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IHC NULLIFIES PTI CHIEF’S JAIL TRIAL IN CYPHER CASE Wednesday, 22 November, 2023 I 7 Jamada Al-Awal, 1445

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DIVISION BENCH ALSO DECLARES AS NULL AND VOID AUG 29 NOTIFICATION ON JAIL TRIAL ISLAMABAD

TERMS LAW MINISTRY’S NOTIFICATION ‘WITHOUT LAWFUL AUTHORITY AND NO LEGAL EFFECT’

STAFF REPORT

HE Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday nullified the notification issued on August 29 regarding the jail trial of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan in cypher case, declaring as null and void the proceedings of the case conducted in the jail so far.

A division bench of the IHC comprising Justice Mian Gul Hassan Aurangzeb and Justice Suman Rifat Imtiaz announced the verdict which was reserved earlier in the day on an intra-court appeal filed PTI chief Imran Khan against the verdict of a singlemember bench.

In the verdict, the IHC division bench declared Imran’s intra-court appeal maintainable.

As a result, Imran and his aide Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s Oct 23 indictments in the case also stand null and void, and the trial will be conducted again in open court.

“There is no provision in the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, which compels a

Magistrate to hold his Court in a usual Court Room. In exceptional circumstances and where it is conducive to justice, a trial can be conducted in jail in a manner that fulfills the requirements of an open trial or a trial incamera provided it is in accordance with the

procedure provided by law,” a written order of IHC stated while declaring the PTI chief’s appeal maintainable.

It is to be recalled that on August 29, the IHC had suspended the PTI chief’s sentence in the Toshakhana case, but a special court

AVENFIELD, AL-AZIZIA CASES IHC to hear arguments on Nawaz’s appeals against convictions from Monday ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday resumed hearing of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s appeals against convictions in Avenfield and Al-Azizia cases and announced that it would begin hearing arguments on the appeals from November 27.

A divisional bench of the IHC, comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb announced the decision after holding initial hearing Earlier, Nawaz Sharif’s pleas against convictions were restored for hearing in accountability references by the court.

Pakistan Muslim League-Naqa (PML-N) supreme leader, who has returned from self-exile in London on October 21, was reached to the courtroom accompanied by party leaders Marriyum Aurangzeb and Ishaq Dar. A high court division bench headed by Chief Justice Aamir Farooq resumed hearing as Sharif’s lawyer Azam Nazeer Tarar approached the rostrum. NAB’s Deputy Prosecutor General Naeem

Tariq Sanghera, prosecutors – Afzal Qureshi and Rafay Maqsood were also present in the court.

“How much time you will take for arguments on both appeals,” Justice Aamir Farooq asked Azam Nazeer Tarar.

“We will first present arguments over appeal in the Avenfield reference”.

“The court has already given decision over appeals of Maryam Nawaz and Capt (r) Safdar in Avenfield case,” Amjad Pervaiz Advocate said. “The high court’s decision in the case was not challenged thus the verdict has become final,” Azam Nazeer said.

“We have made preparation for the Avenfield appeal today,” Tarar further said.

How much time you have required for arguments on the appeal, the IHC chief justice asked. “I have required maximum time of two hearings,” Amjad Pervaiz replied.

“It is not necessary that the arguments completed in two hearings, we have to look over the entire case,” the court remarked. “In my view the case has been maximum of six hours,” Tarar said.

“I have heard the appeal of the Avenfield reference and knows facts of the case. However, we both members of bench didn’t hear the appeal in AlAzizia reference,” chief justice said.

“Do you require six to eight hours for arguments in Avenfield case,” CJ IHC questioned the lawyer.

“I think we will require four to six hours,” Azam Nazeer Tarar replied.

NAB Prosecutor said that he will require around half to two hours for arguments. “Is it means that the NAB has to say nothing,” chief justice remarked.

“We are fixing the hearing on next Monday, if needed we will hear the case daily,” the bench said.

Tarar pleaded for daily hearing of the case, “We will not waste a miniute” he further said.

“We are fixing the hearing on Monday, the time will be conveyed to you,” Justice Aamir Farooq said.

“Are you representing Nawaz Sharif,” Justice Miangul Aurangzeb questioned. “I will assist the court,” Amjad Pervaiz replied. The court adjourned the hearing till Monday and will hear arguments on Nawaz Sharif’s appeals on November 27.

What in world is a fuel charge adjustment and why is it swelling your bill? g

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CPPA HAS REQUESTED HIGHEST FUEL CHARGE ADJUSTMENT FOR 2023 FOR DECEMBER’S ELECTRICITY BILL PROFIT

DANIYAL AHMAD

On Monday, the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) — the representative body for the exWAPDA distribution companies (DISCOs) — lodged a request for a back-breaking fuel cost adjustment (FCA) of Rs 3.54 per unit.

The CPPA contended that consumers had been charged a reference fuel cost of Rs 7.89 per unit in the month of October, whereas the actual cost had escalated to Rs 8.4 per unit. The proposed FCA, if approved, would be the highest for the calendar year of 2023.

While it remains a mystery as to what the final FCA that NEPRA will sanction — especially considering its history of granting final FCAs lower than those requested by the CPPA — the question that begs to be asked is: why is the FCA for October exorbitantly higher than the preceding months? “The actual power generation during October 2023 was a significant 17% lower than the reference generation. This decrease in generation will inevitably inflate the capacity charges for the second quarter’s tariff adjustments of FY24,” explains Rao Aamir Ali, the Deputy Head of Research at Arif Habib. Furthermore, Ali underscores that the FCA will be reflected in January’s consumer price index calculations, thereby impacting inflation.

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has scheduled a hearing for the request on the 29th of November.

Once a verdict is reached, the FCA will be levied on units of electricity consumed in October, against the meter readings recorded throughout

November, and will eventually be billed to customers in December.

One might wonder about the delay in applying the charge. “The adjustments are made one month later, in the new bills after NEPRA’s approval,” explains Afia Malik, a Senior Researcher at PIDE. As for the lag for this specific charge, Malik attributes it to “administrative hurdles”. “For September’s FCA, CPPA applied for a hearing on October 13, and the hearing was then conducted on November 1,” Malik adds.”

Now that we’ve covered the headlines, the question many might ask is: what even are fuel charge adjustments? Furthermore, there’s also the aforementioned calendar gymnastics that need to be understood.

The anatomy of our electricity bills, and what is a FCA We have already delved into the intricacies of an average customer’s electricity bill in a previous article.

However, let us recapitulate the main points.In adherence to the Nepra Tariff Standard & Procedure Rules (1998), NEPRA sets the tariff for all entities involved in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. Atop the aggregate tariff, an array of charges – an electricity duty, a television licence fee, a sales tax, and an income tax – are levied, culminating in the final cost per unit that the customer is obliged to pay.

The FCA is a constituent of the power purchase price, as part of the energy charge. This factor is a sanctioned adjustment bestowed upon electricity utilities by NEPRA, contingent on the monthly oscillation in fuel prices, generation mix, and volume. As a

result, this element may wield both positive and negative impacts. This facet hinges on the fluctuations in prices of fuel utilised to generate electricity and the alterations in generation mix and volume.

NEPRA calibrates this variable for each month and transfers these costs to customers in their monthly electricity invoices post its meticulous scrutiny and approval.

NEPRA determines this parameter for all Distribution Companies (DISCOs) across the expanse of Pakistan, inclusive of K-Electric.

The computation mechanism for this component is the disparity between the weighted average fuel cost per unit dispatched for the month and the weighted average fuel cost per unit dispatched for the reference month – that is, the final month of the preceding quarter.

The proclamation issued by NEPRA for the application of this factor encapsulates details of the amounts and the months wherein this element is to be applied. For instance, in our scenario, NEPRA’s verdict is to apply this facet of October 2023 in December 2023.

There can also be multiple entries for this variable in a consumer’s bill if NEPRA elects to impose part of a month’s factor in a future charge.

NEPRA’s rationale for such a decision can oscillate due to a myriad of factors, which it explicates in the corresponding proclamation. The most prevalent reason is that it opts to impose only a fraction of this component in any given month.

The FCA is applicable to all customer categories – residential, industrial, and commercial – with the exception of lifeline consumers. On the flip side, consumers also reap a benefit when the cost of fuel diminishes.

Rs 15.00 | Vol XIV No 143 I 8 Pages I Lahore Edition

established under the Official Secrets Act had directed jail authorities to keep Imran in “judicial lockup” in the cypher case.

The same day, the Law Ministry had issued a notification, stating that the Law and Justice Division had “no objection” to Imran’s trial in the cypher case being held at Attock jail. In September, however, Imran Khan was shifted to Adiala jail.

In the verdict, the court declared the August 29 notification issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice impugned, terming it to be “without lawful authority and no legal effect”.

“Notification (F.No.40(68)/2023-AVIII) dated 13.11.2023 issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice on the basis of the Cabinet’s decision dated 12.11.2023 as well as notification (F.No.40(68)/2023-A-VIII) dated 15.11.2023 issued by the said Ministry on the basis of the Cabinet’s decision dated 15.11.2023 are declared to be of no legal consequence for not having been preceded by an order of the learned Judge, Special Court in terms of Section 352 Cr.P.C. passed in judicial proceedings,” the order stated.

The court also clarified that notification issued on November 15 by the Ministry of Law and Justice on the basis of the cabinet’s decision on same day cannot be given retrospective effect.

“Consequently, the proceedings with effect from 29.08.2023 and the trial conducted in case FIR No.06/2023, dated 15.08.2023 registered under Sections 5 and 9 of the Official Secrets Act, 1923 read with Section 34 of the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860 at Police Station Counter Terrorism Wing, Federal Investigation Agency, Islamabad, in jail premises in a manner that cannot be termed as an open trial stand vitiated,” it further stated.

The cypher case pertains to a document waved by Imran, then the prime minister, at a public rally in March last year, terming it evidence of a foreign conspiracy behind the no-confidence motion he faced at that time.

The motion was carried a few weeks later and Imran’s government ended.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

Israel, Hamas drop hint at ‘early deal’ on hostages’ release ISLAMABAD

MIAN ABRAR

Hamas and Israel have separately indicated at early deal for hostages release without giving further details.

The chief of Hamas told Reuters on Tuesday that the Palestinian militant group was near a truce agreement with Israel, even as the deadly assault on Gaza continued and rockets were being fired into Israel.

Hamas officials were “close to reaching a truce agreement” with Israel and the group has delivered its response to Qatari mediators, Ismail

Haniyeh said in a statement sent to Reuters by his aide. The statement gave no more details, but a Hamas official told Al Jazeera TV that negotiations were centered on how long the truce would last, arrangements for delivery of aid into Gaza and the exchange of Israeli hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners in Israel.

Both sides would free women and children and details would be announced by Qatar, which is mediating the negotiations, said the official, Issat el Reshiq.

