Epaper_24-03-23 LHR

Islamabad urges Afghanistan to tackle

through ‘collec tive effor

g INITIATIVE AIMS TO STREAMLINE TA X ADMINISTR ATION AND IMPR OVE RE VENUE COLLEC TION IN THESE PR OVINCES

income segment, while the highest income group saw a smaller reduction of 0 91% An annual analysis revealed that SPI inflation impacted all income brackets showing increases between 21 96% and 33 23%

The lowest income group faced a yearly rise of 21 96%, whereas the highest income group encountered a 26 2% increase Additionally, the report highlighted fluctuations in the prices of other essential goods The average price for a 50 kg bag of Sona urea fertilizer was Rs4 829 showing a 1 33% decrease from the previous week but a significant 67 88% increase on a year-over-year basis Cement prices were also noted, with a 50 kg bag costing Rs1 221 marking a 0 48% week-over-week decline and an 8 54% increase compared to last year

Cassuming the office and expressed high hopes for the transformation of the energy sector

The federal minister appreciated the US envoy for always extending his support and reaffirmed that together, both countries can achieve shared energy goals Ways and means to promote a sustainable carbon-

friendly footprint, renewables, and green hydrogen were also discussed, read a statement issued by the Ministry of Energy Malik highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with the US He apprised the ambassador regarding Pakistan s vast potential in the energy sector particularly in the minerals sector Ambassador Blome informed the minister that a high-level economic

I s l a m a b a d u rg e s Af g h a n i s t a n t o t a c k l e t e r ro

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

A press release from the Foreign Office on Friday strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Kandahar, adding that the people and the government of Pakistan extended their sincere condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the early recovery of the injured Terrorism is a shared concern that both countries need to address through collective efforts,” the FO stressed The FO had on Thursday reiterated Pakistan’s desire to address the issue of terrorism with Afghanistan through dialogue and cooperation On Thursday a suicide bombing killed three people and wounded 12 others in the Afghan city of Kandahar, the heartland of the Taliban authorities that rule the country

There was no immediate claim of responsibility and while multiple explosions have been reported around the country since the start of the holy month of Ramazan on March 11, few have been confirmed by Taliban officials Speaking at her weekly press briefing FO spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch had said: Pakistan has repeat-

edly said that we prioritise dialogue and cooperation in finding solutions to issues of mutual concern and that is why Pakistan has been engaged in conversations and dialogue with Afghanistan to fight the threat that we face that is of terrorism that emanates from these groups which are currently based in Afghanistan ” She was responding to questions about Pakistan s air strikes against Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group targets inside Afghanistan on Monday after militants based there carried out an attack on a Frontier Corps camp on March 16

The Afghan Taliban administration had responded angrily to the air strikes and fired heavy weapons into Pakistan from across the border in retaliation

We will continue to engage with Afghanistan so that we are able to defeat these terror groups and the threat that they pose to Pakistan and the friendship between Pakistan and Afghanistan,” Baloch had further said adding that “the channels of communication between the two countries remain open R E S U R G E N T T E R R O R I S M: Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities in 2023, especially in Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan after the banned militant Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022

The Inter-Services Public Relations the military s media wing, said earlier this week that the recent wave of terrorism in Pakistan has the full support and assistance of Afghanistan” “The Afghan interim government is not only arming the terrorists but also providing a safe haven for other terrorist organisations as well as being involved in the incidents of terrorism in Pakistan, it had stated The FO had also said that terror outfits, including the TTP “pose a grave threat to Pakistan’s security and have consistently used Afghan territory to launch terror attacks inside Pakistani territory The ISPR said earlier this month that 10 militants were killed in two separate operations by security forces in the North Waziristan district Last month a late-night attack on a police station in Dera Ismail Khan was repulsed Gunmen had mounted an attack using heavy weapons but fled in the cover of darkness when police personnel fired back

Imran’s symbolic presence in Punjab Assembly irks treasur y bench members

LAHORE N e w s D e s k

Imprisoned PTI founder Imran Khan drew attention in the Punjab Assembly on Thursday when a portrait of the former PM positioned on the opposition leader ’s seat sparked chaos in the house This led to a walkout by treasury members after the chair declined to intervene During the budget session s resumption on Thursday, Deputy Speaker Malik Zaheer

Iqbal Channar presided over the session

PML-N lawmakers Malik Waheed and Bilal Yameen protested upon noticing Mr Khan’s portrait on opposition leader Malik Ahmed Khan Bhachhar ’s seat

Raising a point of order they urged the chair to remove the portrait of a person who had been convicted and was still in custody

could not be

specific members

contended that passage of law by

was a violation of Supreme Court rulings He said the lifetime

was made under Article 62 (1)(F) of the Constitution and the apex court had already elaborated the said article The petitioner prayed to the LHC that court should declare the law reducing the disqualification period to five years as null and void Later, Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan issued a reserved verdict on the plea of Azhar Siddique advocate and dismissed the request against commuting the lifetime disqualification period to five years

Hammad A zhar, Moonis

Elahi face rejection of nominations for by-polls

ISLAMABAD

s ta f f R e p o R t

The scrutiny of nomination papers in one National Assembly and four Provincial Assembly constituencies in Lahore has been completed After the completion of the scrutiny process, the Election Commission released the list of candidates for these constituencies in Lahore Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaf leader Hammad Azhar ’s nomination papers were rejected from NA-119 and PP164 constituencies while the papers of 12 candidates including Ali Pervez and Shehzad Farooq, were accepted Similarly, the nomination papers of Chaudhry Moonis Elahi from PP-158 were rejected, but the papers of 27 candidates, including Akhtar Hussain and Yusuf Ali were approved Nineteen candidates including Mohammad Khan Madani and Majid Zahoor from PP147 and twenty candidates including Shoaib Siddiqui and Ahsan Akram from PP149, had their nomination papers approved Meanwhile, the Appellate Tribunal dismissed the appeal against the rejection of Khawaja Habibur Rehman s nomination papers upholding the decision of the Returning Officer Khawaja Habib-urRehman, a leader of the League, had filed an appeal against the rejection of his nomination papers for the Senate

SIFC moot

S h e h b a z i n d i c at e s h a rd t i m e a h e a d

PR I M E Minister Shehbaz Sharif told the Special Investment Facilitation Council that the country needed another IMF package, spread over the next three years, if it was to survive He sounded this gloomy note at the first meeting of the SIFC apex committee of this tenure The forum would not be new to him, for the SIFC was founded during his first tenure as PM at the head of the coalition that replaced the PTI Though this is not the first time he sounded this particular message, it was the first time he made it to an audience that included two PPP CMs, a PTI CM and the Chief of Army Staff Perhaps the most telling point he made was that this programme would require deep-rooted and across-theboard structural reforms, and that these would have to be made The SIFC apex committee is the forum at which the COAS is best able to provide his input to the government on economic matters During the first Shehbaz government, and the interim government, it seemed to attract considerable investment from the Middle East, and it would naturally have an interest in the larger economic environment, because that is an important determinant of how attractive the country is for foreign investors

The importance of a message delivered to all major parties should indicate the seriousness of the federal government, and its commitment to the reform process, which will not take place merely so that the IMF can tick off some boxes on a form, but because they quill enable the country to attract foreign investment not because it is something the country needs, but because it is good business for the foreigner making the investment At the same time, it is perhaps welcome that the PML(N) especially, as well as others, are making the right noises about realising that the need is upon us to do things differently

No longer is it possible for elite capture to continue The ‘good old days’ are gone It is no longer about which party gets to exploit state resources so that leaders can maintain a lavish lifestyle It is now about seeing that people’s problems, particularly the economic, are solved The real question remains one of earning enough to pay off all those loans taken on in the knowledge that they would fall due later Well, that later is now It might seem unfair to those burdened with their predecessors’ debts, but this is the generation that must pay

Dedicated to the legac y of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

M A Niazi Editor Pakistan Today Babar Nizami Editor Profit

National unity: The true significance

Notably military’s media wing ISPR said in a statement that the Corps Commanders Conference held on March 5 clarified the army had provided a security environment for the conduct of the general election, and had nothing to do with the electoral process

ETop military commanders reiterated their commitment that planners and instigators, and attackers of military installations on May 9 would be brought to justice under the relevant provisions of the law They expressed dismay that some vested segments of the polity and media especially social media had been maligning the armed forces with unsubstantiated allegations of interference rather than focusing on real issues such as good governance, economic recovery and political stability

Next day in an informal conversation with media representatives during the hearing of a case inside Adiala Jail Khan who was openly criticizing the Army in the past, took a U-turn, and stated that the PTI was not against the Army and emphasised that the criticism over election rigging was not the criticism of the Army the PML(N) and the CEC were responsible He stressed that without political stability the country could not function

In a surprise development KP CM Ali Amin

Gandapur on March 14 met Prime Minister Sharif and was satisfied with this first engagement, terming it positive Gandapur stated that during the meeting, he stressed on the need for political dialogue with PTI founder Imran Khan Nevertheless these indications show that he has changed his stance

On the one hand PTI workers continue protest rallies against rigging while on the other the PTI has also filed cases in this respect also about forms 45 and 47 It shows an ambivalent approach At this critical hour, Pakistan’s armed forces have been coping with internal and external challenges to maintain national security Indian fanatic rulers are also escalating tensions with Pakistan The country is thus facing the challenge of hybrid war

Some internal entities have been distorting the Army s image in a way that the masses should forget the sacrifices and services of the armed forces Recall armed forces’ innumerable services and sacrifices particularly of Army such as the resettlement of the Internally Displaced Persons during the Swat and Malakand military operations counter-insurgency operations and restoration of law and order on many occasions like floods, earthquakes, coronavirus pandemic, locusts attacks; also giving matching response to Indian shelling at the LoC and stopping infiltration of terrorists from Afghanistan However it was due to the selfless practical unity among the Muslims under the leadership of the Quaidi-Azam that Pakistan became a tangible reality on 14 August 1947 But that unity started declining after passing through various crises, and the result was separation of East Pakistan in 1971, as India manipulated differences between East Pakistan and West Pakistan Now more than three and half months have passed But the Indian fanatic government continued military lockdown in Indian-Occupied Kashmir The Modi-led regime unilaterally abrogated Indian-Occupied Kashmir s special status on 5 August 2019 when Indian Parliament revoked Articles 35A and 370 of its Constitution It also split the IIOJK into two

T h e M u s l i m s a n d t h e B r i t i s h i n t h e

s

u b c o n t i n e n t

Are secular rulers more tolerant?

territories to be ruled directly by New Delhi The purpose was to turn the Muslim majority into a minority Modi had got landslide victories in 2014 and 2019 During the election campaign, the Hindu majority was mobilized on ‘hate-Muslim’ and ‘anti-Pakistan’ jargons Hence Modi continues anti-Muslim and anti-Pakistan policies

Former Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa and Chief of Army Staff Gen Syed Asim Munir have frequently said that Pakistan s armed forces are fully ready to meet any prospective Indian aggression Internally, Pakistan’s armed forces and the country’s primary intelligence agency ISI have successfully broken the backbone of the foreign-backed terrorists Peace has been restored in the Balochistan province and Karachi Despite this, in the recent past, terrorist attacks particularly in KP and Balochistan which is central point of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor show that the CIA-led Indian RAW wants to damage the CPEC project which is part of China’s One Road (OBOR) or Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as the US and India have already opposed this project Nevertheless 23 March 1940 was a watershed in the history of the Subcontinent, when the All India Muslim League passed the Resolution in Lahore for the creation of an independent state Now, it is popularly called Pakistan Resolution Earlier in his address to the Muslim League at Allahabad in 1930 the idea of a homeland for Muslims in their majority areas had been envisioned by the poet Allama Sir Muhammad Iqbal, and had become the aspiration of Indian Muslims In fact, the British colonialists in connivance with the majority Hindu population had manipulated and targeted Muslims through every possible way In that background Muslims started to struggle for a separate state Prior to the Lahore session of Muslim League Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah had specified to this historical congregation of the Muslims, the watch-words of Faith, Unity and Discipline which were not only necessary for waging the battle for an independent homeland but also for present Pakistan The government the opposition leaders including all other segments of society must act upon the essence of the Pakistan Day by showing selfless national unity which is very necessary to pull the country out of the ongoing serious crises

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations and can be reached at: sajjad logic@yahoo com

Islam and science

dr MuhaMMad aFZaaL

Tthe monarchs moved to Delhi There was some allegiance offered to the Abbasi caliphs during their exile in Cairo, but from the time of Akbar,

Whatever the reasons the reality remains that religious conflicts and communal tensions began during the British period, and have continued after 1947 Now that the BJP has attempted to impose majoritarian rule it seems that the truly secular period of rule was under Muslim rulers

The writer is a freelance columnist

Whatever the reasons, the reality remains that religious conflicts and communal tensions began during the British period, and have continued after 1947 Now that the BJP has attempted to impose majoritarian rule , it seems that the truly secular period of rule was under Muslim rulers

Sajjad Shaukat

and women to defend those principles

Ainitiatives and social

programmes underscores

the lives

Among the myriad events each Pakistan Day the Pakistan Day Parade stands out as a spectacular showcase of the nation s military strength, cultural heritage, and unity Held in Islamabad, it is a visual extravaganza paying homage to the Pakistani people’s pursuit of independence and sovereignty At its core the parade features a display of military prowess with marching contingents from the Pakistan Army Navy and Air Force demonstrating their discipline expertise and commitment to safeguarding the nation s borders A highlight is the PAF s aerial display, with breathtaking manoeuvres and precision flying

In addition to its military aspect the Parade celebrates the nation’s rich cultural heritage Colourful floats representing various provinces showcase traditional music dance, attire, and cuisine The parade reflects the unity in diversity that defines the Pakistani identity Moreover, the Pakistan Day Parade serves as an occasion to honour those who have sacrificed their lives for the nation

Besides its symbolic significance the Pakistan Day Parade also carries strategic weight by showcasing Pakistan s dedication to regional peace and stability As one of the largest military parades in the region, it sends a clear message to the global community that Pakistan stands firm against any challenges to its sovereignty The parade offers a platform for military-to-military exchanges and cooperation with allied nations fostering goodwill and bolstering diplomatic relations

However, various misconceptions often surround the Pakistan Day Parade, obscuring its true significance and impact

Some argue that the Pakistan Day Parade glorifies war and militarism While it indeed showcases the country s military capabilities it is not a celebration of war or militarism Instead, it serves as a solemn occasion to honour the sacrifices of the armed forces and reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to peace and security The parade acts as a deterrent against aggression while also promoting unity diversity and national pride

There s also a misconception that the parade is an extravagant display of power While it s undoubtedly a grand spectacle, it serves multiple purposes beyond showcasing military prowess It offers an opportunity to celebrate Pakistan’s cultural richness Additionally the parade facilitates military-tomilitary exchanges and cooperation with friendly nations fostering goodwill and strengthening diplomatic ties

Some perceive the Parade as a wasteful ex-

Iran-Saudi ties prove an unlikely Middle East safet y valve

penditure of resources which is a misguided assumption It is a meticulously planned and executed event that serves strategic diplomatic and symbolic purposes It allows the armed forces to showcase their capabilities and preparedness, essential for deterrence and national defence Furthermore, the parade bolsters national morale nurturing patriotism and fostering a sense of pride and unity among Pakistanis

Contrary to misconception the Parade isn t solely for the military While the armed forces play a prominent role, it s a national event involving participation from various sectors of society Civilian organizations, educational institutions and cultural groups also participate highlighting Pakistan’s diversity and unity Moreover the parade is open to the public enabling citizens from all walks of life to engage in the celebrations and honour their nation s achievements

Some argue that the Pakistan Day Parade is merely a spectacle for the international community While it indeed holds diplomatic significance its primary essence lies in domestic celebration It serves as a moment for Pakistanis to unite and contemplate their shared heritage and aspirations While projecting strength and unity to the world, its core purpose is to strengthen bonds of solidarity among Pakistanis and reaffirm their dedication to their nation’s ideals

Military parades on national occasions serve as poignant demonstrations of a country s vigour, unity, and pride These displays, steeped in symbolism and tradition, offer insight into a nation’s past, culture, and aspirations

The Victory Day Parade in Russia, for instance commemorates the USSR’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II Held annually in Moscow s Red Square this parade showcases an impressive array of military hardware, including tanks, missile systems,

and aircraft It also pays homage to war veterans with soldiers marching while carrying portraits of fallen comrades honoring their sacrifice and valour The parade concludes with a procession of the armed forces and a display of military aircraft flying overhead, demonstrating Russia’s military capabilities and dedication to safeguarding its territorial integrity Bastille Day commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution a significant event in France s history The Bastille Day Parade, held on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, is among Europe s oldest and largest military parades It features a vibrant procession of French military units including the renowned French Foreign Legion and Republican Guard The parade also includes a flypast by the French Air Force and a presentation of military vehicles, underscoring France s global military influence and commitment to liberty China’s National Day Parade celebrates the establishment of the People’s Republic of China on 1 October 1949 Held in Tiananmen Square in Beijing this parade highlights the country s military prowess and technological advancement It showcases an extensive array of military equipment The parade also incorporates cultural performances and synchronized marching displays demonstrating China’s unity and determination to safeguard its territorial sovereignty The USA marks its Independence Day on July 4th with nationwide parades, fireworks, and festivities The largest military parade in the USA is held in Washington, D C , featuring all branches of the armed forces The parade includes marching bands historical enactments and exhibits of military hardware serving as a tribute to American freedom and democracy while honouring the sacrifices made by the nation s servicemen

On Pakistan Day, we are reminded of the significance of our independent nation and its defenders The day calls for unity and collective effor ts towards the betterment of the countr y, urging us to stand in full moral suppor t of the Pakistan Army, which tirelessly ensures the peace and security of our nation

The Pakistan Army stands as a formidable institution, celebrated for its steadfast commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty advancing its interests and fostering peace and stability in the region With a storied history defined by sacrifice courage and professionalism, the Pakistani Army has emerged as an emblem of resilience, strength, and national pride Since its inception in 1947 the Pakistan Army has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation s trajectory navigating through numerous challenges and conflicts with unwavering determination and resolve From conflicts with India to counterterrorism operations within its borders, the Army has consistently showcased its readiness to address any threat to Pakistan’s security and unity A key asset of the Pakistani Army lies in its comprehensive and modernized military capabilities spanning land air and sea forces equipped with cutting-edge weaponry and technology Backed by well-trained and disciplined personnel, the Army possesses a formidable arsenal serving as a deterrent against aggression and ensuring the nation’s defence readiness

Moreover the Pakistani Army is deeply ingrained in society fulfilling a multifaceted role extending beyond conventional military duties Through extensive outreach initiatives, the Army delivers essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development in remote and underserved regions enriching the lives of millions and fostering trust and goodwill among civilians

The Army s dedication to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law is evident in its role as a guarantor of national security and stability Despite facing various challenges including political unrest and external pressures the Army remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the democratic institutions and values enshrined in the constitution, ensuring the people s will prevails

Furthermore, the Pakistani Army has earned global recognition and respect for its contributions to regional and global peacekeeping endeavours With a proud history of serving under the United Nations banner Pakistani peacekeepers have played a vital role in conflict zones worldwide offering humanitarian aid, facilitating reconciliation, and promoting stability in strife-torn areas

On Pakistan Day, we are reminded of the significance of our independent nation and its defenders The day calls for unity and collective efforts towards the betterment of the country urging us to stand in full moral support of the Pakistan Army, which tirelessly ensures the peace and security of our nation

The writer is a freelance columnist

India’s poor will not be wished away

The realit y of pover t y in the countr y remains dire

The relationship has helped head off wider conflagration in the region

Aminister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian travelled to Jeddah for a meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Iran’s message was understated but clear: we don’t want war Absent this channel the risk of misreading intentions of the different players in the region would have been considerable Since then Iran and Saudi Arabia have had a flurry of meetings and visits This hasn t stopped Tehran from slowly deploying its friends with guns as the war in Gaza drags on first Hizbollah in Lebanon then Shia militias in Iraq and Syria and of course the Houthis ostensibly in support of Hamas and the Palestinians But there are two wars running in parallel in the Middle East They look indistinguishable in the headlines, but they are in fact separate: the Israeli military campaign in Gaza and the slow-simmer war that Iran has been waging by proxy against the US

The Islamic Republic s use of proxies, which provide a first line of defence away from Iran s borders, is an art it has perfected over the past four decades but which appears to have reached its limits in recent months Iran is keen to preserve its key asset in the region Hizbollah so the latter has exercised surprising restraint while Israel expands the range and intensity of its missile strikes, degrading some of the group’s capabilities along the border and further inland The destruction of civilian infrastructure in southern Lebanon has been extensive Hizbollah s approach has caused some disquiet within the group s support base In Iraq and Syria, Shia militias attacked US forces 170 times over four months Then on February 2 the US retaliated with several missile strikes Iran quietly asked its proxies to put the brakes on Tehran has also kept its distance from Hamas That leaves the Houthis, and of course Iran s nuclear programme, its ultimate shield But this remains one of the most testing periods for Tehran as it risks losing the considerable regional gains it has made since the war in Iraq began in 2003 It is negotiating by fire to

Ttially set the international poverty line at $1 per day in 1990, updated this figure to $1 90 in 2011 to account for inflation Only those who cannot afford to spend $1 90 per day are classified as “extremely poor ” For India however the $1 90 threshold represents below-subsistence-level consumption As economists Shaohua Chen and Martin Ravallion have noted, it allows for minimal food consumption and little else In 2012, $1 90 translated to a meager 30 rupees a day in purchasing-power-parity terms barely enough for two basic meals according to the poverty expert S Subramanian In analyzing the recently released consumption-expenditure data Bhalla and Bhasin seem to have converted the $1 90 threshold into rupees at the IMF-reported PPP rate of 22 9 rupees per dollar Consequently, their analysis categorizes people as poor only if they cannot spend 45 rupees a day This approach is tantamount to wishing away poverty Assuming an average annual inflation rate of 6% as stated in the government s press release, the set of goods that cost 30 rupees in 2012 would now cost at least 58 rupees Moreover, low-income households face diabolical inflation inequality higher-than-average inflation rates due to the type of goods they buy their limited mobility (which leaves them at the mercy of local monopolists) and their inability to buy in bulk Regrettably, Indian authorities do not provide inflation data segmented by household income If the annual inflation were 8 5% for the bottom half of Indian households they would need roughly 80 rupees per day to cover their basic needs In that case India s poverty rate would be around 22% essentially the same as in 2012

Setting the bar slightly higher underscores the grim reality In 2014, a

rates range between 40% and 60% which means that 30-40% of all Indians are poor This is likely conservative, given the sharp increase in education, transportation and housing costs, as well as out-of-pocket medical expenses With numerous parents forced to choose between food and their children s education is it any wonder that the government feels obliged to provide free supplementary grain rations to 60% of the population?

High, possibly rising, poverty can be partly attributed to the 2016 demonetization that nullified 86% of India’s currency and to the haphazard implementation of the Goods and Services Tax of 2017 both of which caused huge distress to the vulnerable The COVID-19 pandemic delivered another harsh blow, causing millions of Indian workers to revert to low-productivity agricultural jobs Today, 70 million more Indians work in agriculture than in 2018 owing to the scarcity of nonagricultural job opportunities which are mostly confined to financially and physically precarious sectors such as construction street vending, security and domestic work Given the significant hardship faced by millions of Indians, the pre-election release of partial consumption data invites suspicion And the Bhalla and Bhasin declaration of the end of poverty borders on the malicious Moreover their assertion that consumption inequality has declined sharply is risible: Wealthy Indians do not report their $400 designer sneakers, Lamborghinis or lavish parties to government surveyors The gap between India’s rich and poor is startling Consider the $120 million pre-wedding celebrations for tycoon Mukesh Ambani’s son: The lad wore a $1 million watch a superstar received $6 million to perform and the Indian aviation authority temporarily cleared a nearby airport to fly in international celebrities Meanwhile, the lack of comprehensive consumption and inflation data makes it impossible to get an accurate picture of Indian

Ashoka

CHINA , RUSSIA VETO US RESOLUTION ON GA Z A CEASEFIRE

Tmanitarian assistance China has said it supported steps by the UN Security Council to end fighting in Gaza, while not saying whether Beijing a permanent council member with

resolution on the need for an immediate ceasefire, AFP reports “China supports the Security Council in taking further responsible and meaningful actions as soon as possible to make unremitting efforts to end the fighting in Gaza at an early date Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian said The United States, which has repeatedly blocked calls for a truce in Gaza, will today submit for a vote a draft to the Security Council on the need for “an immediate ceasefire

Asked today whether it supported the resolution, Beijing demurred The international community expects the Security Council to earnestly fulfil its responsibilities,” Lin said “On the Palestinian-Israeli issue we must respect history and facts listen to and respect the position and voice of the

Over 70 Rohingya presumed dead in boat tragedy off Indonesia’s Aceh coast

majority of Arab countries, realise a ceasefire and end of fighting as soon as possible,” he added “This is the yardstick by which we measure the Security Council s actions and decisions he said Russia s ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia said it was exceedingly politicised and contained an effective green light for Israel to mount a military operation in Rafah Russia’s ambassador Vasily Nebenzia has said that the United States is doing nothing to rein in Israel mocked Washington for speaking of a ceasefire after Gaza has been virtually wiped off the face of the Earth and assailed the country s resolution on a stop to the fighting in Gaza as a “hypocritical spectacle”, AFP reports “The American product is exceedingly politicised with the sole purpose being to play

Charit y boss Imam Qasim’s first-class flights stir controversy

in 2003, Al-Khair Foundation is known for its humanitarian work globally but recent revelations have cast doubt on its governance and financial transparency

CORPORATE CORNER

Iqbal Z Ahmed appointed member of GCU Endowment Fund Board of Trustees

The

IOGDCL's ESG Committee of Board reviews progress on ESG Polic y implementation framework

B ook Review : An apt socio political study of Pak istan

r y ) , S a

u s h k a H S a i y i d ( h i s -

A k r am R aja ( co ns t i t u t i o n a l l a w ) , A h m e d B i l a l M e h b o o b ( P I L D AT ) , S a l m a n S h a h ( f i n a n c e a n d e c o n o m i c a ffairs) Murtaza Syed (macroecon o m i c r e s e a r c h a n d p o l i c y analysis) Ishrat Husain (business a n d f i n a n c i a l a d m i n i s t r a t i o n ) , A d i l N a j a m ( e n v i r o n m e n t a l r es e a r c h ) , Ta r i q B a n u r i ( d e v e l o pm e n t e c o n o m i c s ) , M u h a m m a d A m i r R a n a ( t h i n k t a n k ) M s Khawar Mumtaz (women s studies) Jamil Ahmad (environmental analysis) Zeba Sathar (demograp h y ) , R i a z M o h a m m a d K h a n

( d i p l o m a c y ) , A i z a z A h m a d Chaudhry (diplomacy), and Zahid Hussain (journalism)

Early morning rain, snowfall bring relief to various parts of country

Essays in the third segment highlight Pakistan s moment of youth, education, religious extremism, women s rights, environmental scenario, and population crisis The last portion is comprised of essays on Pak-China friendship Pakistan-India troubled relationship paradoxes in Pak-US ties and Taliban and the Afghan dilemma Maleeha Lodhi s introductory observations tend to sum up the intent, focus and scope of the book: ‘The issues discussed in this volume cover almost the entire gamut of challenges the country confronts and the opportunities they present that need to be seized Topics such as governance, civil-military relations, economic revival, internal and external security, the youth bulge human development climate change religious extremism foreign relations and the role of women are all examined along with ways to deal with them

The common theme running through almost all the chapters is that a strong state responsive to the people and not merely its privileged elites will emerge only by implementing a reform agenda that addresses Pakistan s systemic and fundamental challenges to guarantee its long-term stability ’ Jamil Ahmad’s essay on environmental crisis is an eye-opener in the context of the on-going multi-dimensional crises in the country and forewarns that the environmental crisis carries the risk of degenerating into a deeper chaos if immediate measures are not taken

The book has been widely acknowledged as an illuminating and comprehensive study of contemporary Pakistan s mounting political, socio-economic, security, demographic, and environmental challenges’: Ian Talbot Prof of History at Southampton University UK Noted British author journalist and policy analyst Anatol Lieven says that it (the book) is a vital contribution to debate on the reforms that the country (Pakistan) so desperately needs’ Micheal Kugelman Director South Asia Institute at Wilson Center Washington DC is of the view that the essayists in the book have tried to examine a critical question viz How can Pakistan overcome the governance constraints that have held the country back for so long?’ Author and journalist Ahmed Rashid thinks that administrators in Pakistan both civil and military have failed to take a long view and have spent much of the time in crisis management rather than build an infrastructure of ideas and introduce reforms’ This situation has created a moment of truth for the country Besides a thoughtful introduction by Maleeha Lodhi and an illuminating essay on the relevance of history (in the Pakistani context) by eminent historiographer Dushka H Saiyid the book is subdivided into four parts viz Politics Economy Society and Foreign Policy The first part includes essays on constitution, governance, parliamentary politics, and hybrid democracy The second comprises essays on economic depression, debts and bailouts, pursuit of a new development paradigm and expansion of economic competitiveness

TThree months later, PTCL’s acquisition of Telenor continues through sluggish approval process

T H E S I G N I F I C A N C E O F PA K I S TA N D AY :

C O M M E M O R AT I N G U N I T Y, FA I T H , A N D D I S C I P L I N E

of

AS the

The

The

Moreover faith in the nation s capabilities functions as a catalyst for motivation Individuals in Pakistan can

contribute to the development and prosperity of their country by having faith in their capabilities and committing to achieving their goals It is of the utmost importance to cultivate this faith and direct it towards constructive undertakings that yield advantages for every individual and the entire nation

Discipline serves as the cornerstone of any successful society In the words of Muhammad Ali Jinnah With faith discipline and selfless devotion to duty there is nothing worthwhile that you cannot achieve Pakistan Day serves as a reminder of the importance of discipline in achieving national goals and aspirations

From the armed forces safeguarding the nation's borders to the teachers shaping the minds of future generations discipline permeates every facet of Pakistani society It is the discipline to adhere to the rule of law the discipline to work tirelessly for the betterment of the nation, and the discipline to overcome challenges with resilience and determination

Pakistan is a historically, culturally, and materially

prosperous nation Geographically situated at the nexus of geopolitical and economic interests its location renders it a pivotal participant in the international arena

The potential of the nation is evident in its dynamic youth demographic, enterprising mindset, and abundant natural resources

The celebration's foundational theme of unity, faith, and discipline is of significant influence on the nation's identity potential and the responsibility of its citizens in ensuring its future In light of the various obstacles and prospects that Pakistan encounters its populace must maintain their fortitude in the face of hybrid propaganda that attempts to obstruct the nation s advancement Pakistan has made notable advancements in numerous sectors including healthcare agriculture and technology despite facing numerous obstacles By leveraging appropriate investments implementing strategic plans and garnering the support of its populace Pakistan possesses the capacity to emerge as a global innovation and economic hub

In the interconnected world of the twenty-first

century hybrid propaganda poses a serious threat to the stability and unity of nations It encompasses the dissemination of false information, narratives, and disinformation with the intention of sowing discord and impeding the advancement of a nation Young individuals who are technologically adept and constantly connected are especially vulnerable to these influences

Pakistanis must maintain a state of vigilance and exercise critical thinking when consuming information They can counter the dissemination of hybrid propaganda through the use of credible sources, factchecking information, and participating in productive dialogue It is of the utmost importance that they recognize the significance of national unity and oppose any endeavors to influence their viewpoints

In observance of Pakistan s national day it is crucial to reaffirm our commitment to the principles of unity, faith, and discipline and to consider the progress that has been achieved since the country's independence Despite encountering challenges along the road Pakistan has achieved noteworthy progress in numerous sectors such as healthcare education and infrastructure We can only surmount these obstacles and provide future generations with a more promising outlook if we persevere in our commitment to discipline, faith, and unity Pakistan Day is observed to honor the principles of faith discipline and unity that have governed the nation throughout its history Given the juncture of new opportunities in Pakistan it is imperative that we maintain these values and actively participate in shaping the trajectory of the nation By capitalizing on our collective capacities, sustaining our resolve amid hybrid propaganda, and working together harmoniously we can cultivate a prosperous and harmonious Pakistan that advances the fundamental values of unity faith and discipline

The columnist is an Mphil scholar from Quaid i Azam University and a freelance writer She can be reached at mariamansab@ir qau edu pk

M e S S a g e

AMB DR M NAFEES ZAKARIA

E x E c

Ta

F o r a c o u n t r y t h a t h a d v e r y h u m b l e b e g i n n i n g a n d c o n s t r a i n t s i n t e r m s o f i n f r a s t r u c t u r e a n d r e s o u r c e s P a k i s t a n s j o u r n e y i n s c i e n c e a n d t e c h n o l o g y h a s b e e n r e m a r k a b l e w i t h s o m e m a j o r and pioneering strides in a variety of scientific fields E s t a b l i s h m e n t o f i n s t i t u t i o n a l a r r a n g e m e n t s i n nuclear paradigm came very early on with Pakistan A t o m i c E n e rg y C o m m i s s i o n ( PA E C ) t h a t s t a r t e d leading advancements in nuclear technology in 1956 p r o m o t i n g p e a c e f u l u s e o f n u c l e a r t e c h n o l o g y f o r e n e rg y p r o d u c t i o n a n d m e d i c i n e w i t h p o t e n t i a l t o grow from currently 4% to increase steadily in the energy sector T h e c o u n t r y s a c h i e v e m e n t o f l a u n c h i n g t h e f i r s t i n d i g e n o u s l y d e v e l o p e d s a t e l l i t e i n 1 9 9 0 , i m p o r t a n t t e c h n o l o g i c a l c a p a b i l i t i e s i n t h e f i e l d o f d e f e n s e w i t h b u i l d i n g o f i t s o w n f i g h t e r j e t s a n d s u b m a r i n e s a n d a w h o l e r a n g e o f e s s e n t i a l e l e m e n t s f o r s e l f - d e f e n s e t e c h n o l o g i c a l / t e c h n i c a l a s s i s t a n c e t o o t h e r c o u n t r i e s w i t h t r a i n i n g s , c a p a c i t y b u i l d i n g a n d t h e s p i r i t o f s h a r i n g e x p e r t i s e

CoMSatS – a S ignific ant platform for international Cooperation in St&i in the S outh

Tis now a significant Intergovernmental organization of 27 Member States from Asia, Africa, Middle East and Latin America COMSATS draws its strength from its affiliated Network of 25 Centres of Excellence with expertise inter alia in Biotechnology Food Technology/Agriculture, Health/Medical Sciences, ICTs, Clean Energy, Climate Change/Environment Nanotechnology Water Conservation and Material Sciences Inclusion of latest Centre of Excellence from Spain signifies a new initiative of opening an avenue of cooperation with a member of Global North – a milestone that will go a long way in building bridges to the mutual advantage The Secretariat of the

Commission is hosted by its founding Member State Pakistan since October 1994, in Islamabad The Prime Minister of Pakistan was elected as the first Chairperson of COMSATS during the inaugural meeting with participation from 36 countries Currently the Chairperson of COMSATS is the President of Republic of Ghana, H E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo Ambassador Dr Mohammad Nafees Zakaria is the incumbent Executive Director of COMSATS Secretariat COMSATS activities and technology based solutions are aimed at sensitizing the countries in the South to the centrality of science and technology in the development process, adequate resource allocation for research and development and integration

PA K I S TA N D AY - A D AY O F R E C KO N I N G

e t h a t a l t h o u g h P a k i s t a n a t t a i n e d o ff i c i a l

e p e n d e n c e o n A u g u s t 1 4 , 1 9 4 7 , i t s c o n c e p t u a l

e s o l u t i o n w h i c h w a s c o n c e i v e d b y t h e v i s i o n a r y leaders Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Dr A l l a m a M u h a m m a d I q b a l P a k i s t a n s e p a r a t e d M u s l i m - m a j o r i t y a r e a s f r o m I n d i a a n d b e c a m e a n i n d e p e n d e n t s t a t e w i t h i n s e v e n y e a r s o f t h i s resolution The Muslim awakening was started by Sir S y e d A h m a d K h a n A l l a m a I q b a l p r o v i d e d t h e philosophical foundation and Quaid-i-Azam turned i t i n t o p o l i t i c a l r e a l i t y T h i s i s h o w P a k i s t a n s ideological framework came to be throughout time Iqbal s understanding of Islam, which rejects the idea of a theocratic state and promotes democracy as the p r e f e r r e d p o l i t i c a l s y s t e m , i s f u n d a m e n t a l t o h i s v i s i o n o f a m o d e r n I s l a m i c s t a t e H e h i g h l i g h t e d m i n o r i t i e s ' e q u a l r i g h t s a n d e n v i s i o n e d a n I s l a m i c s p i r i t u a l d e m o c r a c y b e i n g e s t a b l i s h e d Tw o e s s e n t i a l c o m p o n e n t s o f a m o d e r n I s l a m i c s t a t e a r e t h e u p h o l d i n g o f t h e l a w a n d t h e c r e a t i o n o f a n a u t o n o m o u s j u d i c i a r y I s l a m i c l a w p e r t a i n i n g t o r o u t i n e m a t t e r s ( M u a m l a a t ) h a s t o b e u p d a t e d t o

"Ijtehad "

by consensus ( Ijma ) using a majority vote As Iqbal goes deeper into the Qur'an, he finds an underlying concept of "Social Democracy" within its verses, one that economics may help develop into legislation Progressive legislation in these areas can help create a welfare state that is friendly to the middle class Indian Muslims demand for separate electorates resulted from their recognition of their unique identity from Hindus and their concerns about their safety in a democratic India where Hindus make up the majority To enable Muslims to live according to the precepts of the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) they petitioned for a sovereign state in places where they were the majority They also wanted to create their own state in order to strengthen unity among Muslim countries If Pakistan had never come into being, the treatment

Message – Amb. D r. M. Nafees Z ak aria Exec utive D irec tor COMSATS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE II

of Muslims Christians and Sikhs in India could have reflected the discrimination seen under the current administration led by Narendra Modi One dramatic example is the marginalization and persecution of Muslims Christians and Sikhs in Manipur Events like the 2019 passage of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) which gives non-Muslim refugees from nearby nations a route to Indian citizenship, have prompted large-scale demonstrations and accusations of discrimination based on religion In addition, tensions and worries about human rights have increased since Jammu and Kashmir's special status was taken away in 2019 when Article 370 was repealed The number of reports of mob violence against Muslims and other religious minorities has increased recently with many lynchings and attacks on mosques and churches The social fabric has been further frayed and

interfaith tensions have increased due to the prevalence of hate speech and communal polarization fostered by extremist ideas The relevance of Pakistan's existence as a safe haven for various religious communities is highlighted by the possibility that the situation of religious minorities in India would have been considerably worse in the absence of Pakistan as a distinct entity offering refuge for Muslims

The 23rd March parade holds profound significance for Pakistan, serving as a poignant display of the nation's military prowess and instilling a sense of pride and confidence among its citizens This annual event shows the capability of the Pakistani military forces to protect the country's interests and maintain its sovereignty It is a monument to their might discipline and readiness The unveiling of homegrown military hardware by Pakistan s state-owned Heavy Industries Taxila, which includes the Haider Main Battle Tank, Multiple Barrel Rocket Launcher Fatah-II is one of the parade s highlights It demonstrates the nation's defense technological advancements and dedication

The 23rd March parade is not just ceremonial; it also serves as a reminder of the Pakistan Army s important role in preserving peace on the inside as well as the outside Internally, the army is vital to upholding law and order, fighting terrorism, and guaranteeing the security of the populace Through its involvement in UNsponsored peacekeeping operations it promotes regional stability on the outside Operation Marg Bar Sarmachar demonstrates Pakistan s resolve to protect its interests and firmly counter any provocations or threats By conducting such operations, the Pakistan Army ensures the safety and well-being of the Pakistani people by sending a clear message to any aggressor that any attempt to compromise the security of the country will be met with a strong and decisive response

The author frequently contributes on issues concerning national and regional security focusing on matters having critical impact in these milieus She can be reached omayaimen333@gmail com

Inc umbent govt lacks vision to address challenges confronting countr y: S iraj

LAHORE S ta f f R e p o R t Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), Sirajul Haq has said that the incumbent government which came into power as a result of selection rather than election lacks the vision needed to address the challenges confronted by the country

Talking to media persons after an iftar ceremony honoring JI workers at

COMSATS – A S ignific ant Platform for International Cooperation in ST&I in the S outh

PBUILDING FUTURES

he remarked

The President said “Let us also recognize the unparalleled sacrifices of our Kashmiri brethren both during the Pakistan Movement and in the ongoing struggle for the freedom of Indian Illegally Occupied

Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) The people of IIOJK are enduring the worst form of repression and state-sponsored terrorism at the hands of Indian occupation forces, aggravated by the Hindutva agenda exemplified by the unilateral revocation of Article 370 and 35A He said The key to durable peace in South Asia is the resolution of the dispute in accordance with the United Nations Security Council Resolutions Pakistan, on its part,

the values of hard work integrity and compassion Together united we shall overcome obstacles and chart a course towards a better and brighter future for our beloved Pakistan, the President concluded

Empowering Pakistan's Youth for Tomorrow

Tstructured and informed approaches to empower and develop the

Through programs research projects and initiatives these ministries aim to cultivate a generation of productive and informed citizens for Pakistan's future

needs of Pakistan s youth alongside targeted sectoral advancements

The Ministries of Information Technology and Telecommunication, National Food Security and Research (Agriculture), and Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development are spearheading efforts under SIFC Motivation training and incentives are central to their mission with a focus on

Acknowledging the substantial role of the Pakistan Army in providing a future for the youth of Pakistan necessitates recognizing their significant contributions to education, vocational training, and employment Various educational initiatives led by the Armed Forces aim to provide quality education and produce competitive and responsible citizens The Army Public School and College System (APSACS) stands out as the largest contributor offering uniform affordable education to over 258 000 students with 46 percent from nonmilitary backgrounds Special education schools for children with disabilities, higher education institutes, military and cadet colleges and technical training centers are among the diverse educational contributions The Fauji Foundation Education System Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Air Force also play pivotal roles in promoting education, offering scholarships, and establishing institutions Notably in disadvantaged tribal areas like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan