumed them in moderation Despite having the favor of allah upon him and access to the world s blessings he maintained a simple and healthy lifestyle there were times when he subsisted on only dates and water for two months due to a lack of other food this simplicity and patience demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) should serve as a source of reflection for his followers Pakistan faces serious challenges of hunger and poverty with approximately 17 to 20 percent of its population undernourished Many children under the age of five endure significant health issues due to insufficient food While addressing these issues is primarily the responsibility of the state, as common citizens and, above all as Muslims it is our duty to assist those in need Pakistan with a 97 percent Muslim population should not tolerate food wastage when many Muslim brothers and sisters go to bed hungry in their own country It is the sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to be generous toward the less fortunate By following his sunnah, we can lead healthy, vibrant lives and extend our help to those who are deserving there is no greater example of humility and generosity than the fact that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) never ate alone this beautiful example teaches us the importance of connecting with people and caring for their well-being

The writer is a freelance columnist

its nuclear program a defense treaty and the very top weapons systems are all geared toward Iran

Let s start with the saudi nuclear program Last week, Riyadh announced that it would give the International atomic Energy agency (IaEa) wider access to its facilities, as Jack Dutton reports, a boost to its bid for american nuclear support the saudi steps still fall short of the IaEa s additional protocol which combined with the kingdom s desire for its own uranium enrichment capability would make congressional approval of a saudi nuclear deal difficult Riyadh wants to do its nuclear deal with the United states, but is ready to take its business elsewhere including perhaps China if necessary Riyadh’s bid for nuclear power including its own uranium enrichment is not just about developing a new alternative energy source Iran is at the core of the saudi calculus If Iran gets the bomb, then saudi arabia would have to get one, MBs told Fox News the implication is also that if Iran has its “right to enrich,” and will not adhere to the additional protocol, then saudi arabia should not be held to a different standard MBs also has to assess what level of Us security guarantees is enough if relations go south with Iran the sophisticated Iranian drone attack on aramco two years ago, in september 2021, couldn t help but reset saudi calculations the Donald trump administration did nothing, despite a longstanding Us policy known as the Carter Doctrine to use military force if necessary to defend its national interests in the region the prospect of saudi arabia as a major non-NatO ally would be a step up but probably not the commitment envisaged in Riyadh Iran s missile and drone capabilities, already formidable, are soon to expand In October, the parties to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of action (JCPOa) will meet around “transition day ” when sanctions on Iran s import and export of missile and drone technology will be lifted assuming none of the JCPOa parties (most likely the UK) institute snapback sanctions the Us and saudi arabia conducted a joint counter-drone military drill earlier this month, as Jared szuba reports Iran is now embracing the rapprochement with saudi arabia in its media and policy statements but the kingdom wants more action to complement the words the visit of Houthi leaders to saudi arabia last week was a major step in diplomacy to end the Yemen War, thanks to tehran

Perhaps the most telling, and encouraging, sign for saudi arabia is that Iran’s supreme leader, ayatollah ali Khamenei will allow direct Us-Iran nuclear talks as amwaj first reported the prospect of Us-Iran talks could complement regional trends toward de-escalation there is a major trust deficit among the parties; the confidence-building process will take time

GOING BIG: the Biden administration is going big in the Middle East with saudi-Israel normalization and some type of nuclear deal with Iran after a scratchy start in its relations with saudi arabia

Us President Joe Biden came to realize that going big such as Israel-saudi normalization, support for a two-state solution, ending the war in Yemen, and deterring Iran requires a close partnership with the kingdom; there’s no workaround

Despite the clear urgency and traction toward normalization the hurdles to a full peace between Israel and saudi arabia are vast both in terms of the Palestinian issue and the saudi asks of the United states these are all conversations nonetheless worth having, as they move the region toward diplomacy and integration If, and it’s a big if, Netanyahu can do the needful with the Palestinians the missing and final piece will be Iran and in the end MBs will weigh the guarantees from the Us against the risks from the Iran in making the call on normalization

I r a n m a y b e l a s t s t o p f o r

S a u d i - I s r a e l n o r m a l i z a t i o n

T W O ‘ T E R R O R I S T S ’ C A R R Y O U T

B O M B AT TA C K I N T U R K I Y E ’ S A N K A R A

ANKARA

A G E N C I E S

TURKEY’s government said two terrorists carried out a bomb attack on Sunday in front of the Interior Ministry buildings in Ankara, leaving both of them dead and wounding two police officers in the capital city’s first blast in years

They drove up to the building’s main entrance and set off the explosion in the area that is home to ministerial buildings and parliament Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said The blast killed one of the attackers and authorities neutralised the other, he added

“Two terrorists came with a light commercial vehicle in front of the entrance gate of the General Directorate of Security of our Ministry of Internal Affairs and carried out a bomb attack, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter

“Our struggle will continue until the last terrorist is neutralised,” Yerlikaya wrote Turkish media earlier reported that an explosion was heard near the parliament and ministerial buildings and broadcasters showed footage of debris scattered on a street near the Interior Ministry

At least police officers were injured in the explosion officials confirmed

Reuters footage after the blast showed a Renault cargo vehicle parked, windows shattered and doors open, amid debris scattered on the street surrounded by soldiers police ambulances fire trucks and armoured vehicles

The bomb on Ataturk Boulevard was the first in Ankara since 2016 and comes on the day that President Tayyip Erdogan is set to attend the opening session of parliament, located one kilometre (mile) away

A senior Turkish official told Reuters the attackers had hijacked the vehicle and killed its driver in Kayseri a city 260km southeast of Ankara before carrying out

Nightclub fire kills at least 13 in Spain’s Murcia

MADRID

A G E N C I E S

At least 13 people have been killed in a fire in adjoining nightclubs in Murcia in southeast Spain, emergency services said on Sunday, adding that rescuers were still searching for people unaccounted for after the blaze

Outside the club young people hugged looking shocked as they waited for information after the fire that broke out in the early hours in Atalayas on the outskirts of the city I think we left 30 seconds to 1 minute before the alarms went off and all the lights went out (and) the screams saying there was a fire,” one survivor, who was not identified said

Five family members and two friends are missing Diego Seral of Spain s National Police told reporters the dead were found in the Fonda nightclub one of three adjoining clubs, which had sustained the majority of fire damage, including the collapse of its roof, he added

The collapse was making it difficult to locate victims and it was difficult to pinpoint yet where exactly the fire started he said

The identification of the bodies would take time he said The emergency services gave the death toll, which has risen steadily throughout the day, as 13

The cause of the blaze is being investigated

Earlier, Murcia’s Mayor Jose Ballesta told reporters seven bodies had been found in the same area of the first floor where the fire broke out

A spokesperson for the Teatre nightclub Maria Dolores Albellan told reporters the fire originated in the neighbouring club, La Fonda, before spreading to the two adjoining clubs

Pro-China camp Mohamed Muiz zu wins

Maldives elections

MALE

A G E N C I E S

Pro-China camp Mohamed Muizzu wins Maldives election defeating pro India rival Dr Muizzu wins Maldives 2023 presidential election

Pro-China backed candidate Mohamed Muizzu, 45, has won the presidential election in the Maldives after a second-round run-off against incumbent Ibrahim

Mohamed Solih Muizzu leads a party that welcomed an influx of Chinese loans

Incumbent Ibrahim Mohamed Solih conceded defeat shortly before midnight after the Elections Commission of the Maldives said Muizzu had won 54 06 percent of the vote in the run-off contest

Solih 61 wrote on X formerly known as Twitter

Congratulations to president-elect Muizzu Thank you for the beautiful democratic example shown by the people in the elections He will remain as caretaker president until his successor s inauguration on Nov 17 As per Maldives media, Muizzu, former housing minister played a pivotal role in an earlier government’s development programme bankrolled in part by financial largesse from China s Belt and Road infrastructure initiative

UN Mission arrives in Karabakh, first visit in 30 years

KARABAKH

A G E N C I E S

solidarity with Turkey and condemned a terror attack foiled by security forces in the capital Ankara on Sunday morning in which two police officers received minor injuries

A United Nations mission arrived in NagornoKarabakh on Sunday Azerbaijan said after almost the entire ethnic-Armenian population fled since Baku recaptured the breakaway enclave

the attack One of the injured officers suffered shrapnel injuries, he added

“Two terrorists came with a light commercial vehicle in front of the entrance gate of the General Directorate of Security of our Ministry of Internal Affairs and carried out a bomb attack the interior minister wrote on X He added that one blew himself up and the other was neutralised , which usually means was killed, while the two officers were slightly injured in the incident at 9 30am

W O R L D W I D E C O N D E M N AT I O N

P O U R S I N: World leaders expressed

At 9 30 a m local time (0630 GMT), one of the two terrorists blew himself up in front of the General Directorate of Security in the city NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg condemned the terror attack, stating in a post on X: NATO stands in solidarity with #Türkiye in the fight against terrorism ” The French Foreign Ministry also condemned the incident and expressed solidarity with Turkey Terrible news from #Ankara which has been hit by a terrorist attack today We express our solidarity with the people of Turkey & wish a speedy recovery to those injured ” said the German Foreign Ministry Austria condemned the “heinous attack and wished injured police officers a speedy recovery We reject all forms of terrorism and stand in solidarity with Turkey, the Austrian Foreign Ministry said in a statement The Romanian Foreign Ministry “strongly condemns” the attack saying Romania stands in full solidarity with #Türkiye & wish a speedy recovery to the injured

US govt shutdown: Last-minute House vote approves 45- day funding extension

WASHINGTON

A G E N C I E S

In a dramatic eleventh-hour twist the United States House of Representatives has voted overwhelmingly, 335 to 91, in favor of a 45-day extension of federal funding

The fate of the bill now hangs in the balance as it heads to the Senate casting a shadow of uncertainty over the nation s finances

However, the broad bipartisan support in the House has increased pressure on senators to accept the stopgap measure and avert a potentially disastrous government shutdown House Speaker Kevin McCarthy R-Calif who had steadfastly refused to consider any spending bill requiring Democratic support for weeks, performed a political about-face

Facing the specter of a shutdown McCarthy implored both parties to set aside their differences and prioritize the American people s welfare What I am asking, Republicans and Democrats alike, put your partisanship away, focus on the American public ” McCarthy urged reporters before the vote

The bill not only extends fed-

eral funding but also grants an extension of authorization for the Federal Aviation Administration until the end of the year and allocates $16 billion for emergency disaster assistance as requested by the White House Notably it does not include any funding for Ukraine, a contentious issue that has polarized lawmakers The Senate’s stance on the bill remains uncertain, as the Senate was poised to vote on its bipartisan funding proposal at the same time as the House House Democrats attempted to stall progress on their bill to give the Senate an opportunity to vote first on their version, which includes aid for Ukraine

As the Senate deliberated the House Appropriations Committee s Democratic staff released an analysis criticizing the bill for its omission of Ukraine funding adding another layer of complexity to an already delicate situation

A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to approve discretionary spending for the upcoming fiscal year, which starts on October 1

The consequences of a shutdown ripple throughout the federal government impacting a wide range of services from welfare distribution to the operation of federal courts, museums, and national parks

‘Dosty Pakistan Ambassador C ricket Cup 2023’ held in Netherlands

Cricket Board, Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Bond (KNCB), said a press release received here on Sunday

The Dosty Cricket Cup is a landmark event organized by Pakistan Embassy to promote friendship and people-to-people exchanges in the Netherlands

The event was sponsored by the community organizations and attended by a number of community members along with their families Ambassador Suljuk Mustansar Tarar and Chairman KNCB Guido Landheer and distributed memento among the players and sponsors

In his remarks Ambassador Suljuk Mustansar Tarar underscored the significance of sports in the promotion of bilateral relations between Pakistan and the Netherlands

An Azerbaijani presidency spokesman told AFP that a “UN mission arrived in Karabakh on Sunday morning” mainly to assess humanitarian needs It marks the first time in about 30 years that the international body has gained access to the region Armenian separatists who had controlled the region for three decades, agreed to disarm, dissolve their government and reintegrate with Baku following a one-day Azerbaijani offensive last week

The end of Karabakh’s separatist bid dealt a heavy blow to a centuries-old dream by Armenians of reuniting what they say are their ancestral lands divided among regional powers since the Middle Ages Nearly all of Karabakh s estimated 120 000 residents fled the territory over the following days, sparking a refugee crisis On Sunday, Armenia observed a national day of prayer for the region Bells tolled in churches across the country and the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church Karekin II lead a service in the nation s main cathedral Echmiadzin close to the capital Yerevan Clergymen in ornate robes sang ancient chants at an open-air altar outside the imposing cathedral built in a pale pink limestone

Yerevan has accused Baku of “ethnic cleansing” an allegation that Baku rejected calling on Armenians not to leave their homes and reintegrate with Azerbaijan where their rights would be respected Armenia a country of 2 8 million faces a major challenge housing the sudden influx of refugees Authorities said 35,000 were now in temporary accommodation

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies on Friday announced an emergency appeal for 20 million Swiss Francs ($22 million) to help those fleeing Azerbaijan is now holding re-integration talks with separatist leaders while at the same time detained some senior figures from its former government and military command

Afghan embassy in India suspends operations

NEW DELHI

A G E N C I E S

Afghanistan s embassy in India on Sunday suspended operations, more than two years after the ouster of the former Western-backed government While New Delhi does not recognize the Taliban government that returned to power in 2021 it had allowed the Afghan embassy to continue operations under the ambassador and mission staff appointed by former president Ashraf Ghani, who fled Kabul as US troops pulled out “It is with profound sadness, regret, and disappointment that the Embassy of Afghanistan in New Delhi announces this decision to cease its operations the statement read posted on X

The suspension comes into immediate effect

The statement said it had been increasingly challenging to continue operations due to cuts in staff and resources, including a “lack of timely and sufficient support from visa renewal for diplomats ”

The closure follows reports that the ambassador and other senior diplomats left India in recent months with infighting among those remaining in New Delhi

But the statement said it categorically refutes any baseless claims regarding internal strife among embassy staff, and denied any diplomats were using the crisis to seek asylum in a third country ” India will take control of the embassy in a caretaker capacity it added

Indian troops martyr 13 Kashmiris in September

SRINAGAR

A G E N C I E S

Indian troops in their unabated acts of state terrorism martyred thirteen (13) Kashmiris in the last month of September in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir According to the data issued by the Research Section of Kashmir Media Service, today, of those martyred nine (09) Kashmiris were killed in different fake encounters

The Embassy of Pakistan in Netherlands organized Dosty Pakistan Ambassador s Cricket Cup 2023 in Rotterdam after the gap of four years due to Covid Pandemic The friendly cricket match was played between the teams of Pakistan Embassy and the Dutch

He congratulated the KNCB for qualifying the ICC World Cup 2023 He appreciated the role of Pakistan origin Dutch players in promotion of cricket in the Netherlands He thanked the Chairman KNCB for collaboration Chairman Guido Landheer welcomed the Embassy s initiative to revive Dosty Cricket Cup He said that Pakistan is famous for cricket and organisation of such events by the Embassy would help in promoting cricket in the Netherlands and people to people contacts

The last Dosty Pakistan Ambassador ’s Cricket Cup was played in 2018

During the month, eight youth were critically injured due to use of brute force by Indian paramilitary and police personnel in the territory At least 157 civilians and political activists were arrested and most of them were booked under black laws Public Safety Act (PSA) and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and damaged one residential house during 248 cordon and search operations and house raids in the month ‘Kashmiris rendered unparalleled sacrifices for Kashmir cause The All Parties Hurriyat Conference associated parties have said that the freedom-loving people of occupied Kashmir have rendered unparalleled sacrifices for the sacred cause of Kashmir

Green shir ts relish dinner at famous Hyderabad restaurant

HYDERABAD DECCAN

The Pakistani cricket team currently in India for the ICC World Cup 2023 appears to be thoroughly enjoying their time in the historic city of Hyderabad savouring every moment as they prepare for the tournament

While the team has been diligently practicing through warm-up matches in the leadup to the month-long event, it is also relishing the city’s delightful local cuisine

The squad led by Babar Azam in the mega cricket event had a memorable Saturday night partaking in a sumptuous dinner at a popular eatery in a city famous for its diverse and delicious cuisine

The Green Shirts arrival was met with a warm and hospitable reception with their faces visibly gleaming while being led towards their tables

In a post shared on X formerly Twitter the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shared a video showing its team enjoying a lively dinner and having a great time

The Pakistan team arrived in the Indian city last week and was greeted with an enthusiastic welcome from fans

The reception left players including skipper Babar Azam Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Rizwan deeply moved prompting them to express their appreciation towards the warm gesture on social media, acknowledging both their fans and organis-

ers for the hospitality

The PCB media manager, Ahsan Iftikhar Nagi also shared a picture on the social media describing various dishes of Hyderabad Deccan Quoting the images he said that second picture is apricot dessert while the third picture is onion pudding, paan and other sweet dishes can be seen in remaining images Pakistan will play its second warmup match against Australia on Oct 3

During their time in the city so far the team has played a warm-up match against New Zealand at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium

Despite an impressive performance by its openers, Pakistan lost the game at the hands of the Kiwis

extends date for filing returns to Oct 31

PSX INCHES DOWN WOW BUT SHINES GLOBALLY ON QUARTERLY BASIS

KARACHI T LT P

EXPECTED increase in consumer gas prices weighed on Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) last week making it dull and lacklustre despite it emerged as the sixth bestperforming market globally during the third quarter with a gain of 12 percent

PIAF terms ever increasing cost of production real threat to businesses

Faheemur

Rehman Saigol said that constant hike in power tariff has pushed the electricity prices higher and added to the already soaring cost of trade and industry He asked the government to shut down all expensive oilbased power plants to ensure availability of cheaper energy for consumers He condemned the government for shifting power distribution companies’ inefficiencies burden to the consumers by jacking up the tariff under the guise of Fuel Charges

Adjustment

He observed that the aggressive economic measures high borrowing rates, inflation, oppressive taxation and unstable currency have been negatively affecting running businesses

Faheemur

With a view to deal with fiscal challenges

Rehman Saigol asked the economic managers to work on the three-way strategy by implementing short-term goals that will help to keep generating resources for smooth fiscal operations, medium-term goals where the they should focus on financial inclusion, documenting the economy by designing a system where all businesses can be registered and properly document their income including collection of sales tax initiating the process of privatization as well as improving governance by introducing reforms in each sector

He said that as a long-term goal the country must focus on improving its human capital, and revamping IT sectors by extending facilitations and providing all the requisite supports In the same way, we also need to work on designing a comprehensive and proactive strategy to tackle challenges related to strengthening border security and implementing effective and comprehensive Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing measures holding accountable and taking to task all those who are involved in illegitimate activities, undermining both our economy and national interests

PHMA new body calls for enhancing value added textile expor ts

ISLAMABAD

The Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers Association (PHMA) has elected Nahid Abbas and Farrukh Iqbal unopposed as central chairman and zonal chairman of the north zone respectively for the year 2023-24 In the same way Amanullah Khan and Khawaja Musharaf Iqbal were elected unopposed as senior vice chairman and vice chairman of the Association s north zone for the next year

According to a press release issued here the PHMA executive committee, in its meeting held here on Sunday, also approved the results of the elections

The new central chairman Nahid Abbas, addressing the meeting called for giving a boost to the export sector by adopting diversified marketing techniques and extending practical support to the industry and asked the knitwear and garment exporters to prepare themselves for meeting the global challenges so that exports could be enhanced by fully exploiting new opportunities

The new senior vice chairman Amanullah Khan vowed that value-added textile industry was ready to work closely with the government with a view to enhance the exports and revive the growth

The benchmark KSE-100 Index shed 188 56 points (-0 41 percent) on a weekon-week basis to close at 46,232 59 points from 46 421 15 points However the index has gained 4 778 61 points since the Staff Level Agreement (SLA) was signed with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on June 30 The market received a boost in the last quarter due to a betterthan-expected International Monetary Fund (IMD) standby agreement (SBA) a stable currency and the announcement of the upcoming elections

According to Bloomberg data Pakistan s market ranked sixth among the best-

performing markets, following Turkey (37pc growth) Romania (27pc growth)

Sri Lanka (15pc growth) Egypt (14pc growth) and Ghana (12pc growth) in the same quarter After eleven quarters the benchmark KSE-100 Index has experienced double-digit growth In terms of US dollars, the index also saw an 11 percent increase during the third quarter of 2023 The market edged lower last week despite positive developments on the economic and political scene The Pakistani rupee extended gains against the US dollar for the fourth consecutive week and appreciated by 1 38 percent in the interbank market and 2 4 percent in the open market In the preceding three weeks the rupee surged by 1 71 percent 2 01 percent and 0 82 percent against the US dollar in the interbank market while it has appreciated by Rs43 (+13 percent) in the open market in the previous four weeks

The Economic Affairs Division (EAD) disclosed that the country obtained loans totalling $3 21 billion from

multiple sources during 2MFY24 This represents a significant increase compared to $439 million borrowed in the same period of last year

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) exceeded its tax collection target for the first quarter of fiscal year 202324 and collected Rs2 041 trillion during this period against the assigned target of Rs1 978 trillion The FBR demonstrated exceptional performance by achieving over 24 percent growth in tax collection for the quarter compared to the Rs1 644 trillion collected during the corresponding quarter of the previous fiscal year

On the other hand, foreign investors remitted $49 2 million in profits and dividends during the first two months (July and August) of the current fiscal year showing a 45 percent year-on-year jump due to relaxed capital controls

On the political front, the Election Commission released the constituency delimitation lists, which was seen as a major step towards general elections ex-

LOCA celebrates China National Day with extravaganza

In a festive mood and style, Lahore Overseas China Association (LOCA) and Understanding China

Forum (UCF) held a boisterous ceremony to celebrate the 74th founding anniversary of the People s Republic of China called China National Day

Celebrating 74th China National Day sizeable number of Chinese nationals gathered at LOCA office and shared pleasantries with one another

During this gala day

Chinese people felt a strong sense of patriotism and cherished the event’s festive mood

Ceremony was attended by Acting Chinese Consul General Lahore

Cao Ke LOCA president Mr Luo diplomat Mr Du Institute of International Relations and Media Research (IIRMR) president Yasir Habib Khan, Chinese companies CEOs and many other notables of Lahore

During the ceremony Acting Chinese Consul General Lahore Cao

Ke spoke on the occasion and congratulated everyone on holding of China National Day with joyful sentiments On the occasion of the Mid-Autumn Festival and the National Day overseas Chinese and the people across the country will surely unite as one to write a more splendid chapter in the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation he added LOCA president Mr Luo said that customs and activities of the Mid-Autumn Festival convey the good wishes of reunion play the role of inheriting customs raising consensus and gathering strength awakening overseas Chinese s memory of traditional Chinese culture, enhancing group identity, and

inheriting and promoting traditional Chinese culture

Today is the 74th anniversary of our National Day In the blink of an eye, 74 years have passed China has risen from poverty and weakness to the second largest country in the world Over the past 44 years it has opened up a great chapter in socialist revolution and construction through reform and opening up, he added It has greatly changed the face of China The Chinese nation has grown from standing up to becoming rich and then becoming strong he went on saying Institute of International Relations and Media Research (IIRMR)

President Yasir Habib Khan said the festivities of China National Day galore with prettiest extravaganza He gave a big round of applause on the singing performance of Chinese children in the event bedecked with flamboyant decorative stuff

After the decent ceremony, China National Day cake was cut in

the backdrop of music and Chinese traditional prayers for the national rejuvenation The venue was embellished using a festive, patriotic theme Wording of national leaders, including Mao Zedong, was displayed

Presently China’s National Day is celebrated over a one week period The 7-day holiday begins from October 1st and runs until the 7th, and this period is called Golden Week in China During this week, many Chinese people travel around the country to enjoy the holiday

During this period people have a week off to reunite with their family and take trips within China and to surrounding countries Since 1950, October 1st every year has been celebrated as a great national festival in China

At the National Day Evening Gala attendees basked in songs and dances that focus on themes like love for one s motherland and celebrations of the country s development

Gwadar Port: 0.5m tons of silt scooped out

ISLAMABAD S TA F F R E P O R T

Since the project s inception in March 2023 nearly 0 5 million (5 Lakh) tons of silt have been excavated from the bed of the navigational channel and anchorage area at Gwadar Port The project is set to be completed in 12 months Dawood Baloch, the Gwadar Port Dredging Plan Project Director told Gwadar Pro that China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC) has successfully removed 5 lakh tons of silt since the desilting process began in March

This desilting process aims to restore the original

Kulbushen Yadev Indian naval officer and RAW operative who was nabbed by Pakistan security forces in Balochistan is enough to prove that India has hell bent upon sabotaging the CPEC It has been reported in media that India has established a fund of over $50,000 to carry out subversive and aggressive activities in Balochistan to scare away the Chinese working on road infrastructure construction of dams and other development projects

NADEEM RAZA

The Indian had made Balochistan a battleground for its proxy war to target China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which is dubbed as game changer and futuristic oriented project for Pakistan and China

In this context, India is following multipronged strategy to counter this project Although India is using national and international forums to highlight the issues relating to CPEC in its perspective its most lethal and aggressive campaign against the project is fanning militancy and terrorism inside Pakistan targeting projects within Pakistan particularly in Balochistan

The projects which are by and large manned by the Chinese nationals are main focus of Indian state-sponsored terrorism

The footprints of Indian terrorism have been traced in many instances as episode of

Moreover, India is using its proxies in Balochistan to carry out terrorism against the CPEC particularly Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) Balochistan Republic Army (BRA) Balochistan Stutends Organisation (BSO) and the most lethal and hardened among them is Majeed Brigade which has targeted the Chinese in recent months The group had issued warning to Pakistan in most explicit term, “Majeed Brigade will surprise you ”

The Indian-backed group attacked a convoy of 23 Chinese engineers on August 13 which left two militants killed in Gwadar

Two Pakistani soldiers suffered injuries and one in critical condition was executed by the Majeed Brigade suicide squad of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) active in Balochistan

Jeeyand Baloch spokesman for the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) made a

depth of the navigational channel at Gwadar Port allowing heavyweight ships to navigate efficiently

This restoration will ensure the seamless movement of various types of vessels, facilitating easy docking without interruptions Another official from Gwadar Port Authority (GPA) stated that the plan is to reclaim the natural and original operational depth of 14 5 metres at Gwadar Port at a cost of Rs 4 7 billion

He expressed satisfaction with the operation s pace

The official added that the project, titled The Maintenance Dredging of the Navigational Channel of Gwadar Port ” will be completed in 12 months per the agreement signed between CHEC and GPA

claim that at least four Chinese and 11 Pakistani military personnel were killed

The BLA also announced accomplishment of the third phase of its Operation Zir Pehazag” and gave 90 days ultimatum to Beijing to abandon China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Hammal Rehan Baloch is the Majeed Brigade s operational chief It is a suicide squad of BLA and have access to most modern weapons and ammunitions obviously provided by India There are not two opinions that India provided the group with explosives weapons and finances

The first suicide attack was executed in December 2011 After seven years the suicide attack was on a bus carrying Chinese engineers targeted in Dalbadin in August 2018 Majeed Brigade suicide bombers also targeted the Chinese Consulate in Karachi on November 23, 2018, Gwadar ’s Pearl Continental Hotel on May 11 2019 and the Pakistan Stock Exchange on June 29 2020

The strength of BLA is estimated at 1 000 to 1 500 fighters while the Majeed Brigade has 100 to 150 members in its ranks, including women

The chief of the Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) said to have links with Indian spy agency RAW is based in the UK His doc-

pected early next year

The caretaker government slashed the petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) prices by Rs8 and Rs11 per litre to Rs323 38 and Rs318 18 per litre respectively according to the notification issued by the Ministry of Finance on Saturday last The new prices of petroleum products for the fortnight started from Sunday and are expected to have a positive impact on the bourse

The sectors taking the index towards south were technology and communication (-176 points) commercial banks (170 points), automobile assemblers (-59 points), fertilizers (-34 points) and investment banks/ investment companies/ securities companies (-30 points) The sectors taking the index towards north remained cement (+85 points) oil and gas exploration companies (+52 points) and power generation and distribution (+46 points) The foreign buying during the week remained $0 19 million as compared to net buying of $0 29 million in the preceding week

Demand for sunglasses goes up as pinkeye cases on rise in Punjab

ISLAMABAD

S TA F F R E P O R T

The demand of sunglasses has gone up elsewhere in the country including Punjab city to protect their eyes from ‘conjunctivitis viral infection’ where people of all ages were seen witnessed in shops buying different designs of glasses

The use of sunglasses has increased as citizens make an effort to protect themselves from a viral eye infection while still remaining fashionable, said a report aired by a private news channel People suffering from conjunctivitis are strictly advised to follow good hygiene practices and to wear dark glasses to ease the symptoms they experience due to infection said a senior ophthalmologist

The main reason behind the use of dark glasses by people suffering from conjunctivitis is to protect the eyes from light, as their eyes tend to become sensitive once infected, said a citizen

A senior consultant Dr Yasir Zaib said that people who are suffering from pink eye should not buy glasses from sidewalk vendors because these are poor quality glasses not clean and very harmful to the eyes increasing the risk of super infection and increasing the risk of infection severity of the disease In Punjab city, most youngsters are now following all sorts of ‘remedies’ to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis adding some people also wear dark sunglasses assuming that it can prevent the spread of conjunctivitis said a youngster

ICCI & RCCI for joint effor ts to resolve issues of businessmen

RAWALPINDI

S TA F F R E P O R T

The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ICCI) and Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industries (RCCI) have reiterated their firm stance for making collective efforts to resolve the issues of the businessmen A delegation of ICCI led by its President Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari visited RCCI and congratulated President RCCI for assuming the post of Chairman Rawalpindi Waste Management Company(RWMC) and presented bouquets

The ICCI and RCCI have agreed to form a sixmember committee including presidents to promote relations and consult on important issues between the two business organizations They will also to play a friendly cricket match Speaking on the occasion, Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari said that election of Saqib Rafiq as chairman of RWMC was proof of trust of government on the business community It was honour for the community and we have to prove this choice hundred percent by showing performance, he added

He said that now we have to prove by delivering instead of just paperwork that as before we are contributing to the stability of the country's economy by paying the highest taxes

trine propagates that China is actively guiding and backing Iran and Pakistan against the Baloch people, as China has invested hundreds of billions of dollars in Balochistan

China finds the Baloch to be the biggest obstacle to its investment in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as Balochistan is situated at a globally strategic location

Although Indian threats cast shadow at the CPEC project but Pakistan and China are determined to complete the project despite all odds Pakistan is making all out efforts to provide foolproof security to the Chinese as it has established special unit for the security and safety of the Chinese nationals

In this regard, China and Pakistan should pursue a well-thought-out and multi-pronged strategy to counter threats posed by India and its proxies particularly in Balochistan Both the countries first of all should pursue a strong vibrant and aggressive diplomatic policy to expose the Indian nefarious designs against the regional countries particularly China and Pakistan on international and regional forums

Moreover, Pakistan and Chian should resolve all the outstanding issues with India through negotiations Both the countries should make all-out efforts to bring India on the negotiation table as it would help push India on the backfoot with the focus of the world on the outcome of the negotiations if these happen Pakistan and India should extend a hand of friendship to India for their economic well-being At least this initiative

will be enough to highlight Indian belligerent designs against CPEC Pakistan should come forward and hold dialogue with the disgruntled segments of Balochistan They should be convinced to surrender their arms and come to the table for the solution of their problems Pakistan should address their concerns and facilitate them to bring them to the mainstream of development and well-being It is the need of the hour that these splinter groups should be brought to the main tent Pakistan should use all available avenues such as political tribal economic financial and others to appease them

In addition to it, the Chinese nationals should be provided with multi-layer, foolproof and stringent security for their satisfaction, peace of mind and sense of being well-guarded so that they should carry out the CPEC projects with ease and utmost professionalism

No doubt CPEC is the most significant project for Pakistan and China as it can usher in a new chapter of progress and prosperity for the Pakistanis in the field of science, technology, agriculture, energy, IT etc as it will boost the economic and trade activities for the people of Pakistan The unemployment would be addressed to the large extent and poverty alleviation would be ensured with the boost of economic activities So, it is vital for Pakistan that this project should the see the light of the day The writer can be reached on panwar542002@gmail com

S WAT Q A U M I J I R G A V O W S N O T T

O L ET

T E R R O R I S M B A C K T O H A U N T R E G I O N

Subhan Muhammad Ali Khan Fathullah Khan Khawaja Muhammad Khan Muhammad Hanif Qais Dr Amjad Ali

Namdar

Advocate Abrar, Advocate Ali

TH E elders and members of Swat Qaumi Jirga on Sunday declared that they were cognizant of the prevailing law and order situation, reiterating the resolve that the entire population of the region would stand against terrorism in the valley

They expressed the views during a grand Jirga held here in Shamak area of Khwazakhela Tehsil The jirga was headed by Abdul Qahar Khan and was addressed by Mukhtar Yousafzai, Khurshid Kakaji, Muhammad Ayub Khan, Dr Fazal

and others Apart from Jirga members and political leaders, a large number of people also participated in the meeting

They said they received information from different areas about the appearance of terrorists and people of Swat receiving messages and threatening calls from unidentified people, demanding extortion money from the locals

“We make it very clear to all the antistate elements that there is no room for them in Swat and other parts of Malakand Division We are peaceful

To move cour t: JUI-F cries foul at new delimitation

PESHAWAR S TA F F R E P O R T

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazal (JUI-F) on Sunday rejected the new delimitations issued by the ECP and announced moving court

According to JUI-F spokesperson Jalil Khan they will move the court against the new delimitation as the number of constituencies has been reduced in several districts including tribal areas

Earlier, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) formed a legal team to challenge the new delimitations As per details the legal team headed by the president of PLF will challenge the new delimitations

It is worth mentioning here that the chief election commissioner (CEC) and ECP members approved the preliminary list of new delimitations under the 2023 digital census data

After CEC’s approval the commission issued the initial list of the delimitations on its website

For the National Assembly (NA) the voter quota for Punjab province was fixed at 905 595 913 000 for Sindh 907 913 for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) 930,900 for Balochistan and 787,954 for Islamabad

The voter quota for the Punjab Assembly will be 429,929, 428,431 for the Sindh Assembly, 355,270 for the KP Assembly and 292 047 for the Balochistan Assembly The election commission will address the objections from October 28 to November 26 whereas the objections could be filed from September 27 to October 26

The hearing on the pleas will be conducted till November 25 The ECP will unveil the final delimitations on November 30

After the publication of the final delimitations a 54day election schedule will be announced and general polls will be held in the first week of January 2024

F: On the other hand, JUI-F Chief Maulana

Fazlur Rehman said that the nation should welcome the Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif on his return to Pakistan

Citizens kill three ‘muggers’ in Karachi

KARACHI

STAFF REPORT

Citizens of Karachi have come forward after the failure of the police to control the incidents of robbery

Unknown citizens killed 3 alleged robbers and injured 4 others by shooting in different areas of the city on Sunday and left without informing the police with their looted goods According to media reports Karachi Police has started investigating three shooting incidents in which three alleged robbers were killed and four others were injured

In the first incident, two men were killed and one was injured in a firing under Jail Chowrangi bridge between Saturday and Sunday Police say that four robbers on a motorcycle had robbed a citizen and escaped An unknown car driver opened fire killing three of the robbers One of the injured robbers escaped from the spot but was later arrested by police

In the second incident, a 25-year-old man was killed in a firing near Ayesha Manzil Meezan Bank in Gulberg area between Saturday and Sunday Police suspect that the person who died in the shooting is an alleged robber who was shot and killed by unknown persons

In the third incident three motorcycle-riding bandits were injured in the firing of a citizen in Buferzone

Sector 15-B area of Gabol Town The security guards sitting in the back of Rio’s vehicle and an unidentified citizen opened fire, injuring the three robbers

LAHORE

S TA F F R E P O R T

PNL-N Senior Vice President and Chief Organizer Maryam Nawaz on Sunday cleared the uncertainty about the return of the threetime former prime minister and her father Nawaz Sharif to the country, saying he will return to the country on October 21 after becoming more powerful

The announcement comes to end the uncertainty surrounding the PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif s homecoming ahead of the upcoming elections

She made the remarks while addressing a public gathering organised by the PML-N Youth Volunteers in Lahore on Sunday

Last month former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif had revealed the date for his elder brother s homecoming Nawaz Sharif will reach Pakistan on October 21

However, speculations started doing rounds on social media and mainstream media about Nawaz’s return after the Supreme Court ordered to restore corruption cases against political bigwigs on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran

people and want peaceful life on our land they asserted They said that the people of Swat were not against any development but would not allow destruction in the name of development

“There is a need for a concrete plan to promote tourism in Swat rather than destroying agricultural sector If the government wants to construct a motorway we welcome it but it should be constructed along the Swat River and not on the agricultural lands, they argued They also urged the government pay compensation to land owners of Khwazakhela Bypass at the market rate because the land was their only source of livelihood

Xi extends condolences to Pakistani president over bomb attacks

ISLAMABAD

S TA F F R E P O R T

They also revealed the plan to expand the Swat Qaumi Jirga to every Tehsil of Swat so that issues could be resolved at local level We want to make the Swat Quami Jirga more active, which is why we are expanding the jirga to every tehsil so that the burning issues at local level can be resolved on a priority basis they said They said they would play their role for the peace and go to the last extent for the peace of Swat They also demanded the higher authorities to hand over management of the Khawazakhela Veterinary Hospital, and the Pakistan-Austrian Institute for Tourism & Hotel Management in Gulli Bagh to the departments concerned

Eight-member ‘kidney theft’ gang busted: CM Naqvi

LAHORE

S TA F F R E P O R T

Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister

Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday revealed that an eight-member gang of ‘kidney thieves ’ involved in 328 illegal kidney transplants has been busted and announced Rs0 5 million reward for the team which busted the gang after long wait and pursuit

Ringleader Dr Fawad Mukhtar and all other members of his gang have been apprehended and Dr Fawad has confessed to his crime of 328 illegal kidney transplants stealing kidneys duping and extracting money from innocent people , CM Mohsin Naqvi claimed while addressing a press conference here at CM Office on Sunday

He revealed that the assistant of Dr Fawad gang was basically a motor mechanic and the same motor mechanic used to perform duty of administering anesthesia to people before illegal transplant

“The gang was more active in Lahore Taxila and Azad Kashmir and used to perform kidney operations at homes instead of operation theatres Rs3 million used to be extorted from local patients while Rs10 million used to be extorted from those patients coming from abroad”, he pointed out, adding that the accused had confessed to perform 328 operations and this number can exceed as well Money was extorted from a patient in Jinnah Hospital and later by committing fraud his healthy kidney was extracted When that patient went to another doctor then he came to know that his one kidney is missing CM Naqvi disclosed that the ac-

cused Dr Fawad Mukhtar has been arrested five times and used to commit the same notorious work every time after getting released Now we are trying that he should not be arrested for the sixth time again Chief Secretary and his team is working and the prosecution has been directed to submit a strong challan

The police team conniving the release of Dr Fawad has been suspended CM Mohsin Naqvi in reply to a question stressed that the Punjab Healthcare Commission will have to become fully proactive adding that laws are in place and we do not have any scope of making change We will make the rules more effective to the maximum possible extent Their is a dire need of implementation in the presence of laws The matter to hand over the case to the FIA will also be reviewed

The police performed its duty diligently in this case and arrested the gang after making untiring efforts for one and a half month

The police and other allied insti-

tutions will have to expedite their crackdown against the gangs involved in playing with the lives of innocent people CM revealed that people had to face inconvenience in PHOTA adding that the proposal to make PHOTA one window will be reviewed

The CM informed that the death of three patients has been confirmed due to fawad gang s operations Mohsin Naqvi informed that two main culprits of eye injection scandal have been arrested We are waiting for the report and no injustice will be committed to anyone in haste

The CM apprised that few parts of cyber law have reached to us adding that the police and relevant institutions have been activated so that people can be provided relief with regard to cyber crimes Provincial Ministers

Dr Javed Akram Information Minister Amir Mir Chief Secretary the Secretary Health CCPO CIA officials and other officers were present on the occasion

Shehbaz spotlights Nawaz Sharif ’s commitment to ameliorate public ’s sufferings

Sharing priorities for the upcoming general elections, former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday emphasized Mian Nawaz Sharif ’s commitment to ameliorate people’s suffering eliminating terrorism and put the country on the path to progress and development by rejuvenating the economy

In a statement posted on social media platform X, Shehbaz outlined the core priorities, which encompass aiding the underprivileged, rejuvenating the nation’s economy, and eliminating terrorism As the PML-N president he reaffirmed his party’s steadfast dedication to tackling the issues affecting ordinary citizens

Shehbaz emphasized that with Nawaz Sharif at the helm Pakistan would be committed to addressing crises, stabilizing the economy, providing relief to citizens, promoting national unity, and eradicating terrorism He also underscored their party’s strong focus on empowering and educating the youth ensuring a

Khan s petition challenging the amendments made to the country s accountability laws

Ex-PM Nawaz, former president Asif Ali

Zardari and former premier Yousuf Raza

Gillani are likely to face inquiries after the apex court in a 2-1 verdict struck down some of the amendments made to the accountability laws

Later the PML-N president clarified that there was no change in the party s supremo s homecoming plan The former ruling party, after in-depth discussions, declared that Nawaz is ready to face “all kinds of circumstances” upon return as per the schedule

Nawaz has been in self-imposed exile in London since November 2019 owing to health reasons He was disqualified for life in 2017 by the Supreme Court for not declaring a receivable salary The PML-N through its legal team would approach the Lahore High Court (LHC) for Nawaz’s bail before he lands in Pakistan

The decision was taken to avoid Nawaz s arrest at Lahore airport because he was declared a proclaimed offender

Last month, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had announced that general elections in the country would take place by

bright future for them

Their election strategy and vision for the country prominently prioritize addressing the challenges and suffering endured by the public Shehbaz Sharif also oversaw the arrangements for Mian Nawaz Sharif s arrival in Pakistan on October 21 and instructed party leaders to enhance coordination with various organizations to ensure a well-coordinated and seamless reception for their party leader

to Almighty Allah

the last week of January 2024

Addressing the political gathering, Maryam insisted that the PML-N supremo is coming back to steer the country out of all kinds of crises “He will start a new era of progress peace and employment for the youth and rid [the nation] of inflation

Nawaz will restore the country s fragile economy and eliminate the menace of terrorism, she also said People will prove on October 21 that only Nawaz Sharif is the leader ” Maryam further said that the PML-N’s aim is the welfare of people and correcting the system There will be only ruins in Pakistan if the development done by Nawaz Sharif is removed, she added Terming Nawaz as the solution to all the problems of the country Maryam said: “An individual is not returning on October 21 but the country s progress and peace

At the same time she urged the people to welcome their leader at Minar-e-Pakistan, Lahore Several attempts were made to eliminate Nawaz Sharif,” she said, adding that he left accountability of his tormentors

Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent a message of condolence to Pakistani President Arif Alvi over a series of bomb attacks that rocked Pakistan

In his message Xi said that he was shocked to learn of the attacks which caused heavy casualties

On behalf of the Chinese government and people

Xi mourned deeply for the fatal victims and conveyed sincere sympathies to the bereaved families and those injured

According to XINHUA, Xi emphasized that China resolutely opposes all forms of terrorism and will continue to firmly support Pakistan s endeavors to maintain national stability and security

On the same day Chinese Premier Li Qiang also extended condolences to Pakistan s caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar

PTI calls POL price cut ‘a drop in ocean’

ISLAMABAD

S TA F F R E P O R T Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) spokesperson rejected the meager reduction in the prices of the petroleum productions (POL) by the caretaker government prices, saying it was nothing but mere a drop in the ocean amid the ballooning inflation

The PTI spokesperson lambasted the caretaker government for anti-poor policies and termed the reduction in the prices of POL as symbolic inadequate and cumin seed in the mouth of a camel He said that when PTI well-performing government was ousted through a conspiracy, petrol was available at Rs 149 per litre; however during the last 17 months the prices of petrol and diesel witnessed over two-fold increase

PTI spokesperson stated that the caretaker government kept the tradition of massive increase in the prices of POL prices like PDM, compounding the miseries of the inflation-ridden and poverty-stricken masses manifolds

He went on to say that the country was in the grip of the worst inflation due to the unbearable surge in the prices of the petroleum products as it was becoming impossible for the people to make both ends meet PTI spokesperson said: On one hand businesses and sources of income are shrinking very fast due to the ruined economy, while on other, terrorism is resurfacing as a national problem once again making innocent citizens insecure and terrified Unfortunately the caretaker government and the state officials are busy in unleashing a reign of terror and state operation against PTI and its supporters he added PTI spokesperson urged that the caretaker government should realize the sensitivity of the situation and ensure the conduct of free, fair and transparent elections within the constitutionally defined time limit of 90 days to hand over the decision-making to the elected leadership of the people so as to steer the country out of the prevailing untold crises

Gov t hikes LPG by Rs20/kg before decreasing petrol by Rs8/ltr: Siraj

LAHORE

S TA F F R E P O R T

Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Pakistan, Sirajul Haq has said that the government increased Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) by Rs20 per kilogram before announcing a meager decrease of Rs8 per litre in petrol prices

Addressing a ceremony in Lahore on Sunday he said that everyone was talking of worsening situation of the country but no one was ready to admit the responsibility of the situation

Sirajul Haq said that there was disappointment terror devastation everywhere and countrymen were in incessant panic

It was matter of grave concern that a single roti (flatbread) was being sold for Rs25 and single electricity unit was being charged Rs52, he added He said that assets of all who come into power grow and condition of common man worsens

The JI chief said that currency of war-torn

Afghanistan was three-time stronger than Pakistan

Countries like Bangladesh Nepal Bhutan Sri Lanka and India have developed but where on what venue we were heading, he questioned

Those who claimed Nawaz s politics had over are now seeing that he is coming back, she added ‘S H I F T O F N A R R AT I V E?’

The PML-N leadership has decided in principle to craft its narrative around the economic revival of Pakistan and not flaunt the

anti-establishment narrative to avoid creating an unnecessary diversion

The key decision around this was taken at several meetings that took place in London last month These meetings were attended by Nawaz Shehbaz Maryam Ishaq Dar Malik Ahmed Khan Talal Chaudhary Atta Tarar and others

‘More power ful ’ Nawaz S harif returning to steer countr y out of all crises: M ar yam