Israel has generally avoided giving commentary on the status of the

Qatar-led talks. Israel’s Channel 12 television quoted an unidentified senior government source saying “they are close” but giving no further details. Hamas took about 240 hostages during its October 7 rampage into Israel that killed 1,200 people. says ‘making Netanyahu progress’ on return of Gaza hostages Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that “we are making progress” on the return of hostages Hamas seized during the October 7 attack, after mediators said a truce deal was in sight, AFP reports.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

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‘MEHNGAI-LEAGUE’ RESPONSIBLE FOR CURRENT ‘MESS, PUBLIC’S SUFFERINGS’: BILAWAL

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Wednesday, 22 November, 2023 | LAHORE

NEWS

SWAT

syed shahabuddin

UBBING PML-N “MehngaiLeague”, Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Tuesday took a dig at the leadership of erstwhile allied party, and assigned the blame for the severe economic hardships of the masses and unprecedented inflation to the latter.

“The masses are grappling with severe economic hardships. Inflation has reached a record level and the country is witnessing unemployment and poverty while current price-hike has deprived the poor of bread.

All this mass and problems are created by the “Mehngai League”, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari categorically said while addressing a big public meeting in Dir Stadium in Upper Dir district here on Tuesday.

“You saw the “Mehngai League’s” face that has given nothing to people except inflation and harships,” he said as a charged crowd chanted Pro-Bhutto slogans.

“The lion turned out to be a cat,” he jeered, launching a broadside at Nawaz Sharif (without naming him) that “who returned last month to stage a re-entry to power in the upcoming national elections but I do not understand what the old age politicians were up to.”

He further said the old generation politicians turn political competition into personal enmity, adding that political polarisation was not good for the country and his party had no issue with any political party but those who were creating problems for the nation would be an issue for him.

He stated the PPP if came to power would introduce “mazdoor card for the working class.”

Three terrorists killed, arms seized, in D.I Khan, Waziristan IBOs: ISPR RAWALPINDI

At least three terrorists were killed, arms and ammunition recovered during separate intelligence based operations (IBOs) in Dera Ismail Khan and South Waziristan, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Tuesday. Security personnel martyred in North Waziristan IED blast. According to military’s media wing, the security forces in an intelligence tip-off regarding presence of extremists conducted operation in Kulachi area of Dera Ismail Khan. Two terrorists were killed in the operation. On the other hand, one terrorist was killed when security forces conducted operation against extremists in Kot Azam area of South Waziristan. The security forces seized weapons and ammunition in both intelligence based operations, ISPR said. One security personnel embraced martyrdom when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded in Gharyoum area of North Waziristan district. Sanitization operations were being carried out to eliminate any terrorists present in the area. The ISPR reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country.

SECP takes notice of surrogate ads by cryptocurrency exchanges and betting platforms ISLAMABAD

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), taking notice of the increasing trend of surrogate advertisements on certain internet-based cryptocurrency exchanges and betting platforms, has directed all companies, including limited liability partnerships (LLPs), not to enter into any type of advertisement or sponsorship agreements with entities involved in surrogate advertising. Surrogate advertising is a loophole. For example in India there has long been a law in some states that bans the advertising of alcohol. So what alcohol companies do to get around this is launch a product with very similar brand recognition to their alcohol. Similarly, one of the main sponsors of Pakistan Cricket Board used to be Dafa News. Now, a website called Dafa News definitely existed and was a news website. But it was owned and operated by DafaBet, which is a well known betting company. While the law does not allow DafaBet to sponsor in Pakistan, there is nothing stopping a news website like Dafa News from sponsoring. Hence, a loophole. The SECP expanded on this by saying that the surrogate advertising is the promotion of banned products, digital coins, and betting platforms as substitute goods, often through indirect means like sponsorship of sports events, aiming to implant the brand in consumers’ minds. It has also been observed that various online platforms, disguised as sports blogs and news websites, are promoting illegal digital coins, online betting, and cryptocurrency investments. The Notification issued under Section 40B of the SECP Act advised all companies and LLPs to immediately terminate all existing agreements with such surrogate entities/companies and ensure compliance in true letter and spirit. As per the regulations by the government of Pakistan, any kind of betting is illegal under the Prevention of Gambling Act 1977, whereas cryptocurrency through online platforms was recently suspended in May 2023. According to the SECP, the public is strongly advised to exercise extreme caution while making investments in such internet platforms and mobile apps. None of the individuals, companies, or entities advertising cryptocurrencies in Pakistan have been recognized or authorized by the SECP or other regulatory bodies. Thus, the investments promoted by these entities carry risks and may be part of fraudulent schemes.

am now disappointed, the youth are now disappointed”, he said, adding that now he would only focus on elections.

Criticizing the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf

Finance minister, Netherlands envoy discuss bilateral economic ties ISLAMABAD

staff RepoRt

staff RepoRt

Ghulam abbas

He said his government would double salaries and create new jobs with the help of private sector. The PPP chairman took exception to reports about the rollback of 18th constitutional amendment and said his government would strengthen it and ensure its full implementation.

He said the politics of hatred had divided the nation into groups that was not a good omen for the country.

He said the ‘politics of division’ must be ended. Without naming the PML-N supremo, he said that the politics of Lahore were neither to play, nor let others to play.

“The issue was the senior politicians as they did not want youngsters to come forward, he claimed, adding that they had formed an alliance to steer the country out of crises and it did well in the start but ended in fiasco.

Bilawal said the situation was going from bad to worse with every passing day. “I

Caretaker Finance Minister Dr. Shamshad Akhtar was called on by Ambassador of Netherland to Pakistan Mrs. Henny De Vries and discussed with her bilateral economic relations between the two countries.

The discussion also focused on upcoming elections in the Netherlands and both sides emphasized on importance of democratic processes.

Ambassador Mrs. Henny De Vries

congratulated Dr. Shamshad Akhtar for reaching the Staff Level Agreement of first Review of IMF Pakistan Standby Arrangement and also on overall improvement in the economic situation in Pakistan.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Shamshad Akhtar highlighted reforms being taken by the government in various sectors specifically those related to the expansion of the tax net through the “Broadening of the Tax Base” initiative led by the Federal Board of Revenue, showcasing the

commitment of the Government to improve the tax to GDP ratio of the country and reduce the current account deficit further.

The finance minister also requested the ambassador to enhance focus on the Dutch Fellowship Program, which was one of the flagship foreign-funded scholarship programs for Pakistani students.

Mrs Henny De Vries acknowledged the positive momentum in economic recovery, highlighting the resurgence of sectors such as agriculture, services and

Chinese envoy calls on Planning Minister to discuss CPEC progress ISLAMABAD

staff RepoRt

Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong called on Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives Muhammad Sami Saeed on Tuesday and discussed progress on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

The Planning Minister facilitated Chinese leadership for the successful holding of 3rd Belt and Road (BRI) Forum 2023 that was held last month in China and appreciated the Vision of President Xi who identified eight areas of cooperation.

During the meeting, attended by the Secretary Ministry of Planning and Project Director CPEC, both sides have discussed progress on ongoing CPEC projects and future outlook. Both sides reiterated their resolve to further strengthen relations between the two countries.

The Planning Minister said that this Vision will have a strong impact

in the implementation of phase–II of the CPEC and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to accelerate the implementation of the project.

It is noted that the second Phase of CPEC has already started as both the countries have been celebrating the decade of CPEC. Highlighting the ongoing development projects under CPEC, particularly after the successful BRI forum, the Planning Minister informed the envoy that the Planning Ministry frequently reviews the progress in order to ensure their timely completion.

During the meeting, the Minister highlighted the significance of ML-1 and Karachi Curricular Railways (KCR) projects which are considered to be ‘strategic interventions. The Minister also emphasized the importance of new areas like Science & Technology, Agriculture and Mining. These areas will have a great economic impact, said the Minister.

While highlighting the significance of Gwadar, the both

sides highlighted key interventions to transform socio-economy of the city through high quality Vocational Training Institution, Desalination plant and state of the art Hospital.

The Planning Minister said that all the ongoing projects are progressing well as he reviewed progress in detail after BRI. Chinese Ambassador, Jiang Zaidong appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to implement the CPEC as CPEC has achieved fruitful outcomes covering major areas like Infrastructure, Energy and others.

The Ambassador while appreciating the efforts of the Planning Ministry which not only played a vital role in the implementation of the CPEC but also made significant contributions to promoting Pakistan’s economic and social development, upgrading Pakistan’s infrastructure, improving Pakistani people’s well-being, enhancing people to people contact and deepening regional connectivity.

Another power tariff hike by Rs3.53 per unit under FCA of October on the cards ISLAMABAD

ahmad ahmadani

Power Distribution Companies (DISCOs) except KElectric in a bid to give another shock to the already burdened power consumers has sought Rs 3.5339 per kilowatt hour (kWh) increase in the electricity price on account of fuel charges adjustment (FCA) for the month of October, 2023.

Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA), on the request of DISCOs, has submitted an application with National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) to increase the electricity price under FCA of October, 2023. And, NEPRA has called a public hearing on 29th November 2023 mainly to consider October’s FCA. In a public hearing notice, the NEPRA has invited all the interested/affected parties to raise written/oral objections as permissible under the law at the public hearing. The CPPA, in its application, has submitted that the total electricity generated with various fuels in the month of October was recorded a 9,572 GWh, at a price of Rs8.2605 per unit. The total cost of energy was Rs 79,066 million.

The power generation with hydel source was 3,114 GWh (giga watt per hour) constituting 32.54 per cent with zero cost of power generation while power

production with coal-fired power plants was 1,670 GWh (local + imported coal: 1,334+ 336GWh) which was 17.45 per cent and the total power generated at a price of Rs20,608 million (Rs 25.3732/unit).

Similarly, the power generation from gas-based power plants was 704 GWh, 7.35 per cent of the total generation, totaling Rs13.6059 per unit and the generation from Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) was 1,939 GWh, which was 20.25 per cent of total generation, at Rs23.6987 per unit.

Likewise, power production from bagasse recorded at 29 GWh, the price of which has been calculated at Rs 5.9822 per unit. The electricity generated from wind was recorded at 191 GWh, 02 per cent of total generation and solar at 76 GWh, 0.79 per cent of the total generation in October 2023.

Moreover, electricity generation from nuclear sources was 1,826 GWh which came out at Rs1.2272 per unit, 19.08 per cent of the total generation, and electricity imported from Iran was 263 GWh that amounted to Rs23.1678 per unit, 0.24 per cent of the total power generation in the said month. It is also learnt from the data submitted by the CCPA-G with NEPRA that net electricity delivered to DISCOs in October 2023 was 9,253GWh (96.67pc) at a rate of Rs 11.4277 per unit, total price of which was Rs105,737 million.

Gwadar Smart Port City master plan in top gear ISLAMABAD

staff RepoRt

Gwadar Smart Port City Master Plan (2019-2025) has picked momentum with a flurry of high-quality development activities in 13 areas to shape up the oldfishing town into a modern city.

The activities include the progression of the central business district, rehabilitation of old towns, remodeling of roads, establishment of parks, fostering of green growth, designing of ecological corridors, mapping out of tourism spots, digitalization, and development of skillbased economy, aiming to lay down the foundation of social and civic amenities,

trail-blaze new business avenues and making available state-of-the-art health as well educational facilities.

According to a Gwadar Pro’s report, 75-page master plan document was prepared by China Communications Construction Company in conjunction with Pakistan’s Minister of Planning, Development & Reform and Gwadar Development Authority.

Work has been completed on various watr supply projects in Gwadar. In this regard, two dams, Shadi Kaur and Sowd, have been completed and connected to the city through pipelines.

Meanwhile, a sewage water treatment plant has been set up so that the sewage

water of Gwadar could be used for irrigation and agriculture, instead of polluting the coastline.

Gwadar Indus Hospital also called Pak-China Friendship Hospital for $30.5 million has been completed. It will provide the best medical facilities to the people of Gwadar district.

In the initial phase, Gwadar Port has gone digital as the state of the fiber optic cable network is operationalized in true letter and spirit, unveiling modernization of E-Custom at the Port for easier and simpler trans-shipment and containerized trade on commercialized modules.

With the laying down of fiber optic cable, paperless custom procedures have

Chairman Imran Khan, the PPP chairman said that he had destroyed the country and introduced the politics of hatred, disrespect and abuses.”

become fully functional, transforming Gwadar into a bustling hub of regional and international trade to Afghanistan, Central Asia, and China.

Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) completed the project of laying down the fiber optic cable.

The Balochistan government has approved a ‘central business district’ over an area of 2,500 acres in the port city under the Gwadar Master Plan.

The government has also granted a tax-free zone status to Gwadar district, exempting the area from all provincial taxes in an attempt to boost economic activities, while a 280km road network has also been constructed.

even industry. She specifically appreciated Pakistan’s initiatives for financial inclusion, particularly those targeting women. She also praised the measures aimed at enhancing the labour participation of women across various sectors of the economy in order to boost the social and economic development of the country.

The Ambassador also expressed Netherlands’ commitment to bring more investment to Pakistan.

Pressing issues of post-flood rehabilitation and climate change impact on Pakistan were also discussed.

Dr Shahmshad Akhtar expressed Pakistan’s strong commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties with the Netherlands and making collaborative efforts for the benefit of both countries.

DPP integrates with International Plant Protection Convention’s e-Phyto Hub ISLAMABAD

Ghulam abbas

The Government of Pakistan, under the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) initiative, achieved a milestone by integrating the National Plant Protection Organization with the International Plant Protection Convention’s ePhyto Hub. As per details Caretaker Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Dr. Kausar Abdullah Malik, led this initiative during a recent visit to the Karachi Port Trust, where he chaired a pivotal meeting at the Department of Plant Protection (DPP).

Dr. Malik underscored the Department of Plant Protection’s pivotal role in regulating agricultural imports and exports, safeguarding the country’s plantation from potential threats posed by harmful insects or pests. Expressing satisfaction with the ongoing digitization process, the minister highlighted the Department’s quarantine facility’s impressive 100% efficiency, a testament to the success of modernization efforts. In a significant announcement, Dr. Malik disclosed that the DPP has entered into an agreement with the government for the implementation of singlewindow operations. This strategic move is poised to streamline the processes, removing barriers and fostering a more conducive environment for trade within the country. Dr. Malik also stated that, owing to the DPP’s effective role, Pakistan’s clearance certificates are now recognized and accepted in over 130 countries. This not only boosts global confidence but also positions Pakistan as a reliable partner in international trade.

Addressing the financial aspect, Dr. Malik assured that he would approach the finance ministry to allocate a portion of the revenue generated by the Department of Plant Protection for capacity building. This, he believes, will empower the department to meet the growing demands of an evolving trade landscape. During the meeting, the minister received a briefing on infrastructure and administrative challenges. In response, he pledged unwavering support, promising every possible assistance to ensure the sustained success of the Department of Plant Protection.

This integration with the International Plant Protection Convention’s e-Phyto Hub marks a pivotal moment for Pakistan, signaling not only increased trade efficiency but also a commitment to global standards and a resolute stance against illegal practices, particularly in the realm of phytosanitary certificate exchange.

Gokina Smart Village: A digital oasis in Islamabad’s mountains ISLAMABAD

Ghulam abbas

In a momentous achievement, the Gokina Smart Village project has captured global acclaim, heralding a commitment from authorities to replicate its success not only across various parts of Pakistan but also beyond. Nestled in the mountainous region of Islamabad, Gokina has grappled with the challenges of inadequate essential services, particularly in education and healthcare. Hassan Nasir Jamy, Federal Secretary for the Ministry of IT Telecommunication, lauded the Gokina project’s success as a pivotal milestone in the journey towards a Digital Pakistan. Speaking at the “Thriving Together with Tech: Realizing Sustainable Development” event organized by Huawei in China, Jamy underscored the project’s strategic importance.

RESOLUTION OF KASHMIR ISSUE SOLE KEY TO LASTING PEACE IN REGION: PM Wednesday, 22 November, 2023 | LAHORE

C

RISALPUR

Staff RepoRt

ARETAKER Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Tuesday said peace in the region could not be guaranteed till the resolution of the dispute of Jammu and Kashmir between Pakistan and India.

“Let me make it clear that there can be no peace without the settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir issue,” he said in his address at the graduation ceremony of the officers here at the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Academy Asghar Khan.

PM Kakar said Pakistan was a peaceloving nation and wished to maintain friendly relations with all countries, especially its neighbours. He, however,

categorically stated that the country’s desire for peace “must not be understood as weakness”.

The prime minister strongly condemned the ongoing grave human rights situation in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan, he said, would not indulge in any arm race but would continue to enhance its capabitlity in line with evolving technology to deter any aggression.

The prime minister highlighted that the rapidly changing geo-strategic environment had a profound impact on Pakistan and rest of the region. “Therefore, the situation demands advancements in space networks, cyber technology, nano technology and artificial intelligence,” he said.

He expressed satisfaction that PAF modernized itself though smart induction of

cutting-edge niche technology and achieved great progress in cyber space and noncontact warfare through indigenous means.

PM Kakar termed the armed forces of Pakistan as professionally competent and well-trained to cope with all internal and external challenges. “The nation holds our armed forces in high esteem for the sacrifices they rendered for national defence and for their contribution towards nationbuilding,” he said.

He mentioned that the country’s brave armed forces always showed great courage during testing times to keep the national flag high. “I assure you that as a nation we have surmounted challenges in the past and Insha’Allah, we will do so in future and make the country prosperous,” he said.

The prime minister congratulated the

cadets graduated from the colleges of flying training and aeronautical engineering and expressed confidence that they would give their best professional performance with commitment and diligence. “Being the custodians of the PAF, you carry the hopes of this nation and must work hard to keep abreast with modern technology and trends related to modern warfare,” he told the graduates.

A total of 131 Aviation Cadets, 08 Gentleman Cadets and 03 Naval Cadets graduated during the ceremony. The prime minister awarded Branch insignias and trophies to the distinction holders.

Earlier, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu received the prime minister on the venue. Bugles were blown when PM

CM Punjab reviews up-gradation of PIC project, orders completion within due time LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi on Tuesday visited Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) and reviewed the progress on the upgradation project. He made a detailed visit to the expansion project and observed the ongoing construction activities.

Mohsin Naqvi inspected the three floors of the hospital and reviewed the ongoing work in the private wards and rooms under construction. He ordered that the private rooms be made more

spacious to provide better comfort to patients. Addressing the officials present, the Chief Minister said that the upgradation project should be completed within the stipulated time frame.

He also directed that emergency beds be increased, LED screens be installed for the convenience of patients and doctors, and work be carried out in three shifts to expedite the project.

Apart from reviewing the project, the caretaker chief minister also visited the patients under treatment in the ward and inquired about their well-being. He talked to

IHC nullifies PTI chief’s jail trial in cypher case CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

During the hearing on Tuesday, Imran’s counsel Salman Akram Raja presented his arguments. He cited court rules and added that a judge’s permission was needed for a trial to be conducted within prison premises. He added once the permission has been granted, the judge informs the relevant ministry. Imran’s counsel further stated that the reasoning for Imran’s jail trial was not conveyed in earlier documents. Raja maintained that the process followed for the same was incomplete. When asked by the bench if the government’s order for a jail trial was issued to fulfil legal obligations, the counsel replied in the negative and said the cabinet’s approval came without a judicial order.

Concluding his arguments, the counsel said that all notifications issued for the jail trial were not in line with the law. Attorney-General for Pakistan Mansoor Awan then took the rostrum and stated that a jail trial was not for ordinary people to attend and added that Imran’s family has however been allowed to attend. The AGP added that the hearing is being held in Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail and was being conducted in prison due to security reasons.

After the AGP’s arguments concluded, the bench reserved its verdict with Justice Aurangzeb saying that a short order would be issued first followed by a detailed order. Earlier in October, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) clubbed Imran’s other petitions, seeking dismissal of the case and stopping his trial by the special court, established under the Official Secrets Act (OSA). The PTI chairman filed another plea in the IHC seeking exemption under the Article 248. In the petition, it was stated that the Section 5 of the OSA did not apply to the cypher case. The court had issued a notice to the FIA and sought its response today. The court also clubbed the petition with Imran’s other pleas against the case. Imran had also filed a separate petition with the IHC challenging the FIA’s request to hold the case’s proceedings inside the jail premises. However, the high court disposed of the plea last week after observing that an in-camera trial was in the PTI chief’s favour, asking him to approach the trial court regarding the matter.

the patients and the doctors and listened to their problems.

Taking notice of a complaint regarding overcharging at the canteen, Mohsin Naqvi ordered immediate action and directed that the matter be investigated thoroughly. Provincial Minister Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Dr. Javed Akram, Secretary Health, Secretary Construction and Communications, Commissioner, Special Secretary Health, Chief Executive Officer PIC Dr. Anjum Jalal, MS Dr. Tahsin and related officials were also present on this occasion.

“I hope there will be good news soon,” Netanyahu told Israeli soldiers at a military base in the north of the country.

Mirjana Spoljaric, president of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), met Haniyeh in Qatar on Monday to “advance humanitarian issues” related to the conflict, the Geneva-based ICRC said in a statement. She also separately met Qatari authorities.

The ICRC said it was not part of negotiations aimed at releasing the hostages, but as a neutral intermediary ready “to facilitate any future release that the parties agree to.”

Talk of an imminent hostage deal has swirled for days. Reuters reported last week that Qatari mediators were seeking a deal for Hamas to release 50 hostages in return for Israel freeing some prisoners and a three-day ceasefire.

Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Herzog said on ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday that he hoped for an agreement “in the coming days,” while Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman al-Thani said that the remaining sticking points were “very minor.” U.S. President Joe Biden and other U.S. officials said on Monday a deal was near.

The Hamas raid on October 7, the deadliest day in Israel’s 75-year-old history, prompted Israel to invade Gaza to annihilate the militant group that has ruled there since 2007.

Since then, Gaza’s Hamas-run government says at

least 13,300 Palestinians have been confirmed killed, including at least 5,600 children, by Israeli bombardment that has turned much of Gaza, especially its northern half, into wasteland.

Around two-thirds of Gaza’s 2.3 million people have been made homeless, with thousands a day still trekking south on foot with belongings and children in their arms. The central and southern parts of the enclave, where Israel has told them to go, have also regularly come under attack.

20 REPORTED DEAD IN NUSEIRAT STRIKE Gaza health authorities said on Tuesday at least 20 Palestinians were killed in Israeli bombing of the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza at midnight.

There was no immediate comment from Israel.

The already crowded Nuseirat district, which grew out of a camp for Palestinian refugees from the 1948 Israeli-Arab war, is just south of the wetlands that bisect the strip and has been the first arrival point for huge numbers escaping the fighting further north.

Tens of thousands of civilians are believed to remain in the north despite an Israeli order to flee. All hospitals there have ceased functioning normally, though many are still housing patients and displaced Gazans. Israel says Hamas uses hospitals as shields for its fighters, which Hamas and the hospitals deny.

Gaza’s health ministry said on Monday that at least 12 Palestinians were killed and dozens wounded by firing into an Indonesian-built hospital encircled by Israeli tanks. Israel says it shot back at fighters who opened fire from the inside.

Solangi, Pervez Ashraf discuss upcoming general elections ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Caretaker Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Solangi Tuesday called on Speaker National Assembly Raja Pervez Ashraf.

The upcoming general elections and other important issues were discussed during the meeting, said a press release issued here.

They emphasized the need for a free, fair and transparent election process in the country. The Caretaker government was committed to conduct free and fair elections, Solangi added. He said the government would provide all necessary resources and support to the Election Commission of Pakistan.

The minister reiterated the commitment that elections would be ensured in a transparent and credible manner. The speaker welcomed the government’s determination for holding free and fair elections.

Senate body discusses Privilege Motion against NBP’s President ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Senator Tahir Bizinjo chaired the meeting of the Senate Committee on Rules of Procedure and Privileges held at the Parliament House on Tuesday. The Senate Committee met to discuss a Privilege Motion moved by Senators Naseeb Ullah Khan Bazai and Sardar Muhammad Shafiq Tareen against the President, National Bank of Pakistan on his non appearance before the Senate Special Committee meeting held in NBP head office Karachi .

The Special Committee meeting was held on the problems of the employees of the National Bank of Pakistan belonging to Balochistan on 12 October, 2023 at 12 noon at NBP Head Office at Karachi, however the meeting was delayed for 40 minutes due to absence of the president NBP while he was present in his office within the same building and even after passing of 40 minutes did not care to appear. The committee members were of

the view that this behaviour of a President of an organisation is thoroughly unbecoming. Senator Naseeb Ullah Bazai maintained that if such is the seriousness to deal with matters tabled on the country’s highest forum, let alone any chance public grievances would be addressed he further said.

The National Bank of Pakistan in its reply contended that the ex-CBA members had managed to be a part of the meeting called for by the Senator to address the grievance of the existing CBA members, thus the president NBP was placed in an extremely awkward position asking these uninvited members to leave the board room due to their presence prohibited by law. The brief said that the presence of these ex-CBA members in the premises of NBP was resented by the present office holders of the existing CBAs of the bank and resulted in industrial unrest at the NBP head office, therefore the president in an attempt to defuse the situation did not appear.

03

Kakar as chief guest of the ceremony entered the arena.

The prime minister onboard a PAF jeep inspected the formation of the smartly turned out contingents of the PAF falcons. The prime minister awarded the prestigious Quaid-e-Azam Banner to the Champions No. 3 Squadron on its consistently best performance in all semesters. He also pinned badges on the professionally distinguished graduating cadets.

The Chief of the Air Staff trophies for best performance were given to Muhammad Moosa Jawad (best pilot), Muhammad Ali Gohar (general aviation), Sajid Sikandar Abbas (air defence), Syed Saad Ali (combat support) and Sohaib Saeed (aeronautical engineering). The Swords of Honour were awarded to Aviation Cadets Ahmed Malik (flying) and Sohaib Saeed (engineering).

The prime minister witnessed the PAF Academy Aerobatics team “Bravehearts” presenting a spirit pass over the parade venue. Afterwards, a thrilling formation flying display by PAF Mirage, F-7PG, JF17 and J-10C fighter jets captivated the spectators by showcasing PAF’s professional prowess.

China-Pak non-wood forest S&T exchange moot to be held this month BEIJING

Staff RepoRt

Israel, Hamas drop hint at ‘early deal’ on hostages’ release CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

NEWS

The third Science and Technology Exchange Conference on China-Pakistan Tropical Arid Nonwood Forest will be held this month in Zhengzhou, China, and Gwadar. The conference will take place both online and offline simultaneously, China Economic Net (CEN) reported on Tuesday. The event was hosted by the Chinese Society of Forestry (CSF) and Central South University of Forestry and Technology, and organized by Henan Agricultural University, Henan Forestry Society, Economic Forest Branch of CSF, China Overseas Port Holding Company and Yulin Holdings. With a focus on medicinal woody plants and their active substances, the organizers will invite experts from both China and Pakistan to discuss the advancements made in improving the efficiency of the non-wood forest industry in arid areas. The conference will specifically highlight the extraction and utilization of these plants and their active substances in arid regions. The science and technology exchange conference also seeks to facilitate the improvement of ecological environment and people’s livelihoods in Pakistan’s tropical arid areas. At the same time, its research results will also contribute to the Chinese market and help address the shortage of non-wood forest products in China.

04 COMMENT

We are on precarious ground

Wednesday, 22 November, 2023

Gaza babies to Egypt

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The failure of an exchange of hostages for a ceasefire accompanies the moving of premature babies to Egypt

Supporters of Israel are now threatening Americans’ freedom of speech

HOUGH there were eminently practical reasons for the removal of 28 premature infants from a hospital in Gaza City to Egypt, perhaps some at least of the Evangelical supporters of Israel, the so-called Christian Zinionists, might have recalled the Bible story of the New Testament, when Christ was born as his parents fled Palestine for Egypt. According to the New Testament, Christ was thus born in the manger of an inn in Bethlehem in Palestine. As Christmas is not far off, there is a certain seasonal rightness about this. The New Testament relates, in the Gospel according to Matthew, how Joseph was fleeing the massacre of children ordered by the King of the Jews, Herod Antipas I, who was as much a client of the Romans as the present Israeli government is of the USA. Just as much as Herod, the Israeli armed forces are killing children not just by the indiscriminate nature of their bombardment, but by deliberately targeting hospitals.

The 28 babies sent across to Egypt were the 31 removed from Al-Shifa Hospital because Israeli forces had taken it over to search for a mythical Hamas command centre and for the much-vaunted Hamas tunnel system. Three babies are still at the Emirati Hospital in Gaza Cirt. The reasons for the babies’ removal seem to have been because the hospital incubators were being shut down as power outages grew more frequent, and with Israel targeting the hospital with artillery and withe serial attacks, it was going to lose its little patients anyway, so the doctors ran the risk of making the shift, which involved rushing them in ambulances to the Rafah crossing into Egypt, where teams with portable incubators awaited, into which the babies were put, Apart from the infants, their parents are also undergoing severe trauma.

Amid all this primal drama, the Qatar initiative to arrange a ceasefire seems to have fallen through because of Israeli intransigence. The deal would have seen a ceasefire for some days, perhaps four or five, followed by the release of some of the 240 hostages taken by Hamas during its attacks on October 7. This release would have been in exchange for the release of certain captive Palestinians. This, it seems, was the deal-breaker, as Israeli negotiators preferred to keep hold of those Palestinians rather than get their own people released.

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Washington Watch Dr James J Zogby

EVERAL events that have occurred in the past few weeks should make us pay attention to the frightening reality we are in when it comes to freedom of speech regarding Israel and Palestine, we are on precarious ground.

What is clear is that public opinion has shifted in a more pro-Palestinian direction, especially among younger Americans and people of colour. Up until now, this fact has registered mainly in polling data.

But with the past six weeks of Israel’s brutal assault on Gaza, there has been an outpouring of statements of support for Palestinian rights and opposition to Israel’s unrelenting war against the Palestinian people.

It was expected that pro-Palestinian support would be countered by groups supportive of Israel. But the virulence of the pro-Israeli counterattacks has been worrisome. A major American Jewish organization purporting to defend civil rights had called on universities to ban Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP).

They have called the student group antisemitic and, in an extraordinary move, have also called on the US government to investigate whether the students could be charged with “providing material support for terrorism.

While sometimes incautious language may have been used by young students to express support for Palestinians, there is nothing to substantiate the dangerous charge of terrorism. Some universities have responded by banning the SJP, together with Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP), a national organization of young progressive American Jews supportive of Palestinian rights. Despite its Jewish membership, JVP has also been termed antisemitic by the same proIsrael advocates.

A week ago, the chair of a Midwestern state’s Democratic Party sent a press release denouncing a group of officers of the Young Democrats on one of the state’s college campuses. The student Democrats’ letter ended with a nuanced version of what pro-Israel groups have come to insist is a controversial statement. Instead of saying “From the river to the sea, Palestine shall be free,” they wrote “May every Palestinian be free, from the river to the sea.”

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

Despite the student’s best efforts, the state party chair’s release accused them of using antisemitic language, making Jewish students feel unsafe on campus, and supporting genocide against the Jewish people.

The state chair also called on them to resign from their posts as elected officers in the Democratic group.

In justifying this harsh response, the chair cited the definition of the original phrase provided by a pro-Israel group: “This phrase is antisemitic and can make members of our Jewish community feel unsafe because it calls for genocide. ‘From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free’ is an antisemitic slogan commonly featured in antiIsrael campaigns and chanted at demonstrations…Usage of this phrase has the effect of making members of the Jewish and pro-Israel community feel unsafe and ostracized. It is important to note that demanding justice for Palestinians, or calling for a Palestinian state, should not mean, as this hateful phrase posits, denying the right of the State of Israel to exist.”

Just a week ago, a respected community-based organization in the state of Maryland that advocates and provides services for immigrants also issued a statement in support of the Palestinian people. They denounced the massacres perpetrated by Hamas on October 7 and also the Israeli bombing campaign that had taken the lives of thousands of Palestinians. The CASA statement went on to say that as people of colour they identified with the struggle for justice and freedom because, “the Palestinian struggle mirrors our own.”

CASA’s solidarity was met by a letter from a group of Maryland legislators and elected officials demand-

Despite the studentÊs best efforts, the state party chairÊs release accused them of using antisemitic language, making Jewish students feel unsafe on campus, and supporting genocide against the Jewish people.

Moving from the margins Yousaf Nizami

Editor Umar Aziz M. A. Niazi Joint Editor

Executive Editor

Pakistan will double its old people by 2050

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Dr Zafar Khan safDar

HE global population is ageing rapidly, with a sizable share of the older population residing in developing countries. Pakistan is one of only 15 countries worldwide with about eight percent of the population (16 million-plus) being over 60 years old. The aging population in Pakistan, projected to be doubled to 40 million by 2050, underscores the need for post-retirement support due to its impact on health services and the prevalence of degenerative and communicable diseases.

Infections are the leading cause of morbidity in old age, alongside visual impairment, walking difficulties, chewing difficulties, hearing issues, osteoporosis, arthritis, and incontinence. Pakistan’s United Nations Human Development Index ranking is 150th out of 189, with only 2.3 percent of the population above the statutory pensionable age receiving an old-age pension.

As life expectancy increases above 70, the aging population faces challenges, leading to less intergenerational support. Class plays a significant role in the health of the elderly in Pakistan, with women having no advantage over men.

Aging has vast implications for a country’s economic, social, and political spheres. As life expectancy increases in Pakistan, all stakeholders, including the government, non-governmental organizations, private sector, media, academia, and communities, need to proactively confront this change. Socio-economic policies and programs need to consider the multi-sectoral implications of an ageing population, and social protection interventions and health systems need to adapt to respond to the economic and health rights of an older population.

Pakistan is a signatory to the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA), which links population ageing and the wellbeing of older persons to international frameworks for social and economic development and human rights. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) advocate for age-inclusive development, and a study on the state of older women and men in Pakistan using a human rights lens has generated new insights into the lives of older people in Pakistan.

The elderly population in Pakistan constitutes 7.5 percent of the population, but their pension

system is erratic, leading to discrimination and lower employment levels. The government has introduced several acts to protect the elderly from economic, social, and political injustices, but these efforts have not improved their status in society.

NGOs like Edhi Foundation, Old Homes, Old Age Happy Homes, and the Senior Citizen Foundation are working for elderly welfare, but face limitations due to funding issues, bureaucratic processes, and corrupt practices. The situation is exacerbated by factors such as family reliance, health issues, loneliness, lack of federal laws, and collectivistic household structures. Force field analysis indicates mental health issues, economic welfare, and income security as driving forces for senior citizen independence, while state fiscal deficits, government priorities, social reluctance, and lack of legislation hinder progress.

The government in the past had drafted three national policies and legislative tools for the elderly, including the 1999 National Policy for the promotion of their health, the 2004 National Policy of Older People, and the 2007 Senior Citizens Bill, none of these were presented to the parliament for consent. However, the Ministry of Health launched the National Programme for Health Care for the aged in 2010 to increase preventative, curative, and rehabilitative treatments but never implemented in spirit. The provinces too have made little progress on the Senior Citizen Bills.

The majority of older persons, particularly women, face limited access to basic needs such as food, water, shelter, and clothing. Age-related discrimination in accessing work and employment hinders income generation, with only a few older people having access to government allowances and only two percent receiving a pension. Public participation is limited, with older women, especially in rural areas, having limited access to public life except for religious activities and family ceremonies. Health care access is limited, with only half of the older population satisfied with their daily living care.

Barriers include lack of transport, low availability, low quality of services, lack of medications, bureaucracy, and age-friendly services.

Self-fulfillment is generally satisfied with freedom, but two-thirds report insufficient education, older people in urban areas lack a fair share

of wealth, and 15 percent experience emotional distress. Older people face significant financial burdens in accessing healthcare services, with 25 percent struggling, with women performing worse than men, and 50 percent believing younger family members have greater healthcare cost-paying abilities.

The government should provide elderly citizens with safe, secure homes, including food, shelter, water, and toilets. Regular inspections of these homes, including hygiene checks, can help ensure their well-being. Regular visits by psychiatrists and doctors can also confirm the residents’ mental and physical well-being.

Awareness campaigns and campaigns to remove prejudices against the elderly in the employment process can help them feel financially secure. A comprehensive database of old people living in unsatisfied conditions can help identify areas needing immediate attention.

A pension system should be made more convenient for old employees, and a compensatory system should be implemented for those earning a certain amount. Random checks of elderly spending can measure their equity and welfare. Old age homes should be built according to population proportion, with a separate room for communication and community service. University graduates should fulfil community service hours to ensure their happiness.

It is high time that the government must address population ageing efficiently and proactively by designing innovative policies to cater to the needs of older persons, including housing, employment, healthcare, and social protection.

This includes implementing existing policies, improving coordination between local administration and non-governmental bodies, expanding pension coverage, improving employment and education opportunities, improving healthcare access, distinguishing between social services and public sector responsibilities, providing support for older people, and encouraging intergenerational solidarity.

The writer has a PhD in Political Science, and is a visiting faculty member at QAU Islamabad.

He can be reached at zafarkhansafdar@yahoo.com and tweets @zafarkhansafdar.

It is high time that the government must address population ageing efficiently and proactively by designing innovative policies to cater to the needs of older persons, including housing, employment, healthcare, and social protection. This includes implementing existing policies, improving coordination between local administration and non-governmental bodies.

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

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Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9

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Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

ing that CASA rescind their statement, declaring it “antisemitic.” And as state legislators who decide the state’s budget, they more pointedly stated without any concern: “This might be an appropriate time to reevaluate the state’s mechanism for providing financial aid and support to our immigrant community.” Subtle, this was not. Since thousands of immigrants depend on CASA for critical services and advocacy, they felt compelled to apologize and take down the statement.

As of yet, it seems the legislators have not relented in their threat to eliminate the group’s funding.

Finally, an op-ed published in the New York Daily News this week calling for the reestablishment of the notorious Jewish Defense League should cause concern and outrage. Instead, it passed without comment from elected officials concerned about the spread of hate. In his column, the author, a prominent New York philanthropist, praised the JDL’s founder, Meir Kahane, and extolled the virtues of the group which he claimed represented strong Jews and a firm response to threats against their safety.

He ignored the facts that: for decades the JDL was on the FBI terrorism list; was one of the major perpetrators of terrorist violence during the 1970s and 1980s; and was even banned in Israel as a racist terror group that spawned the likes of the individual who perpetrated the massacre of Muslim worshippers in Hebron’s Ibrahim Mosque and the individual who assassinated Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. That a major US paper would even publish such a piece without comment is an indicator of how dangerous the situation has become.

From these examples, it would seem the wrong discourse is being scrutinized.

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The writer is President, Arab American Institute.

Editor’s mail

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

Affordability challenges in education

NUMEROUS parents encounter myriad difficulties in meeting their children’s educational expenses due to the high cost of education in the country. The exorbitant fees of private institutions have posed insurmountable challenges, preventing many from affording quality education for their children. The enrollment report underscores this, revealing that 30% of students at the secondary and tertiary levels, 40% at the preprimary level, and 20% at the primary level are attending privatelyrun schools, with an additional 8% enrolled in seminaries.

It is crucial for parents to voice their concerns and protest against these steep fees. The report emphasises that the schooling of children from poor families constitutes a significant 80% of their total income. It is disheartening to witness parents contending with the hurdles of school fees in Pakistan. Education should not be a financial burden on the less privileged. Urgent government action is needed to reduce fees and facilitate student education through scholarships and grants, ensuring that every student, regardless of family wealth, has access to a quality education.

ZAINAB ISLAM KECH

Transportation struggle

THE students of Government Girls Degree College Turbat, hailing from remote areas, currently face a petrol crisis affecting transportation availability to the college. With only four buses on campus, none can be utilised due to the petrol shortage. This predicament causes significant commuting difficulties for many students.

Despite multiple appeals to the principal urging funding for petrol purchase, the students’ pleas have fallen on deaf ears. Expressing their frustration, they state, “Now we are forced to convince the administration.”

This ongoing issue hampers their academic journeys, impeding regular class attendance. It is imperative that the caretaker government acknowledges the seriousness of this problem and takes prompt steps to address it.

JALASHK BALACH DASHT

Tourism in Balochistan

THE province of Balochistan is blessed with picturesque mountains, natural ponds and a vibrant culture. Thousands of people visit various scenic places during the summers. However, many more still do not know about them. If the natural sites are highlighted properly and professionally, they can attract hundreds of thousands of more visitors every year, doing wonders to the locals and the local economy. The government should improve infrastructure and establish restaurants and hotels in all the relevant areas. This will promote tourism and provide local people an opportunity to survive and earn a decent living which they deserve.

LAL SHAH JHAL

Islamophobia

DESPITE violations of human rights in Palestine and occupied Kashmir, the West has preferred to remain silent. The reason it does not support Palestinians and Kashmiris is the fact that the vast majority of these two nations happen to be Muslims. There is no other explanation for the behaviour that the West has chosen to practise.

SHAKIR LAKHANI KARACHI

Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

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Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

COMMENT 05

Grading education Wednesday, 22 November, 2023

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Are students being to think beyond memorization TahIra WashDIL

DUCATION, often hailed as a beacon of enlightenment, stands as the gateway to unraveling the mysteries of the world, comprehending life’s intricacies, and navigating the challenges that humanity faces. It plays a pivotal role in guiding individuals towards the right path, broadening their horizons, and unveiling the wisdom that the world has to offer. Exploring its impact on celestial threats, healthcare, and the inherent shortcomings within the current educational paradigm.

Consider NASA’s groundbreaking Double Asteroids Redirection Test (DART) mission, designed to protect Earth from potential asteroid impacts. Education has empowered scientists to develop strategies to prevent catastrophic events, such as the asteroid Dimorphos, created

by NASA. Today, scientists are actively working to avert the impact of an asteroid named Bennu, scheduled for 24 September 2182. Education serves as a catalyst for innovation and problem-solving, enabling humanity to tackle existential challenges.

Beyond celestial threats, education has played a crucial role in healthcare, contributing to the understanding and prevention of dangerous diseases. It serves as the foundation for medical advancements, enabling researchers and healthcare professionals to diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses. However, the power of education can be a double-edged sword. The current education system, with its emphasis on grades and memorization, risks veering away from the true objectives of learning.

The pressure to perform well in examinations has led to the mindless accumulation of information, neglecting the importance of creativity and critical thinking. Are individuals mere vessels meant to store vast amounts of information? The relentless pursuit of academic excellence, often fueled by the fear of failure, may undermine the potential for parallel and creative thinking. Students, especially in the medical field, resort to energy drinks to

To reshape education, it is essential to look beyond the obsession with grades and focus on nurturing creativity and critical thinking. Examining successful models, such as CanadaÊs education system.

combat sleep deprivation, adversely affecting both brain and body functions.

Furthermore, the education system’s relentless demands leave little room for personal growth, family time, and religious education. Students find themselves entangled in a web of schedules, leaving no time to explore and understand essential aspects of life, including their religious beliefs. This detachment from family values and personal relationships raises concerns about the unintended consequences of an education system that prioritizes quantity over quality.

The current education system’s shortcomings are evident when evaluating its impact on creativity and intelligence. Emphasis on grades often results in a lack of appreciation for qualitative aspects of learning, sidelining creative thinking and problem-solving skills. Philosopher Epictetus’ words resonate, highlighting the essence of education in fostering tranquility, fearlessness, and freedom—qualities often overshadowed by the race for grades.

To reshape education, it is essential to look beyond the obsession with grades and focus on nurturing creativity and critical thinking. Examining successful models, such as Canada’s education system, which prioritizes high-quality education, and Japan’s commitment to excellence, offers insights into potential improvements. Establishing a system that ensures the persistence of quality education should be the collective goal, fostering an environment where knowledge is not just accumulated but actively applied.

Education stands as a powerful tool, but its true potential can only be realized when it transcends the constraints of grades and examinations. A paradigm shift towards holistic learning, creativity, and critical thinking is imperative to unleash the full power of education, allowing individuals to navigate the complexities of life with wisdom and purpose. It is time to reevaluate our educational priorities, fostering an environment that encourages lifelong learning, creativity, and the application of knowledge for the betterment of individuals and society.

Modern education faces a myriad of challenges, from adapting to technological advancements to addressing the diverse learning needs of students. The digital age has ushered in new opportunities, but it has also intensified the pressure on students to excel in a rapidly evolving landscape. The emphasis on standardized testing and uniform curricula may not cater to the unique strengths and interests of each student, leading to a onesize-fits-all approach that stifles creativity.

While technology has the potential to revolutionize education, its integration often comes with challenges.

The digital divide, where some students have access to technology-rich environments while others do not, exacerbates educational inequalities. Moreover, the reliance on technology raises concerns about the depersonalization of education, with the risk of students becoming passive consumers of information rather than active participants in their learning journey.

A comparative analysis of education systems worldwide offers valuable insights. Canada’s education sys-

tem, often admired for its focus on quality, emphasizes a holistic approach that goes beyond grades. The emphasis on practical skills alongside academic achievement fosters a well-rounded education. Similarly, Japan’s commitment to excellence, as reflected in its high literacy rates and strong performance in international assessments, underscores the importance of a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum.

Education is not a finite journey but a lifelong process. Encouraging a culture of continuous learning beyond formal education institutions is crucial. Individuals need to develop adaptability and resilience in the face of an ever-changing world. This requires an educational paradigm that instills a love for learning rather than a mere pursuit of grades.

Critical thinking is an essential skill that transcends academic achievements. It involves the ability to analyze information, question assumptions, and develop independent thoughts. However, the current education system, with its focus on standardized testing, often falls short in nurturing this vital skill. Encouraging open-ended discussions, fostering debate, and promoting problem-solving can pave the way for a generation of critical thinkers.

Creativity is the cornerstone of innovation and

Altman’s departure from OpenAI was less a managerial dispute than a religious schism

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NATION, US

JaCob sILVerman

OU may not have heard of OpenAI and its nerd-celebrity CEO Sam Altman before this weekend, but OpenAI has probably heard of you. As the creator of the wildly popular ChatGPT chatbot, OpenAI has been training its software on unfathomable amounts of Internet data that happen to include a great deal of “publicly available information that is freely and openly available on the internet”—your tweets, perhaps, or even your personal information. OpenAI, which is technically a start-up but is locked into a complicated ownership structure that mixes some profit-making capacity with nonprofit supervision, has soared to an $80 billion valuation. It’s been helped along by $13 billion in investment and computing resources from Microsoft, its main patron.

In the last year, Altman has become the foremost figure in tech’s AI boom, and on Friday, OpenAI’s board suddenly and summarily fired him. Now, with rank-and-file staff eyeing the exits, the future of the world’s hottest start-up may be in jeopardy.

“Mr. Altman’s departure follows a deliberative review process by the board, which concluded that he was not consistently candid in his communications with the board, hindering its ability to exercise its responsibilities,” OpenAI announced on its company blog. “The board no longer has confidence in his ability to continue leading OpenAI.” Crucially, OpenAI didn’t say what Altman had actually done. What wasn’t he “candid” about? Had he lied to his own board? No one seemed to know, so chaos, speculation, and gossip took over.

Altman’s firing was inexplicable for an industry that had quickly lionized him.

Altman was formerly the head of Y Combinator, the premiere Silicon Valley startup incubator, which made him one of the best-connected people in tech and a favorite of the venture-capitalist class. Immediately upon his firing, there was speculation that he would found a new company by the end of the weekend. Indeed, hundreds of OpenAI employees pledged to follow him wherever he went,

The writer is a freelance columnist

Rethinking education requires a holistic approach that goes beyond grades and examinations. The multifaceted role of education in addressing celestial threats, healthcare challenges, and the complexities of the modern world underscores its significance.

However, the current education systemÊs shortcomings necessitate a reevaluation of priorities and a commitment to fostering a love for learning, critical thinking, and creativity.

How Sam Altman ran afoul of the keepers of the AI faith as did some of his financial backers. Altman reportedly tried to engineer a countercoup that would see him reinstalled as the company’s CEO and some of his board enemies vanquished. It didn’t work.

But on Sunday, as the clock inched toward midnight, The Information reported that Altman had secured a cushy new job leading Microsoft’s AI research lab— which, by extension, includes some authority over Microsoft’s relationship with his former employer. Hundreds of AI employees are still expected to follow Altman to Microsoft, which has practically unlimited money to pour into an industry that devours hardware, data, talent, and cash in astonishing quantities. And Altman has the full support of Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.

Amid all this frantic reshuffling, Open AI’s board stood behind its firing of Altman, writing in a statement: “Put simply, Sam’s behavior and lack of transparency in his interactions with the board undermined the board’s ability to effectively supervise the company in the manner it was mandated to do.”

So what did Altman do? The followup statement offered no clarity; it only suggested that he seemed to threaten the board’s responsibilities, which center around protecting the company’s nonprofit component. The allusion to possible deception seems significant. In recent months, Altman was reportedly traveling in the Middle East, hoping to convince sovereign wealth funds to invest in a new AI chip start-up—an immensely ambitious project that would require billions in capital and years of runway, among other challenges.

Many tech observers have suggested that a quasi-religious schism is at play.

Altman is a move-fast-and-break-things type of operator: someone who believes in pushing artificial intelligence research quickly and boldly, come what may.

Like other AI executives, he has said that the technology could one day lead to a global apocalypse, but, despite that risk, it remains too important not to research. This general attitude is widespread in Silicon Valley. Rather than being cowed by risk, many tech boosters display an almost religious faith in the necessity of pursuing Artificial General Intelligence, or AGI, a computer intelligence that would come to rival that of human beings.

Altman’s rivals at OpenAI seem to belong to the more conservative camp, believing that by trying to create God in a box they may be going too far. Perhaps Altman’s heedless embrace of chatbotsfor-all—he is AI’s most effective salesman—ran up against the pragmatism of

progress. Yet, in many educational systems, creativity is undervalued or overlooked. A shift towards project-based learning, where students can apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios, encourages creative thinking. This approach not only enhances understanding but also prepares students for the complexities of the workforce.

The discussion leads us to a fundamental question: What kind of education do we want for future generations? A comprehensive educational reform that prioritizes individual growth, critical thinking, and creativity is imperative. It involves reevaluating assessment methods, incorporating diverse learning styles, and leveraging technology to enhance, not replace, traditional teaching methods.

Rethinking education requires a holistic approach that goes beyond grades and examinations. The multifaceted role of education in addressing celestial threats, healthcare challenges, and the complexities of the modern world underscores its significance. However, the current education system’s shortcomings necessitate a reevaluation of priorities and a commitment to fostering a love for learning, critical thinking, and creativity.

more cautious researchers. That all of this betrays a towering egotism as well as a supreme faith in the power of technology usually goes unsaid. In Silicon Valley, AGI is a prophetic inevitability, a necessity. The only real question is how to manage the potentially seismic threat of massive planetary disruption that comes with the wholesale adoption of AI. Until Friday, some thought that OpenAI was the industry leader best positioned to do just that.

The AI faith has many popes—an almost exclusively white male cohort of thirtysomething executives and programmers who genuinely believe they are working on the most important thing in the world. Right now, they command the attention of the tech industry, its financial backers, politicians, and the millions of people who have taken up hallucinating chatbots as productivity tools or simply idle entertainments. Tens of billions of dollars, vast amounts of chip-making production capacity, and some important policymakers are exclusively focused on elevating the religion of AI, embedding it throughout our economy, educational system, and military operations.

Astute analysts and scholars have pointed out that AI’s real, immediate threat is not that it surpasses human intelligence.

Rather, it’s that these systems replace humans or become our overseers, a flawed technology dictating not only the terms of our labor but also our patterns of material consumption, and increasingly our politics. This dark eventuality is already emerging—in call centers, in algorithms that determine prisoners’ parole, and in chatbots flooding social networks with bad information. The utopian potential of AI remains hazy and mostly undefined— something in the distance that only seers like Altman can lead us to. The industry’s high priests remain utterly sure of their own prophecies, so when an industry eminence is challenged by his own board, the response isn’t to ask whether there might be a problem in the brave new vision of a social and digital world imbued with AI. No, as in past challenges to the one true faith, the mandate for believers is to double down on the messianic conviction that promises their universal deliverance. The one sure thing to emerge after Sam Altman’s weekend of high-managerial chaos is that he will continue to preach his gospel from the lucrative empyrean of Microsoft.

Jacob Silverman is the author of Terms of Service: Social Media and the Price of Constant Connection and the coauthor of Easy Money: Cryptocurrency, Casino Capitalism, and the Golden Age of Fraud.

Decoding Modi’s playbook: Political machinations and false flag operations

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SYEDA DUAA ZEHRA NAQVI

ITH general elections scheduled in 2024, India is once again headed towards a pivotal moment that will not only shape the political landscape of the nation, but also determine her diplomatic posture internationally. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is actively strategizing to secure a consecutive third term, leaving no stone unturned in its quest for electoral victory.

Drawing from past election tactics, such as the controversial Pulwama attack, which was seen by critics as a calculated political maneuver, the BJP may employ similar strategies to sway the electoral tide in their favor.

As the BJP intensifies its efforts to maintain its grip on power, it has initiated a series of measures, including expediting the delimitation act. This act aims to redistribute parliamentary seats in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, serving as a potential tool for the BJP to gain an electoral advantage in the upcoming elections. By strategically manipulating seat distribution, the party aims to bolster its chances of securing a favorable outcome at the polls.

The state elections scheduled for November 2023 assume paramount importance in this milieu, as they offer a pivotal glimpse into the current political landscape. Several key states, such as Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Rajasthan, and Telangana, will serve as crucial battlegrounds for political parties vying for power. These elections will provide invaluable insights into the prevailing political dynamics and serve as a litmus test for the popularity and support enjoyed by the competing parties.

In the state of Madhya Pradesh, the Congress and BJP had secured similar vote shares in the 2018 elections. However, despite the Congress winning a slightly higher number of seats, their government’s tenure was short-lived. The defection of 22 Congress MLAs to the BJP resulted in the BJP’s return to power. This episode underscores the volatility and fluidity of state-level politics, where unexpected shifts in allegiance can dramatically shape electoral outcomes.

Chhattisgarh is witnessing a closely contested battle between the Congress and BJP. Recent surveys indicate a slight edge for the Congress in terms of vote share, with the popular incumbent Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel bolstering the party’s advantage.

Telangana, on the other hand, is expected to witness a neck-and-neck contest between the BJP and Congress. Both parties are projected to secure between 50 and 60 seats in the 119-member Assembly. Meanwhile, the Mizoram elections, slated for November 2023, may result in a hung verdict, necessitating the support of the Zoram People’s Amongst the five states undergoing elections in November 2023, only Rajasthan’s

pre-vote projection results favor BJP. While state elections offer valuable insights into the prevailing political landscape, it is essential to note that their outcomes may not necessarily mirror those of the general elections. Assembly results often diverge from national election outcomes due to intricate local factors and specific regional dynamics at play. One notable aspect of the political landscape is the BJP’s concerted efforts to expand its influence in the Southern states of India, where BJP has little presence.

With a more liberal mind-set in India’s south and the region’s outperformance compared to their Northern counterparts in socioeconomic indicators, law and order, per capita income, taxation systems, literacy rates and population control, the BJP’s Hindutva ideology faces significant resistance in these states. Political parties representing the Southern states, such as the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in Andhra Pradesh have been able to successfully counter the BJP’s Hindu nationalist wave that swept the north.

The BJP’s pursuit of her fascist agenda through initiatives like the “India to Bharat” campaign and the proposal for “One Nation - One Election,” serve as important political tools to appeal the right wing nationalist Hindus that form the majority in India.

These measures, if implemented, could potentially tilt seat distribution in favor of the BJP, particularly in the Northern states.

Such concerns have raised alarm bells regarding the erosion of democratic principles and the emergence of a potential North-South divide.

Beyond domestic challenges, the BJP government is faced with international embarrassment at this critical time, particularly with elections in sight. The case of eight former Indian Navy officials sentenced to death in Qatar for espionage and Modi government’s failure to secure a diplomatic resolution for the exchange of the convicted veterans, for instance, has raised questions about Modi’s claims of India’s diplomatic prowess and its standing as a so called ‘significant player’ in international affairs.

With India’s current projection of political landscape for 2024 general elections and BJP’s ardent pursuit of a third consecutive term in the face of challenges rooted in the party’s failures at domestic as well as international fronts, it is much likely for Modi’s time tested fascist tactics emulating the Pulwama style false flag operation to come into play to gain political mileage. It is imperative to note that Modi’s godi media has already started mirroring the BJP’s narrative with the increment of anti-Pakistan reporting, especially in line with the BJP’s classic disproven accusation of ‘terrorism from Pakistani side’.

(Email: duaazehra89@gmail.com)

06 NEWS

Wednesday, 22 November, 2023 | LAHORE

BRITISH-PAKISTANI COUNCILLOR RESIGNS OVER CONSERVATIVE PARTY STANCE ON GAZA CEASEFIRE

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LONDON

Monitoring report

RITISH-Pakistani Conservative Councillor Jamal Chohan has quit the party over its stance on Israel’s war on Palestine and the killings of over 13,000 Palestinians. Chohan, a lawyer, was threatened with suspension by the Conservative Party for signing an open letter for councillors across England and Wales calling for a ceasefire. He didn’t send the letter that he co-authored with independent Councillor James Giles from the Kingston Council but the party asked him to apologise or face suspension. Giles emailed all 19,102 councillors in England and Wales on Sunday, asking them to sign a public letter calling for a Gaza ceasefire. He had threatened to publish the names of anyone opposed to a ceasefire in Gaza and the Green Party and others have already done so. The letter stated that anti-Semitism had been “weaponised” to silence those who opposed Israel’s actions in the wake of the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas and anyone who criticised the state of Israel was called an “anti-semite”. The original letter by a group of elected representatives has called on PM Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer to “call for an immediate ceasefire and that you focus your efforts towards driving lasting peace in the region through meaningful impartial mediation for a two-state solution”. It said: “To be clear and stating the obvious, antisemitism is wholly unacceptable.

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Wednesday, 22 November, 2023 | LAHORE

FAUJI FOODS EYES FAUJI FOUNDATION’S EQUITY STAKE IN FAUJI INFRAAVEST FOODS, FAUJI CEREALS

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FFL IS A LEADING COMPANY IN DAIRY AND FOODS SECTOR, SELLING PRODUCTS SUCH AS MILK, YOGURT, CHEESE, BUTTER, JUICES AND ICE CREAM PROFIT

NEWS DESK

AUJI Foods Limited (FFL), a subsidiary of Fauji Fertilizer Bin Qasim Limited, has announced its intention to acquire Fauji Foundation’s equity stake in Fauji Infraavest Foods Limited and Fauji Cereals. According to a notice issued to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Tuesday, FFL said that the potential transactions are subject to all internal, regulatory, and third-party approvals. FFL is a leading company in the dairy and food sector, selling products such as

milk, yogurt, cheese, butter, juices, and ice cream.

The notice did not disclose the financial details or the rationale behind the acquisitions. However, FFL has been expanding its product portfolio and market share in recent years, with the help of equity injections from its group companies. Fauji Foundation’s subsidiaries have invested Rs30 billion in FFL since 2016, when they acquired 75% stake in the company from the former owners, the Hayat Noon family.

FFL posted a profit after tax (PAT) of Rs38.5 million in the third quarter of FY2023, compared to a loss of Rs1.2 billion in the same period last year. Its revenue

for the first nine months of 2023 increased by 83% to Rs14.8 billion, as it benefited from the recovery in consumer demand and the easing of Covid-19 restrictions.

Fauji Infraavest Foods Limited is a joint venture between Fauji Foundation and Infraavest GmbH, a German company. It produces potato flakes and granules for the domestic and export markets.

Fauji Cereals was established in 1954 in collaboration with Quaker Oats, England and started trial production operation by end 1956. It is one of the pioneer commercial ventures of Fauji Foundation that produces breakfast cereals, corn flakes and porridge.

PN, local industry together aim to attain self-reliance: Naval Chief KARACHI INP

Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf participated as chief guest of Pakistan Navy Industrial Seminar held at Bahria Auditorium, Karachi on Tuesday Addressing the participants of seminar, the Naval Chief lauded the valu-

able participation of academia and representatives of various industries from private sector.

Admiral Naveed Ashraf emphasised that technology was continuously evolving and the armed forces also need to keep pace with the evolving technology.

This necessitates close cooperation of the defence sector with local industry and ed-

Gas theft crackdown: Another 54 connections disconnected in Punjab, KP and Islamabad

LAHORE: During the ongoing crackdown against gas pilferers, SNGPL continued raids in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Islamabad, disconnecting another 54 connections while 217 under billing cases processed ; Rs 2.2 million fine imposed In Lahore, the regional team disconnected 8 connections on illegal use of gas and another 10 on use of compressor. The team also imposed fine of Rs 0.67 million against gas theft cases cases.In Bahawalpur the company disconnected one connection on the use of compressor .The regional team in Multan disconnected 1 connection on illegal use of gas and 11 Under billing cases have been processed. PR

ucational institutions. This industrial seminar will provide significant opportunity for local industries to showcase their potential to support Pakistan Navy which was a technology intensive armed force of Pakistan, he added.

While appreciating the response of private sector in a technologically challenging environment, Chief of the Naval

Major Milestone: Pakistan secures two-year extension in MMPA exemption period

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan attains a remarkable global milestone as the Department of Commerce and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) grant a prestigious two-year extension to the exemption period, distinguishing the nation among a select few out of 130 countries. This significant extension, as outlined in a Federal Register Notice, extends the deadline for comparability findings for commercial fishing operations exporting fish and fish products to the U.S. to December 31, 2025.This extension represents a notable revision to the regulations implementing the import provisions of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), initially introduced in 2016. The regulations initially granted foreign nations a five-year exemption period to develop regulatory programs addressing marine mammal bycatch comparable to U.S. standards.

Originally set to conclude on December 31, 2023, this exemption period has now been extended.

NMFS, entrusted with evaluating each nation's regulatory programs, acknowledges the complexity of assessing the incidental. PR

PID (I) 3109/23

Staff said that Pakistan Navy and local industries will together attain our aim of self-reliance. Speakers from different organizations also highlighted the importance of indigenization and self-reliance.

The seminar was attended by a large number of officers of Pakistan Navy, dignitaries, representatives of local industry and prominent members of academia.

Student facilitation is our motto: VC AIOU

ISLAMABAD: Vice Chancellor, Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood chaired the Regional Directors Conference yesterday. Director General Regional Services, Dr. Malik Tauqir Ahmad Khan hosted the meeting while all the regional directors participated online. During the conference, the Vice Chancellor presented his roadmap, vision, and mission regarding the regional network. Dr. Nasir Mahmood emphasized the importance of using modern technology by the regional directors and their staff to meet the modern requirements of education.Dr. Nasir emphasized the solution to the problems of students at their doorstep. He stressed that minor issues should not require students to come to Islamabad for their resolution. PR

NEWS

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Wednesday, 22 November, 2023

Pakistan committed to CABINET OKAYS ‘ATTRACTIVE’ SALARY, two-state solution of PERKS FOR NAB DEPUTY CHIEF, PROSECUTOR Palestinian conflict PRAYER TIMINGS

NEWS

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ISLAMABAD

AHMAD AHMADANI

HE Federal Cabinet, through circulation of summary, has approved ‘handsome’ salary package and fringe benefits of Deputy Chairman and Prosecutor General of National Accountability Bureau (NAB), it was learnt on Tuesday.

According to sources, the federal cabinet through circulation of a summary of Law Ministry has granted its necessary approval to pay Rs 1,589,203 (more than Rs 15 lakh) under monthly salary,

PRL inks agreements with Honeywell UOP, Axens to double refining capacity g

ities, DA, TA, medical treatment admissible to Sohail Nasir as Deputy Chairman are equal to as admissible to a judge of the High Court, while medical allowance utilities, DA, TA, medical treatment admissible to Syed Ihtehsam Qadir Shah are equal to as admissible to a judge of the Supreme Court. Similarly, the fixed salary package and fringe benefits of Sohail Nasir (Deputy Chairman, NAB), and Syed Ihtesham Qadir Shah (Prosecutor General Accountability, NAB) will be subject to Income Tax as applicable.

Likewise, Prosecutor General NAB will get one Chauffer-driven car driven

superior judicial allowance and Rs 68,000 if official residence is not provided to Syed Ihtesham Qadir Shah, Prosecutor General Accountability, NAB while Rs 1,437,855 (above Rs 14 lakh) under the head salary and superior judicial allowance and Rs 65,000 if official residence is not provided to Sohail Nasir as Deputy Chairman, NAB, Islamabad.

Sharing details of other fringe benefits approved by the cabinet for the important positions of Deputy Chairman NAB and Prosecutor General of National Accountability Bureau (NAB) as well, sources said that medical allowance util-

EXPANSION, UPGRADE PROJECT AIMS TO DOUBLE PRL'S CAPACITY FROM 50,000 TO 100,000 BARRELS PER DAY AND TRANSITION FROM HYDRO SKIMMING TO EURO V-COMPLIANT FUELS PROFIT

NEWS DESK

Pakistan Refinery Limited (PSX: PRL) has signed key license agreements with global industry leaders Honeywell UOP and Axens for its Refinery Expansion and Upgrade Project (REUP), the company said in a notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Tuesday. The project aims to double PRL’s refining capacity from 50kbpd to 100kbpd and transition from hydro skimming to a deep conversion refinery, facilitating the production of value-added products and EURO V-compliant fuels, considered more environmentally friendly than traditional automotive fuels. PRL has chosen cuttingedge process technologies from Honeywell UOP for bottom-of-the-barrel conversion technology and naphtha processing, including the Residue Fluidized Catalytic Cracking Process, LPG Merox process, and a Naphtha complex. Axens will supply Prime G+®, Prime D™, and Polynaphtham™ to achieve Euro V gasoline and diesel specifications.

The collaboration is expected to modernize PRL’s refining capabilities and contribute to sustainable energy solutions, as stated in the company notice.

Zahid Mir, Managing Director and CEO of PRL, stated that this partnership is a significant milestone in the company’s journey toward refinery modernisation. He emphasized the commitment to advanced technologies for sustainable and efficient operations, stating that these collaborations will play a crucial role in shaping Pakistan’s energy future.

Mir noted that the initiative reflects PRL’s proactive role in creating a future where innovation aligns with environmental responsibility, laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and energy-efficient Pakistan.

KP’s paperless e-governance project fails due to ‘faulty software’

Pakistan assures IMF to increase petroleum levy revenue to Rs920b g

IN FIRST QUARTER, GOVT ALREADY COLLECTED RS222B UNDER PLD, MARKING A SUBSTANTIAL 367PC RISE COMPARED TO SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR PROFIT

NEWS DESK

In ongoing negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Pakistan has pledged to boost its annual petroleum levy collection to Rs 920 billion for the current fiscal year.

As reported by The Express Tribune, the government has assured the IMF of increasing the petroleum levy annual target from Rs869 billion to Rs920 billion, an additional Rs50 billion, aiming to offset the loss of revenue from other non-tax sources.

This commitment comes as the government faces difficulties in fully recuperating the Gas Infrastructure Development Cess (GIDC) from influential industries.

The government currently imposes an Rs60 per litre petroleum tax on both petrol and diesel, with the initial budgeted collection target under this head being Rs869 billion. However, this target has now been revised upward to nearly Rs920 billion.

In the first quarter, the government already collected Rs222 billion under the petroleum levy, marking a substantial 367 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

While committing to increase the petroleum levy collection, the government has simultaneously

reduced the revenue collection target from the GIDC by Rs10 billion to Rs30 billion.

The GIDC, previously nullified by the apex court, had companies accumulating Rs416 billion by December 2018, which was not deposited in the national treasury.

In September 2019, PTI government issued a Presidential Ordinance to waive off half of the Rs416 billion. Following media criticism, the the government withdrew the ordinance and opted to settle the matter of the outstanding dues through court proceedings. The Supreme Court annulled the GIDC statute, dismissing the federal government’s

review petition.

Since 2019, only Rs80 billion of the Rs416 billion has been recovered, with about Rs337 billion still pending. The target for recovery has been further reduced

by Rs10 billion.

Despite an increase in the petroleum levy collection, the target for non-tax revenues has been slashed by Rs97 billion.

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) maintained an unchanged tax collection target of Rs9.415 trillion. However, within this target, the income tax collection target was increased by Rs346 billion to compensate for shortfalls in sales tax, customs duties, and federal excise duty targets.

Current account deficit narrows by 91% in October, stands at $74m g

THOUGH REMITTANCES SURGED TO $2.5B IN OCT, 4-MONTH INFLOWS RECORDED A 13.3PC DECLINE

PESHAWAR

AZIZ BUNERI

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s paperless e-governance project, launched in May 2023 to digitise government processes and enhance efficiency, has encountered a setback because of faulty software. Developed by a local company at a cost of Rs500 million, the software, along with Rs114 million in consulting fees, proved unusable after its launch.

Despite training government employees and officials to use the software, the training was ineffective, and the launched software revealed numerous bugs and glitches.

Originally planned to encompass 171 modules, only seven were developed, and none were implemented in any government department. The initial work on these seven modules was conducted for a few days, and they are currently inactive. These modules include summaries, cabinet business, legal documents, project files, directives for the Chief Minister, special notes for the Chief Secretary, and details of assets. The provincial government has secured a loan of $118 million for this project, according to documents. The approved project aimed to bring the affairs of 34 administrative departments online, with 4,000 secretariat employees working under the egovernance system. However, there has been no progress in this regard, and all matters are still being conducted through traditional paper-based methods.

with upto 600 litre of petrol per month, electricity, gas and other allowances equivalent to a Supreme Court judge. Furthermore, Deputy Chairman NAB will get one chauffer car driven with upto 500 litre of petrol per month, said sources.

Besides, both Deputy Chairman NAB and Prosecutor General NAB will also get bonus on recovery, the sources added.

It is also learnt from sources that salary and fringe benefits for Deputy Chairman NAB and Prosecutor General NAB were approved on the recommendation of Chairman NAB Lt. Gen. Retired Nazir Ahmed.

PROFIT NEWS DESK

The Current Account Deficit (CAD) showed a notable year-on-year contraction of 91 percent in October, according to the latest data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Monday.

While the deficit narrowed significantly compared to the same month last year, it exhibited a month-on-month widening trend. The CAD for October stood at $74 million, down from $849 million in the corresponding period last year.

The SBP’s estimation proved accurate, with the deficit remaining within the bank’s expectations. Last

week, the SBP governor expressed confidence that the CAD for October would stay below $100 million and anticipated continued containment throughout the fiscal year 2023-24. The contraction aligns with SBP policy, even with the relaxation of import restrictions.

In FY23, a stringent ban on most imports resulted in an 87 percent reduction in the CAD. Despite a partial easing of import restrictions, banks face constraints in opening letters of credit (LCs) for imports due to a persistent shortage of dollars in the interbank market.

October witnessed a 61 percent widening of the CAD compared to September, indicating a potential trend of higher imports and declining exports in the coming months. Although remittances increased to $2.5 billion in October, the four-month inflows recorded a 13.3 percent decline, raising concerns about a potential increase in the CAD by the end of FY24.

Encouragingly, the CAD during the first four months (July-October) of FY24 contracted by $2 billion, as per SBP data. During this period, the CAD was $1.06 billion, a significant decrease from $3.1 billion in the corresponding period last year.

This contraction could assist the government in meeting foreign debt servicing obligations, with an anticipated payment of $25 billion during FY24.

Exports of goods in July-October increased by $170 million to $9.777 billion, while imports saw a decline of $4.2 billion to $21 billion. Additionally, services exports and imports registered increases of $78 million and $534 million, respectively

FAJR SUNRISE

ZUHR

ASR MAGHRIB ISHA

6:00

1:30

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based on 1967 borders: FM ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani has said that Pakistan remains committed to two-state solution of the Palestinian conflict based on 1967 borders.

Responding to the points of Mian Raza Rabbani in the Senate on Tuesday, he said that Pakistan’s position is in line with the United Nations and OIC resolutions.

Meanwhile, replying to a question during the Question Hour, the Foreign Minister told the House that about 2.5 million Pakistanis are working in Saudi Arabia. He said round the clock helpline has been established in the Pakistani Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate General in Jeddah to address their complaints.

The Foreign Minister pointed out that about five hundred thousand Pakistani went to Saudi Arabia last year for employment.

He said the Saudi authorities have given the assurances to provide jobs to those facing employment related problems at alternative companies. Jalil Abbas Jilani said the Federal Investigation Agency has busted two to three gangs of beggars, who were trying to travel to Saudi Arabia under the garb of Umrah.

The Senate was informed today that caretaker government is making all-out efforts to address the problems in the education sector. During Question Hour, Caretaker Minister for Education Madad Ali Sindhi regretted that education sector was neglected by successive governments.

He pointed out that our twenty million children are out of schools. He said it is our effort to improve the quality of education at public sector schools to improve enrollment there. The Minister said Higher Education Commission has also been instructed to keep an eye on quality of education in universities.

Answering another question, Caretaker Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Solangi told the House that a committee has been constituted to elect a new President of Pakistan Hockey Federation. He also laid before the House the Report on 1st Biannual Monitoring on the Implementation of 7th NFC Award.

Later, the House was adjourned to meet again on Friday at 10:30 in the morning.

Pakistan’s FDI up by 7% in first four months of FY2023-24 g

SBP DATA SHOWS FDI IN OCTOBER 2023 WAS RECORDED AT $122.46M, DOWN BY 29.05% MOM FROM $172.6M IN SEPTEMBER PROFIT

NEWS DESK

Pakistan has received $524.7 million in foreign direct investment (FDI) during the first four months (JulyOctober) of the current fiscal year 2023-24, showing an increase of 7.11% compared to the same period of the previous year, according to the latest data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

The FDI inflow in October 2023 was recorded at $122.46 million, down by 29.05% from $172.6 million in September, which was also lower than the $193.6 million recorded in August 2023.

However, on an annual basis, FDI was slightly higher than the $120.8 million recorded in October 2022.

The main sources of foreign direct investment in Pakistan during the four-month period were China ($194.2 million), Norway ($77.1 million), and the United States ($65.9 million).

Power sector received above all $139.7 million FDI, oil and gas exploration sector attracted $87.8 million, and financial business sector recorded $85.9 million investment. The SBP data also showed that the portfolio investment, which includes equity securities and debt securities, recorded a net inflow of $14.1 million in the four-month period, compared to a net outflow of $11.4 million in the same period of the last fiscal year.

The total foreign private investment, which comprises FDI and portfolio investment, amounted to $538.8 million in the four-month period, up by 17.81% from $457.3 million in the same period of the last fiscal year.

The foreign public investment, which includes official loans and grants, stood at $2.95 million in October 2023, bringing the total foreign investment in the country to $126.79 million for the month, down by 7.88% from $137.64 million in October 20223. The SBP data also revealed that the FDI outflow from Pakistan during the four-month period stood at $35.8 million, mainly due to the repatriation of profits and dividends by foreign investors.

Realistic, mission-oriented training guarantee to excellence on battlefield: COAS RAWALPINDI

STAFF REPORT

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir on Tuesday declared that realistic, mission-oriented training in peacetime only a guarantee to excellence on the battlefield, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Tuesday.

The Army Chief was interacting with the troops participating in the exercise during his visit to Corps Level Collective Training exercise of Strike Corp aimed at validating offensive operational concepts, said a news releases of the ISPR, the military’s media wing.

The exercise is aimed at validating offensive operational concepts.

He witnessed an impressive display of complex manoeuvres undertaken, led by Ar-

moured formation equipped with state-ofthe-art VT-4 tanks. COAS Gen Asim Munir met the troops participating in the exercise and commended their verve, operational efficiency and professionalism.

The Army Chief highlighted the importance of combat readiness and mental agility to respond to multi-spectral threat paradigm.

He dilated upon the significance of achieving synergy among various arms in view of rapidly changing threat environment. He also appreciated the proficiency gained in night operations.

The COAS reiterated that only realistic, mission-oriented training in peacetime can guarantee excellence on the battlefield should the need arise.

Gen Asim Munir also appreciated the proficiency gained in night operations. Ear-

lier upon arrival, the Army Chief was received by Commander Mangla Corps.

Earlier on arrival, COAS was received

by Commander Mangla Corps.

Namaz-e-Janaza of Shaheed Sepoy Namaz-e-Janaza of Sepoy Shahzeb (age: 26 years, resident of: District Rawalpindi) who embraced shahadat at general area Gharyoum, North Waziristan District, due to Improvised Explosive Device exploded was offered at his native town Tehsil Gujjar Khan, District Rawalpindi.

Shaheed was laid to rest with full military honour.

Senior serving military officers, relatives and locals of the area attended the funeral.

Armed Forces of Pakistan stand resolute and committed to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the motherland at all costs.

Published by Asad Nizami at Qandeel Printing Press, 4 Queens Road, Lahore, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk