Peace talks enter decisive mode Talks to be restructured to include decision makers Both committees to meet PM today at breakfast Nawaz determined to push forward talks LIAQAT TOOR/TARIQ SAEED ISLAMABAD/PESHAWAR—Peace talks with
Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain withdraw envoys from Qatar RIYADH—Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain have said they are withdrawing their ambassadors to Qatar because Doha had not implemented an agreement among Gulf Arab countries not to interfere in each others’ internal affairs. The three countries said the move was necessary “to protect their security and stability”. According to a report published by Saudi state media on Wednesday, the decision to withdraw diplomatic envoys was made because Qatar did not implement a security pact about non-interference in the internal affairs of the other states that make up the Gulf Cooperation Council [GCC]. Continued on Page 7
Drone strike kills four Al Qaeda suspects SANAA—A US drone strike in northern Yemen on Wednesday killed four suspected Al Qaeda members, including an Iraq veteran, a military official said. The unmanned aircraft fired two rockets at a vehicle in the Khalka area of Jawf province, the official said, adding that among those killed was Ali Juraym, a local militant chief who had fought in Iraq. The American military
Continued on Page 7
India beat Afghanistan by eight wickets D HAKA—India easily defeated Afghanistan by eight wickets in their last match in the Asia Cup 2014 here at the Shere Bangla National Stadium on Wednesday. Chasing 160, they completed the victory, losing only two wickets, in just 32.2 overs. This was only the second win in their four matches in the tournament after defeating Bangladesh and losing other two matches to Sri
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Chairman Arab National Construction (ANC) Holding LLC Dubai Faris Tayeb Abdul Rahim Ahmed Al-Baker witnessing an MoU signing ceremony between Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB), Ministry of Water & Power & Arab National Construction for construction of 2 coal based power generation plants in Gadani.—APP
Dubai Co to set up 1320 MW coal power plants at Gaddani PM appreciates investment in power sector
Dar dispels Afghan worries over Dasu hydel project STAFF REPORTER
ISLAMABAD—A MoU was signed between and added that it would help Pakistan over- ISLAMABAD—Finance MinPrivate Power and Infrastructure Board come the energy shortages. (PPIB), Ministry of Water & Power & Arab National Construction (ANC) Holding LLC Dubai for construction of two 660 megawatt (1320 MW) coal based power generation plants at Pakistan Power Park in Gaddani. The company will also construct a jetty along with the construction of the power projects. The project would bring in approx. US $ 2.5 billion dollars investment in Pakistan and will be completed in three years. The MOU was signed by Mr F a r i s Tayeb Abdul Rahim Al-Baker Vice Chairman and CEO of ANC and Mr. N. A. Zuberi MD PPIB. Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Chairman ANC Mr. Tayeb Abdul Rahim Ahmed Al-Baker witnessed the signing ceremony. Khawja Muhammad Asif, Minister for Water and Power, Mr Abid Sher Ali, MOS for Water and Power, Mr. Saifuallah Chatta, Secretary Water and Power and other officials were also present. Earlier the delegation of the Arab National Construction Group, headed by its Chairman Mr. Tayeb Abdul Rahim Ahmed Al-Baker called on the Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif at PM House. Prime Minister appreciated the power sector investment by the Company in Pakistan
Povertystricken mother strangulates her two kids L AHORE —In
heartbreaking incident, a mother strangulated her two minor children on Wednesday after getting frustrated due to poverty. According to details, the gory incident took place in Johar Town. Bisma, the culprit, has admitted to the killing of her two children - 2-year old Manahil and 8-month-old baby boy Yousuf. Confessing to the crime she said she killed her kids out of sheer frustration because of poverty as her husband was jobless and they used to have domestic quarrels nearly every day. Police have taken the mother into custody.—Online
Prime Minister said today we have achieved another milestone in our urge towards energy self-reliance. The PM told that we have prioritized energy sector as a priority sector and have planned several projects in this regard. He told that 10x660 MW coal based power plants at Pakistan Power Park will be constructed in Gadani, where Chinese have agreed to invest in 6 projects, two projects will be constructed by ANC Dubai and one project has been initiated by Government of Pakistan. He told that 2x660 MW coal based power plants at Port Qasim, 12x660MW coal based power plants at Sahiwal and five other locations in Punjab Province, Coal mining at Thar coal fields and mine-mouth power plants in Sindh Province, 1000 MW Solar Power Park in Punjab, 1420 MW Hydel Power House at Tunnel 4 Tarbela Dam and 1310 MW Hydel Power House at Tunnel 5 Tarbela Dam have been planned. Prime Minister stated that the Government of Pakistan has taken these bold initiatives to address the energy shortfall and bring prosperity to the economy and people through establishing several short and long term projects.
Continued on Page 7
US plans $280m mily aid to Pak, cuts civilian aid W A S H I N G T O N —Arguing the safety of Pakistani that Pakistan will remain a key player in counter terrorism post-2014, the US has proposed USD 280 million in military assistance to the country, although it wants to cut civilian aid in an effort to acknowledge India’s concerns about misuse of the funds. Marred by financial constraints, the Obama administration has proposed to substantially cut civilian aid to Pakistan to USD 446 million for the next fiscal year as against USD 703 million in 2013, which among other things the State Department argued is aimed at improving ties with India. “The OCO (Overseas Contingency Operations) resources will support critical US activities such as sustaining close cooperation with Pakistan, ensuring
nuclear installations, working with Pakistan to facilitate the peace process in Afghanistan, and promoting improved relations with India,” the State Department said as it proposed USD 446 million in civilian aid to Pakistan. “FY 2015 funding for Pakistan is crucial to meeting key US strategic priorities of combating terrorism, strengthening security in both Pakistan and the region, and maintaining stability in Afghanistan posttransition,”the Department said. “Pakistan will remain a key player in US counter terrorism and nuclear non-proliferation efforts in FY 2015, as well as in our long-term objectives of economic development and stability in
Continued on Page 7
ister Ishaq Dar on Wednesday dispelled Afghan apprehensions over the Dasu hydel power project, assuring that the hydro project was not being built on the Kabul River. In a telephonic conversation with the finance minister, Dar’s Afghan counterpart Dr Omar Zakhilwal raised concerns expressed by the Afghan National Security Council. Dr Zakhilwal said that he will look into the issue and if Afghanistan is not an upper or lower riparian country on the river on which Dasu Project will be constructed then Afghanistan will have no concern. Dar assured him that the project was being built on the Indus and hence Afghanistan should have no objection to the project CASA-1000 project Afghan finance minister also discussed progress on CASA1000 power project with Dar.
Continued on Page 7
Indian election from April 7 NEW DELHI—India’s mammoth parliamentary election will start on April 7, the Election Commission announced on Wednesday, kicking off a race that will pit BJP leader Narendra Modi against the unpopular Nehru-Gandhi family’s ruling Congress party. Chief Election Commissioner V.S. Sampath said 814 million people will be eligible to vote, a number larger than the population of Europe, making this the biggest election the world has ever seen. Results are due to be announced on May 16. Voting will be held in nine stages, staggered until May 12 to allow security forces to focus their strength during an exercise that, for decades after independence from Brit-
Continued on Page 7
Taliban have entered a decisive mode now to move forward to the second phase where the talks will be restructured to include civil and military representatives to make decisions to bring permanent peace to the troubled FATA and the country. Both government and Taliban committees have their almost final session in Akora Khattak on Wednesday where overall satisfaction was expressed over the initial success of announcement of unconditional ceasefire by TTP and halting of surgical strikes, though splinter groups in the country are still indulged in terror acts. Both the committees will have breakfast meeting with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif today. According to members of government committees, the committees have done their initial job to act as coordinators and now real stakeholders should come forward to take critical decisions. For this purpose many options are available including restructuring and expanding of present committees or constitution of new committees. There is need to have direct contact
Sketches of Islamabad court attackers released ISLAMABAD—Investigative agencies released on Wednesday sketches of the two armed men who had attacked the district courts in Islamabad’s sector F-8 killing 11 people and injuring dozens on March 3. The attackers, who were between 18 and 22 years of age, were slightly unshaven. One wore a cap while the other had curly hair, according to the sketches made on eyewitness accounts and the descriptions provided by those who were injured in the suicide and gun attack.
Six soldiers martyred, 8 hurt TARIQ SAEED PESHAWAR—Adding to the mistrust of Khakis the yet another deadly explosion this time in Hangu left at least six men in uniform martyred and eight others seriously wounded on Wednesday morning. The government and the Taliban negotiators held their second phase of parleys in Akora Khattak Wednesday to make the dialogue process meaningful and decisive. They also warned against forces bent sabotaging the process, as
Targeted operation in Karachi
Law enforcers arrest key man in May 12 carnage AAMIR MAJEED
Parliament being given its due role
................................................ Rising FE reserves, a positive signal ................................................ Civil servants need to be inspired
See Page 04
K ARACHI —Mystery behind May 12 carnage, a day when more than 50 people were killed and dozens others were injured in incidents of bloodshed and arson on arrival of former Chief Justice (CJ) in Karachi, would be resolved shortly as the law enforcers have arrested a key man who was involved in killings and arson on Sharae Faisal on May 12 during ongoing targeted operation in Karachi. The Pakistan Rangers has picked-up a man namely Muhammad Javed alias Javed Mohajir son of Muhammad Shariff, who is said to be a worker of a political party, from houses near Jinnah International Airport (JIA) Karachi some
six months back. He was serving as a security guard in University of Karachi (KU) since 2006. Arrest of a university guard in cases of target killings has rung alarm of danger in KU. A Joint Investigation Team (JIT) was formed to interrogate Javed Mohajir who is also nominated in cases of target killings in different areas of the city besides May 12 cases. Investigation in case of Javed Mohajir has disclosed that he was nominated in four out of total five cases of arson and killings on Sharae Faisal on May 12. A cameraman of a private TV channel also filmed him when he was firing on crowd at Sharae Faisal. He was nominated in FIR no. 64/2007, 65/ 2007, 66/2007 and 68/2007 under section 302/34
The police have appealed to the public to provide details about the attackers on 03005000577 and 0519261510. They have said that the informants’ names and other details will remain confidential. Police believe that four attackers entered the district courts on March 3 and started firing after two suicide attacks. Two of the suspects had fled from the scene after the incident. A little-known militant group called Ahrarul Hind had claimed responsibility for the attack.—INP
FC convoy attacked in Hangu amid peace talks
See also Sports Page Lanka and Pakistan, who have already qualified for the final to be played on Saturday.—AP
between TTP Shura and Government representatives. New restructured talks will be in place in next two to three day, members added. Earlier, the government and the Taliban negotiators held a second phase of parleys with developing consensus that they need to adopt a comprehensive strategy to advance the dialogue process for meaningful resolution of the issue saying they have moved to new phase. “We have entered a new phase of the dialogue wherein we discussed to make the negotiation process effective and result oriented”. The head of the government negotiation team Irfan Siddiqui flanked by Taliban committee chief coordinator Maulana Sami ul Haq told media after the meeting in Akora Khattak Noshehra adding “in this phase, we have to take important decisions” Maulana Sami ul Haq, however, waned of about the forces opposed to the peace and dialogue process saying the “enemies of peace will continue attempting to sabotage the process”. Government and Taliban negotiating teams as matter of fact held their meeting after the announcement of ceasefire from the both sides last week. The government team was headed by the Chief negotiator
and section 7 of Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) at Airport police station for incidents of arson and killings of number of people at Sharae Faisal. He was also wanted to police in FIR no. 181/ 2009 under section 302/34 in Shah Faisal Colony police station and FIR no. 237/10 under section 302, 436, 147, 148 and 139 in Model Colony police station. “He was handed over to us for investigation of May 12 cases,” an investigation officer at Airport police station, who wished not to be named, told Pakistan Observer. “He was nominated in four out of five cases which were registered on account of May 12 carnage at Air-
Continued on Page 7
activities of the militants have been going side by side. Meanwhile, a convoy of the FC men heading from Hangu to Manatoo area was targeted with the help of Improvised explosive device in in Wermagai area at the converge of Hangu district and Kurram and Aurakzai agencies, that led to the Shahadat of three Jawaans of the Frontier Corps and injuries of 11 others. The IED, as the military sources said, was planted by the unknown terrorists at the rout of the FC convoy at Wermagai area some 20 kilometers from Sadda the headquarters of Kurram agency. The victims were rushed to the Tall hospital where the doctors pronounced thee soldiers dead while 11 others were admitted for treatment who were later shifted to CMH Peshawar with the help of helicopters. However, three more victims succumbed to their injuries in the hospital raising the death toll to six. The military sources lamented that despite the peace talks and announcement of ceasefire both from the government and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, there was no letup in the
Continued on Page 7
Continued on Page 7
Judge Rafaqat Awan, others were fired from close range ZUBAIR QURESHI ISLAMABAD—The postmortem report of the eleven assassinated persons in Monday’s gun and bomb attack at the F-8 District Courts has been issued. According to the 11-page report, the assailants fired from 8 to 10 feet. All the dead in the F-8 Katchery incident were fired from close range. Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) has sent the report to the Islamabad District Administration, Interior Secretary and IG Police. According to the postmortem report, Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Malik Rafaqat Awan was fired from a distance of 1.5 feet. There are 11 bullet marks on his body. He received three bullet shots in the upper part of his body and they caused his death on the spot. Senior lawyer Rao Rasheed also died due to chest injuries. Barrister Fizza Tariq Malik received two bullet shots, one in the neck, the other in the chest. Her death occurred due to lung puncContinued on Page 7
Musharraf’s trail
Defence lawyers face Taliban threat ISLAMABAD—Former president Pervez Musharraf ’s lawyers on Wednesday presented a threatening letter claimed to be from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the special court threatening themto dissociate themselves from the trial. During the hearing Musharraf ’s lawyers expressed security concerns and said they could not continue with the court proceedings under the prevailing security situation. Counsel for the former president, Ahmed Raza Kasuri, read the letter in the court which said that if lawyers Hafeez Pirzada, Anwar Mansoor and Kasuri did not dissociate themselves from Musharraf’s trial, the three would face dire consequences. Kasuri added that the attack in a court in Continued on Page 7
Militants defame Islam: Bilour Appreciates govt’s efforts for dialogue with Taliban ISLAMABAD—Former federal minister and ANP leader Ghulam Ahmed Bilour on Wednesday said militants had defamed Islam and exploited it to justify their policy of violence.“Islam is a religion of peace and brotherhood. It rejects violence and bloodshed. It is a religion of love and affection,” he said in his speech on National Security Policy in the National Assembly. “Militants have exploited our sacred religion to promote their philosophy of violence in the name of Jihad and Islam,” he added. He condemned terrorism and said the menace had not only maligned the religion and nation but also inflicted unforgettable pain and anguish upon the people. “We have lost our forces. We have lost our relatives and above all poor innocent people.” Bilour said despite all allegations against the Awami National Party (ANP), they were patriotic Pakistanis and respected the Constitution and the law of land. “Nobody should think himself more patriotic and more Islamic than us. We are true Muslims and believe in the teachings of Islam.” He appreciated the statement of Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali ABBOTTABAD: Assistant Commissioner Osama Warich monitoring demolishing process anti-encroachment drive Khan that violence would be given a telling response. “It is for the first time that on KKH. such a message has been sent. At least he has categorically told militants of a strong response that even could not be sent previously.”
PM striving to make country a strong: Minister
DASKA—Federal Minister for Science and Technology Zahid Hamid Wednesday said that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was striving to make Pakistan a strong economic power like they had made Pakistan a nuclear power in 1997. He stated this while talking to Media persons in Pasrur. He revealed that the PML-N government was pursuing revolutionary economic policies which will transform Pakistan into a self-reliant and strong country, adding that the better utilization of available resources would help create maximum opportunities of economic and industrial promotion. He said that the PML-N government was striving to cope with the persisting energy crisis for giving maximum relief to people. He stated that the PML-N government was strengthening institutions and promoting democracy in the country to pave way for a welfare state. The Federal Minister said that the PML-N government would ensure timely completion of public welfare and development projects and would leave no stone unturned to ensure provision of all basic facilities to people at their doorsteps. He added that the PML-N would continue serving the masses without any indiscrimination and the time was not far off when the country would become a strong and developed country.
LB elections schedule in April: Minister
Govt to protect minorities rights
ISLAMABAD—President Mamnoon Hussain towards the welfare and uplift of the Christians on Wednesday reiterated firm resolve of the democratic government to protect and uphold the rights and privileges of minority community as enshrined in Constitution of the country. This was stated by the President during a meeting with a delegation headed by Bishop Tony Rubinson, Bishop of Wakefield and Chairman of Pakistan Focus Group setup by the Arch Bishop of Canterbury UK here at the Presidency. The President said minorities were equal citizens of the country and all possible steps were afoot to bring them into the mainstream of national life. The delegation included Canon Yaqub Masih Board of Directors, West Yorkshire Police Community Trust in UK, Elvin Jalal Din Chairman Pakistan Christian Concern Pakistan, Samule Payara President Bright Future Society, Chief Coordinator Rehabilitation Response UK, Wajid Nadeem, Project Director, Governor’s Clean Water Initiative and M. Akmal Hameed and Pervez Barkat. The President lauded the role being played by the minority community in the socio-economic development of Pakistan and said Pakistan values their invaluable contributions in nation building and that the government would continue to work for protection of rights of all non-Muslim citizens. He reaffirmed government’s commitment
and all non-Muslims living in Pakistan. The President called upon all concerned especially leaders of all faiths and schools of thoughts to play their role in promoting interfaith harmony and said that need for religious harmony and tolerance was never as great as it was today. He said religious tolerance was the best way to create interfaith harmony as all religions stress tolerance and co- existence of people of all faiths, the President said. Discussing UK-Pakistan relations, the President said that the two countries enjoy close and fraternal ties encompassing diverse areas of cooperation, adding that Pakistan considers UK as a close friend and genuine development partner. The President welcomed Bishop Tony Rubinson on his visit to Pakistan for the great cause of inter-faith harmony and also appreciated his noble gesture to inaugurate clean drinking water and water treatment plants at Gojra, Punjab. Bishop Tony Robinson appreciated the various steps being taken by the government for the welfare and betterment of the Christians and minority community in Pakistan. The delegation also appreciated the efforts being made by the government for promoting harmony among various faiths and religions.—APP
USAID distributes food packs to school children ISLAMABAD—The United States Agency for In- 18 months.” Javaid said. ternational Development (USAID) delivered food packs to students of Mansehra Higher Secondary School. The school was reconstructed by USAID as part of its Pakistan Reconstruction Program (PRP) under which 77 health and education buildings were rebuilt after the devastating 2005 earthquake in Bagh district of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Mansehra district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Vice-Principal of the school, Muhammad Naseem Khan, thanked USAID for constructing an earthquake-resistant and spacious school. “It is because of this remarkable and spacious building that enrollment has jumped from 450 students to more than 1000 students and our school still has a capacity to accommodate 400 more,” said Naseem. General Secretary of the school’s parent-teachers council, Javaid Kabeer praised USAID for the speedy reconstruction of the building. “We were pleasantly surprised when this multi-story school building spanning over 84,000 square feet was completed in just
The 61 schools built under the USAID Program serve 18,000 students from 556 villages. The schools have a total of 658 classrooms, 121 laboratories and a library in every school. All the schools were fully furnished with funds provided by USAID. USAID started its post-earthquake reconstruction program in Pakistan in 2006 after identification by Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority (ERRA) of the buildings which were most needed. ‘This included 34 schools in Mansehra, 27 schools, 15 health units and a 50-bed hospital in Bagh district of AJK. All of these facilities were completed last year and are now serving their communities. USAID is also constructing 7 faculties of education buildings in different provinces, a 133bed hospital in Sindh, a state-of-the-art gynecology ward at Karachi’s Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) and rehabilitating several flood-affected schools in Sindh and Balochistan.—INP
P E S H AWA R —Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, Inayatullah Khan said that provincial government has completed all the home work for holding of local body’s election and its schedule would be announced in April this year. He was addressing a training course organized by National Institute of Management Peshawar here Wednesday. Balauchistan Local Body’s Minister, Sardar Ghulam Mustafa Tareen, Secretary Local Bodies Balauchistan, Kazim Niaz, KP Secretary Local Bodies, Hifzur Rehman, Director General National instiatue of Management, Nighat Mehrooz and other concerned officials were also present. Local Government Secretaries of KP and Balauchistan briefed the course participants about matters of Municipal Committees, municipal Corporations, Metropolitan Corporations, Local Governance, utilization of Local Government funds and revenue generation, administrative matters, Village Council, Neighbourhood, Biometric System and women involvement in Local Body’s MANSEHRA: Muhammad Naseem Khan, vice Principal of USAID built school receiving USAID sponsored food packs for school kids during ceremony. Elections.—APP
Islam gives honour to women BASHIR AHMAD RAHMANI
He said Constitution was a sacred document and anybody willing for dialogue under its purview, should be listened. “We should talk to those desiring to talk under the purview of Constitution, and not recognize anybody, who does not recognize it.” He urged all political parties to seriously gauge the prevailing situation and join hands to steer the country out of crisis. “We and our country cannot survive without democracy. We shall have to collectively address our problems.” Central leader Awami National Party (ANP) Haji Ghulam Ahmed Bilour on Wednesday appreciated the government for holding dialogue with Taliban. Talking to media men outside the Parliament House, Bilour said that it was government’s right decision to hold dialogue with “good” Taliban and operation against “bad” Taliban. ANP leader said that during the era of previous government the erstwhile rulers only condemn the terror incident but the current government reacted sternly and launches operation against the culprits. He said that dialogue with Taliban was right of the government and political figures. Taking part in the discussion, former minister Haji Ghulam Ahmed Bilour opposed military operation in South Waziristan Agency. Democracy must flourish in the country, he added.
Bilour, who is a senior leader of Awami National Party (ANP), said the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) had given a bad name to Islam, which was a religion of peace and there was no place for terror in its teachings. Abdul Sattar Bachani of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) urged the government to take effective steps for achieving peace in the country. He criticised former dictators Gen Zia-ul-Haq and Pervez Musharraf for damaging the national institutions. Chaudhry Khadim Hussain Wattoo of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz lauded the National Internal Security Policy. He appreciated opposition’s positive behaviour for achieving lasting peace in the country. Aiyasha Syed also hailed the draft National Internal Security Policy and urged the government to incorporate Islamic principals and laws into the policy. The menace of terrorism surfaced in 2002. The students of seminaries were not terrorists, she added. She said the issue of sectarianism should also be resolved once for all. She said foreign policy should also be linked with the internal security policy. She urged training of police force and devising a merit-based appointment system for them. Merit should be ensured and corruption be eliminated from all institutions, she added.—APP
Govt releases funds to equip LEAs with modern weapons: Abid
Land acquisition for Fort Munro chair-lift project M ULTAN —Chief Secretary Punjab Naveed Akram Cheema
ISLAMABAD—Minister of State for Water and Power Abid Sher has ordered local administration Ali on Wednesday said that the government has released funds to to complete land acquisition pro-
H A F I Z A B A D — D C O fully equip law-enforcement agencies with modern weapons to cess for Rs 600 million ChairHafizabad Mansoor Qadir has declared that Islam provided honourable status to mothers, daughters, sisters and wives which is a unique institution and stressed the need for creating awareness among the womenfolk to get their rights guaranteed in the constitution. Addressing a seminar to observe International Women Day in the Jinnah Hall, he particularly referred to the right of inheritance to the women provided in Islam. He also said that the present government was also striving to empower women by [‘by providing equal opportunities, promoting female education, fixation of quota for women in services and establishment of Sanatzar, Dar-ul-Aman, Shelter Home and other social welfare institutions to mitigate the social problems of the women and to enable them to get economic emancipation. Provincial Parliamentary Secretary Ch. Asad Ullah Arain has said that the unique legislation have been made at provincial and national level for empowerment of women which, he said, would go a long way in the social and economic progress of the women in the country. He particularly referred to Women Empowerment Package 2012. He also told the gathering that Khadim-e-Aala Punjab Shahbaz Sharif has ordered to strictly implement right of inheritance to the women and enacted rules for providing stern action and rigorous imprisonment for acid throwing incidents and harassment of women. He said that no other society or religion has provided equality to women as Islam and called upon them to inculcate courage among the women to get their due rights. He called upon the women to play their pivotal role to make the society strong morally and economically adding that no society can survive without the active participation of women. Female students, teachers and members of NGOs also addressed the seminar and appreciated the steps being taken by the present government for the empowerment of women. Prominent among those who attended the seminar including ADC/ Administrator TMA Safeena Siddique, Principal Government College for Women Zahida Nasreen, TMO Ghulam Rasul, AC (UT) Naeem Afzal and large number of students, teachers, social workers and nursing students. Later, a Walk was organised to create awareness among the women for their emancipation.
maintain law and order across the country. He said “It was the prime responsibility of the government to protect lives and property of common people throughout the country and not only in Federal Capital”. Talking to media persons outside the Parliament House, Abid Sher Ali said that the control of law and order situation was not possible over night. He said it would take some time and the government would take every possible measure in this regard. The Minister said that there was dire need to overcome the deficiencies in the law-enforcement agencies.—APP
Lift project at Fort Munro, a hill station some 86 kilometres away from DG Khan city. Managing Director, TDCP Habib-Ur-Rahman Gilani told APP that the provincial chief secretary issued the instructions in a special meeting of technical staff to discuss the project at Fort Munro.—APP
MULTAN: MPA Sultana Shaheen visiting a stall set up in connection with International Women Day at Raza Hall.
295 Pakistani doctors graduate in Cuba OBSERVER REPORT I SLAMABAD—The dreams of 295 young people of Pakistan have become in reality in Villa Clara with the first graduation of Pakistani doctors in Cuba. The University of Medicine “Dr. Serafín Ruiz de Zárate Ruiz assumed the challenge of training students of medical sciences from Pakistan with high qualify. The project was initiated seven years ago when the first group arrived to Cuba in response to the gesture of the historical leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro, to offer one thousand scholarships, preferably for the residents in the earth quake affected zones of Pakistan hit in October of 2005. The most outstanding student Muhammad Shafgat, received gold medal from the Director of Public Health in Villa Clara, Dr. Raphael Ibanez Azan. Six days after the catastrophic earthquake event, the first group of the Cuban Medical Brigade Henry Revee arrived in Pakistan to help a country devastated by the phenom-
enon. Around 2600 Cubans doctors and paramedics arrived that time. They were the last to leave Pakistan. During that time 32 field hospitals were set up and were attended by more than one million 700 thousand patients in the spirit of a profession that erases barriers of borders or other divides. Government and people of Pakistan have been greatly appreciative of Cuban friendly gesture. Pakistani medical graduates received warm send off before they left Cuba for home.
Lawyers booked for beating cop FAISALABAD—Kotwali police have booked six persons including five lawyers on charges of attacking police in district courts on Wednesday. A police spokesman said on Wednesday that after the Islamabad incident, they had beefed up security in the district courts by deputing additional force and directed them not to allow entery without search. When ASI Shakeel Ahmad stopped lawyer Imtiaz Loona for search, he became infuriated and called his colleagues and juniors who thrashed the ASI.—APP
Spadework for Dialogue to be held with peace wanting elements Insulin Bank at HMC completed
Renowned journalist Nawab Kaifee presenting his book ‘Yeh Mojza Hai’ to Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif at PM House.
Spring tree plantation drive kicks off at UoP P ESHAWA R —The spring plantation drive kicked off at the University of Peshawar (UoP) with the aim of a greener and cleaner Greater Campus in the month’s long campaign. Vice Chancellor UoP Prof. Dr Muhammad Rasul Jan inaugurated the campaign by planting a sapling in the lawn of the Department of Environmental Sciences. He was accompanied by Prof. Dr Shahida Zakir, Prof. Dr Hizbullah, Dr Fazl I Nasir and scores of green volunteer students. The target for this year’s drive is to plant 10,000 trees in the vicinity of the University of Peshawar and 10,000 more in the greater campus, said Vice Chancellor in his address to the inaugural ceremony. He added that the vigorous plantation drive has been initiated in support of the provincial government greener Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Green Growth Initiative) programme, and all the line institutions like the Pakistan Forest Institution would be taken onboard to achieve the target. Dr Jan said that we would make it mandatory on every student and employee of the University to plant at least a sapling in the campus and take good care of it for its proper nurturing. He viewed that the growing population and use of agricultural land for housing societies has posed major threat to the environment. It may ultimately lead to severe food insecurity in the country, he said, adding that the same must be avoided and necessary corrective measures be taken for the purpose to do the rescue job. Earlier Chairperson Prof. Dr Shahida Zakir said that ill effect of rise in temperature and the issue of global warming can be minimized by planting more trees. She added that with the promotion of green economy, losses caused by the natural and anthropological disasters can be avoided.—APP
ANF recovers 482kg drugs 57 held, ammunition seized ISLAMABAD—Anti Narcotics Force (ANF) recovered 482 kg drugs including 61.5 kg fine quality heroin being smuggled abroad and arrested a five member gang at Karachi, Sargodha and Karak. The price of the seized drug in international market is Rs 43.35 Crore approximately, said a press release. According to details, ANF assisted by Pakistan Rangers (Sindh) received information that a few individuals were busy for smuggling of heroin abroad by using innovative concealment methods. Initial ground check revealed suspicious activities, however to further authenticate the information, a discreet surveillance of ANF was imposed. ANF and Pakistan Rangers conducted a well coordinated raid at House No. D-119, Musarat Colony, Malir City, Karachi and recovered 61.5 kg of fine quality heroin. Five persons involved in the crime were arrested at the spot. Post raid interrogation revealed that the heroin was being tactfully concealed inside onions by making a hole in onions hence creating a cavity in the centre. Later, heroin filled capsules were inserted and finally capped by onion covering with elfy. Quantity of onions recovered from the site is weighing approximately 110 kg. The accused also disclosed that onions were also useful in evading the smell of drugs by sniffing dogs.
Initial interrogation revealed that the gang has a history of remaining in smuggling of narcotics. The revealed innovative method is unique in its own kind and regarded a great success for fight against drug menace. An FIR has been lodged against all the arrested persons at ANF Police Station and further investigations are under process. Sargodha: Police claimed to have foiled a smuggling bid and seized a massive quantity of narcotics. A police spokesman said on Wednesday that during patrolling, police pulled over a jeep on Jhaverian Road but the vehicle sped away. Police chased it but the accused abandoned it near the Lala Musa by-pass.Police recovered over 420kg charas from the vehicle and registered a case. A police spokesman said Umer Hayat, Nazir Muhammad, Nasrullah, Shamshir, Imran, Vazir Zada, Tahir Abbas, Khurram Shahzad, Muhammad Usman, Bashir Ahmed and Ali Raza were arrested. The police also seized 3,026 g heroin, 1,050g hashish, two Kalashnikovs, a gun and a rifle with cartridges and rounds. The police have registered separate cases against the accused. KARAK: District police Wednesday claimed to arrest 41 absconders and seized huge cache of ammunition and drugs during the month of February.—APP
Traders show concern over loadshedding
PESCO recovery campaign in full swing P ESHAWAR —Disconnection & Recovery break downs.
The management of the company has warned defaulters for the payment of outstanding dues with immediate effect and in case of non-payment strict legal action will also be initiated against them.
M U LTA N —Another swine
Campaign launched by Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) against power theft and recovery from defaulters is in full swing through out the Province. Recovery teams under the supervision of SDO PESCO, Gul Bela Sub-Division restored power supply to 162 defaulter consumers of 11 KV Takht Abad and 38 defaulter consumers of 11 KV Naguman-II feeders after recovery of the dues. Similarly, 7 new electricity connections were also provided to consumers under the “Incentive Package” while work is in progress for providing new connections. Furthermore, a team of PESCO, Chamkani Sub-Division nabbed 5 persons Rafiq Shah S/o Sher Meer of Gari Meher Gul Kachori, Ali Shah S/o Qadrat Shah Gari Nazir Gul Kachori, Pir Muhammad Gul Ghari Nasir Kachori, Sulman Shah S/o Khadi Gul Gari Nazir Gul Kachori and Jan Bahader S/o Laal Zada Gari Meher Gul Kachori using direct hooks from LT line. FIRs were lodged against them in concerned police stations. Due to illegal use of electricity in these areas, power supply system was over loaded and was causing frequent power
flu patient who had been on ventilator for the last four days died at Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Nishtar Medical Institute (NMI) on Wednesday. Focal person NMI, Dr Mazhar-ul-Khaliq, told APP that Mehmood-ul-Hassan, who came from Kabirwala and had been admitted to the health facility around 5 days back, died on Wednesday.He added that Hassan was over 40 and underwent treatment first at a private hospital of the city. Later, he was shifted to NMI and was tested positive for the disease by NIH, Islamabad.Two suspected female patients of swine flu admitted to NMI had died on Thursday. Humera (43) of Daulat Gate was brought to hospital on Thursday morning and she died the same night. Rubina, who hailed from Samijabad, also died at ICU of NMI last week.—PP
JAHANIAN: Security has been beefed up outside Civil Courts after the Islamabad Katcheri incident.
Another swine flu patient dies
SUKKUR: Sukkur Small Tarders and Cottage Industries (SST&CI) expressed grave concern over the prolonged and unscheduled electricity load shedding, which is yielding negative impact and its duration reached 9-10 hours a day, said a press release of SST, issued here. President SST&CI, Haji Javed Memon, Badar Qureshi, Lala Abid Khokhar and others said that this forced, unscheduled electricity load shedding has dropped the industrial production to further low and the duration of electricity outages of 09-10 hours in the city and 12-15 hours in the villages has made the life of people quite difficult, resulting into dearth of even drinking water. According to a press release, the traders also expressed concern over issuance of detection and inflated bills and called upon SEPCO chief to end this practice.—APP
P E S H AWA R — K h y b e r Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Health, Shaukat Ali Yousafzai has said that provincial government is taking initiatives to provide best health care facilities to the poor people.This he said while talking to the doctors and other concerned officials at Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar Wednesday. Besides others fruitful initiatives, the Insulin Bank is being established in Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC) Peshawar which will soon be inaugurated formally. Rs 25 million has been allocated for this project out of which 12.5 million has been released to the Health Department and the remaining amount has been transferred to HMC. The focal persons have also been identified in eight hospitals included D.I.Khan, Bannu, Mardan, Abbottabad, Swat, Lady Reading Hospital and Khyber Teaching Hospital. The Health Minister on the occasion urged doctors and other staff to play their vital role in bringing about a visible change as the provincial government was fully committed in this regard and has taken these historical steps which were the longstanding demand of the province.He said a graceful structure had been formulated for the doctors, which would certainly be helpful to redress the problems of doctors. He said poor people of the province were depending on public run hospitals as due to low income they could not afford expenditures of private hospitals.—APP
Balochistan road projects underway I SLAMABAD —Work
on mega road development projects, worth billions of rupees, was ongoing in Balochistan and this will usher in a new era of progress and prosperity in the region. An official of National Highway Authority (NHA) informed APP that work on Gwadar-Turbat Motorway (M-8) was going on smoothly and it will be completed in the next two years. He said that Rs 16 billion more were required for this 234 kilometres long project timely completion. He said for SorabHoshab Highway (N-85) NHA will require a further Rs 18 billion.—APP
DIG for targeted operation in Hazzara division
P ESHAWA R —Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Hazara Ranger Akhtar Hayat Gandapur Wednesday ordered targeted operation across the division against absconders and criminal elements. Presiding over a meeting of police officers here at his office, he warned strict disciplinary action if any police official is found guilty of collusion with smugglers or criminal elements. The DIG asked the police force to conduct raids for the arrest of absconders. He further directed that owners of all hotels, hostels, guest houses and houses must be asked to maintain their record otherwise they would be held accountable as per the new ordinance of provincial government. The DIG asked police officers to increase police patrolling in their respective areas and make pickets vigilant to keep eye on criminal elements. Islamabad: Analyst Rasool Bux Rais on Wednesday called for holding the dialogue only with those elements who opt for peace in the country. Talking to private TV channel, he said the government should launch operation against anti-peace elements. The government should identify anti-
peace elements and bring them to justice, he added. He appreciated annoucement of the ceasefire to further the peace process. Rasool Bux said dialogue should be held according to the Constitution of the country. Wah Cantt: Police here launched massive clean up operation against criminals and anti social elements in Taxila. In a fresh crackdown launched against criminals and anti-social elements, Police launched door to door search. Female police officials, officials from special branch and elite force commandos led by Inspector Sardar Shakeel Ahmed carried out operation in suspected areas of Jameelabad, Dhoke Saidu, Pind Gondal, Bun bohla, Sarai Khola, Thatta Khalil and adjacent areas in Taxila. A number of criminals, including proclaimed offenders wanted in different crimes were arrested besides a number of liquor and narcotics were also busted in limits of city Police station. Sources said that search was also launched against illegal immigrants and mostly Afghan nationals were taken in to custody who were living without any legal documents.—APP
Rain-thunderstorm likely at some places
SPSC announces results of successful candidates
on Wednesday forecast rain-thunderstorm at isolated places of Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Gujranwala, Malakand and Hazara divisions during next 24 hours. The met office forecast chances of light snowfall over the hills during the next 24 hours. According to the synoptic situation, continental air was prevailing over most parts of the country. Whereas, a shallow westerly trough was also prevailing over Kashmir and adjoining areas and likely to move northeastwards during next 24 hours. The lowest minimum temperatures recorded during the last 24 hours were Quetta, Kalam 03 C and Malamjabba and Kalat 02 C. The minimum temperatures recorded in the other cities were Islamabad 09 C, Lahore 12 C, Karachi 16 C, Peshawar 07 C, Quetta -03 C, Murree 00 C, Muzaffarabad 05 C, Gilgit 04 C, Faisalabad 10 C, Multan 11 C and Hyderabad 15 C. The rainfall recorded during the last 24 hours was Muzaffarabad, Pattan 10 mm, Malamjabba, Murree 08, Balakot 06, Abbottabad 05, Lower Dir, Mirkhani, Saidu Sharif 02 and Rawalpindi, Khuzdar and Dir 01 mm. The snowfall recorded in Murree was 01 inch. ...APP/ Domestic — Weather-Report Met office forecast thunderstorm-rain for Hazara, Malakand divisions. Peshawar: The Met Office here Wednesday forecast thunderstorm-rain with light snowfall over the hills at isolated places in Malakand and Hazara divisions during next 24 hours due to a shallow westerly trough prevailing over Kashmir and adjoining areas. According to Met Office, this westerly trough is likely to move to north-east wards during next 12 to 24 hours whereas continental air is prevailing over most parts of the country.In next 24 hours, mainly cold and dry weather is expected in most parts of the country, however, partly cloudy weather conditions with rain-thunderstorm with light snow over the hills are expected at isolated places of Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Gujranwala, Malakand and Hazara divisions.—PP
Commission Hyderabad on Wednesday announced the names of those candidates who have been declared successful in the interviews for the post of Statistical Officer BPS-17 in Sindh Planning and Development Department. The names of the successful candidates included Neelam Khan, Mir Mohsan Ali Talpur, Hafsa Shaikh, Anila Jafar, Abdul Qayoom Pitafi, Muhammad Asif and Ambreen Babar. The SPSC management also declared the names of those candidates who have been declared successful for the post of Chemist BPS-17 in Sindh Environment and Alternative Department. The names of the successful candidates included Shah Khalid Bukhari and Muhammad Hussain Umrani Baloch. No candidate has been found fit for the post of Assistant Director (Public Awareness) BPS-17 in Sindh Environment and Alternative Energy Department and the post will be re-advertised in due course of time, the management informed and added that the list of the successful candidates has been uploaded at the SPSC website www.spsc.gov.pk/. APP
HYDERABAD—The manageISLAMABAD—Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) ment of Sindh Public Service
Free legal services to women, government priority: Roghani P ESHAWAR —Special Advisor to the Chief Minister on social welfare and women development, Dr Mehar Taj Roghani said Wednesday that provision of free legal and advocacy services to women was the top most priority of Pakistan Tahrik-e-Insaf Govt and no stone would be left unturned to provide them better services at their doorsteps. Addressing a function in collection of world women day at Darul Aman Mardan held with assistance of GIZ, she said the government was endeavouring to bring improvement in existing services at Govt sponsored Darul Aman and will introduce such a system where women and girls in Darul Aman could returns their homes with honour and dignity. She said the government was working on a policy to adopt such a reconciliatory mechanism to address problems of women of Darul Aman and ensure their dignified return to their homes. She said the Govt would utilize all available resources to address their problems and bring improvement in the life style. The Advisor appreciated the services of GIZ and urged them to support Govt in provision of free legal services to women with some problems. She said the Govt would earmarked special funds for provision of health, education and other services to women living in Darul Aman. District Social Welfare Abdul Mueed Bacha and Superintendent Darul Aman Yasmin and others officials were present on the occasion. Meanwhile, it is reported that a two days free medical camp and mobile hospital under the aegis of Directorate of Health Services Fata was held at Khyber Agency’s Tehsil Tirah where medical and consultancy services were provided to patients free of cost. The camp was held at Jarobi Mashtara of Tehisl Tirah on the directives of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor, Engr Shaukatullah Khan and Additional Chief Secretary Fata Arbab Muhammad Arif, said a press release here on Wednesday. The specialist doctors examined patients and conducted laboratory tests of 242 patients besides X-Rays of 27. Medicines were also distributed among patients.Patients with serious ailments were referred to Peshawar. The mobile hospital and free medical camp was held under the supervision of Programme Manager, Dr Niaz Afridi. The tribal elders highly appreciated holding of the camp and expressed optimism for such more free medical camps and mobile hospitals in future in Tirah valley.—APP
Parliament being given its due role
MEDIA WATCH
Afridi breaks Tigers’ hearts
I
T is said that modern democracies are characterized by shared decisionmaking by the legislative and executive branches of the states but in many cases including Pakistan the latter has enjoyed dominance and the former has mostly been treated as a sort of debating club or rubber-stamp to endorse decisions made in cozy offices of kitchen Cabinets or top bureaucrats. But it seems things have started changing for the good as the present PML(N) Government is assigning due importance to the Parliament. The speech of Sartaj Aziz, Advisor on National Security and Foreign Affairs, in the National Assembly on Tuesday also led credence to this belief as he explained in detail the contours of the nation’s foreign policy, adding that new defence and foreign policies are being evolved and these would be presented before the Parliament. This augurs well as the Government has already presented the National Security Policy before the Parliament and it is expected that the crucial document would be improved and refined in the light of debate in the both Houses and proposals by members. The tradition would mean greater ownership and transparency of the policies and their continuation as against pursuance of different policies by every Government resulting into confusion and instability. No doubt, leaders of the executive branch typically command much of the political power, control the financial resources, possess trained staff dedicated to developing policies and implementing laws, produce the bulk of legislation and manage government contracts and administer government programmes but the relative balance of power between the Legislature and Executive in a country can be changed. Our legislators can make a difference by building strong legislative institutions, by asserting themselves in the regular law-making or oversight functions, or through specific structural changes via Constitutional amendments, legislation or rules of procedure. But all this can happen only if the Parliamentarians take their responsibilities seriously, become a role model by paying taxes and abiding by the law and pay more attention to service of the people than their own welfare and that of their families and parties.
Rising FE reserves, a positive signal F
INANCE Minister Ishaq Dar has expressed the confidence that, as prom ised by him earlier, the foreign exchange reserves of the country would exceed $10 billion mark by 31st of March. In an interview, he talked about the policy measures initiated by the present Government to rectify wrongs of the economy and their impact, adding that the value of rupee against dollar has also strengthened. The Minister is well within his right to express exuberance over positive economic indicators despite worst law and order situation and other internal and external factors. Projections of the Finance Minister about FE reserves for end March also included possible proceeds of 3G auction during the month but it is satisfying that despite delay in completion of the auctioning process (which is likely to take place in mid-April) he was optimistic about meeting the target. Building of the reserves would surely have salutary impact on the overall economic situation and boost confidence of the prospective investors in the economy of the country. This, coupled with satisfactory reporting on the state of Pakistan’s economy by IMF and improvement in rating and perception about the country, are appreciable developments. However, one must point out that there is dire need to make these gains sustainable, as frequent nose-dive of FE reserves, downgrading of the rating and perception about growing corruption jolt the economy as well as reputation of the country. Pakistan has the requisite potential to shore up its reserves to over $30 billion in foreseeable future if economic growth is accelerated, exports increased, unnecessary imports curbed and overseas Pakistanis meaningfully motivated to remit more back home. One may also point out that claims about exchange rate stability are misplaced as we first allowed the rupee to shed its value at mind-boggling speed are now content with the unrealistic rate of Rs. 105 a dollar. Similarly, have-nots bore the brunt of bitter and sour decisions of the Government and it is time to think about compensating them.
Civil servants need to be inspired W
HILE at this point of time when reportedly a major reshuffle in bu reaucracy is in the offing, it is of utmost importance that it should be based on merit and experience and not on liking or disliking of the Ministers. More than that when government is taking major initiatives to cleanse the whole system and ensure good governance, civil servants need to be duly inspired by rewarding them through right position for the right person. We say so because civil servants in the past had been subjected to ridicule and there was no encouragement for those who were competent, honest and followed the rules. On the other hand yes-men prospered as they followed right or wrong orders of their superiors and as a result the country suffered the most. There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that bureaucracy underpins the success of a nation and Pakistan desperately needs to restructure and refine its bureaucracy by encouraging the intellectuals, honest and dedicated officers. Just a few decades ago, joining the Pakistan civil service was the dream of every top student graduating from a university but today few people with high academic achievements and potentials are interested in pursuing this career because the vital institution has been highly politicised. Living in an era of knowledge explosion and worldwide competition, civil servants as backbone of the country strive for excellence so that they can enhance national competitiveness through innovative and epochal thinking but when they are asked to perform certain tasks not in country’s interest and against the rules, they get discouraged. Pakistan has men and women in bureaucracy, with qualities of both head and heart, intelligence, intellect, team-spirit, commonsense, originality, communication skills and leadership attributes and they need support and encouragement to put the country back on track. It is encouraging that the Prime Minister while chairing a high level meeting to review the civil service reforms directed that the best performing civil servants should be rewarded in order to upgrade the performance of civil bureaucracy. We hope that the government while reshuffling the bureaucracy would ensure merit based posting and also consider increase in their salary and other perks to match with the private sector so that there is no brain drain in the vital arm of the state which is responsible to implement the policies.
HURMAT GROUP OF PUBLICATIONS Zahid Malik President & Editor-in-Chief Ph: 051-2256006 Faisal Zahid Malik Gauhar Zahid Malik Editor Ph: 021-35308445
Executive Editor Ph: 051-2853818
Islamabad Ph Exchange: 051-2852027 Reporting Desk: 051-2852028, News Desk: 051-5879329 Marketing: 051-2262254, 2852029 Fax: 051-2262258 Email: observer@pakobserver.net Website: www.pakobserver.net
Lahore
Karachi Faisal Zahid Malik Editor Ph: 021-35308446-49 Fax: 021-35308447 Email: obskhi@pakobserver.net
Khalid Butt Resident Editor Ph: 042-37593341, 37597364 Marketing Ph: 37566702 Fax: 042-36300043 Email: obslhr@pakobserver.net
Quetta
Peshawar
Ghulam Tahir
Tariq Saeed
Resident Editor Mobile: 0333-7944760 E-mail:obsqta@pakobserver.net
Resident Editor Mobile: 0321-9001476 E-mail:obspwr@pakobserver.net
Sadia Zahid Malik Editor Sunday Magazine
Ph: 2852027-8, Ext: 116 Email: magazinesocialdiary@hotmail.com
A
Corruption vs communalism For nearly 50 days, there was the government of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) exposing Kuldip Nayar the status quo governance Email:kuldipnayar09@gmail.com which two main parties, the Congress and the BJP, had perpetrated in last three deNDIA may not be coming apart cades. In a way, the AAP too has beat the seams but the polity is. come a regional party as supreme in Union Ministers are quarrelling Delhi as are Mamata Banerjee’s among themselves. Feuds of bureau- Trinamool Congress in West Bengal crats are coming out in the open. and Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal Even intelligence agencies, the In- (BJD) in Odisha. Indeed, politics of telligence Bureau and the Central identity is the biggest danger to demoBureau of Investigation, are at log- cratic governance. And this in no way is minimizgerheads. Understanding between bureaucracy and the rulers has been ing the harm the BJP is doing to the reduced to trivialities. So much so pluralistic ethos inherited from the that Finance Minister P. days of freedom struggle. Gujarat Chidambaram tells a top official to chief minister Narendra Modi is getimprove his English and the official, ting large crowds by appealing to the Hindus to imbibe Hindu nationalism. in turn, complains to his minister. Muslims are justifiably feeling On top of it comes the manner in which the bill to bifurcate Andhra insecure because the soft kind of Pradesh was passed by the Lok Hinduva is contaminating more and Sabha. The Lok Sabha television more people. To check this dangerchannel, showing the proceedings, ous trend, the Congress is too weak was stopped from telecasting live and too clueless to show mirror to which negates the claim of transpar- the nation. Regional parties feel that ency. MPs in favour of a united they can fill the space vacated by the Andhra Pradesh were not allowed Congress. Probably, they can but it to participate in the debate because will be at the expense of India’s unity. as many as 17 of them had been The constitution which binds all parts ousted from the house a couple of of the country together is being viodays earlier when they, including the lated by some regional parties both Congress ministers, were making in letter and in spirit. There is no option to the federal the passage of the bill impossible. I am concerned over the prece- structure which the constituent asdent the Congress has set and the sembly cherished and enshrined in way the Speaker went along. Tomor- the constitution. Odisha is a typical row if the Bhartiya Janata Party example of how the Indian polity (BJP) comes to power and decides works. The state is federal in characto have a legislation to put restric- ter but dynastic in rule. It seldom tions on the minorities, the party has defies the central government, howonly to point out that the then ruling ever autocratic or arrogant in its posCongress had suspended the basic ture at times. But chief minister norms of parliamentary democracy. Naveen Patnaik’s rule is personal and
I
he follows the footprints of his father, the late Biju Patnaik who governed in capricious and corrupt manner. He is still remembered because he gave identity to Oriyas who even today are fighting for a place under the sun. Naveen continues to remind people of his father’s legacy. I saw during my visit to Bhubaneswar hoardings all over the city with Biju Patnaik’s finger pointing towards Naveen as if he was reminding that his successor was his son. (There were also hoardings carrying only the photo of Rahul Gandhi without his mother, Congress president Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on either side of Naveen.) Just as Sukhbir Singh Badal in Punjab, Akhilesh Yadav in UP or Farooq Abdullah in Jammu and Kashmir, Naveen Patnaik’s parentage is his asset. The polls in democracy are only up to elections. Subsequently, people cease to count during the five-year tenure of the state assembly. With a clutch of bureaucrats Naveen rules the state, much to the misery and helplessness of the voters. He is worse because he has eliminated leading politicians from his party methodically. He has thus become indispensible. In fact, Naveen’s strength is the absence of a leader in his own party and his adversary, the Congress. Former chief minister JB Patnaik preferred governorship of Assam to the ever increasing wrangles in the Congress. What surprised me was that there was not even a hiss of AAP in state. I thought that Odisha which has no opposition worth the name would be an ideal place for AAP. The party appears to have not gone beyond Delhi, western UP, Haryana and parts of Rajasthan. No doubt, its birth and suc-
cess in Delhi evoked a tinge of idealism. But then Arvind Kejriwal became synonymous for party. He did not allow anyone else to grow. In fact, some of his antics have doused the aspirations of intelligentsia which saw in him an alternative. Thank god, some other names who will contest the Lok Sabha elections have come out. They should underline the need for a collective leadership. Dozens of NGOs, with more enviable record than Kejriwal, are distant from the AAP. They should be persuaded to join the party which is, in fact, a platform for “thousands of mutinies” raging in the country. The AAP, however, needs to come out with its economic agenda because people have essentially voted against the Congress and the BJP. The AAP has done well in exposing the central government on the price of natural gas. Even when the private company had signed a contract to purchase gas for $2.5 Btu till 2017, the price has been raised to $8 Btu. It is obvious that Petroleum Minister Veerappa Moily, who has defended the increased price, must be mixed up with the scam, another in the Manmohan Singh regime, left with two months in tenure.Corruption looks like becoming the poll issue. The Congress with numerous scams will be the target. Per force, the party has made communalism the main issue. Both corruption and communalism have to be confronted with a plank of cleanliness and pluralism. The AAP can plug these lines, provided it stays together. —The writer is a veteran Indian journalist, syndicated columnist, human rights activist and author.
NISP: Transforming words into action? Bilal Zubair Email:bilalzubair37@yahoo.com
T
HE government has unveiled initial draft of its new Na tional Internal Security Policy (NISP) at a time when Pakistani forces are conducting surgical strikesagainst the TTP hideouts in North Waziristan. Impression emanating from this coincidencereflects the incumbent government’s readiness to transformpolicy perspective of its futurecounterterrorism strategy into action. Government is seeking support of major political parties and stake holders for bringing consensus to finalize the NISP. A comprehensive counterterrorism policy incorporates dialogue as an integral part which did not produced desired results at least for time being. Force and threat of use of force, therefore, persist as plausible option along with talks in the counterterrorism efforts. Gauging the magnitude of internal security problems, one anticipate the first ever national security manual to be a comprehensive document covering all important aspects of internal security’s modus operandi. The interior minister Chaudary Nisar has outlined the initial draft of NISP, its objectives and its different aspects before the parliamentarians. As enunciated by interior minister, the three-pronged security policy incorporates secret, operational and strategic aspects as a comprehensive plan to address the internal security challenges. The secret part of the policy has not been revealed due to the sensitivity attached. However, the operational and strategic aspects have drawn nationwide attention and are constantly under discussion. The operational part of the policy revealed so far outlines a detailed program that
includes enhancing the operational capacity of the law enforcement agencies and provides comprehensive mechanisms to maintain law and order in cities and towns. Government isalso planning to deploy a 500 personal Rapid Response Force (RRF) under the police initially at the federal capital and later to provinces as an integrated specialized counterterrorist force. The training and operational aspect of this force has not yet been elaborated. However, Pakistan armed forces have already been collaborating with provincial police commandostraining and capacity building that could also be helpful in training and capacity building of the RRF. The third aspect is the strategic that include the Counter-Terrorism Authority (NACTA) that will be the central organization for forming strategy, coordinating efforts and overseeing executionof NSP. The heads of armed forces have been included as members of NATCA.All the intelligence agencies have also been synchronized under NACTA to expedite intelligence sharing and enhance much needed coordination at national level. NISP also seeks to integrate the religious seminaries and mosques to the national education system while undertaking legal reforms todevelop national consensus on its counterinsurgencystrategy in the coming months. One can also sense urgency on the part of government to reverse the flow of extremism and terrorism at earliest. The Anti-terrorism Ordinance of October 2013 and the anti-terror law under Protection of Pakistan Ordinance (PPO) approved by the standing committee on interior seems a coordinated politico-legal effort to bring a broadbased national structure against terrorism. However, amid all these efforts there are few very important
aspects that need clarityvis-à-vis NISP. Pakistan internal security threats are indeed a litmus test for effectiveness of NISP. First and foremost is regarding the civil-military harmony over the content and intent of the NISP. As military is in the forefront of dealing with the terrorists, therefore, their consent over this policy objectives and operational aspects are imperative. Military patient support to talks with Taliban and later successfully employing surgical strikes on militant hideouts in FATA reflect good chemistry germinating between civil-military leadership. These strikes have been instrumental in compelling otherwise adamant TTP to announce a one month ceasefire. So, talks back by requisite force seem the working formula in the counterterrorism strategy at the moment agreed by civil-military leadership. Secondly, the real test of proposed NISP lies with its implementation. Terrorism, insurgency and extremism are nontraditional security threats that require an altogether different operational and solution. These threats are as evasive as their solution that requires a persistent understanding and strategic doctrine to tackle. Apart from the terrorist sanctuaries in FATA region, the problem related to political economy of terrorism has engulfed whole country.This requires a tougher approach to neutralize the converging interests such as extortion, ransoms and other criminal activities abetting the ramification of terrorism. Alongside, the trends such as percolating of foreign funding and indoctrination of religious ideologiesrequire effective measures. A common national ideological narrative supported by major religious school of is something that must be envisaged by NISP to address the ideological aspect of extremism.
In this regard, intelligentsia, media andeducational institutions must also be brought in for a meaningful national discourse against ubiquitous extremism. Thirdly, synchronization of intelligence agencies under a single directorate requires extreme care. It should be remembered that intelligence agencies varies in their function, expertise and domain. Some perform highly sensitive activities than the others. Therefore, it would be a real test to segregate the overlapping of activities while maintaining the secrecy of information. Civil-military intelligence under a single directorate will also question the security of intelligence emanating from the military agencies that is more sensitive in nature. All these questions are somewhat important aspects that would come under scrutiny to gauge the effectiveness of NISP as a comprehensive response to counterterrorism. Further to this, NISP as a policy document should also explain that howconflict resolution at national level be initiated. Should it be dialoguethat needed to be channelized or military action needed to be initiated or dialogue along with military action should go hand in hand? No doubt the incumbent government has shown urgency in addressing the internal security challenges fully supported by the armed forces. The government should carry all the stakeholders onboard before bring the final policy into discussion, making it a shape of national effort against terrorism. The NISP shouldact as instrument in setting national agenda to address commonality of cause against the menace of extremism in all manifestations. —The writer is Ph.D Scholar at NDU, Islamabad.
little less than two years ago, there was not a dry eye left at the Sher-eBangla National Stadium as Bangladesh lost a pulsating Asia Cup final by two cruel runs. Two years later, the same tournament and the same venue was witness to similar heartache, the only difference being that yesterday it was an astounding innings from Shahid Afridi that turned a near certain win for Bangladesh into Pakistan’s highest ever chase in the space of 5.2 overs. In the process he confirmed Pakistan’s place in the final against Sri Lanka. When Afridi walked in at the fall of the fifth wicket, Pakistan needed 102 from 52 balls to overhaul Bangladesh’s mammoth 326 for three, their highest score in ODIs. He hit two sixes off his first two balls from Mahmudullah Riyad and then in the next over, smoked three maximums off Shakib Al Hasan. As panic began to grip the home team, Afridi soared higher, hitting Shafiul Islam for two fours and a six in the 45th over. Afridi did ride his luck – he was nearly bowled by Shakib in the next over but the ball seemed to brush the stumps without dislodging a bail. In the next over skipper Mushfiqur Rahim dropped a skier, and Afridi rubbed salt on the Tigers’ wounds by hitting his next ball for a sublime six over fine leg. Shakib, returning to the national team after serving out a three-match ban, threw down the stumps from cover to run Afridi out for an amazing 25-ball 59 with two fours and seven sixes. Pakistan needed 33 off 19 then. Leftarm spinner Abdur Razzak however then made things easy for Pakistan as Fawad Alam carted two sixes to kill any hope Afridi’s departure may have offered. Opener Ahmed Shehzad however gave the platform by making his fifth hundred (103) in his first game against the Tigers. Earlier, putting aside all their on- and off-field controversies Bangladesh bounced back to post their highest score and it was near perfect batting from the Tigers’ top order batsmen, led by Anamul Haque who anchored the innings with a steady hundred. Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan shredded Pakistan’s attack with rapid halfcenturies. Early in the piece Pakistan suffered a unique blow as leftarm spinner Abdur Rehman, who came on to bowl in the 11th over, was barred from bowling without delivering a legitimate ball. He bowled three consecutive full tosses above waist height — the first two were to Imrul Kayes and the third to Anamul — for dubious figures of 0-0-8-0 at which point umpire Johan Cloete had enough and took him off for the rest of the innings. Bangladesh ended up with 326 for three, beating their previous best of 320 for eight against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo in 2009. It was a rousing batting performance from the home side against the tournaments’ best bowling attack. Anamul’s 132-ball innings ended on 100 but by then the score was 204 for two in the 40th over and the solid platform was brilliantly utilised by his senior teammates. Opening partner Imrul Kayes also deserves credit after the way he capitalised on his early life to build a 150-run opening stand, Bangladesh’s second-highest for the wicket. It was refreshing to see how the Bangladesh batsmen paced their innings. The early part of the innings was characterised by maturity with the batsmen checking their impulse to attack Mohammad Hafeez and Saeed Ajmal. Anamul only hit the bad balls, and when he did he hit them powerfully, and Mominul and Mushfiqur’s drives were a treat to watch. Interestingly, only Shakib Al Hasan made some slogs during his breathtaking 16-ball 44. In the end however, their batting mastery went in vain. — The Daily Star (Bangladesh) The wickedness of the world is so great you have to run your legs off to avoid having them stolen from under you. —Bertolt Brecht German dramatist
Are we serious about peace? the respective goals of the TTP to reinforce its network and for rulers to complete pending Ali Ashraf Khan the deals in the pipeline? Monday’s terror attack has Email:balti1551@gmail.com raised even more serious questions. One, it shows that secuHE deadly suicide attack in rity in the capital seems volatile; atthe middle of Pakistan’s capi tacks like this are damaging the imtal Islamabad and that too in age of the state in the eyes of the citithe District Courts premises has zens and the international community stunned me as I once belonged to the represented by the diplomatic staff of legal fraternity myself. How come the the embassies in town. The diplomats place from where justice is delivered feel rising insecurity and have reWAS left at the mercy of terrorists ported this feeling home to their refor more than 45 minutes that killed spective countries which is not a good no less than 11 people including a ses- message to the world – especially not if we want them to come back to Pasion judge on Monday? This new incident has raised kistan and invest their money here. questions in the minds of thinking Therefore, the need for improvement citizens that if our law enforcement of security in the capital city should agencies are so helpless in red zone be one lesson taken from the incident. of the capital then how will authority Failure of government to administer of the govt be enforced throughout and ensure safety and security of citithe state. Another thing that intrigues zen who are being attacked in the me is the agreed timeframe for court premises, will rather create fear ceasefire without ensuring a sched- among judicial officials, who are doule for talks to complete before that ing yeomen job of administering juslimit or is this meant to achieve only tice, while their own court chambers
T
are not protected. History tells us that even in Patiala it used to be much better than this. Secondly, this ugly incident raises the question about the viability of the cease fire and the peace talks with the Taliban. Already there are voices that are saying something like ‘we told you so’. But here the government should stick to plan A: peace is a necessary precondition for political and economic survival of Pakistan. From the very beginning of the peace talk plan there have been detractors to this on both sides of the fence and it had to be expected that given any hick-up in the course they would come out saying ‘we told you so…’ We should not listen to those who want revenge instead of negotiations. That is why peace talks have to go ahead and the Prime Minister has done well to summon the government negotiation team for deciding the next steps to hold marathon sessions to complete the talks expeditiously before the arrival of the deadline. There is dire need for rethinking about the concept of gover-
nance, partisan cadre in bureaucracy and dynastic political ideology promotion should stop forthwith, the much talked about charter of democracy should be scrapped because instead of creating political and national harmony it has rather worked to destroy what was left in our socalled democratic system. A free for all has been established with engineered elections in which the caretaker Chief Minister was heard telling the PML (N) leader that 35 punctures have been done in his favour. Law and order and security of the lives and properties of the citizens as well as bringing to justice those who disturb it is a core task of the Pakistan state, actually of any state in the world. That is why the peace talks have to go on. One month is a short time and we should not drag our feet. Many more obstacles are going to come into our way before the tricky road of peace talks with the Taliban can reach some kind of destination. God bless Pakistan. —The writer is Karachi-based senior columnist.
Lull before storm! Mukhtar Ahmed Butt Email:colmabutt39@hotmail.com
P
AKISTAN is faced with nu merous problems internally but more serious externally. The country is passing through most testing time of its history but our rulers continue display lack of priorities without realizing its consequences. At the moment there are two major issues, the terrorism and the energy crisis. Terrorism has taken away our peace of mind and people live in state of fear and terror forcing people to flee from Pakistan. The energy crisis have resulted in shutting down industries, tremendous increase in unemployment, growing poverty, inflation, and un checked price hike in day to day consumables, and industrialists are shifting business to other countries The media stands divided on basic issues and are busy in pushing their own or guided agendas. Freedom of press is being used and exploited suiting to personal agendas without giving any consider-
ation to national interest. Some private TV channels are busy in settling personal scores through programmes specially during prime time as a result people are gradually losing interest in such useless discussions and prefer to switch to foreign channels. Take the case of government and TTP dialogue, basically a most serious issue but the way this issue is debated people are more confused and fail to form some definite opinion or know exactly what is happening on this most sensitive front.A select group of media anchors not only holds prime time TV talk shows to promote their premediated ideas and skewed opinions on prnt and electronic media. Some media anchors pose if they are the jack of all trades and authority whereas in actual fact may not be aware about the geography of the FATA. A foreigner posed very embarrassing question when he commented that your nation is at war, people are being killed day and night, target killing goes on un abetted, soldiers being slaughtered, Indians killing Pakistani soldiers at L o C, Indian army shooting unarmed
freedom fighters in Indian held Kashmir but your media is busy in airing glamorous programmes during morning shows and showing ads publicize products and celebrities from India with extra elements of nudity and eroticism, showing Indian films un censored. Does this not bring shame to viewers? While this is happening an email from TTP received agreeing to ceasefire for 30 days with hope that government will also reciprocate in the same manner. This ceasefire is also backed up by various TTP groups including Mohammand TTP faction who slaughtered our 23 innocent soldiers and uploaded their video on web site. There are two schools of thoughts about this ceasefire. Firstly it is according to TTP bigger plan as after army’s action they certainly needed respite and chalk out future strategy to re group themselves for future operation. Secondly TTP knows army shall never under take full fledged operation in North Waziristan and shall restrict its action to surgical strikes on chosen targets. There is no doubt lot of effort has been put in by both the commit-
tees along with back door channel diplomacy that has resulted in change of attitude of TTP. It is time instead of prolonging the talks; the government should announce general amnesty to all TTP factions, to lay down their arms. Announce compensation, reconstruct damaged properties and let the affairs be run by the tribesman as was the case in the past. We must avoid action replay in North Wazirstan as we can not afford to place another three divisions over there due to permanent threat from the east.what happened in Swat, though army re captured areas but can not move out as it is beyond civil authorities to administer the area. Till such time peace prevails government should put complete ban on discussions, talk shows related to on going talks between government and TTP directly or through committees. Let us realize our responsibilities instead of running after ratings and both government and media should keep an eye on the lull before storm —The writer is Karachi-based political analyst.
Views From Abroad
Fanatics in Indian political system Sadanand Dhume
T
HE frontrunner to be India’s next prime minister after elec tions in May is Narendra Modi of the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party, so it’s time to consider what his leadership means for his party. Can the BJP fill a vacuum in Indian politics by becoming a modern rightof-centre party that stands for both sensible pro-market policies and openness to Indians of all faiths? A lot rides on the answer. For India to regain its economic lustre, it must reassure skittish investors that it isn’t doomed to be governed only by fiscally reckless populists. As for the BJP, after ruling India for only six of 67 years since independence, the party needs to evolve as a credible alternative to the leftof-centre Congress Party—one that can represent all Indians, not just Hindu nationalists. This requires reassuring voters that the party can rein in a hateful fringe that stands for book banning, minority-bashing and conspiracy theories. So far the prognosis is mixed. By rolling out a red carpet for business in Gujarat, where he is chief minister, Mr. Modi augurs a BJP that has outgrown a traditionalist wing long
mistrustful of capitalism. He has put into action the modernization of economic thought needed by a party that has long included powerful forces more comfortable with import substitution and small-scale industry. But Mr. Modi has yet to quiet fears that his ascent suggests a party becoming less tolerant. For his detractors, Mr. Modi is indelibly associated with the 2002 anti-Muslim riots in Gujarat. More than 1,000 people died in the violence, threefourths of them Muslim. In December, a court upheld a Supreme Courtordered investigation that cleared Mr. Modi of legal culpability for the riots. But for much of India’s 150 million-strong Muslim population, Mr. Modi’s name remains mud. The candidate has tried to cultivate a reputation as an icon of administrative efficiency and personal probity. He has cracked down on Hindu extremists in Gujarat guilty of breaking the law. In a landmark speech in the northern city of Patna in October, he declared that poor Hindus and Muslims should unite to fight their common enemy—poverty. His campaign eschews the Muslim-baiting that accompanied the BJP’s rise to prominence in the 1990s. But while Mr. Modi may have tacked toward the moderate centre on inter-religious matters, you can’t say the same for his
party. The BJP remains an outfit where minority baiting is more likely to earn commendation than reprimand. Party MP Varun Gandhi, caught on tape using unprintable epithets to describe Muslims in 2009, has since been promoted to general secretary. Last year the party admitted Subramanian Swamy, a former minister who wants to disenfranchise Muslims who deny Hindu ancestry, and who demands that Muslims publicly apologize for the alleged crimes of their forebears. Every party in the world has its share of cranks, but respectable parties don’t generally make them leaders or allow them to spout off regularly on national television. If you ask party moderates about these egregious choices, they either justify them based on short-term tactical calculations or point to other parties that pander to Muslim extremists. Outsiders tend to ascribe the problem to the Hindu nationalist volunteer group Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, which provides the BJP with much of its leadership and many of its most committed cadres. (Mr. Modi began his career as an RSS volunteer.) Whatever the reason, this comfort with Hindu society’s lunatic fringe has hurt BJP disproportionately. It nudges talented Indians with no particular socialist bent—but also no particular hatred of Islam or Christianity—to-
ward the Congress Party or the brand new Aam Aadmi (Common Man) Party. The result: a continued leftist tilt among India’s educated elites. How might Mr. Modi prove the sceptics wrong? He can start by reaching out to talented Muslims, Christians and Parsis who share his economic ideas. (In 2009, the BJP selected only three Muslim candidates to run for Parliament; Congress picked 29.) Mr. Modi can refuse to share platforms with hotheads and lean more on moderates such as the urbane leader of the opposition in the upper house of Parliament, Arun Jaitley, and Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar. As Mr. Modi ramps up his campaign, it may be unrealistic to expect him to address this problem directly just yet. But sooner or later he will have to confront the extremists within his fold. By embracing modern economic ideas and tempering his own rhetoric toward Muslims, he has begun the slow process of transforming the BJP into a modern conservative party. But as long as it remains tolerant of intolerance in its midst, it will never become a mainstream alternative to Congress. The writer is a resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. — Courtesy: The Wall Street Journal
Older women..!
I
REMEMBER the long discus sion on younger men getting married to older women a few years ago, “Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai are getting married!” shouted the wife reading the morning papers that day, “How sweet they look together! Cho chweet!” “She’s thirty three, he’s thirty one!” I say gruffly. “Don’t they look happy?” “She’s thirty three!” I say again, “And he’s thirty one!” “Yes, I know!”
There was a bit of flutter in my house a few weeks later when an aunt and uncle who were visiting announced with looks of disapproval that their close friend Meenakshi was getting married again. “Who’s Meenakshi?” I asked. “The one who waves her hands when she talks and acts like an eighteen year old!” said the wife looking at my aunt and uncle who nodded affirmatively. “Is she divorcing her first husband?” I asked. “He’s dead!” “Her second husband?” “He’s also dead!” “So this is her third?” “You can count can’t you Bob!” said the wife to me as she looked at my aunt and uncle who looked back at her sympathetically. “Yeah!” I said, “glad you noticed! So what’s wrong
in a third if the other two are dead?” “She’s seventy eight!” “Wow!” I said. “And he’s only forty!” “Just touching forty!” said both aunt and uncle together. “Wow!” I said again. The aunt and uncle looked at the wife who shook her head and they nodded again sympathetically. “Hey what’s going on?” I asked. “You seem to approve of an older woman marrying a younger man?” asked the aunt. “Good for her!” I said. “And you would do the same thing?” asked the wife. “Never!” I said vehemently. “Oh Bob thank you!” “Not as long as you’re around!” I completed. “Boo hoo!” wept the wife as the aunt and uncle nodded at each other knowingly. And then that morning
she shouted as she read the morning papers “Abhishek and Aishwarya are getting married! How sweet they look together!” “She’s thirty three, he’s thirty one!” I say. “Don’t they look happy?” “She’s thirty three!” I say again, “And he’s thirty one!” “Yes, I know!” “So how come things have changed from the time aunt and uncle visited us?” I ask angrily. “Oh Bob!” I’m sorry!” “Its okay!” I say sweetly, “I guess you realized as long as I’m happy, it’s fine with you huh?” “Nah!” she said, “imagine getting someone like Abhishek after you’re gone..!” “Boo-hoo..!” I cried. —Email:bobsbanter@gmail.com
Voice of the People Incredible Pakistani team MUHAMMAD RIZWAN AFTAB
N
ow once again Pakistani team has shown that they have a lot of potential and have all abilities and gauds to become a leading and number one team of world. Pakistani team on Tuesday completed their highest ever One Day International run chase to overcome Bangladesh’s 326 run target with three wickets in hand at Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, and held back their place in the Asia Cup final as a strong contender. Now after this heartbreak victory, Pakistan will meet Sri Lanka in Saturday’s final. The mixed up nature of Pakistan cricket was on full display in their last group match of the Asia Cup as Bangladesh posted their record score against the defending champions in Mirpur, after a historical victory against India. Afridi cover with a superior influence including Ahmed Shehzad and a calm inning by Fawad Alam, but by the attack of Afridi Pakistan overcame a tough resistance from the Bangladesh team. Pakistan has completed its journey to make his place in the final of Asia Cup-2014 against Sri Lanka, after a thrilling, shaping heart and a breath taking and dramatic victory. Conquest above Bangladesh, by three wickets, in a nerve taking and high-scoring thriller amid jammed packed stadium in Mirpur is one of the biggest achievements. In this tournament, Pakistani team has again shown its effort in all three fields with ups and downs; now we wish our team to maintain its victory and sweep the Sri Lankans in the final also. —Karachi
Allah hates injustice HASHIM ABRO It is a known fact that the Sindh Province produces more than 80 percent of oil and gas but despite this fact, extreme poverty has deepened and unemployment has alarmingly increased in the Province. I vividly remember my elders and teachers used to tell us that Arabs from different Middle East countries, when at that time wealth of oil and gas was not still discovered in the Arab countries, used to come to this resourcesrich Province both for quenching their thirst for knowledge, because Sindh was a hub of schools, colleges and varsities and also in quest for their economic needs. The Sindhi folks who are historically known as the true Lovers of Allah and His beloved Prophet (S.A.W), used to respect and revere them and also gave them in abundance, both, knowledge and means to strengthen their economy. But unfortunately, nowadays the situation is otherwise. The wealth of oil and gas like resources have changed the fate and fortune of Arabs but the exploration and exploitation of these resources have not benefited the people of Sindh Province at all. Sindh is blessed with several oil and gas reservoirs but doors of employment, economic development, among others, are shut to the local people. A plethora of fake domicile holders from other Provinces are appointed against top management, technical and other positions at various fields with salary and other perks and privileges in lacs of rupees per month but local highly talented people including position holder professional degree holders such as Bachelor of Engineering ( B.E) in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum and Gas Engineering, Mechanical Engineering etc. are not hired even for internship or short term consultation - internees are also hired from other Provinces. Indeed, Allah is Just and hates injustice. Is there anyone to remind the management of OGDCL and other national and multinational oil and gas companies based in the Federal Capital, Islamabad, operating in Sindh Province to stop this deepseated discrimination and gross injustice against the local talent and earn the pleasure of Allah by doing justice with them - by offering due employment opportunities and developing infrastructure and focusing on community development in and around the fields in the Province? —Islamabad
Choked sewerage in Karachi ROMMAN ELIAS While coming from Ned or KU when we take a left turn on service road to enter in Gulistan-e-Jauhar we see large amount of water on the road which takes vehicles and public into a problem. It is a turn which is used by the chingchi’s to drop the students at the 2 biggest universities of Karachi whereas it is also used by public to cross. It is also the chingchi stop. This problem needs to be addressed on priority basis to bring a little comfort and convenience for the students as well as for the public. —Karachi
Pakistan vs Afghanistan JAVAID BASHIR Pakistan’s victory over a minnow like Afghanistan cricket team was not that easy or walk in the park. It seems that Afghan team has become a force to reckon with. It can create trouble for any world-class teams. The bowling and fielding was superb and they restricted Pak team to 258 Runs. Umar Akmal saved the day for our team. He scored 102 not-out carrying the bat till the end. He finished the game for the team. Ahmad Shazad with his half century gave a good stand. Sharjeel contributed 25
Runs. Then middle order crumbled as usual. When the Captain came to the crease, the team was in deep trouble, but he failed to steady the ship. The job was left for Umar Akmal, and he delivered ironing the wrinkles. We must learn from each defeat and victory of the team. Umar did the Job as the finisher reaching his century with a towering Six. He should concentrate on the next match with India. Our bowlers Saeed Ajmal, Shahid Afridi and Hafeez broke the camel’s back. We have learnt a lesson from the match that a minnow can make the life difficult for any team. Afghan team showed courage, resilience, and determination to fight. Pakistan on the other hand not only won the match, but extra bonus point too. —Via email
Parliament Lodges COL RIAZ JAFRI (RETD) According to a news report after the Chairman CDA removed the old Director Parliament Lodges - probably on account of MNA Dasti’s allegation - the newly appointed Director Parliament Lodges politely declined to assume the charge. That reminds me of an incident of about two decades ago – or may be even more. I was going to Rawalpindi from Islamabad in my car and spotted a gentleman standing near the Kashmir Highway Toll Plaza as if waiting for some transport. I offer him a lift, which he thankfully accepted. During our conversation I was amazed to know that he was the caretaker of the Parliament Lodges but didn’t own a car! Impressed by his honesty I asked him as to how did he find his job. The God fearing man touched his both ear lobes and said, “Sir, kuch na poochein keh wahan kia kia kuch nahi hota”! (Sir, do not ask as to what all doesn’t happen there!) And, not only that some of the Parliamentarians even decamp with the crested blankets and towels, room refrigerators and air conditioners on vacating the rooms and that too without paying the accumulated rent of quite a few months and utility bills. —Rawalpindi
Let’s learn from Brazlian model SHUMAILA RAJA Pakistan has a lot to learn from Brazil, its political history, the integrity of its leadership, democratic stability, rising economy, booming tourism and cultural cohesiveness, though the country still has miles to go towards overcoming ethnic, racist and heterogeneous cultural differences. Brazil is the largest country of South America. Like North America, a British colony, Brazil had also been a colony of the two European countries, Spain and then Portugal. These Portuguese settled there and founded several cities and many sugarcane plantations. In 19th and 20th centuries a large number of Italians, Germans, Spaniards, Japanese and Portuguese migrated to Brazil and settled there. They all developed it to become an emerging international power. It became a world tourist spot. Politically it is of more economic interests alongside the Amazon where national riches such as gold mines are the biggest attraction. So Brazil is more European than any other American country, most populous and more prosperous in Latin America. After 20 years of democracy, Brazil has grown stronger despite social, ethnic and racist problems. Its culture is rich and diverse. Its economy is booming. It has the biggest soccer industry, produced eminent football players, musical bands and instruments. Last 20 years of democracy has doubled Brazil’s international stature. Robberies, theft, kidnappings, strife on ethnic and racist basis, and many other ills had plagued Brazil, like today Pakistan is facing including terrorism. But the Brazilian leaders have not only overcome such menaces, but they have also succeeded in changing its outlook and altering its impression in the eyes of the world. Because of
this, Brazil attracts a huge number of tourists every year. Its Santa Catarina state and Salvador have the highest numbers of tourists and equally highest number of tourist spots, restaurants and hotels. Western roots of Brazilian culture are largely European, especially Iberian, who have adopted a more American urban way of life. Brazilian society and its educational system are inspired by the French. Dry and pleasant weather is also big reason of tourists’ visits. They prefer to visit Brasilia, Florianopolis, Fortaleza, Manaus, Porto Alegre, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Sao Paulo, where tourists destinations like Amazonia, Chapada Diamantina National Park, Chapada dos Veadeiros, Fernando de Noronha, Ilha Grande, Iguacu Falls, Ilha do Marajo, Lencoise Maranhenses and Pantanal wetlands attract the tourists most. Since Premier Nawaz Sharif is determined to make Pakistan a regional giant, he must learn lessons, and pick positives from Latin Americans. Once he emerges successful in annihilating terrorism, for which the nation must stand shoulder to shoulder with him, he must then focus on, among other things, Pakistan’s tourism industry, which could have been exploited much earlier. Pakistan after all has the richest ever tourist spots in the world. —Rawalpindi
Anti-HIV/AIDS agents TASSAWAR ALI RANA In Pakistan estimated 100,000 people are suffering from HIV/Aids, and new cases of HIV/Aids also increasing. In Pakistan where society is mostly governed by conservative norms, the people are creating hurdles in changing minds. In this scenario our society has only few Anti-HIV/ Aids agent ORWs (outreach worker) - the real change agents. The ORWs are providing services to affected clients, they regularly travel to different spots for providing harm reduction services. The HIV/Aids clients in Pakistan are mostly the IDUs (injected drug users) and they belong to both urban and rural areas of country and many clients also live in very remote and tough areas. The ORWs way of working is very polite and caring with the affected people and they try to transform change in client’s behaviour and attitude. The working on HIV/Aids prevention and harm reduction practice is biggest challenge in Pakistani culture, and the ORWs are facing this challenge with strong commitments. There are many harmful practices, which form the cause of HIV/Aids in Pakistan; syringe sharing and unsafe safe sex practices are the main cause of HIV/Aids’ spreading in Pakistan. The work of anti HIV Aids Agents is to reduce these practices and improve their lives with good services they are providing. Few organizations are working on HIV/Aids, and Rutgers WPF is one of the popular organization working on harm reduction practice and HIV/Aids prevention. The core component of Rutgers WPF HARP project is to provide service to HIV/ Aids reactive clients and create awareness among IDUs (injected drug users) who are at highest risk. The organization is working in conservative communities of three different distracts of Pakistan Jehlum, Gujrat and Kasur. Working in the conservative communities is a challenging job for the organization. The Rutgers WPF ORWs and other team members are the real heroes for providing different services to HIV/Aids reactive clients. —Islamabad
DISCLAIMER THE articles, columns and letters are published on these pages in good faith. However, the contents of these writings may not necessarily match the views of the newspaper.
—Editor Email:editorial@pakobserver.net
A Ukrainian serviceman (R) stands next to armed men, believed to be Russian troops, inside a Ukrainian military base in the Crimean town of Yevpatoria.
US-Russia talks on Ukraine as EU backs massive aid KIEV—US and Russian top diplomats headed for crucial talks on Ukraine Wednesday as the EU unveiled an aid package worth at least 11 billion euros to support the country’s new pro-Western leaders. The talks in Paris to defuse the worst East-West stand-off since the Cold War came as pro-Moscow forces seized part of two missile bases in Ukraine’s Crimea peninsula, although all missiles remained in Ukrainian hands. US Secretary of State John Kerry and Russia’s Sergei Lavrov were meeting for the first time since Ukraine’s Moscow-backed president Viktor Yanukovych was ousted late last month after three months of protests which left nearly 100 dead. US President Barack Obama said Tuesday Russia was “not fooling anyone” after it claimed it had no troops operating in Crimea, where pro-Russian forces have taken control. Lavrov reiterated its claim on Wednesday, saying: “If they are the self-defence forces created by the inhabitants of Crimea, we have no authority over them. They do not receive our orders.” But while step-
ping up diplomatic pressure Washington — with the support of European heavyweights France, Germany and Britain — is also seeking to offer President Vladimir Putin a way out of the crisis in the ex-Soviet state. But Obama also spoke to German Chancellor Angela Merkel Tuesday and agreed on the importance of a “de-escalation” with the deployment of international observers and the start of talks between Moscow and Kiev, a US official said. “De-escalation” on the Russian side would include its troops going back inside their bases in Crimea, home to Russia’s Black Sea naval fleet since the 18th century, the official added. Russian doubts on the legitimacy of Kiev’s interim government would be resolved by elections planned for May. A diplomatic source told AFP Wednesday that 15 member states of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), including the United States, have agreed to send mili-
tary observers to Ukraine. The EU’s biggest powers, France and Germany, want “very firm” steps against Putin while moving towards talks, French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said. Merkel called on Russia not to do anything to destabilise the situation, after Putin insisted on Russia’s right to use “all available means” there. EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton indefinitely postponed a Kiev trip but was to meet Western and Ukrainian leaders in Brussels and Paris ahead of an emergency Brussels summit. Announcing the crucial aid package for Ukraine, European Commission president Jose Manuel Barroso said it was “designed to assist a committed, inclusive and reforms-oriented Ukrainian government.” He will discuss details in Brussels Thursday with interim Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk, who will be attending the EU summit called to resolve a crisis first sparked by Yanukovych’s scrapping of a key partnership deal with the bloc.—AFP
Fighting breaks out in South China vows tough reforms, stronger defense Sudan army barracks J UBA —Five soldiers died when heavy fighting broke out in the main military barracks in war-torn South Sudan’s capital Juba on Wednesday, underscoring serious tensions within the national army as it battles a rebel uprising. Fierce gunfire lasting two hours was heard coming from the main barracks near Juba University, home to the presidential guards and other elite troops, from 9:30 am (0630 GMT). The government played down the violence as resulting from a “misunderstanding” over pay. Army spokesman Malak Ayuen told AFP five soldiers had been killed and that those found responsible would face a court martial. “It’s unfortunate that this morning fighting ensued among the commandos themselves over salary,” he said. “What happened was a misunderstanding among the commandos and it ended in their unit.” According to independent Tamazuj radio, the fighting started after soldiers argued with a military pay committee. Other local media carried unconfirmed reports that the fighting broke out between guards loyal to President Salva Kiir and a commando unit under top general Gatwech Gai. The US embassy in Juba issued a statement advising people to stay indoors as hundreds of terrified residents flooded the main church in
BEIJING—China’s government responded to public demands for bold leadership with vows Wednesday to press long-sought market reforms, defend against terrorism after a horrific slashing attack, and heavily boost military spending amid rising tensions with Japan. The promises delivered by Premier Li Keqiang in his first annual policy speech also included cutting official waste, combatting persistent smog and pushing ahead with President Xi Jinping’s signature campaign to fight the rampant graft that has undermined public faith in the ruling Communist Party. China announced a 12.2 percent increase in military spending to $132 billion. That followed last year’s 10.7 percent increase to $114 billion, giving China the second-highest defense budget for any nation behind the United States,
which spent $600.4 billion on its military last year. Increases in China’s military budget have regularly exceeded both total increases in government spending and the nation’s rate of economic growth. That has allowed lavish spending on new hardware and better conditions for soldiers, raising concerns about how China intends to use its new-found power amid a rise in tensions with Japan over uninhabited islands in the East China Sea. Li emphasized that China’s many ethnic groups were all “equal members of the Chinese nation,” an indirect response to frequent complaints by minority Uighurs and Tibetans that they are discriminated against for jobs, passports and bank loans and unfairly subject to intense surveillance.—AP
Juba, fearing a major outbreak of violence. “When the fighting started we immediately ran to the church for protection,” said Annet Sitima, a local woman. The conflict in South Sudan started in the capital Juba under similar circumstances nearly three months ago amid tensions within the ruling party between President Kiir and former vice president Riek Machar. The December 15 clashes, which spilt the army along ethnic lines, quickly spread across the country. Since the initial week of fighting in Juba, the capital has been largely calm and key installations have been guarded by Ugandan troops, who intervened in the conflict in support of President Kiir. Fighting between the national army and the rebels — made up of defectors and ethnic militia — has been centred around the towns of Bor, Malakal and Bentiu further north. The unrest in South Sudan, the world’s newest nation which won independence from Khartoum in 2011, has left thousands dead and has displaced close to 900,000 people, including tens of thousands who have crammed into UN bases in fear of ethnic attacks. The government and rebels signed a ceasefire on January 23, but the truce has seen frequent violations — including a rebel assault Internally displaced South Sudanese people wait for a water delivery from a United Nations mission in Malakal. on Malakal.—AFP
Iran’s Guard states it has multiple warhead missiles
1914 and raising a storm in a teacup
T EHRAN —Iran’s powerful
TIM COLLARD
Revolutionary Guard on Wednesday said it had acquired missiles with multiple warheads, the latest armaments advance to be claimed by the Islamic Republic. At a ceremony Wednesday, Defense Minister Hossein Dehghan presented a delivery of four types of ballistic missiles — named Qiam, Qadr H1, Fateh-110 and Persian Gulf. The Qadr H1 and Qiam, he said, are equipped with multiple warheads, greatly boosting their destructive power. “These missiles are able to hit and destroy enemy targets with precision, and they meet a variety of the armed forces’ needs,” Dehghan said. “The weapons have strengthened Iran’s deterrence power and military might,” he added, in comments were posted on the Guard’s website. Iran regularly announces breakthroughs in military technology that are impossible to independently verify. But the Pentagon released a rare public report in 2012 noting significant advances in Iranian missile technology, acknowledging that Tehran has improved their accuracy and firing capabilities. Dehghan said Western sanctions have not stopped Iran from boosting its ability to deter its enemies, a reference to Israel and the U.S. “Comprehensive sanctions enforced strictly by enemies ... didn’t cause the slightest crack in our determination and will,” he said. Many of Iran’s missiles use solid fuel, or a combination of both solid and liquid fuel, improving the accuracy of the weapons. Qiam, Fars said, was specifically built to target U.S. bases in the region, which he said have encircled Iran. With a range of 800 kilometers, the 6-ton missile has been described in Iranian media as ushering in a new era of ballistic missile production for the country. The liquid-fuel Qiam is 16 meters long and its warhead has a weight of 746 kilograms, Fars added.—AP
North Korea holds election, Kim Jong Un runs in legendary district S EOUL —North Korea, accused of human rights violations, elects its largely symbolic parliament this weekend, with leader Kim Jong Un, the third in his family dynasty to rule the totalitarian state, running unopposed in a legendary mountain district. State news agency KCNA said on Thursday that election preparations were “gaining momentum”, with voters confirming their names on electoral lists for the ballot held every five years. “Agitation activities are going on to encourage citizens to take active part in the election with high political enthusiasm and labor feats, amid the playing of ‘Song of the election,’” KCNA reported. North Koreans, it said, sought to “demonstrate once again the might of singleminded unity by casting ballots for their candidates”. North Korea stands accused by a U.N. report issued this month of torture and killings comparable to Nazi-era atrocities. The North’s Supreme People’s Assembly is empowered by law to approve the budget and make senior appointments, including to the powerful National Defence Commission. Kim Jong Il, who died of a heart attack in 2011, held a seat in the outgoing assembly and was expected to remain as a member.—Reuters
From Cuba to Ukraine ABDULATEEF AL-MULHIM
I
t was during the Operation Desert Storm and the subsequent liberation of Kuwait from the Iraqi invaders in 1991 that the world for the first time saw the devastating result of massive armed conflicts in the recent history. People around the world realized that differences could never be resolved through invasions and that armed conflicts cannot help end hostilities. After tackling the Iraqi invaders, the world appeared to be heading to a new era of lasting peace and harmony. The world was marching toward a new period of stability and bracing for a new world order. The 90s saw the dismantling of the Berlin Wall, collapse of the Soviet Union, rise of China, massive expansion of communication technology and the Internet. It was during those days when the issue of global warming started gathering pace. Within a short span, the world turned into a global village where
everybody got closer to each other and people got to know others better. The most important change that occurred as a result of various political events across the globe was the emergence of the United States as the sole superpower of the world. Perhaps, this was the first time in the history of mankind that the world became unipolar. With the dissolution of the USSR, many countries and regions forged new alliances with the NATO and the then nascent European Union. It was a time when the US and Russia came closer, and the past hostilities ended and the world saw the dismantling of many nuclear weapons. During the 90s, Russia stood aside when the Americans were attacking the historical Russian ally, the Serbs. But, did the old guard in Moscow forget the humiliation? The answer is: No. They didn’t. So, the question is why the Russians are showing defiance to the Americans now in face of the Ukrainian crisis? Is it because the Russians see weakness in the American positions? The Americans are very hesitant on many crucial issues such as the Syrian upris-
ing? Currently the world is facing many conflicts but the Ukrainian crisis is unique in nature. People across the globe are holding their breath, as the situation is a grim reminder of the Cuban missile crisis of the 60s. The Ukrainian issue has resurrected ghosts of the Cold War with the West led by the United States set to lock horns with Russia. The situation is volatile with Russian forces on a high alert and their Ukrainian counterparts readying themselves for a possible onslaught. The West is also carefully monitoring the situation and is reportedly prepared to deal with any situation. It would not be an exaggeration to say that if the situation gets ugly, the entire world will be in disarray. Ukraine is a country covering an area the size of the American state of Texas with a population of about 50 million people. Ukraine is a country, which can be one of the breadbaskets of our planet. It is the world’s third country in grain export. This highly industrialized country has witnessed a number of political and eco-
nomic upheavals since its independence from the USSR in 1991. Ukraine is the lifeline between Russia and Europe with natural gas pipelines running through it. But whatever the reason for the current conflict, people on this plant now deserve peace and harmony, not wars and atrocities. The world saw the immediate consequences of the Ukrainian crisis even before outbreak of real hostilities and confrontation. The world stock markets plunged, oil and gold prices started to fluctuate and this will have other effects on the life of many people. The United States and Russia must resort to peaceful means to end the conflict in Ukraine and the Ukrainian people must be given the power to decide their fate without any foreign intervention or pressure. Ukraine is country that can contribute to the world, so, give the country a break to recover from the internal unrest. We must learn from history and realize that fighting has never resolved any issue. —Courtesy Arab News
H
istorians and journalists, especially in the English-speak ing world, are fond of swooping on a coincidence of dates and making speculative connections, providing intellectual depth to good stories and clever comments. It is not surprising, therefore, that comparisons are being drawn between the current international situation and that in 1914, on the eve of World War I. The comparison acquires a new significance, however, when Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe starts applying it in earnest, attributing to China the position occupied by imperial Germany a century ago. One should know better than to compare the ways of Europe and East Asia, for there are too many historical, geographical and cultural differences. So how much attention should we pay to Abe’s remarks? The comparison works like this: following its unification, Germany had become a fast-growing economic power, rather like China today, but one which was yet to carve out a clearly recognized role in its region. In the 19th century, the dominant powers of Europe were Britain, France and Russia, and Germany was keen to claim equal status. Germany, like China in recent years, felt that it was getting too little respect from other countries; it wanted equality of esteem, its own “place in the sun”. Thus some parallels can be made: the role to be played by China in the region and the world, commensurate with its size and power, has not yet become clear, leading to apprehensions of how China’s potential might be exercised. And there does exist in China a widespread sense of grievance, the feeling of not being treated as an equal by the United States, and of course the historical animus against imperial Japan. In imperial Germany, this grievance took the form of a powerful arms build-up, particularly on the seas. Germany desired to catch up with Britain, the greatest naval power of the age. China’s deployment of the aircraft carrier Liaoning may appear similarly motivated, but it is not clearly aimed at any other specific major power - more at bringing its military capability up to a level commensurate with China’s aspirations for strictly regional power projection. And this is where the differences between 1914 and 2014 become apparent. Of course, other countries will worry about the rapid strengthening of the armed forces of a neighbor, particularly given the number of minor regional disputes. And that certainly applies to many of China’s neighbors, particularly in the South China Sea region. But the early 20th-century German buildup had very clearly defined targets. The expansion of the navy was intended to match and thereby neutralize British sea power, whereas the strengthening and reorganization of the German army was aimed specifically at following up the 1870 victory over France. Besides, German diplomacy tried to ensure (unsuccessfully as it turned out) that Russia would remain neutral, leaving Germany free to concentrate on the campaign against France without any threat in the rear. The use of this comparison is twofold for Japan. The first is to warn the Western powers, the successors of Kaiser Wilhelm’s opponents, of the so-called dangers China’s position and policies pose to peace. And the second is to underpin Japan’s own current strategy. Japan has already made some unusual moves in regional diplomacy. The Abe government is attempting to strengthen relations with India and even Russia. Perhaps this can be interpreted as a signal that Japan seeks to follow the strategy of the Anglo-French entente in the years before 1914, and ensure that, if China becomes aggressive, it will need to watch out on more than one front. But the circumstances which led Europe into war in 1914 simply do not exist in East Asia in 2014. Despite the eternal quarrels and mistrust between China and Japan, one cannot conceive of China’s military buildup as a detailed plan for invasion and conquest. Also, China has shown no sign of resolving the Korean Peninsula issue by force. Insofar as China can be seen to have any proactive military intentions, they would seem to be limited to creating an unchallengeable fait accompli around the various disputed islands in the region. Another vital difference is that East Asia lacks the network of alliances which drew one European country after another into war in 1914. There are no security alliances in the Asia-Pacific region except bilateral treaties involving the US, and the US is certainly not going to get dragged into hostilities without an extremely compelling reason. So East Asia can breathe easily; there will be no re-run of either world wars in 2014. —Courtesy China Daily
Water, water, everywhere: To green our deserts HAZEL HENDERSON
P
roviding water for our still growing human population is reaching crisis levels. Water is vital for agriculture, energy production and industrial processes worldwide. Floods and droughts in Asia, Latin America, Europe and the United States accompanied unprecedented typhoons and winter storms. While none could be linked directly to climate change, the debate surfaced. Mainstream media started covering these issues more broadly. The Earth’s surface is largely covered with water. So, why has the world’s attention focused on the three percent of fresh water on our planet, on water management, pollution, waste and recycling? Yet 97 percent of the water on Earth is saline: oceans, salty lakes and brackish wetlands ignored in most policy, finance, business and public debates! At last, unnoticed research on the 10,000 salt-loving halophyte plants which grow in deserts and thrive on seawater is coming to light. I have long reported on saline agriculture, noting that halophyte plants can provide humans with food, fibre, edible oils and biofuels. Indeed, the only biofuels that meet ethical criteria are those based on algae grown on seawater. Today, as water-related risks reach crisis levels, they are changing traditional risk analysts’ focus on financial risk. In the World Economic Forum’s Global Risk in 2014, water rose to third place behind fiscal crises in key economies and structurally high unemployment/underemployment. The United Nations General Assembly Open Working Group on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) cited water and drought issues high on its agenda while many countries’ delegates voted to make oceans a standalone focus of the SDGs. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) provides a welcome global focus on the needed transition to renewable energy, many forms of which will conserve water and provide better methods of desalination and treatment. Fossil-fueled and nuclear power plants are prodigious gulpers of water, another reason for the shift to renewables. Additional risk factors focus on the rising ocean levels and acidification as CO2 emissions are absorbed by oceans which are heating faster than previous models predicted. This led to renewed interest in ocean thermal differentials as a source of electricity along with ocean currents and wave energy technologies. Embracing this broader view, the 14th Delhi Sustainable Development Summit connected the dots in February 2014 as Attaining Energy, Water and Food Security for All. The International Conference on Sustainability in the Water-Energy-Food Nexus, May 19-20, 2014 in Bonn, Germany, takes the same systems approach. The Earth Systems Science programme at NASA is the most comprehensive approach to understanding how our planet processes the daily free photons from the Sun, through the atmosphere and ocean currents, which combined with geothermal energy from its core, create the conditions for life on Earth. None of these hazardous forms of energy are needed! Humanity can now stop digging up the Earth and look up harvesting the free photons from our Sun as green plants do, providing our food. Let’s now green our desert areas, growing saltloving crops using abundant land, salt waters and sunlight. Lets accelerate the global transition, to the more equitable, knowledge-rich, cleaner, greener economies now within our grasp! —Courtesy Inter Press Service
Law enforcers arrest key man port police station,” the investigation officer confirmed, adding that “When we complete over investigation, Rangers took him back in its custody.” “A JIT has been formed to interrogate Muhammad Javed,” Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Investigation East Munir Sheikh said. “The said person is currently in custody of Pakistan Rangers for 90 days for investigation,” Sheikh said, adding that “Once JIT completes its report then I will be in better position to respond to you.” “The arrested person was serving as a security guard of the varsity since 2006,” KU Advisor to Vice Chancellor (VC) on Security Affairs Prof Dr Khalid Iraqi confirmed. “We have not yet been informed by any law enforcement agency that he has been arrested,”
Judge Rafaqat Awan From Page 1 ture. Regional Director of the Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOUS) Mian Mohammad Aslam was hit by one bullet in his head. His clerk Kamran Ali received four bullet wounds. PIMS spokesperson Dr Ayesha along with the Administrator Dr Altaf addressing a news briefing told media Wednesday that the body parts of the assailants were brought in plastic bags. “We are dispatching them to the laboratory for DNA test tomorrow (Thursday). Seeing the gravity of the situation, two radiologists will jointly prepare their final report,” she said.
US plans From Page 1 the region,” the State Department said in its annual budget proposals to the Congress. “Developing an enduring and collaborative relationship with an increasingly stable and prosperous Pakistan that plays a constructive role in the region will therefore continue to be a priority for the United States,” the State Department said proposing USD 100 million to Pakistan under the Economic Support Fund (ESF) for the fiscal year 2015.—Online
Samiul Haq to deliver Imame-Kaba’s From Back Page to convince Taliban to take peace path in Pakistan. Maulana Samiul Haq told a private TV channel that Imam-e-Kaba urged Taliban to resolve all issues through dialogues and quit armed struggle. He said shedding the blood of Muslims in an Islamic state is wrong and unislamic. In his meeting with Taliban shura, sources said, Maulana Samiul Haq is likely to convey this message to the militants. The government can also invite Imam-eKaba to Pakistan, if required.—INP
From Page 1 Iraqi claimed. “However, we have come to know from reliable sources that he was arrested by the law enforcers in ongoing targeted operation in the metropolis for killing number of people,” Iraqi maintained. “We are waiting that anyone from law enforcement agencies or from his family contact us and informed us about his whereabouts,” he added. “We have submitted a report to Deputy Registrar General (DRG) that the said security guard is not attending the office since November 16, 2013,” the security advisor said, adding “The DRG office has closed his salary account and send a show cause notice at his residence for disappear-
Peace talks enter decisive mode From Page 1 Irfan Siddiqui while his team comprised of Rahimullah Yousafzai, Rustam Shah Mohmand and Major (retd) Amir with the Taliban-nominated team comprising Maulana Samiul Haq, Maulana Yousuf Shah and Professor Ibrahim. The contact between Government and the Taliban committees was established after a pause of more than three weeks as the peace talks were deadlocked following the incidents of terrorism specially the announcement by the Mohmand chapter of Taliban to massacre 23 FC personals causing serious blow to the embryonic negotiation process between the government and the Taliban militants,. This was forced the government to come into action as the PAF war birds then pounded the militant’s positions for continuous five days in North Waziristan, agency Tiraah valley in Khyber agency and Hangu mowing down more than eighty trouble makers. Infact, a stage had come when to the joy of those opposing the peace talks, the chance of negotiation had almost vanished as they had lost
significance following the display of aggressive behavior from both the sides. Following meeting on Wednesday, Irfan Siddiqui told reporters that dialogue process now entered new phase. “We have moved to new phase wherein we have to take some important decisions”. He said adding Taliban committee has also requested for a meeting with the prime minister. He said the government committee will facilitate in arranging the meeting depending upon engagements of the prime minister. About future of the peace committees with particular reference to Major Amir’s suggestion of dissolving the present committees, Siddiqui said that the fact they were here to hold today’s meeting means that committees are functional. Any decision to make any change in the committee or to dissolve the committee will be taken by the government. Irfan Siddiqui, however, said he had told Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif during meeting on Tuesday that in order to make the dialogue process more effec-
tive, useful and result oriented, they may have to go for changing the strategy. Maulana Samiul Haq, who read out a joint statement following the meeting, said that after successful first round of talks there was a need to adopt a comprehensive strategy to carry forward the process for meaningful resolution of the issue. He said that Taliban have disowned the Islamabad district court attacks this week, adding Taliban have said they have never heard of Ahrarul Hind – an unknown militant group that claimed responsibility for the attacks. Haq said that Taliban themselves are investigating to know whereabouts of that militant group, adding enemies of peace will continue to make their attempts to sabotage the process. “We will have to deal with the situation with patience”. Maulana emphasized. He also called upon both Taliban as well as the Government to be on the same page in exposing the third force that was hell bent to disrupt and sabotage the peace talks and did not want the restoration of peace in the region.
Defence lawyers face Taliban threat From Page 1 Islamabad two days earlier also appeared to have been linked to the same issue. Musharraf’s lawyers told the court that protesting the court attack in Islamabad, bar councils had decided to boycott court proceedings until March 9 and all lawyers were subordinate to their instructions Rana Ijaz, one of Musharraf’s lawyers, informed the court that he has received credible reports that the special court will be attacked. He stated that it was not just the threemember bench, led by Justice Faisal Arab, that would be targeted, but three of Musharraf’s advocates are also in danger. Justice Arab responded to these reports, stating that they could not halt legal proceedings based on threats. He said that he had spoken to the inspector general and commissioner of Islamabad for around an hour on March 4 and they had assured him that the court is secure. Justice Faisal Arab remarked that judges are facing risk of attack too and a meeting in this regard was held with the Law Secretary, IG and Chief Commissioner as well. Mansoor revealed that he was stopped at gunpoint by two men in Karachi and he was no longer in the frame of mind to plead this case. Justice Arab inquired from Mansoor if he could recommend a better security so-
Indian election from April 7 From Page 1 ain in 1947, has often been marred by violence and ballot-rigging. Running on his strong economic track record as chief minister of Gujarat, Modi has emerged in opinion polls as the favourite, reflecting popular anger over corruption and a sense that the centre-left Congress government frittered away opportunities for rapid growth after coming to power in 2004. Exuding self-confidence, Modi has won the support of many middleclass Indians who even a year ago would not have voted for a man accused by critics of failing to stop, or even tacitly encouraging, a spasm of Hindu-Muslim bloodshed in Gujarat in 2002. Modi has denied any wrongdoing and the Supreme Court has said there is not enough evidence to pursue investigations. With half of India’s population under 25, a record number of first-time voters is
ing from the office without any prior notice.” “Arrest of a varsity guard on account of target killing is not less than a shock,” KU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Qaiser said. “I have investigated the matter by myself and I have come to know that the guards, who were hired for providing security inside the campus, were appointed without verification from law enforcement agencies,” the VC disclosed. “The VC said, to address security issues inside the campus, we have decided to hire some guards and we have decided that from now no guard would be appointed without verification from law enforcement agencies,” he vowed. “As far as Muhammad Javed is concerned, we are trying to get his updates to decide his case.”
expected to participate in the election and many appear open to Modi’s promises of job creation and efficient government. “I think everyone is looking for strong leadership. This places Modi at an advantage. He’s showing that he’s a strong leader,” said Mohan Guruswamy of the Centre for Policy Alternatives, a Delhi-based thinktank.—Online
Dar dispels Afghan worries From Page 1 Dr Zakhilwal shared his Afghanistan’s desire for early completion of the power project and hoped for the success of forthcoming Pakistan-Tajikistan tariff negotiations. The Afghan minister and said his country is eager to provide its help and facilitation for CASA-1000 Project.
lution to which he replied that he would have to think over the matter. Mansoor also told the court that he was not provided with security despite the court’s earlier orders to which Justice Arab replied that he had refused the security on his own. Another lawyer for Musharraf, Rana Ijaz, warned the court that it would also be attacked and all the three judges and chief prosecutor Akram Sheikh would be blown up. After hearing this, Justice Arab responded that though dangers existed nothing could be done about it and the case could not be stopped in order to wait for a suitable time over the threats. Kasuri claimed that if anything were to happen to him the Sharif brothers would be held responsible adding that he had taken one prime minister to the gallows and would bring the Sharif brothers as well. Meanwhile, prosecutor Akram Sheikh said that he would continue his struggle against terrorism. Akram Sheikh argued that his all sympathies are with the legal fraternity but courts keep working during wars as well. He further said that he was not under any fear with regard to the letter and that his motive was only to inform the court regarding the development.—INP
ANC Dubai From Page 1 Prime Minister added that we are offering several incentives for investment in power sector. He told that the MoU with Qatar on import of LNG and US $ 1 billion investment by ADB in Jamshoro Power generation project are clear manifestations of foreign investors trust in the government’s pro-investment policies.—INP
PUC condemns From Back Page addressing a press conference at the Islamabad Press Club. Also present on this occasion were Hafiz Muhammad Amjad, Maulana Abdul Hameed Sabri, Maulana Noman Hashir and other clerics. Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi said that the PUC has informed the government and the nation several times that some antiPakistan groups have set up camps with the support of Afghan intelligence agencies. These groups do not want peace in Pakistan. The Pakistani government should raise this issue with the Afghan government. He said that Tehreek-eTaliban Pakistan [TTP] can only take responsibility for groups operating in Pakistan’s tribal areas, but some local and foreign groups are not under the control of the TTP. Therefore, the government should immediately formulate a policy for these groups.
FC convoy attacked in Hangu amid peace talks From Page 1 militant’s sabotage activities and they continued to target the men in uniform. It may be recalled, that in response to the militant’s activities specially targeting the forces, the PAF planes had pounded areas in Hangu on February 22 killing at least six trouble makers. None of the organization has owned the responsibility the Wednesday’s attack on the FC convoy. The security forces are reported to have kicked off search operation in the region to hunt the miscreants. In the meanwhile the North Waziristan Agency political administration on Wednesday imposed curfew in most parts of the agency including Tehsil Mir Ali, Miranshah, Datta Khel, Razmak and Dosali for an indefinite period of time while security forces were given shoot-on-sight or-
ders against violators. The local administration made an announcement through loudspeakers regarding the curfew and shoot-on sight orders against those violating the curfew. According to reports, the security forces were patrolling the streets while security has been tightened at all entry and exit points. The residents were forced to wait till relaxation or lifting of curfew. The residentswere faced with a number of problems as School, colleges and all the offices remained closed in the agency. The residents are demanding of the political administration to inform them on time in case of relaxation in curfew so that they could resume their activities and normal life could be started.
Drone strike kills operates all drones flying over Yemen in support of Sanaa’s campaign against Al Qaeda and has killed dozens of militants in a sharply intensified campaign in the past year. Drone strikes have triggered criticism from rights activists, who say they have claimed the lives of many innocent civilians. The United Nations said 16 civilians were killed and at least 10 wounded when two separate wedding processions were targeted by drones in early
From Page 1 December. The victims had been mistakenly identified as members of Al Qaeda, the UN quoted local security officials as saying at the time. Following the deaths, Yemen’s parliament voted for a ban on drone strikes, but analysts say lawmakers have limited powers and are unlikely to have an impact on Washington’s campaign.
Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain From Page 1 A joint statement from the three countries claimed Qatar failed to commit “to the principles” of the GCC. A security agreement signed last year by the GCC focused on cooperation in the exchange of information and tracking down of criminals and those who broke the law. Joseph Kechichian, Senior Fellow at the King Faisal center for Research & Islamic Studies in Riyadh, told Al Jazeera that this goes beyond a regional dispute on a security pact because Qatar supports the pact. Expert says this is much bigger than a regional dispute “This reflects a fundamental political difference of opinion within the GCC, primarily between Qatar alone as one country, and the other five over the Muslim Brotherhood situation, not just in the GCC region, but also in Egypt which has been during the past several years - the bete noire- of the Arab Spring,” the Gulf expert said.
The statement said GCC members had signed an agreement on November 23 not to back “anyone threatening the security and stability of the GCC whether as groups or individuals - via direct security work or through political influence, and not to support hostile media.” GCC foreign ministers had met in Riyadh on Tuesday to try to persuade Qatar to implement the agreement, it said. “But unfortunately, these efforts did not result in Qatar’s agreement to abide by these measures, which prompted the three countries to start what they saw as necessary, to protect their security and stability, by withdrawing their ambassadors from Qatar starting from today, March 5 2013,” the statement said. The move is thought to be unprecedented in the three-decade history of the GCC, a pro-Western alliance of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE and Oman.—INP
The United States says that drones are an essential part of its “war on terror”. Yemen is the ancestral home of Osama bin Laden and the home base of Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), which Washington views as the jihadist network’s most dangerous franchise.—AP
NASA plots daring mission to Jupiter W ASHINGTON —NASA is flown by Europa, especially
5 foreigners arrested in Kalat KALAT—Five foreigners were arrested by security forces in Kalat district of Balochistan on Wednesday morning. According to levies sources, the five suspects traveling without identity cards and legal documents to Quetta from Karachi were arrested by the security forces. The sources added that the persons reportedly belonged to Dubai and entered in Balochistan without having any legal documents related to their identification or stay in Pakistan. They were handed over to Levies personnel in Kalat in order to initiate further investigations.—INP
Arms scandal case: Ex-IG KP put on ECL PESHAWAR—The federal interior ministry on the advice of Khyber Pukhtunkhaw National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Wednesday put the names of the former IG Malik Naveed and a government contractor Arshad Majeed on the Exit Control List (ECL). The interior ministry has notified about it all the airports of the country and other concerned agencies not to allow the accused to leave the country, as their names have been pout on ECL. More than seven accused including former KPK IG Malik Naveed and government contractor Arshad Majeed are facing charges of Rs1.82 billion of alleged corruption in the purchase of arms for the Provincial Police department.—INP
Old enmity claims four lives BOLAN—At least four people were killed and two others injured when unknown gunmen opened fire in a village on Wednesday. Police said that incident took place in village in Dhadar area when armed men killed four people and injured two others and fled. The police said that the injured were taken to a hospital in Quetta. They said the killing was result of an old enmity between two tribes—Online
CM condoles Observer Report LAHORE—Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif met chief pilot of his helicopter Col. Retd. Muhammad Safdar and condoled the death of his brother Rafaqat Hussain Awan, Additional Session Judge who was martyred in Islamabad katchery terrorism incident. Provincial Minister for Environment Col. (R) Shuja Khanzada also accompanied the Chief Minister. Sympathizing with Col. Retd. Muhammad Safdar, Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif strongly condemned the incident of terrorism in Islamabad katchery. The Chief Minister said that he was deeply grieved over the loss of precious human lives including Additional Session Judge Rafaqat Hussain. He said that terrorist activities of all kind are unacceptable and reiterated that terrorism and extremism will be eliminated.
plotting a daring robotic mission to Jupiter’s watery moon Europa, a place where astronomers speculate there might be some form of life. The space agency set aside $15 million in its 2015 budget proposal to start planning some kind of mission to Europa. No details have been decided yet, but NASA chief financial officer Elizabeth Robinson said Tuesday that it would be launched in the mid-2020s. Robinson said the high radiation environment around Jupiter and distance from Earth would be a challenge. When NASA sent Galileo to Jupiter in 1989, it took the spacecraft six years to get to the fifth planet from the sun. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute astronomer Laurie Leshin said it could be “a daring mission to an extremely compelling object in our solar system.” Past NASA probes have
Galileo, but none have concentrated on the moon, one of dozens orbiting Jupiter. Astronomers have long lobbied for a mission to Europa, but proposals would have cost billions of dollars. Last year, scientists discovered liquid plumes of water shooting up through Europa’s ice. Flying through those watery jets could make Europa cheaper to explore than just circling it or landing on the ice, said NASA Europa scientist Robert Pappalardo. NASA will look at many competing ideas for a Europa mission, so the agency doesn’t know how big or how much it will cost, Robinson said. She said a major mission goal would be searching for life in the strange liquid water under the ice-covered surface. Harvard astronomer Avi Loeb said going to Europa would be more exciting than exploring dry Mars: “There might be fish under the ice.”
NEW DELHI—Indian police magistrate of the local district
MNAs for operation against terrorists who violate Shariah, Constitution
Malala again nominated for Nobel Peace Prize
Samiul Haq to deliver Imam-eKaba’s special message to Taliban
ISLAMABAD—In the National Maulana Muhammad Khan Khan Baloch said befitting re- O SLO —Malala Yousafzai,
ISLAMABAD—Taliban’s chief negotiator, Maulana Samiul Haq, is likely to convey a message of Imam-e-Kaba Sheikh Saleh bin Hameed to the hardliner militants, urging them to adopt the dialogue path rather than armed struggle in pursuit of their demands in Pakistan. Maulana Samiul Haq, who is also chief of his own faction of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-S), went to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah last week where he met Imam-eKaba. He requested Sheikh Saleh bin Hameed to play his role
Assembly on Wednesday, the members said the terrorists who have no regard for the Shariah and Constitution should be segregated for necessary action against them. Holding discussion on the National Internal Security Policy, they appreciated the government for presenting the policy and hoped that it will be made more comprehensive to ensure protection of lives and properties of the people. Initiating the debate, Nawab Yusuf Talpur regretted that terror incidents rock the country whenever the process of dialogue is started with the Taliban.
Sherani said the war against terrorism has been used by the foreign powers to malign Islam and create a wedge amongst the Islamic countries. Tahir Iqbal said no political point scoring should be done on the issue of national security. The National Assembly has passed “The Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan (Amendment) Bill, 2013”. The bill moved by Minister for Science and Technology Zahid Hamid amends the Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan Ordinance, 1979. Referring to the recent acts of terrorism in the country, Salman
sponse should be given to any violent act. He said the government should fully implement its national internal security policy for establishment of peace in the country. Daniyal Aziz emphasized the need for bringing improvements in the functions of judiciary and police for maintenance of law and order. Terming the national security policy as a detailed and a comprehensive one, Sahibzada Tariqullah said it is for the first time in the country’s history that such a document has been prepared providing information on important matters.—Online
Continued on Page 7
PUC condemns court attack ISLAMABAD—Pakistan Ulema Council PUC declares the attack on Islamabad Session Court an unfortunate and condemnable incident, and urges the government to take all necessary measures to arrest the culprits. Both the government and the Taliban have a responsibility to tell the truth to the nation and expose elements that are working against the ceasefire. These views were expressed by PUC Central Chairman Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi while
Continued on Page 7
We cannot close file of missing persons unless facts are known, SC told ISLAMABAD—In 35 missing persons case the Supreme Court (SC) has ordered defence ministry to register case in respect of missing person Akhunzada within 24 hours and investigate the matter besides seeking report on this count. . Justice Jawwad S Khawaja has remarked “ in any case of missing person which the government did not want to resolve it is said missing person is in Afghanistan. It has come in the media reports that 8 missing persons have been brought back from Kunar Afghanistan. The court be told about Akhunzada and Yasin Shah where they are. If they have not been recovered so far then this failure can be attributed to whom. We can not close the file of miss-
ing persons unless the facts are known. Now the link has been found and missing persons should also be found. He gave these remarks while presiding over 3-member bench of SC during the course of hearing of 35 missing persons case here Wednesday. During the hearing, the petitioner Mohabbat Shah, Additional Attorney General (AAG) Shah Khawar, director legal ministry of defence Irfan and officials of KP government appeared in the court. Amna Masud Janjua also appeared in the court and presented a new list of missing persons whose cases are pending hearing in Peshawar High Court. Yasin Shah missing person case is also included in this list.—Online
Pentagon wants to keep war chest despite Afghan exit WASHINGTON—The Pentagon wants to keep its US$80 billion war chest even though most or all US troops are to withdraw from Afghanistan by the end of this year, officials said on Tuesday. “Overseas contingency operations” funds are separate from the main Pentagon budget and have financed wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and counter-terrorism efforts elsewhere for more than a decade. When President Barack Obama came into office, his deputies vowed to shift war spending back into the Pentagon’s main budget. But the Defence Department’s proposed budget, released on Tuesday as part of the White House’s annual spending plan, calls for US$79.4 billion in war funding for fiscal year 2015. That represents only a small cut in the overseas operations fund accorded US$85.2 billion this year. About 33,700 US troops remain in Afghanistan and the bulk of the force is due to depart by December. The Obama administration hopes to keep a small contingent of up to 10,000
Police detain Indian anti-graft politician Kejriwal
troops in the country beyond 2014 - if the Afghan government signs a bilateral security agreement. In years past, administration officials predicted that war funding would decline significantly with the planned pullout of American forces from Afghanistan. But instead, the Pentagon has used the category to finance maintenance and other items that would otherwise be slashed under automatic budget cuts. Unlike the main base defence budget, the war funding is not subject to the mandatory spending limits enacted by Congress, known as sequestration. Both the Pentagon and lawmakers last year moved about US$29 billion in funding out of the base budget to the overseas contingency fund (OCO), as a way of countering the effect of the automatic budget cuts. This practice has “largely offset the cuts to the base budget from sequestration,” according to Todd Harrison of the Centre for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments, a Washington think tank. But if the war funding drops dramatically after the US exit from Afghanistan,
the Pentagon could face a major shortfall in coming years, he said Monday in a teleconference. The proposed main defence budget for 2015 is US$575 billion, less than the peak in military spending of US$691 billion in 2010 but still far beyond the 2001 budget of US$316 billion. America’s military spending far exceeds any other country, with China a distant second with an estimated US$132.2 billion and Russia at about US$68.9 billion, according to IHS Jane’s consultant group. But in its budget request, the Pentagon said it faced a shortage of funding for modernizing aircraft, training and maintaining bases. Pentagon chief Chuck Hagel already laid out the main priorities of the defence budget last week, proposing a cut in the size of the US Army while keeping up investments in hi-tech weaponry. The budget calls for scaling back the army from 520,000 troops to about 440,000 to 450,000 soldiers by 2017, and retiring older aircraft include the A-10 “Warthog” and the U-2 spy plane.—INP
along with US whistleblower Edward Snowden and Russian President Vladimir Putin, is among the nominees for this year’s Nobel Peace Prize, as the Nobel Institute announced Tuesday a record 278 candidates. The Nobel committee convened for the first time this year to examine the candidate list and will announce the laureate in Oslo on October 10. As usual, the committee refused to reveal the identity of any of the nominees, but Lundestad said that 47 of the 278 candidates were organi sations. Even though the list is kept secret for at least 50 years, the sponsors can choose to reveal the name of their nominee. Putin is thought to be on the list, since Russian figures proposed his name in October, citing his role in the Syrian crisis. Being nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize is relatively easy, since thousands of people can suggest candidates: lawmakers and ministers, university professors and former laureates. At their first meeting, the five committee members themselves can add more names to the list. The committee insists that being nominated does not imply an endorsement on its part. Putin’s chances of winning the prize appear limited given the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.—INP
Khursheed Shah against involving army in dialogue process I S L A M A B A D —Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Syed Khursheed Shah on Wednesday said that the government should not involve army in the dialogue process with the Taliban. Talking to media outside the Parliament House, Shah said army’s role is to follow government directive and not to hold talks or deals with the militants. Involving the army in the dialogue process could be dangerous, he added. A dangerous situation may emerge if the talks fail, he warned. The opposition leader said that he had no objection if a former member of the armed forces participates in the peace talks. Khursheed Shah’s comments came after reports emerged that the government may reconstitute its four-member negotiating team in a bid to make the peace process more ‘effective and result-oriented’.—NNI
briefly detained firebrand anticorruption champion Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday for holding a political roadshow without permission as the country’s election campaign got into gear, a party official said. Kejriwal was taken to a police station in the western town of Radhanpur after arriving in the state run by opposition prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi and just hours after national elections were announced. The 44-year-old, who had been planning a days-long political tour of Modi’s Gujarat state, was briefly detained for failing to adhere to an election code of conduct that requires prior police permission. “Kejriwal did not have permission for a rally or procession, hence was detained for violation of code of conduct which came into force from today,”the senior
told reporters. Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi (Common Man) Party slammed the temporary detention as “high-handed behaviour” after India announced the start of elections on April 7 that Modi is expected to win. “We strongly object to this high-handed behaviour by the political establishment in Gujarat,” senior leader Kumar Vishwas told AFP. “He was not there to hold any election rally. He had only gone there to watch and observe the development that Modi is claiming has taken place in the state,” Vishwas told AFP. “Why is he being harassed then?” Kejriwal, whose stunning breakthrough in the Delhi state elections in December highlighted public anger towards the political establishment, is taking on the major parties at the election.—AFP
Israel says seized Gaza-bound rocket shipment from Iran JERUSALEM—The Israeli navy seized a ship in the Red Sea on Wednesday that was carrying dozens of advanced Iranian-supplied rockets made in Syria that were intended for Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip, the military said. It said the Panamanian-flagged cargo vessel Klos-C was boarded in international waters without resis-tance from its17-strong crew, and would be escorted to the Israeli port of Eilat within days. “It was a complex, covert operation,” military spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Peter Lerner said of the seizure some 1,000 miles (1,800 km) from Is-rael. Dozens of M302 rockets were found aboard the KlosC, a weapon which could have struck deep into Israel from Gaza and would have significantly enhanced the firepower of Palestinian militant groups such as Hamas. “The M302 in its most advanced model can strike over 100 miles, and if they would have reached Gaza, ultimately that would have meant millions of Israelis under threat,” said Lerner. Israeli television footage showed what appeared to be marines inspecting a rocket on the floor of a ship hold, with cement bags labeled “Made in Iran” in English next to it. Lerner said the rockets were flown from Syria to Iran, from which they were shipped first to Iraq and then towards Sudan. Had they reached the African coast, they would have probably been smuggled overland through Egypt to Gaza, he said. Iran had orchestrated the shipment, Lerner said, describing the process as months in the making. The maritime tracking site marine traffic.com showed the last position of the Klos-C as the Oman Gulf on Feb 22. Lerner said the crew came from a number of differ-ent countries and there was no immediate indication that they knew the nature of their cargo.—AP
Altaf voices concern over terrorist attack STAFF REPORTER KARACHI—The founder and leader of MQM Altaf Hussain has condemned the attack on the convoy of security forces in Hango in the strongest possible terms. He expressed his sorrow and grief over the martyrdom of personnel. Scores of personnel have been injured in the attack. He said terrorists are carrying out their brazen attacks. Their subversive attacks are growing at an alarming rate. The continued campaign terror and martyrdoms of personnel of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies put a question mark on the performance of the government. The government should initiate investigation into the attacks to know whether Taliban are carrying out these attacks despite ceasefire and massacring people in order to achieve their goals. Hussain demanded action from the president, prime minister and federal interior minister against the terrorists responsible for Hango attack and security arrangement for the protection of defense installations, life and property of citizens.
Passive smoking causes damage to kids’ arteries
E
XPOSURE to second-hand smoke in childhood causes irreversible dam age to children’s arteries - increasing their risk of heart attacks or strokes when they grow up, according to a large international study published on Wednesday. The research, which lends weight to campaigns for smoking to be banned in private cars and homes, found passive smoking leads to a thickening of children’s artery walls, adding some 3.3 years to the age of blood vessels by adulthood. “Exposure to passive smoke in childhood causes direct and irreversible damage to the structure of the arteries,” said Seana Gall, a researcher in cardiovascular epidemiology who led the study at the University of Tasmania. She said parents, or even those thinking about becoming parents, should quit smoking - both to aid their own health and protect the future health of their children. Smoking causes lung cancer, which is often fatal, and is the world’s biggest cause of premature death from chronic conditions like heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure. On top of the 6 million people a year killed by their own smoking, the World Health Organization (WHO) says another 600,000 die a year as a result of exposure to other peoples’ smoke - so-called second-hand or passive smoking.
Of the more than 4,000 chemicals in tobacco smoke, at least 250 are known to be harmful and more than 50 are known to cause cancer, the WHO says - and creating 100 percent smokefree environments is the only way to protect people fully. About 40 percent of all children are regularly exposed to second-hand smoke at home, and almost a third of the deaths attributable to second-hand smoke are in children. This latest study, published in the European Heart Journal, was the first to follow children through to adulthood to look at links between exposure to parents’ smoking and thickness of the innermost two layers of the arterial wall, known as carotid intima-media thickness (IMT). Researchers from Finland and Australia looked at data from 2,401 people in Finland 1,375 people in Australia who were asked about their parents’ smoking habits. The scientists used ultrasound to measure the thickness of the children’s artery walls once they had reached adulthood. The results showed that carotid IMT in adulthood was 0.015 millimeters thicker in those exposed to both parents smoking than in those whose parents did not smoke. Gall said that while this was a “modest” increase, it was nonetheless an important extra and irreversible risk for suffering heart attacks or strokes later in life.
BISP looking to forge strong partnerships against poverty STAFF REPORTER
STAFF REPORTER I S L A M A B A D —Minister
Feminists are not necessarily anti-men ZUBAIR QURESHI ISLAMAABD—The subject of ‘Feminism’ was discussed with its historic as well as modern perspective at a discussion titled “An Evening with Dr Fatema Hassan.’ National Commission on Status of Women (NCSW) had hosted the reception in honour of the Karachi-based Dr Fatema Hassan a well-known poet, writer and a prominent feminist. Another feminist and activist for women rights, senior poet Kishwar Naheed presided over the gathering. Dr Fatema Hassan addressing the feminist gathering said feminism is usually attributed to such women who are against men or they are very fashionable. Even those men who are supportive of women’s struggle for their identity can be called feminists. The evening turned out to be a lively discussion as Tahira Abdullah a strong supporter of women rights suggested our dictionary and terms needed a complete overhaul. “There are certain phrases like “Mardam Shumari,” (Census) “Chairman” etc which are commonly used even by those at the helm of affairs, she said. These terms should be purged of gender background.
Dr Fatema Hassan who has carried out research on the subject delighted the audience with the findings telling that feminist voices existed long before 1947. Ze, Khai, Sheen (Zahida Khatoon Shnwari) was a prominent feminist poet who in 1915 wrote her “Aurat Ka Shikwa”. Maulvi Mumtaz Hussain published it under the title of Aina-e-Haram. Dr Fatema Hassan has included the 60stanza long poem in her book “Feminism aur Hum.” Rabia Khuzdari of Balochistn was another feminist poet who raised her voice some hundreds of years ago. The hostess of the evening Khawar Mumtaz Chairperson NCSW said Dr Fatema Hassan’s work for the women rights and struggle for identity has been published and republished by various publishing houses. Revised editions of three books by Dr Fatema Hassan, “Feminism aur Hum”, “Kitabe-Dostan” and “Dastak se Dar Ka Fasla” were also launched on the occasion. Kishwar Naheed commending the works and poems of the guest speaker remembered Dr Fatema Hassan’s poems attracted attention of even late Munir Niazi who otherwise seldom praised any poet.
beneficiary families in order to make them selfrelied and independent. The Chairman, BISP also appreciated the efforts of the international financial institutions
ISLAMABAD—Chairman Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) said on Wednesday that continuation of BISP underlined seriousness of the government to root out poverty from the country. He said it was very challenging task and required planning to achieve the objectives He stated this while speaking at a dinner hosted by Alfredo Leoni, the Ambassador of Brazil to Pakistan in honour of Senator Muhammad Enver Baig, on eve of Chairman’s BISP departure to Brazil to attend a South-South learning forum. The forum is organized by the World Bank in partnership with the Government of Brazil and State of Rio De Janeiro, says a statement issued by the BISP here. The purpose of the forum is to promote knowledge exchange amongst practitioners from low and middle-income countries and fragile states on the design and delivery of Social Protection and Labor (SP & L) systems. It is worth mentioning that Brazil hosts the World’s largest Social Protection System i.e. Bolsa Familia. The dinner was also attended by Coun- Chairman Benazir Income Support Program Senator Anwar Baig, Ambassador of Brazil Alfredo Leoni and others try Heads of various UN during a reception hosted by the Brazilian Ambassador.—PO photo Agencies. The Ambassador also extended his country’s and developing partners in helping BISP in deIt is also relevant to mention that Pakistan is one of the five countries who will be sharing help in further improving the design of BISP. On signing and implementing the Programme. He their achievements vis-à-vis Social Protection this occasion, Chairman BISP held that continu- said that exposure to the learnings and experiand will update the participants about the mar- ation of BISP was aimed at poverty elimination ences of other countries, specifically Brazil, will act as a catalyst in this regard. During the dinvels achieved in successful transition of pay- from the country. He observed that while continuing with the ner, the Chairman BISP also held fruitful discusments delivery from a manual system to technology-based system. The Brazilian Ambassa- unconditional cash transfer, the implementation sions with Heads of the UN Agencies and ways dor in his welcome note highlighted the impor- of a graduation strategy is also of utmost impor- and means were discussed as to how a strong tance of the Forum and observed that attending tance. In this context, he is focusing on impart- partnership can be forged to target the menace the meeting will not only enable BISP to see prac- ing technical and vocational skills to the BISP of poverty, which is a common enemy.
Findings of F-8 incident soon
Mr. Zahid Malik, Editor-in-Chief, Pakistan Observer had a meeting with the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia H.E. Mr. Abdul Aziz Ibrahim Al-Ghadeer yesterday. They discussed matters of mutual interest.—PO photo
tical implementation of Bolsa Familia but will also go a long way in enhancing a closer cooperation and coordination between the two Programmes.
for Health, Services and Regulation Saira Afzal Tarar Wednesday said that findings of F-8 district courts terrorist incident would be presented soon. Talking to media persons outside the Parliament House, Saira Afzal Tarar said that investigations of heinous terrorism are under way by the law enforcement agencies. “The government, Pakistan Army and all other institutions are at one page for dialogue with Taliban under the leadership of the Prime Minister,” she added.
Enjoying break from daily academic routine CITY REPORTER
about keeping the environment clean.In a variety show, Urdu feature film was screened. Assistant Director Colleges, Federal Directorate of Education (FDE),
personalities were present on the occasion. All the activities of the funfair were also broadcast on the FM Radio Station of the college ‘Voice of Margalla 98.6’
ISLAMABAD—Students of Islamabad Model College for Girls (IMCG) F-7/4 enthusiastically participated in the annual funfair, enjoying a break from the daily academic routine. Ex-Principal IMCG, F-7/4 Mrs Samina Shamim inaugurated the carnival along with the Principal of the college, Ms Firdous Fatima and other faculty members and took round of the colourful stalls. Around thirty different stalls were arranged in the college premises to entertain the visitors and students. The food stalls carried different items including shawarma, goalgappey, burgers, chaat, dahi bhaley, samosey, popcorns, Rolls, biryani, bar b q, coffee, ice cream, liquid ice. The other stalls featured jewelry, decorative pieces, printing of mugs, shirts and plates, handicrafts, song dedication, singing, jumble sale, gun shooting and bubble making. The fun rides including mono rail, joint Students busy in different activities during Funfair at FG Margalla College for wheel, dragon boat, swings, Women F-7/4. trampoline, horse and camel ride attracted the students of junior Miss Bibi Yaseen also graced the oc- which continuously informed and atcasion. Other important dignitaries in- tracted the listeners. classes. Expressing her views, a visitor Naila A cleanliness campaign was also ar- cluding present and ex-principals from ranged side by side during the funfair the colleges of twin cities, members of Rahim said that such activities should where Ms Iffat Khalid, Associate Pro- other educational institutions, retired be arranged from time to time as they fessor of the college gave awareness faculty members and many renowned give a sigh of relief in such a busy life.
Collective efforts needed to make dream of Asian Parliament come true S TAFF REPORTER I S L A M A B A D —Chairman Senate and President of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly Syed Nayyer Hussain Bokhari has reiterated his commitment to reinvigorate the Asian Parliamentary Assembly to its fullest potential to achieve the objectives envisaged in Islamabad Declaration adopted during the 6th Plenary of APA in Pakistan in December last year. He said that APA is
an important forum and collective efforts would be made to make the dream of establishment of Asian Parliament come true. He expressed these views while talking to the Dr. M.H Nejad Hosseinian, Secretary General APA in a meeting in Islamabad today. Chairman Senate observed that Asian region is faced with common challenges and member states share commonality of views on issues being faced by the region. As
Chairman Senate Syed Nayyar Hussain Bokhari exchanging views with Dr. M.H. NejadHosseinian Secretary General Asian Parliamentary Association.
President of APA, the Chairman Senate stated that he would play an active role to give a practical shape to the line of action delineated in the Islamabad Declaration and we want to move forward. It is pertinent to mention here that Chairman Senate was elected as the President of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly for two years during the 6th Plenary of APA which held in Islamabad in December last year.
Chairman Senate also highlighted the importance of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran. He observed that Pakistan palaces relations with Iran at high esteem and desires to further strengthen these ties for mutual benefit. The APA Secretary General, Dr. M.H Nejad Hosseinian appreciated the remarks of the Chairman Senate and expressed the hope that under the leadership of Syed Nayyer Hussain Bokhari as President of APA, the forum
would be able to play an active role for regional integration and prosperity of the member states. Modalities with regard to organizing Troika Plus meeting were also discussed during the meeting. The Secretary General of APA highlighted importance of the meeting. He assured all his support for operation and administration of Troika Plus meeting. The APA Secretary General also appreciated the hospitality and warm welcome.
Judges, lawyers remember the departed
Fajar Zohr Asr
06:00 01:30 04:45
Meghrab at Sunset Isha 07:45 Brothers in Islam establish regular prayers & charity
Former CJP condoles with lawyers, terms attack govt’s failure ZUBAIR QURESHI I SLAMABAD —Assembled at the Islamabad High Court to offer Fateha Wednesday for their assassinated colleagues, the lawyers and the judges looked towards former Chief Justice Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry as kids do to a fatherly figure. Presence of the former Chief Justice gave a boost to the crestfallen lawyers’ morale and some of them openly declared “We think you as our chief justice even now.” In his first public experience after re-
tirement as Chief Justice of the apex court last year, the ex-CJP not only attended the Fateha Khwani and prayed for the assassinated lawyers and the judge of the District Court, he also expressed his views candidly. Talking to media after the reference and Fateha Khwani, Justice (Retd) Iftikhar Chaudhry said judiciary is an important pillar of the State and attack on the courts is tantamount to the attack on the sovereignty of the country. “These are my own children and I consider their problems as my own,” said Justice Iftikhar. Islamabad High
March 7
Traders ask CDA
SEMINAR on “Pakistani Women Fighting Extremism and Violence: A Case of Kohistani Women” Friday 7 March 2014, 2:30 Pm at Islamabad Hotel, in connection with International Women’s Day 2014.
Curb over 7000 businesses in residential houses
**** SOUTH Asian Women in Media (SAWM) Pakistan will held a seminar on ‘Equality for Women in Progress for All’ Friday, March 07, 2014 at Hill View Hotel, F-7 Markaz (Jinnah Super Market, Islamabad. March 8 HUMAN chain to get justice for the Kohistani Women in connection with International Women’s Day. Saturday 8 March 2014 China Chock to D Chock 11:30 am. Organised by Pattan Development Organisation and Women Concerns Network. March 17
CITY REPORTER I SLAMABAD —Over 7000 businesses are running in residential houses causing great loss to the business set ups established in commercial centers and CDA should take urgent measures to ban these businesses on urgent bases to save the traders from financial loss. This was stressed by Ajmal Baloch, Central Organizing Secretary of Traders Action Committee and President, Traders Welfare Association of Aabpara Market, Islamabad in a statement. He said commercial activities in residential areas are totally illegal, but every fourth house is turning into a business floor. All this is happening in connivance with the officers and officials of Building Control Section of CDA. He said BCS is responsible to control business activities in residential areas but BCS Inspector Ali Raza makes daily visits to show rooms established in houses and receives his share for allowing such ac-
Court Chief Justice Anwar Khan Kasi, Justice Riaz Ahmed Khan, Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui, Justice Noorul Haq N Qureshi, judges of the District court, office bearers of the Islamabad District and High Court Bar associations were also present on the occasion. The former CJ was of the view the attack at F-8 Kutchery could have been prevented if the administration abided by the Supreme Court order and shifted the courts to a safer place. Looked visibly shocked by the death of a large number of colleagues, Justice Iftikhar asked if
New Islamabad airport to be opened in 2016
ISLAMABAD—New
3-day antipolio drive in high risk areas STAFF REPORTER R AWALPINDI —The Special
Dasti rules out appearing before committee I SLAMABAD —Independent MNA Jamshed Dasti said on Wednesday that the setting up of a committee to probe his claims of immoral activities in the Parliament Lodges despite providing proofs in this regard was beyond his comprehension. Talking to media persons outside the Parliament House, Jamshed Dasti said he will not appear before the committee if he was summoned. He said everyone knows the outcome of the committee probe. He said he was disappointed by the formation of the committee by the NA speaker despite provision of evidences in this regard. Dasti said a committee comprising of a High Court judge should be constituted for ensuring an independent probe. To a question, he said the inclusion of the army in the peace talks was a wise decision. He said the government should give free hand to the army to ensure peace in the country.—INP
Special squad to monitor SSC exams
CITY REPORTER
Students having information from the stall of Bahria University during Career Expo 2014 organized by Office of Students Affairs and Career Services at Bahria University.—PO photo
AIOU names Student Advisory Block as Muhammad Aslam C ITY REPORTER ISLAMABAD —Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has dedicated its students advisory affairs block to the name of Shaheed Mian Muhammad Aslam, Director Rawalpindi Region who expired in F8 terrorist incident in Islamabad on Monday. In this connection, officers and staff of the University adopted a resolution at a Condolence reference held here, renaming the block (Gateway) as Mian Muhammad Aslam block in recognition of his dedicated services for progress and development of University. Whereas the Video-Conference hall in the block was renamed as Kamran Ali Hall who also died in the incident. Speakers at the Condolence refer-
years ago, he said. Former Chief Justice said a number of lawyers under the leadership of Advocate Taufeeq Asif last year had move a petition for shifting of the F8 court and the Supreme Court had passed clear order in this respect. However, no action was taken by the administration, he regretted. IHC CJ Justice Anwar Khan Kasi while talking to media expressed his resolve the judiciary and the Bar would jointly counter all challenges. “We would make sure no such incident occurred again,” he said.
tivities. Ajmal Baloch called upon the Chairman CDA Mr. Maroof Afzal to himself visit F-6 sector and Nazamuddin Road to see the factual situation as many more show rooms are being established in houses in connivance of Inspector Ali Raza. He said if CDA cannot control businesses in residential area, then it should allow all houses to run business activities. He said many gyms, showrooms, clinics, public & private offices and many other commercial set ups are running in private houses while to complete the formality, BCS staff just presents some challans to CDA Magistrate, which are cleared on payment of fine and business activities continue as usual. He appealed to the Chairman CDA to take measures for implementation of Syed Khurshid Shah, leader of opposition in National Assembly is enquiring after the health of a lawyer injured in the Islamabad High Court orders for banning District Courts terror attack, at PIMS. business activities in residential areas and also take strong actions against BCS officials who are involved in these illegal activities.
FEDERAL Public Service Commission has released its consolidated advertisement and displayed it on FPSC website www.fpsc.gov.pk. All intending candidates can visit the website for details of vacancies and eligibility criteria and apply online till 17th March against the posts for which they are eligible.
three-day anti-polio campaign in the Disrict, including certain high-risk areas, will start from March 10 to vaccinate more than 200,000 children. Under the drive, the polio teams would visit 28 union councils of Rawalpindi District, which have been declared highrisk areas, Executive District Officer (EDO-Health) Dr Zafar Iqbal Gondal told APP here Wednesday. In the recently concluded regular campaign, he said, 7,11,744 children upto five years age were administered polio drops to prevent the younger generation from the crippling disease.
governance existed in the federal capital. “Not a single days passes when we come across news of the attacks on armed forces, FC jawans. Even today (Wednesday) I heard some FC personnel came under attack,” said Iftikhar Chaudhry. There were 47 policemen according to the government point of view but only one poor Constable Riaz had the nerve to counter terrorists. What the other policemen were doing,” asked he. Justice Iftikhar was of the view change of government has not resulted in the change of mindset. Security is as poor as it was
ence paid rich tributes to Mian Muhammad Aslam and Kamran Ali, stating that their dedicated services for the cause of education and students will be long remembered. Strongly condemning the acts of terrorism which took precious lives, they pledged to work hard to fight out illiteracy and ignorance, the root-cause of terrorism and extremism, by ensuring access to quality education across the country. The AIOU being the national institution will help the government to wipe out the extremist-mind set, through proper education. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Nazir Ahmed Sangi said, they will come out with a new educational plan this week to expand educational network throughout the country.
Islamabad Airport - a modern, well-designed and state-of-the-art airport would be completed by 2016. Sources said that there were several reasons for delay in completion of the mega project including cost of additional acquisition of land for the second runway, increase in the price of dollar, price escalation due to prolongation in execution tenure of the project and increase in costs of consultancy services. Sources said that there was no proposal under consideration for development of any other new airport in Islamabad near Rawat. He said according to the original PC-I, the estimated cost of the project was Rs 37 billion but it was revised to Rs 94.8 million. It said a number of irregularities had been identified in the new airport and a committee constituted in this regard had submitted its report. The sources said that the infrastructure, including roads and availability of water, would also be completed for the new airport. He said that by introduction of transparent policy and rules by the government, the CAA can turn new Islamabad airport into a vibrant and beneficial place for future airlines passengers.
STAFF REPORTER R AWALPINDI —Newly appointed Chairman Rawalpindi Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (RBISE) Dr Mohammad Zareef on Wednesday formed a special squad to monitor Secondary School Certificate (SSC) annual exams 2014 commenced in Rawalpindi region from Mar 1. The special squad would prepare report of the exams which will be presented to the chairman on daily basis. Dr. Muhammad Zareef chairing a meeting held here directed the authorities concerned to ensure the fulltime presence of all the inspectors in the examination centers. On this occasion, Controller Examinations Dr. Umar Farooq and board officers were present. Controller Examinations RBISE gave briefing on SSC annual exams. Senior RBISE officials assured the Chairman of their full support to improve performance of the board. The RBISE chairman who assumed the charge of his new position on Monday evening issued instructions that the candidates should be provided all pos-
sible facilities in the examination centers. Total 338 examination centers were set up in Rawalpindi division and a total of 103.035 candidates including 64,426 regular and 38,609 private students are appearing in the exams. RBISE established 338 examination centres in its affiliated districts including 129 for male and 132 for female while 77 combined centers have also been set up. 57 examination centers established in district Attock, 70 in district Chakwal and 54 in district Jhelum while 66 local exam centers and 91 in adjoining areas of Rawalpindi have also been set up. A special cell with fax number 0515450912 has also been established which will be supervised directly by the Chairman. Complaints about any examination center can be sent to the special cell and direct action to address the complaints of the candidates as well as the examination staff will be taken by the Chairman. Strict arrangements have also been arranged to avoid activities of booti mafia. All possible steps will be taken to control cheating and for the students’ safety, the Chairman added.
2m free energy saver bulbs distributed S TAFF REPORTER IS
L A M A B A D —The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) has distributed two million free energy saver bulbs among the domestic consumers so far. According to IESCO spokesman, in first phase 20 million Energy Saver bulbs (CFL) were distrib-
uted among 70 per cent consumers. Giving the breakup of five circles, the spokesman said that as many as 646,000 such bulbs were delivered in Rawalpindi, 555,000 in Chakwal, 368,000 in Attock, 264,000 in Jehlum and 226,000 in Islamabad so far In next phase remaining one million energy
saver bulbs were being distributed, he said and added that the IESCO teams have been directed to expedite the drive. He said that under the Prime Minister ’s Energy Savers Programme, three million Energy Savers were provided to IESCO for onward distribution among the domestic consumers.
Illegal constructions of high-rise buildings S TAFF REPORTER R AWA L P I N D I —Given the apathy and indifference of the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), illegal constructions of high-rise buildings continue to rise in the city while risking the lives of its residents. According to sources, the city civic agency has failed badly to prevent the construction of illegal buildings in the city that risk the lives of the dwellers. The influential people continued to construct buildings beyond the specific limit that has exposed a great danger to the city residents while
the concerned authorities are unmoved with this practice. The completion plan of high-rise buildings has not been completed by the city civic agency yet despite the fact the agency has render a huge losses. In the past, heart-rending incidents had occurred where many people have lost their lives due to lack of exit rout of the building. According to the details, Sherpao Colony near Committee Chowk has become the centre of highrise buildings in the city. Khattak Mall plaza, Alhad Tower, Greece Continental hotel, Al-Badar hotel, Bahadar Plaza, Toseaf
Shaheed hostel, Fiazal plaza, Larosh hotel, Anmol marriage hall, Alfarooq hotel, Green palace Alfalah plaza, Asia hotel, United hotel, Al Miraj hotel, Usmania hotel, Rawal hotel have illegally been constructed and the Rawalpindi Development Authority has failed to stopped them from construction. All these building and plaza are included in the high rise building that has made the life of the residents at peril. Rescue 1122 and RDA have ignored all these buildings and there is no exit way in case of any untoward incident of fire in the buildings.
The Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Rodolfo Martin Saravia and Mrs.Susana Negri presenting a souvenir to Ambassador of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar U San Myint Oo and Mrs. Khin Thu during a farewell reception in the honor of the envoy of Myanmar.—PO photo by Sultan Bashir
Kashmiris condemn Dr Farooq Abdullah’s statement SRINAGAR—The statement of union is full of scandals. This person has de- ence to power, but, it is a fact that a
ISLAMABAD: AJK President Sardar Muhammad Yaqoob Khan giving shield to Deputy Director Centre for Strategic Studies Azerbaijan Dr. Gulshan Pashayeva.
Corruption has made life of poor people miserable: Vakil RAFIABAD—Member AICC and former minister, Abdul Gani Vakil, has demanded setting up of an independent commission to probe complaints of disproportionate assets against ministers, legislators, politicians and government officials in Kashmir. “I urge the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, to ascertain and evaluate the assets raised by all the politicians, ministers, former ministers, legislators and bureaucrats,” Vakil said addressing public meetings at Rawoocha and Nadihal Rafiabad in Baramulla district. “Let people know their known source of income and put the facts and figures in public domain. The menace of corruption has now reached to a level where it has endangered the coexistence and harmony amongst the various sections in the society and same needs to be tackled seriously,” he said. “Corruption has made life of poor people miserable and government should leave no stone unturned in eradicating this corruption menace so that common man gets justice,” Vakil added.—NNI
APHC welcomes US statement on Kashmir SRINAGAR—Welcoming the recent statement of US State department calling for the urgent need to start a meaningful dialogue to solve Kashmir issue, All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) has said that conglomerate supports all the dialogue processes aimed to solve the Kashmir dispute. It further said that Kashmir issue being the basic cause of tension between India and Pakistan, without any progress on this issue other issues between the two countries can’t be solved and South Asia would continue to be marred with instability, dangers and tension. In a statement, the spokesman said the statement of US state department that “India Pakistan has to show progress on Kashmir” is reflective of the reality promoted by the Hurriyat. He stated Kashmir has become a nuclear flashpoint between the two nations and the tension over the issues was not in the interest of millions of people living in the sub continent. Terming the Government of Indian’s stand vis-à-vis meaningful dialogue as stubborn and contrary to the ground realities, spokesman stated that it is the responsibility of US and world community, knowing the sensitivity of the issue, to stress upon India to start a meaningful dialogue to solve the Kashmir issue and extricate subcontinent from instability and perils. The spokesman further said that it has always been the stand of Hurriyat that before embarking upon any result-oriented dialogue to solve Kashmir issue, it was important to create conducive conditions on the ground by stopping wide spread human rights violations and rescinding the blacks laws from Kashmir. He said win or loss was part of the cricket game, but the way university authorities expressed their anger on Kashmiri students was shocking and condemnable as well.—Agencies
NGO undertakes construction work of mega Educational Complex for orphans
minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah that Kashmiris are the biggest thieves with reference to power theft has come under severe criticism in Kashmir. A spokesman of Hurriyat Conference (G) has described Dr. Abdullah’s wrong remarks about Kashmiris as an insult to the whole nation. “This man cannot give sermons on honesty as his own life is full of dishonesty. He thinks all other people are also thieves. Dr. Abdullah and his family have been humiliating Kashmiris in every way and on every occasion,” he said. The spokesman added that Abdullahs and their party start liking people only when they have to get votes. “For their personal and family interests they sold everything in Kashmir to Delhi. His life
‘Masarrat Aalam not produced before Baramulla court’
scribed Kashmiris as thieves and levelling such allegations is in his nature. One must not expect anything good from him,” he said. A spokesman of Hurriyat (M) has asked Dr. Abdullah to do self-retrospection before humiliating Kashmiris and hurting their self respect. “Kashmiris are not thieves. Real thieves are the politicians who have looted the natural resources and exploited the masses politically and economically. Dr. Abdullah and his party during their rule made the people to suffer immensely on the financial front and for their personal interests and concessions, they sold the water and financial resources of the state,” he said. The spokesman stated that care must have not been taken at public level in refer-
number of government departments, the offices of mainstream parties, ministers, bureaucrats and legislators owe lakhs of rupees to power development department. “Rather than taking them to task, the National Conference president, has tried to blow out of proportion the minor mistakes of people in an attempt to hide the bungling and failures of NC government,” he said. According to the spokesman, Dr. Abdullah is also responsible for the hardships and sufferings, Kashmiri people are facing presently. Those responsible for imposing anti people laws and policies on Kashmiris must do self retrospection rather than level allegations against common masses, he added.—NNI
Yasin appeals people to stay away from sham polls
MIRPUR—The construction work of mega Edu- presently running its educational and housing ISLAMABAD —The illegally ISLAMABAD—Chairman of Jammu and Kash- used this vote to undermine the freedom movemir Liberation Front (JKLF), Muhammad Yasin ment in occupied Kashmir and for nourishing cational Complex has been started with a cost complex in rented buildings to house hundreds of Rs 200 million for orphans and shelterless children in Mirpur. The mega complex is being constructed under the auspices of the NGO Kashmir Orphans Relief Trust (KORT) with the donations of UK-based Kashmiri expatriates, besides the local philanthropists. This was disclosed by the Chairman of KORT, Ch. Muhammad Akhter, while briefing a delegation during the visit to the under-construction KORT Educational Complex at Jarikas on Wednesday. Chairman CH Akhter said that the AJK government had allotted 100 Kanal of land for construction of mega educational complex at Jarrikas, near Khaliqabad in the outskirt of Mirpur. He said that at least one thousand orphan children will be facilitated by providing houselike environment in the Complex. The KORT is
of orphan children who had lost their parents in deadly earthquake of October 08, 2005 in Azad Jammu Kashmir and adjoining KPK province. Akhter invited the philanthropists to extend their maximum contribution for ensuring the construction and completion of the complex. He said that those seeking details for their contributions for the project may visit the website of the organization - www-kort.org.uk. Speaking on the occasion, Joint Commissioner Mangla Dam Resettlement Organization Muhammad Tayyeb, paid tributes to Kashmir Orphans Relief Center’s Chairman Ch. Muhammd Akhter and his comrades. Earlier the delegation visited various blocks of the under construction educational complex and praised the efforts of the Chairman KORT.—APP
Concern raised over Kashmiri students’ harassment in India ISLAMABAD—The veteran Hurriyet leader, were deliberately harassed on one pretext or the Syed Ali Gilani, has expressed concern over the expulsion of Kashmiri students from the Swami Vivekananda Subharti University (SVSU) in Meerat, Uttar Pradesh, and said that the puppet authorities of Kashmir were acting as a mute spectator against the harassment of Kashmiri students in different Indian states. Syed Ali Geelani in a statement issued in Srinagar condemned the expulsion of 150 Kashmiri students from Swami Vivekanand Subharti University and stabbing of a youth in a hotel by army personnel in Gulmarg following Pakistan’s victory against India in the Asia Cup match on Sunday. He demanded action against the authorities responsible for expulsion of the students and the troops involved in the attack on the youth. “Kashmiris are unsafe in and outside Jammu and Kashmir. They are not even allowed to express their emotions in a peaceful manner,” he added. The veteran leader said that the Meerut incident was not the first of its kind but wherever Kashmiri students went in India for study they
detained leader of Jammu and Kashmir Muslim League (JKML), Masarrat Aalam Butt, was not produced in Baramulla court in Indian Occupied Kashmir in connection with the hearing of a case registered against him. Butt, who is lodged in district Jail, Baramulla, was to be presented by police in Baramulla court for hearing on Monday. The chief spokesman of JKML Muhammad Rafiq Ganai in a statement termed the claim of public prosecutor that Masarrat Aalam was lodged in Kupwara Jail as a sheer lie. The public prosecutor had stated before the Session Judge that Masarrat Aalam was lodged in Kupwara Jail and not in Baramulla Jail, said Muhammad Rafiq Ganai. He also demanded immediate release of all illegally detained Hurriyet leaders including Masarrat Aalam Butt, Dr Muhammad Qasim Fakhtoo, Dr Muhammad Shafi Shariati, Ghulam Qadir Butt, Shakeel Ahmad Butt, Muhammad Ayub Dar, Muhammad Ayub Mir, Javed Ahmad Munshi, Ishaq Ahmad, Abdul Rashid, Manzoor Ahmad, Nasir-ul-Islam, Tariq Ahmad Dar, Muhammad Rafiq Shah and Engineer Farooq.—APP
other to spoil their careers. “In 2013, about half a dozen Kashmiris were killed and many subjected to custodial disappearances outside Jammu and Kashmir. Although Indian Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde expressed his concern over such incidents and claimed that the police and security forces have been instructed not to harass Muslim population especially Kashmiris, but his statement was merely for the sake of it and was never implemented,” he said. Expressing solidarity with the students of Meerut, the veteran leader said, “We equally share their concern and anguish and are keenly observing the situation. If the students are not called back, we will act against the incident.” Meanwhile, the spokesman of All Parties Hurriyet Conference in a statement issued in Srinagar also condemned the incident and demanded strict action against the involved persons. “Venting anger and frustration on Kashmiri students after a defeat in cricket match smacks of an extremely fascist and communal mentality,” he added.—APP SRINAGAR—Complete shutdown is being observed in Baramulla town, today, on the first martyrdom anniversary of a Kashmiri youth, Tahir Rasool Sofi.Tahir Rasool Sofi was killed when Indian troops had opened indiscriminate fire on peaceful protesters in Baramulla on this day, last year. All shops and business establishments are closed. The occupation authorities have blocked most of the bridges connecting old town with the uptown to prevent people from holding anti-India demonstrations.—KMS
Baramulla shuts on Tahir Sofi’s martyrdom anniversary
Tributes paid to Kashmiri martyrs Kashmiri student killed over ‘celebrating’ Pakistan’s victory against India in Budgam.
3500 kanal of Waqf land under forces’ illegal occupation JAMMU—Of the 3500 kanals of Waqf properties, which are under illegal occupation of the government in J&K, 2500 kanals are held by forces, the State Government informed the Legislative Council. The government came under sharp criticism in the Upper House from opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by its legislature party leader Naeem Akthar over its failure to retrieve the encroached Waqf properties. In his written response to a question of Akthar, Minister for Hajj and Auqaf Peerzada Muhammad Sayeed informed the House that more than 3500 kanals of Waqf land are under illegal occupation of the government departments in the State, of which 2539 kanals are alone under defence/Army. Giving break-up of the land under the “occupation” of the forces , the Minister submitted that 28 kanals have been encroached by them in Srinagar, 09 kanals in Bandipora, 107 in Kupwara and 132 in Islamabad (Anantnag). In
Jammu province, 465 kanals of Waqf land are under forces in Poonch, 544 in Rajouri, 1267 in Jammu district and 62 in neighboring Kathua district. Jammu and Kashmir Police, according to the reply, has illegally encroached upon 197 kanals of Waqf land. Besides, different Central and State Govt departments like Education, Rural Development, Urban Local Bodies and Railways are holding 700 kanals of the Waqf land, the Government said. The Minister informed the House that no committee was constituted in 2012 to scrutinize functioning of the Waqf Board, Akthar contradicted him by saying that Chief Minister’s office has constituted a three-member panel for the purpose. Akthar also questioned the government for “omitting” the names of persons who are occupying Waqf properties in Gandhi Nagar. On Akthar’s persistence, the Minister revealed that Choudhary family is occupying the Waqf land at Gandhi Nagar.—NNI
ISLAMABAD—Senior leader of the All Parties Hurriyet Conference, Shabbir Ahmad Shah, has said that the Kashmiri martyrs’ unparalleled sacrifices that have center-staged the Kashmir dispute at the global level would not be allowed to go waste. Shabbir Ahmad Shah addressing in Srinagar different delegations from Srinagar and Islamabad said, “We have high regard for sacrifices of Kashmiri martyrs and have not forgotten the Pathribal, Machhil and Lalpora incidents which are open proof of Indian state terrorism”. Commenting on the upcoming elections in the territory, the APHC leader said that the sham elections were no substitute to the right to selfdetermination of the Kashmiri people. He added that by staging the election drama India wanted to create a misconception among the world bodies that all was well in Kashmir and the people of Kashmir were taking part in the democratic process.—APP
Malik, has appealed to the Kashmiri people to stay away from the forthcoming farcical polls to safeguard the sacrifices of their martyrs. Malik addressing a public gathering in Soibugh area of Badgam district said that from 1930s, the people of Jammu Kashmir had been striving for freedom but from time to time leaders had betrayed them and helped foreign powers to oppress and suppress them and snatch their freedom. The JKLF Chairman said that although elections for so-called assembly or Indian Parliament were fought in the name of electricity, roads, employments and water etc but the fact was that people after being elected had always
the interests of India. He asked the people not to get deceived by the slogans of electricity, water, employment, tehsils and nayabats to safeguard the sacrifices rendered by the Kashmiri martyrs. “The history of Jammu and Kashmir bears witness that pro-India politicians and parties have always asked for our votes in the name of electricity, water, jobs and roads but have always used this for snatching our freedom, strengthening tyranny and oppression on the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Taking part in elections is demonstration of enmity with Kashmir and Kashmiris,” he said.—APP
APHC leader, Zafar Akbar Butt expresses solidarity with the family of the martyred youth Tahir Rasool Sofi in Baramulla on his first anniversary.
Kashmiri girls on educational tour forced to dance at Indian Army HQ in Kolkata SRINAGAR—Kashmiri girls on educational tour were forced to dance at Indian Army headquarter in Kol-kata. In a press statement today, Indian Army confirmed that a group of 22 girls from Kashmir’s Uri area showcased their dancing talent in the lawns of its Bengal Headquarters’. According to statement, A group of 22 girl students from Uri in Jammu & Kashmir, here in Kolkata on an educational and motivational tour under Army’s Op Sadbhavna initiative visited HQ Bengal Area today. The girls who are on their maiden outing beyond the Banihal Pass were accompanied by two female teachers and interacted with Maj Gen Harsha Kakar, Chief
of Staff, HQ Bengal Area and other officials. “The girls displayed zestful spirit and surprised all at HQ Bengal Area present by breaking into an im-promptu group dance playing their part as perfect ambassadors of Kashmiri culture, endearing and integrating themselves with fellow citizens, which is one of the primary aim of the army to undertake such initiative.” Press statement reads The group had left Uri on February 24, and visited Delhi and Lucknow before arriving Kolkata on Monday. During their stay they visited various landmarks and tourist spots in the city. Group is supposed to return Kashmir tomorrow.—Agencies
Indian University suspends Kashmiri students for celebrating Pakistan’s win over India LUCKNOW—The expulsion of Kashmiri students by a private university in Meerut has snowballed into a huge controversy. Meerut’s Swami Vivekanand Subharti University (SVSU) suspended around 60 Kashmiri students for three days and sent them back home for celebrating Pakistan’s victory over India in an Asia Cup cricket match in Bangladesh. The students were also said to be raising pro-Pakistan slogans. University vice-chancellor Manzoor Ahmed told reporters that the students’ gesture was completely unacceptable. The trouble began on Sunday night when a group of local and Kashmiri students were watching the India-Pakistan cricket match in the hall of the university’s Madan Dhingra Hostel and some Kashmiri students clapped every time an Indian player’s wicket fell, and later celebrated Pakistan’s win. Tension intensified after local student opposed and joined in a clash with Kashmiri students. Initially, authorities decided to suspend only those students who had shouted slogans. “But a three-tier inquiry finally recommended all Kashmiri students be suspended. Around 200 Kashmiri students are enrolled in B Tech and law courses in the university. The Kashmiri students were also victimized and tortured by the protestors, whereas the authorities of the University ordered the Kashmiri students to leave the university and also charged the students with 5000 rupees fine. The issue was raised by the opposition in the Indian Held Jammu and Kashmir assembly on Tuesday. While Peoples Democratic Party members supported Kashmiri students for shouting anti-India slogans, BJP and Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party members staged a walkout from the House.—INP
PDP takes to streets against Farooq Abdullah SRINAGAR: The main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has took to streets to register their protest against the National Conference (NC) patron, Dr Farooq Abdullah for allegedly terming ‘Kashmiris as biggest thieves’, Terming Farooq’s statement as insulting and disgracing for the entire state, PDP leaders demanded apology from him. The PDP activists led by senior leader, Khursheed Aalam, took out a rally from PDP office and marched to Regal Chowk. “Farooq Abdullah has labeled every citizen of state as biggest thief. In a function, he had made a mockery of our honour and dignity and hurt our sentiments. He has made audience to laugh at us,” Aalam said. Elaborating, he said, “Farooq Abdullah should look into his own doings. He and his party have inflicted miseries upon Kashmiris at all fronts including politically, economically and socially,” he said.—Agencies
No trading partner status to India: Dastagir
ISE-10 Index witnesses bullish trend ISLAMABAD —Islamabad Stock Exchange witnessed bullish trend here on Wednesday as the ISE-10 index was up by 40.44 points and closed at 4580.97 points. A total of 381,840 shares were traded, which were up by 211,340 shares when compared with previous day’s trading of 170,500 shares. Out of 154 companies, share prices of 95 companies recorded increase while share prices of 59 companies registered decrease whereas no company remained stable in today’s trading. The share price of Murree Brewery increased by Rs. 33.84 per share while the share prices of Shifa International Hospital decreased by Rs. 3.00 per share. Byco Petroleum, P.T.C.L and Akari Bank remained the top trading companies in Wednesday’s trading with 137,000, 100,000 and 60,500 shares respectively.—APP
Rates for conversion KARACHI—The following rates will be applicable for conversion into rupees of Foreign Currency Deposits, Dollar Bearer Certificates, Foreign Currency Bearer Certificates, Special U.S. Dollar Bonds and profits thereon by all banks and for providing Forward Cover on Foreign Currency Deposits (excluding F.E- 25 deposits) by the State Bank on March 06, 2014. The rates are U.S. Dollar Rs 104.4918, Japanese Yen Rs 1.0205, Pound Sterling Rs 174.2924 and Euro Rs 143.4568.—APP
PIAF for enhances market security L AHORE —Pakistan Industrial & Traders Associations Front (PIAF) on Wednesday urged the Punjab government to review security arrangements in all the industrial estates, markets and shopping malls to avert any intoward incident. The PIAF Chairman Malik Tahir Javed, Senior Vice Chairman Khamis Saeed Butt and Vice Chairman Amjad Ali Jawa stated here that government should direct the concerned departments to convene a meeting of business and trade leaders to identify their requirements to reinformce security arrangements in and around their industrial estates or shopping malls. They said it was a good sign that economic activites were gaining momentum following the efforts and right steps of the government.—APP
To be successful, you have to have your heart in your business, and your business in your heart. —Thomas Watson, Sr.
I SLAMABAD —Federal Minister for Commerce Khurram Dastagir Khanhas said that India cannot be given the status of trading partner unless it significantly reduces taxes on Pakistani textile products. In an interview with BBC, the commerce minister said that there is a proposal to give Non Discriminatory Market Access (NDMA) but made it clear that this would be approved only when India would reduce duties on the import of Pakistani textile products. He said if India wants non discriminatory trade relations, it would have to bring down the duties in the range of zero to five per cent. He said presently India has imposed duties between 80 to 120% on Pakistani textile products which is totally unacceptable. He said spade work has been completed at the ministerial level and the issue to be presented before the federal cabinet for approval. He as soon as Pakistan receives a positive response on its reservations after approval by the Indian cabinet, Pakistan would reciprocate. The Commerce Minister said there are other items on which Pakistan needed relief including chemicals, medical equipment and others. In reply to a quesISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Finance, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar chairing a meeting of the committee constituted by PM Office for tion, Khurram Dastagir said the government of Mian Nawaz Sharif wants to enhance trade relations with India on priority resolving the impasses in Pakistan-Russia relations. basis and no political issue would come in their way.—INP
Pakistan Auto Show 2014
Pakistan to emerge as auto manufacturing & export hub in Asia AMANULLAH KHAN KARACHI —Pakistan has a huge potential to become auto manufacturing and exporting hub in Asia, said Parvez Ghias Ceo Indus Motor Company (IMC) here today. IMC Chief said this on the even of Pakistan Auto Show 2014 being sponsored by IMC. He said such an event serves as a platform where untapped capabilities can be recognized, which will lead to development of the local industry. Indus Motor Company (IMC), the distributor and progressive manufacturer of Toyota vehicles in Pakistan, will bring the Pakistan Auto Show 2014, which is to be held from 6th to 8th March in Expo Centre Lahore. Being the diamond sponsor for the event, IMC is contributing towards the development of local auto engineering sector. The Pakistan Auto Show 2014 is Pakistan’s premier auto show event, held once in two years, where almost the entire local auto industry comes together to showcase their products, technologies and capabilities. This year’s show is also expected to attract thousands of attendees who will be getting first hand information on some of their favourite cars and two-wheelers. The event will also attract international buyers of vehicles and automotive components which may increase local industry
access to export markets. Parvez Ghias pointed out that this is the reason behind our initiative to support PAAPAM so that we can practically shape the dream of gathering all the vendors under one roof where they can showcase their attained level of localization and show it to the buyers from new markets.” He said that despite operating in a difficult environment, the local auto industry has shown tremendous improvements during the past decade as it has achieved on average 60 per cent localization while generating employment for thousands of people and bringing latest technology in Pakistan. He further added that level of localization at which the industry is standing today is a proof that OEMs are committed to the localization process. IMC alone has developed 60 vendors and has arranged for 34 technical assistance agreements for transfer of technology. In addition, IMC has invested over Rs 10 billion for progressive localization for its range of products in Pakistan and procured over Rs 18 billion worth of local parts and sub assemblies from local sources during year 2012-13. IMC will be displaying its flagship product Corolla which has been awarded “The Best Car of 2012-13” by consumer association of Pakistan.
BOK earns record Rs1.67b PBT OBSERVER REPORT ISLAMABAD—The Bank of Khyber (BOK) posted Rs.1.67 billion Profit before tax (PBT) for the period ended 31st December 2013 showing increase of 6.2.% of PBT over the corresponding period of 2012 which was Rs 1.57 Billion. This was stated by Mr. Imran Samad, Acting Managing Director BOK while briefing BOK Board of Directors (BOD) in 125th meeting of BOK BOD here on Wednesday. The meeting was presided over by Mr. Khalid Perez Additional Chief Secretary Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa & Chairman BOK BOD. The125th BOD was attended by Syed Said Badshah Bukhari Secretary Finance of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Dr. Ehsan-ul-Haq, Sajjad Ahmad, Mr. Maqsood Ismail & Mr. Asad Muhammad Iqbal apart from Mr. Rahat Gul Chief Financial Officer of BOK.The Board appreciated the efforts of the BOK Management and staff for their dedication and devotion to achieve the desired goals for the betterment of Bank and its vital role in socioeconomic development of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and rest of the country. The Board was pleased to note that
during the period under review BOK lending was Rs.35.45 billion showing increase of 32.7. % against corresponding period of 2012 which was Rs 26.72 billion. During the year 2013. The BOK deposit was Rs77.22 billion showing increase of 29 % over Rs60.04 billion of corresponding periods of 2012, which shows the confidence of masses on BOK. The Bank’s total assets reached to Rs 108.17 billion with an increase of 32.% over year 2012. The Board was informed that with the establishment of 21 new branches during 2013 increased BOK Branches network to record 100 branches which will further increase in 2014. The Board expressed their confidence over the field staff and Head office supporting team, adding that they have to work with more devotion and diligently to achieve more success in future. The targets of MCR set by the State Bank of Pakistan out of which by December 2013 we achieved Rs. 10 billion Paid-up Capital target successfully and remaining we will achieve as and when time comes. Imran Samad, Acting MD BOK declared 2014 as “ Year of Excellence” to ensure efficient services to the customers, with a touch of professionalism.
Cement dispatches during February breaks past record K ARACHI —Local cement dispatches during the previous seven months of sector was able to export only 2.487 during February 2014 were 2.135 million tons that is highest ever in the history, depicting a growth of 8.70% compared with corresponding month of last year. Revealing the performance of cement sector, Spokesman of APCMA said that during the first eight months of current fiscal, local cement dispatches stood at 16.274 million tons that were the highest ever in the country depicting a growth of 2.9% compared with corresponding period of last fiscal year during which the local dispatches were 15.814 Million Tons. “We are getting healthy demands from the domestic market, he said, adding that during February, the local dispatches increased to 1.76 Million tons in northern areas against average of 1.67 Million tons achieved
current fiscal. In the southern region, the local dispatches were 369,000 Tons during February 14 compared with 349,000 Tons average dispatches per month from July 13 to January 14.” he said. During the month of February 2014, exports from north declined to 381,000 tons against 445,000 tons during same month last year. Exports from south also declined to 202,000 Tons during February 2014 against 209,000 tons during corresponding month last year. Total exports from the country declined by 2.01 percent, counting to 5.292 million tons during the first eight months of current fiscal year compared to 5.400 million tons during same period of last fiscal year. From July 13 to February 14, Afghanistan market declined by 15.29 percent and cement
million tons to Afghanistan. Exports to other destinations through sea however increased by 14.60 percent to 2.513 million tons during this period compared to 2.193 million tons, during same period of last fiscal year. Spokesman of Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association deplored that the issues impacting cement sector have still not been addressed by the government. In last budget, cement has been brought within the purview of ‘3rd Schedule’ of Sales Tax Act 1990 that has increased the overall tax burden and has resulted in increase in the local prices. Considering the cement dynamics, industry wants government to reconsider its decision and remove cement from 3rd Schedule and to bring it in the normal sales tax regime.—NNI
RCCI to offer stipends to needy students R AWA L P I N D I —The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce (RCCI) will soon introduce a policy to offer sipends to the poor and needy students for acquiring higher education, besides offering employment opportunities to the educated youth. This was stated by RCCI President Dr Shimail Daud while addressing a meeting of the chamber’s Committee on Social Services held here on Wednesday. Dr Shimail said the RCCI had always been on forefront to help out the poor and needy people, especially during the times of sufferings and distress. He said the RCCI’s policy to help the needy students to accomplish their higher studies was in the offing and would be announced soon with the cooperation of members of the chamber, philanthropists and well-todo persons. He said the RCCI would also offer opportunities of employment to the educated youth. The RCCI President appreciated the efforts of the Committee on Social Services for organizing a free medical camp for the downtrodden people.—APP
ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Netherlands, De Vink called on Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Reform, Prof, Ahsan Iqbal.
FPCCI desk at Dubai to help Pakistani Exporters AMANULLAH KHAN KARACHI—Zakaria Usman, President FPCCI, currently visiting Dubai to attend the World CEO Investment Conference at Dubai on Expo 2020 said that FPCCI would setup an office at Dubai for a proper coordination for participation in Expo 2020 Dubai, which is going to be the world largest event after Olympics and FIFA. Expo 2020 Dubai is an opportunity which needs to be exploited by intensive aggressive planning, marketing and strategies to make the
maximum benefits from this event particularly in terms of projection of Pakistan in the field of exports, manufacturing capacity, investment opportunities, new business ideas, tourism, heritage, culture, service sector etc, Zakaria further added. The President FPCCI, accompanied by Shaukat Ahmed, Sr. Vice President and S. M. Naseer, Mazhar Ali Nasir and Khurram Sayeed Vice Presidents of FPCCI said that that Dubai Expo 2020 offers immense business opportunities to all countries particularly with reference to construction sector.
Sindh Revenue Board adopts multi pronged strategy to activate tax payers KARACHI—Sindh Revenue Board (SRB), cur- 60% through the reforms. rently focussed on tax collection from service sector, has adopted a multi-pronged strategy to activate already registered but dormant tax payers and expanding registered tax payers from 7,000 to 10,000. Chairman, Sindh Revenue Board (SRB), Tashfeen K Niaz talking to APP Wednesday said equal attention is being paid to enforce tax deeper into the unorganised sectors through installation of Point-of-Sale machines with real time connectivity. Building sustainable organisational capacity in tax administration with emphasis on human resource development and strengthening coordination with the Federal Government are also part of the strategy. “The above cited measures are equally important to strengthen our tax collection growth and achieve tax collection target of 100 billion by 2017,” he said in reply to a question To a query, he agreed that there existed potentials for additional tax collection of more than 50% to
SRB Chairman said the board had already set a precedence by recovering Rs 34 billion against the target of Rs 32 bln in 2012- 2013 and is fast on its way to surpass recovery target of Rs 42 bln for fiscal year 2013-2014. “We are fast on our way to register an increase of 31.25 percent in 2013-2014, against an increase of 28 percent for 2012-2013, infact Feb 2014 has been the best month ever in the history of SRB as the collection for the month exceeded Rs 3.7 bln” he said. In reply to a query, he said his organisation’s ability to accept challenges was consequent to the confidence reposed on him and his team by the Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Qaim Ali Shah. SRB, he said, plans to continue bringing untapped sectors into the tax net over the next two years. “We believe there is a high potential for increasing stable tax receipts in the years to come by activating the dormant registered businesses,”
said Tashfeen K Niaz. He agreed that critical interventions are needed at the strategic and operational levels to redress the challenges faced by SRB. Referring to proactive role of the Sindh Revenue Board in expanding the tax base of sales tax on services, he said that almost all sectors, except for medical services, education, public transport and a few other representing unorganised businesses, have already been covered in the SRB tax net. “But then there is also a flip side as against a total of 7,000 plus business entities registered by SRB only 2,500 or so are active tax payers,” he said. This can be attributed to overlapping taxation enabling many of the tax payers to refrain from paying the taxes to SRB. Moreover, persistent ambiguity in the interpretation of businesses either as manufacturing or service driven entities is yet another deterrent in enforcing sales tax on services in the letter and spirit. SRB Chief in reply to a question said undocumented trans-
actions are also among series of challenges SRB is currently faced with as many of the small and even medium sized registered tax payers, who happen to be potential tax payers, have no formal accounting systems. “This is reflected in the current trend of low ratio of actual tax payers to total registered businesses,” he said. Tashfeen Niaz also referred to application of legal recourse as a delaying tactic registered to hinder SRB efforts to bring new sectors into the tax net. Despite the express provisions of Article 199(4A) of the Constitution and the decision of the apex Court that interim stay orders made by the courts in relaxation to state properties and public revenue ceases to have effect on expiration of 6 months from the date of the order. “They have been very liberal and lenient in granting ad-interim orders in favour of the taxpayers which seriously affects SRB’s ability to collect revenue as proposed in the Budget,” said SRB chairman. He acknowledged that Sindh
Revenue Board has very limited access to valid and reliable data base on tax payers and consequently its ability to enforce tax is constrained. About capacity of SRB with regard to qualified tax administrators, the chairman of the board said there was dire need for well groomed tax administrators so as to help in effective expansion of its operations. “For fact, as of now the board has a total strength of about 150 incumbents across the echelons, which restricts its capacity to expand horizontally and vertically,” said Tashfeen. He, however, mentioned that SRB has already taken cognizance of the required reforms and through concerted efforts has achieved its recognition as an independent board empowering it to become even more effective. Consequently measures are underway towards resolution of operational ambiguities at multiple tiers while a comprehensive training curriculum has also been developed for SRB personnel.—APP
Selling
Buying
USA
104.70
104.50
UK
174.51
174.18
Euro
143.79
143.52
Canada
94.39
94.21
Switzerland
117.99
117.77
Currency
Australia
93.78
94.60
Sweden
16.24
16.21
Japan
1.0244
1.0225
Norway
17.41
17.37
Singapore
82.38
82.23
Denmark
19.27
19.23
Saudi Arabia
27.92
27.86
Hong Kong
13.49
13.47
Kuwait
371.69
370.98
Malaysia
31.99
31.93
Newzealand
87.85
86.68
Qatar
28.75
28.70
UAE
28.50
28.45
KR. WON
0.0978
0.0976
Thailand
3.232
3.226
Pakistan makes strong push for international goal on energy access UNITED NATIONS—Pakistan has called upon the international community to establish a new international goal on providing universal access to energy for all. Addressing a meeting convened by Pakistan Permanent Mission to the UN here, Ambassador Masood Khan said that there is near consensus on establishing a three-pronged international goal aimed at providing international support in promoting access to modern energy services, enhancing efficiency and doubling the share of renewable energy sources in the global energy mix. Around forty senior diplomats, from developed and developing countries including Brazil, India, China, Norway, Denmark, South Africa, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, France and office of the UN Secretary General attended the meeting. Pakistan, Denmark and Norway have been leading an effort at the United Nations to push for establishing an international framework as part of the post-2015 Development Agenda and associated goals on access to energy for all. Ambassador Masood Khan, while appreciating the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon for his initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, called upon international community to ensure establishing a robust global partnership for cooperation and development to succeed in this important objective. Ambassador Khan also termed the lack of energy for poor in South Asia as one of the foremost challenges facing humanity. He said that out of 1.6 billion people living in South Asia today, nearly 800 million people lack access to electricity. The UN Secretary General’s Advisor on Energy, Ms. Elizabeth Thompson underlined that need for ensuring that an international framework should not work in silos but rather forge key linkages with other sectors such a health, water, food and women empowerment. The Norwegian Ambassador, Geir Pederson and Denmark’s Ambassador, IB Peterson lauded Pakistan’s strong and constructive engagement in pushing for such an international framework and extended his government’s support in this endeavor. Last year, Prime Minister Mohammed Nawaz Sharif, during his visit to New York in September, held a trilateral meeting with his Norwegian Counterpart, Jen Jens Stoltenberg and the Minister for Development Co-operation of Denmark, Christian Friis Bach. The three leaders agreed to push for an international framework on energy which will not only provide assistance to energy starved countries, mobilize the private sector but also deal with the challenge of climate change by doubling the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.—NNI
Bosan for rehabilitating rangelands to promote livestock I SLAMABAD —Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Mr. Sikandar Hayat Khan Bosan Wednesday said that 60 percent of the country’s geographical area was rangeland, calling attention of policymakers to rehabilitate these to support livestock that has been playing important role in food security, nutrition and livelihood of poor and vulnerable. “The total rangeland area of Pakistan is 52.2 million hectors, which is around 60 percent of the total geographical area,” the federal minister said while addressing an inaugural session of two-day Rangeland Symposium here Wednesday. The Symposium has been organized by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in collaboration with Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) and Ministry of Food Security and Research. The federal minister said that livestock sector contributed over 11.9 percent to the national GDP, besides contributing 55.4 percent to the agriculture value addition during the last fiscal year. He said that livestock
production was one of the major activities, as it engages about 30-35 million people in rearing livestock in the rural areas, who derive around 30.40 percent of their incomes from it. “In this case, rangelands provide forge to the livestock in various ecological zones, throughout the country,” he remarked and added that the rangelands also play key role in water recharging and sustainable water flow for human consumption, irrigation and hydel. Livestock sector contributes to the food security and nutrition of the poor and vulnerable population both in rural and urban areas in the form of milk and meat, he said adding that besides, power generation. Therefore it requires special attention to keep these rangelands under a good vegetation cover to ensure water supply downstream, biodiversity, clean environment and eco-tourism. The federal minister called for immediate attention of the policymakers, government departments, research institutions, private sector organizations and local community to initiate some key developmental activities for the
rehabilitation of these rangelands. He assured the participants that the ministry would implement the recommendations of the symposium to help rehabilitate the rangeland. Speaking on the occasion, Chairman PARC, Dr. Iftikhar Ahmad said that in addition to serving as production base for livestock, the rangelands provide fuel, building material, medicinal plants and habitat for wildlife. He said that rangelands also serve as watersheds to the mighty Indus and its tributaries and drain into Tarbela and Mangla dams. He was of the view that this ecosystem is under severe threat due to climate change. Speaking on the occasion Country Representative FAO, Patrick Evans said that his organization was working with Pakistan on various areas including productivity, management and governance to improve livestock quality. He said that the symposium was organized to bring together the experts to address the challenges and enhance the performance of livestock, which is backbone of the agriculture sector.—INP
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Sikandar Hayat Khan Bosan addressing a symposium on ‘Rangeland Resources of Pakistan.
ICCI asks businessmen to focus on exports of agri products I SLAMABAD —Pakistan has huge po- world horticulture market is valued at facilitate fruit exporters in improving tential to enhance the export of agricultural products, but it is essential that the government should provide suitable infrastructure and necessary support to our farmers, growers and traders at par with our competitors. This was said by Shaban Khalid, President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry while exchanging views with a delegation of Islamabad Fruit Merchants Association that visited ICCI led by its President Babu Muhammad Aleem. He said the private sector is doing what it can to improve the standards of hygiene and packaging of agro products as per global standards and if government comes up with facilitative measures, the country could realize full export potential of its agricultural and horticultural products. He said the
$80 billion, but Pakistan despite being an agricultural economy has only a marginal share in this huge market because the government has been ignoring this sector for too long. He said government should take measures for establishing modern cool chains, international standard certification labs, grading and labeling facilities in the country. Shaban Khalid said Afghanistan, Russia, Central Asian States, Middle East, Europe and many other regions offer enormous opportunities for promoting export of Pakistani fruit products and businessmen should focus on value addition, quality packaging and advanced marketing techniques for getting better penetration in export market. He said CDA should pay priority attention to resolving Fruits Market problems and
exports for earning more precious foreign exchange for the country. He said Fruit Market needs more auction platforms due to increase in its size and CDA should ensure early construction of said platforms to ease congestion and facilitate the traders. Speaking at the occasion, Babu Muhammad Aleem, President and Tahir Abub, Secretary General of Islamabad Wholesale Fruit Merchants Association highlighted various problems being faced by the local traders. They said that CDA is earning millions of rupees as entry fee from Fruit Market but paying no attention to resolving its problems. They said existence of Afghan Basti near Fruit Market is causing law & order problems and called for shifting this Basti to any other suitable place.—INP
EU keen to see Pakistan developed state: Claes IMRAN SHARIF DASKA—Ambassador of Belgium to Pakistan Peter Claes on Wednesday told the Pakistan Observer on the ceremony of Sialkot exporters that Belgium and European Union (EU) intending to see Pakistan a developed and welfare oriented country. He said that the EU was providing maximum financial cooperation to Pakistan, enabling its people to get the maximum benefits of global peace and socio-economic development. Peter said his country was important trading partner of Pakistan and desirous of enhancing bilateral trade and economic ties with Pakistan. He said that Belgium was the 5th largest importer of Pakistani products in the European Union. He said that it was important to promote trade ties. He stressed the need for collaborated efforts on part of the both countries on the issue of water; bio masses and agriculture will pave the way for further progress, Claes said Govt of Pakistan has focused Trade not Aid policy which is a very good sign, He also admired the current industrial and economic policies of Pakistan and stressed implementation of the same. He said that his country was a viable and trustworthy partner with solid credentials in the industrial and business world. He said that Belgium is the 5th largest trading partner of Pakistan from within the 28 EU countries. He hoped enhancement of bilateral
trade relations. He also promised to support forthcoming FCCI trade delegation to Belgium. A trade analysis shows that during the period 2008-12, exports between Pakistan and Belgium have been growing @ 4% per annum compared to higher rate of 8% for imports from Belgium to Pakistan during the same period,” he said. He said that Belgium is the 5th largest trading partner of Pakistan from within the 28 EU countries. He also hailed the front line role of Pakistan in the war against global terrorism. He said that the Pakistan was not alone in this war and it was playing pivotal role in establishing durable global peace. He said that social injustice led the insurgency and militancy growing in Pakistan. He said that the people of Pakistan are the peace-loving who want to see durable global peace in the world. He said the country intended to develop and strengthen mutual trade relations with Pakistan and would ensure easy access for Sialkot exporters to the European Union (EU),He said Pakistani exporters emphasised that both countries needed to further strengthen economic relations through facilitation of governments and close coordination of private sectors. They were of the view that the Belgium market had a big demand for items produced in Sialkot, creating great potential for establishing joint ventures and business cooperation between the two countries especially in fields of sports goods, surgical instruments and leather products.
LSE approves listing of Units of NAFA Islamic Principal Protected Fund-1 SALIM AHMED LAHORE—Lahore Stock Exchange (LSE) Limited has approved the application for formal listing and quotation of the Units of NAFA Islamic Principal Protected Fund-1 (Open end Fund managed by NBP Fullerton Asset Management Ltd.). The Fund will be quoted under “Open-end Fund” sector of the Ready Board Quotation of the Exchange w.e.f. Thursday, March 06, 2014. After the listing of this fund number of listed fund in open-end sector of the Lahore Stock Exchange will be 64. The address of the Management Company is NBP Fullerton Asset Management Ltd., 7th Floor, Clifton Diamond Building, Block-4, Scheme No. 5, Clifton, Karachi. Tel # 021-111-111-632, Fax # 021-35825335. Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lahore Stock Exchange Mr. Aftab Ahmed Chaudhry congratulated the stakeholders and management of NAFA Islamic Principal Protected Fund-1.
21 diplomats from 17 countries visit LCCI SALIM AHMED LAHORE—As many as 21 diplomats from 17 countries on Wednesday visited the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, discussed economy, Chambers role in the economic growth, establishment of new businesses and capacity building of entrepreneurs. The LCCI Vice President Kashif Anwar gave the briefing to the diplomatic team, headed by Director General Foreign Services Academy Murad Ali. LCCI Executive Committee Members Mian Muhammad Afzal, Zafar Mehmood, former EC member Waqar Ahmad Mian and Secretary General Saqlain Naqvi also spoke on the occasion. The LCCI Vice President Kashif Anwar informed the visiting diplomats about the various initiatives being taken by the LCCI for the revival of the economy. He said that the Lahore Chamber was planning to hold three single country exhibitions to promote Pakistani merchandise at global business destinations. He said that besides these exhibitions, the LCCI regularly sends and receives business delegations to highlight the soft image of the country. He said that the LCCI had established a Mediation Centre at its premises with the help and cooperation of International Finance Corporation for the out-of-court settlement of business disputes. A number of businessmen having business disputes had already availed the opportunity to get their cases resolved amicably with the help of Mediation Centre. About the role of diplomats, he said, their role for the economic well being of any country was beyond doubt because they have enough
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Water and Power, Khawaja Mohammad Asif presiding over 95th meeting of Board of Private Power and Infrastructure Board.
knowledge to portray economic potentials of any country to the outer world and thus pave way for foreign investment.” Kashif Anwar said that that in the developing trade scenario, it is necessary that the developing economies enhance trade amongst themselves. There is a need to prioritize Afro-Asian partnership. That can either be in the form of regional blocs such as ECO, African Union or through other bilateral cooperation. ECO, which has remained dormant for quite a long time should be activated. Pakistan has a specific importance due to its strategic location. It is a gateway to Central Asian States. The development of Gwader Deep Seaport and highways in Pakistan is going to give a jumpstart to the trade of Central Asian states in the regional context and worldwide. These land locked countries would be easily accessible to the Afro-Asian countries. He said that the primary objective of Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry is to protect and promote the interests of the business community and it acts as a bridge between the government and the business community. The LCCI Vice President urged the diplomats to identify tradable items, which leave a lot of room for product/ market diversification. The basics for such exercises stem in the exchange of information between the diplomatic missions and the Chambers. He said the diplomats should also promote investment and trade between the states. He said that building long-term economic ties are the best guarantee of peace in this world and the diplomats has a key role in this regard.
HD Lee Head of Consumer Electronics Samsung shaking hands with CEO Smart zone Shakir Hakim after signing of MoU.
ISLAMABAD: Director General Planning and Development National Vocational and Technical Training Commission Headquarters, Sharukh Nusrat presiding over 7 th meeting of Technical Working Group on National Skills Information System (NSIS) at NAVTTC Headquarters.
Pakistani stocks end higher; rupee strengthens
Global oil and gas drilling hits 30-year high
I SLAMABAD —Drilling for oil and gas deposits outside KARACHI—Pakistan’s main North America has hit the highest level in three decades, stock exchange closed higher on Wednesday, with the benchmark 100-share index of the Karachi Stock Exchange rising 1.19 per cent, or 312.61 points to 26,521.99. The market continued its rally led by Pakistan State Oil Co Ltd and Pakistan Petroleum Ltd. Following handsome earnings announcements, investors remained interested in cement stocks while, on the contrary, Maple Leaf closed at 5 per cent lower limit, said dealer Samar Iqbal at Topline Securities. Pakistan State Oil Ltd rose 4.24 per cent to 385.50 rupees while Maple Leaf Cement Factory Ltd was down 3.54 per cent to 30.50 rupees.—APP
led by big exploration and production programs in the Middle East and Africa. More than 1,300 drilling rigs have been operating on average over the last six months, the greatest number since 1983, according to oilfield services company Baker Hughes, Arab News Reported. The number of rigs is up 20 percent compared with 2008 and has more than doubled since hitting a nadir in 1999. The boom is being led by the Middle East, where the number of rigs operating has tripled since 1999, and Africa, where the rig count is up almost four times. Rig counts reported by Baker Hughes do not include onshore China, Russia, the Caspian and certain other countries. According to the company, more than 400 onshore and offshore rigs were drilling in the Middle East in December and January, the greatest number since the 1970s. Over the last six months, Iraq averaged more than 90, up from zero in 1999, when the country was still under UN sanctions. Saudi Arabia also has more than 90, up from fewer than 20 in 1999. Kuwait, too, is witnessing a drilling revolution, with more than 30 rigs, three times as many as at the turn of the century. In Africa, the boom is led by Algeria (almost 50) and Angola (13 offshore). In both cases drilling has tripled over the last 15 years. These five countries alone account for 30 percent of the increase in drilling outside North America since 1999.—APP
All Pakistan Men InterUniversity Hockey Championship starts today P ESHAWAR —All-Pakistan Men Inter-University Hockey Championship will commence under the aegis of Directorate of Sports University of Peshawar here at Lala Ayub Hockey Stadium today (Thursday) while the opening ceremony of the Championship will be organized at hostel No 2 ground inside the camp. This was stated by Organizing Secretary and Director Sports University of Peshawar Bahre Karam while addressing a press conference here on Wednesday. He said a total of 16 teams from various universities affiliated with Higher Education Commission (HEC) will be taking part in the Championship. He said the Directorate of Sports Higher Education Commission had been divided 64 Universities in eight different zones and among them two teams each qualified for the final round organizing by the Directorate of Sports University of Peshawar for the second consecutive years. He said all arrangements have already
LAHORE: Punjab Education Minister Rana Mashood Ahmad Khan giving champions trophy to Mustqeem Butt who beat India in Weight Lifting during Punjab Youth Festival.
Pakistan peaking at right time but beware of SL: Wasim Akram K ARACHI —Former skipper Wasim Akram said Pakistan team has peaked at the right time to defend their title in the Asia Cup against Sri Lanka on March 8. However, he warned Misbah-ulHaq’s Pakistan team to be beware of the Sri Lankans because they are on a very good side, he told a private television channel on Wednesday. He said Sri Lankans are very clinical team so Pakistan team got to alert all the times. “Pakistan team is playing brilliant cricket at the moment with Shahid Afridi in his supreme best,” he commented. Wasim Akram said Afridi’s amazing batting changed Pakistan’s fortunes against arch-rivals India and then against host Bangladesh while chasing a their record total of
327. “I don’t have words what to say Afridi remarkable and amazing batting,” he added. He praised all-rounder for hitting his career best batting by Fawad Alam. “Fawad was making a comeback in the team after over three years.But steered his team to victory with a pair of sixes,” he remarked. He was critical of Pakistan bowling which allowed Bangladesh to score 326. “They bowled took much off-side the stump instead of bowling in the right areas,” he said. He expressed the hope that Pakistan’s bowling attack will learn from the mistakes. Pace duo of Umar Gul and Muhammad Talah received a heavy thrashing conceding 76 and 68 runs in their 10 and seven overs respec-
tively. Another Former Pakistan captain, Rashid Latif expressed his surprise the way left arm spinner Abdul Rehman bowled three beamers and was disallowed to bowl further in the match as per the rules. “I was surprised with Rehman’s beamers with almost a new ball,” he said. Commenting on the Rehman’s leading anchor Mirza Iqbal Baig said “I think Rehman had played his last match for Pakistan,”. Iqbal Baig also said that he was surprised to see Rehman was promoted in batting order ahead of Umar Akmal and Shahid Afridi despite playing his first match. Test batsman Basit Ali said three beamers in a row surprised me. He also questioned promoting of Rehman in batting order.—APP
Lahore wins Youth Festival baseball title
Recent victories of national team to help in final: Kamran ISLAMABAD—Wicketkeeper batsman of national cricket team Kamran Akmal has said that Pakistan’s performance against India and Bangladesh will boost up their moral for the upcoming final match. Talking to PTV news, Kamran Akmal said that team Pakistan is able to achieve any target and can trouble any side in the world with current combination. To a question, he said that Shahid Afridi is a legend and always delivers for the team in crucial times. “Ahmed Shehzad, Mohammed Hafeez and Fawad Alam played brilliantly in the last match against Bangladesh”, he added.—APP
KARACHI—Navy after dismissing Pakistan Customs for 252, raced to 76-1 in their first innings on day one of their 3day Patrons Cricket Trophy Grade-II second round tie at NBP Sports Complex Ground on Wednesday. Harmaan Haris held Customs’ innings together with a solid knock of 67 in 156 minutes which included eight boundaries. Faisal Mubashir hammered 48 with eight strikes to the ropes and Ali Talpur hoisted one six and four fours in his 37. First class spinner Nasir Owais grabbed three wickets for 71 runs in 28.5 overs and Faraz Ahmed and took three wickets for 116 runs in 33 overs. After losing Fazal Subhan for a duck, Hamza Ghanchi and Jahangir Shah added 75run for the second wicket as Navy reached 76-1 at the close in 19 overs. Hamza cracked five fours and one six in his unbeaten 42 and jahangir was 29 not out which was studded with six fours.—APP
Annual sports festival ends
L AHORE —Lahore
gave baseball lesson to Multan with 8-0 drubbing in the final to win the Punjab Youth Festival inter division baseball championship title here on Wednesday at University of Central Punjab. The winners enjoyed all time supremacy in the match with their astute and brilliant planning. Lahore kept Multan under persistent pressure with their superior display of skills and all round performance. Rawalpindi took third place in the event. Syed Khawar Shah, Secretary, Pakistan Federation baseball was the chief guest on the occasion and gave away the prizes. Also present were Chairman, Punjab baseball association, Moazzam Khan and Secretary, PBBA, Mazhar Ahmad and Musaddaq Hanif, head coach of Pakistan national team.—APP
Navy dismiss Customs for 252 in Patrons Trophy
I SLAMABAD —The annual
CHAMAN: Pashtoon tribals cricket fans dancing to celebrating the victory of the Pakistani cricket team in Asia Cup match against Bangladesh Pakistan Border town alongwith Afghanistan border.
Trials for PSB Squash Academy completed, 12 probables short-listed PESHAWAR—Two-day trials for selection of the twelve Under-14 players for the ongoing Pakistan Sports Board Squash Academy at Coaching Center completed here Wednesday. This was stated by former World No. 2 and Director Sports PSB Coaching Center Mohib Ullah while talking to APP here. He said the two days trials meant for the selection of new faces out of the exiting lot in the squash in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He said the Academy is working under Pakistan Sports Board since 2006 and is regularly training and coaching players below Under-14. He said after the selection of the Under-14 players, the players remained in the academy for a year time where they are being trained and coach under the qualified coaches comprising Pervez Iqbal, Shehzad Khan. He said that they have divided the training and coaching in two sessions physical training and court practice. He during the academy each and every players will be facilitated with a stipend of Rs. 500 PM besides providing them two rackets, two knickers , one dozens balls, one track-suite, one pair of shoes, two shirts.
He also lauded the efforts of the Director General Pakistan Sports Board Akhtar Nawaz Gunjera, who masterminded the Academy in way back 2006 in order to provide facilities to the players at grassroots level. Mohibullah, elder brother of squash wizard Jansher Khan, disclosed that Jansher Khan also paid visit to the Academy for his valuable tips to the youngsters. He said earlier there were eight players, part of the Academy with three female players – Laiba Ijaz, Laila Akbar Naima Khan but now the strength of the players have been increased to 12. He said we have also sent a proposal for approval to include female players in the Academy and hopefully the DG PSB would give approval for the inclusion female players. He said the four-member selection committee headed by Mohib Ullah Khan with other members comprising Pervez Iqbal, Shehzad Mohib and Azam Khan. The names of the selected players comprising Muhammad Yasin, Ahmad Salam, Khushal Riaz, Ghulam Muhammad, Walid Khan, Ibrahim, Fahad Sharif, Jawaz Khan, Abu Zar, Juniad Khan, Hamza Sharif, Liaba Ijaz, Laila Akbar and Naima Khan.—APP
sports festival of Fountainhead School concluded at its Islamabad and Chaklala campuses the other day. The festival was stretched over a number of days, when qualifying matches and races were held. The students were divided into two groups- the Panthers and the Stallions. Events for the preschool sections were held at the school premises at both the campuses, while those for the older students were held at the Super Sports Park in F-6, Islamabad.—APP
been completed well in time for the smooth conduct of the Championship. He said the final of the Championship will be played on March 11, 2014 with KP Sports Minister Mehmood Khan grace the occasion as chief guest at Lala Ayub Hockey Stadium. He said team comprising Punjab University, Central Punjab University, the last time winner, Superior Science University Lahore, Government College University Lahore, Sargodha University, Bahawalpur University, Bannu University of Science and Technology, Bahria University, Hazara University, Tando Jam University Jamshoro, Sindh University, Karachi University, Iqra University Islamabad, Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan and host University of Peshawar. He said the opening ceremony at campus will be organized at 4.30. Vice Chancellor University of Peshawar Professor Dr. Rasul Jan will grace the occasion as chief guest.—APP
Asif, Israr help SSGC to post 292 in Patrons Trophy K ARACHI —The duo of Asif Zakir and and one six in his 34 as SSGC reached a Israrullah cracked enterprising half centuries as Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) posted 292 all out in their first innings in the second round of Patrons Cricket Trophy Grade-II match against Sindh Police at the Arabian Sea Country Club Cricket Ground Wednesday. When play ended on first-day in the three-day fixture, Sindh Police scored 61 for the loss of four wickets in 16 overs in their first innings. Asif blasted nine boundaries and one six in his 81 and Israr’s 56 was spiced with half a dozen boundaries and one six.Usman Tariq cracked five fours
competitive total after inserted to bat first. Off-break bowler Sheraz Ali, who took 11 wickets in the drawn first game against K.Electrics, was the most successful bowler by grabbing four wickets for 82 runs in 20 overs.Ahmed Khan and Muhammad Obaid claimed three wickets apiece. Summarised scores: SSGC 292 all out in 71.5 overs (Asif Zakir 81, Israrullah 56, Usman Tariq 34, Mansoor Amjad 33, Saifullah Bangash 28, M Irfan 27, Sheraz Ali 4-82, Ahmed Khan 3-60, M Obaid 3-72) Sindh Police 61-4 in 16 overs (Hassan Sajjad 25 not out, Faheem Ahmed 2-6).—APP
FAISALABAD: Students taking part in the annual sports festival of Punjab College for Women.
Mir 7-23 in 21-ball as Saudi International crash for 53 K ARACHI —Southpaw pace bowler Mir Hamza snapped-up seven in an amazing 21ball with a hat-trick as K.Electrics bowled out Pak Saudi International for meager 53 in their first innings on the first day of their 3-day Patrons Cricket Trophy Grade-II second round tie at UBL Sports Complex Ground on Wednesday. Later former international Faisal Athar blasted 107 as K.Electrics reached 286 for the loss of six wickets in 66 overs at the close. Faisal blasted 13 boundaries and one six in his 107 in 178- minute added 126 runs for the third wicket with Saad Ali, who slammed nine fours in his 53.
Mir Hamza, who enjoyed a wonderful season for Karachi with over 50 wickets to his credit in Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, performed three in a row feat by grabbing the wicket of Rashid Ali on the last ball of his fifth over and removed Muhammad Shahzaib and Nadeem Babar on the first two balls of his sixth over. At one stage, Hamza has taken seven wickets without conceding any run. He ended with figures of 7-23 in nine overs. Pak Saudi International slipped from 20-1 to 53 all out. Opener Arsalan Khan top-scored with 19 off 40-ball with fourth boundaries.—APP
SUKKUR: Winning students holding the trophy of Inter-School Girls Throw Ball Championship.
India beat Afghanistan in dead rubber Asia Cup match D H A K A —World
CAPE TOWN: Nathan Lyon bowls to Kyle Abbott with plenty of catchers during South Africa vs Australia 3rd Test’s 5th day on Wednesday.
South Africa fight but Australia three wickets away C APE T OWN—The pace of Mitchell stonewalling effort that salvaged a in denying Australia victory at Johnson and Ryan Harris has caused South Africa problems in this match but the part-time legspin of Steven Smith provided what could be the decisive moment as Australia sought a series win on the final day. Faf du Plessis was threatening to repeat his
Australia 1st innings: ......... 4 9 4 South Africa 1st innings: ... 2 8 7 Australia 2nd innings: ........ 3 0 3 South Africa 2nd innings: Petersen lbw b Harris ................ 9 Smith c Doolan b Johnson ....... 3 D Elgar b Johnson .................... 0 Amla lbw b Pattinson .............. 41 de Villiers c Haddin b Harris ... 43 Abbott b Pattinson .................... 7 F du Plessis lbw b Smith ......... 47 Duminy c Lyon b Johnson ..... 43 Philander not out ..................... 51 DW Steyn not out ..................... 1 Extras: (b 8, lb 5, w 2, nb 5) ..... 20 Total: (8 wickets) .................... 265 Fall of wickets: 1-12, 2-12, 3-15, 468, 5-95, 6-136, 7-173, 8-246 Bowling: ...................... O-M-R-W Harris ........................... 24-15-32-2 Johnson .................... 33.5-10-92-3 Pattinson ..................... 27-10-62-2 Lyon ............................. 22-17-10-0 Wa t s o n .............................. 9-6-6-0 Smith .............................. 13-3-43-1 Clarke ................................. 5-2-7-0
miraculous draw in Adelaide in 2012, but the loss of his wicket shortly before tea left Australia only three strikes from victory. Du Plessis and AB de Villiers both dropped anchor on the final day, intent on occupying as much time as possible after Australia batted South Africa out of the contest on day four. It was a grind for Michael Clarke and his men as they tried to find a way through the defences of the two men but by tea they had removed them both, and South Africa were relying on JP Duminy, who was on 22, and Vernon Philander, who had made a quick 16, with the total at 201 for 7. The key wicket came late in the session when Smith struck in the first ball of a spell, drifting the ball in beautifully and turning it just enough to beat the bat of du Plessis, who was lbw for a 157-minute 47. Although it had been slow going during the 37run partnership between du Plessis and Duminy, it was nothing compared to the laborious tempo when de Villiers was at the crease - he used up 326 minutes and 228 balls for his 43. Harris was the man who got rid of de Villiers, who pushed half-heartedly outside off stump and got a thick edge behind off a ball that nipped away just enough off the seam. It was a vital breakthrough for the Australians, who knew that both de Villiers and du Plessis had the ability to bat out a draw, after they both played key roles
Adelaide Oval in very similar circumstances a year and a half ago. The Adelaide parallels were apparent at the start of play - in that match, South Afric began the final day at 77 for 4; here it was 71 for 4. By lunch not much had changed - in Adelaide they added 49 for no wicket in the first session; here it was 51 for the loss only of the nightwatchman Kyle Abbott. However, Abbott had frustrated Australia during a near two-hour innings of defiant defence. The frustration levels amongst the Australians became apparent from the chat being picked up by the stump microphone as Clarke placed men all around the bat; at one point, all nine fielders were in catching positions when Abbott was facing Johnson. The 27-run partnership at less than a run an over between de Villiers and Abbott ended only when Abbott shouldered arms to a delivery from James Pattinson that nipped in and clipped the top of off stump. Clarke tried all sorts of bowling options, including himself and Smith, but nothing else got through the defences of de Villiers or du Plessis until the second new ball had arrived after lunch. The Australians had not found much reverse swing in the first session, despite appearing to do their best to scuff the ball up with their return throws from the field, a practice that seemed to bring them words of warning from the umpires.—AFP
Lindsay Davenport elected to Tennis Hall of Fame N E W Y O R K —Lindsay Davenport was in the middle of another major life milestone when she found out she had been elected to the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The three-time Grand Slam champion got the call when she was in a hospital about to give birth to her fourth child in early January. With daughter Haven nearly 2 months old now, Davenport can start to reflect on the honour. ‘’Growing up playing tennis, getting to the Hall of Fame was never even in my dreams,’’ she said on a conference call Monday after the class of 2014 was announced. ‘’It seemed a little bit too big for me.’’ It never occurred to her until after she won her second major title in 1999 and Bud Collins, a Hall of Famer himself, mentioned the possibility. The 37-year-old Davenport is thrilled that at the enshrinement ceremony in Newport, R.I., on July 12, her 6-year-old son Jagger will get to learn about the sport’s history. He plays tennis, too. Davenport will be joined by fivetime Paralympic medalist Chantal Vandierendonck in the recent player category and coach Nick Bollettieri, executive Jane Brown Grimes and broadcaster John Barrett in the contributor category. Davenport won the 1998 U.S. Open, 1999 Wimbledon, 2000 Australian Open and 1996 Olympic gold medal to go with three major doubles titles. The American held the world’s No. 1 ranking for 98
weeks in her career. That first major championship, at her home Grand Slam event, always will be special.
‘’For any player who has ever played with insecurity, not sure where they’re supposed to be, how good they are, that really was a huge moment, not just in my career but for me personally,’’ Davenport said.
Bollettieri, now 82, has coached 10 players to the No. 1 ranking, including Andre Agassi, Jim Courier, Monica Seles and Boris Becker. In 1978, he founded the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy, the first full-time tennis boarding school. At a news conference in New York, Bollettieri acknowledged this was one of the few times in his life he felt at a loss for words. ‘’To be standing aside some of the players I’ve helped achieve what they are,’’ he said, ‘’is a dream that even Nick Bollettieri can’t comprehend.’’ Vandierendonck was a top Dutch player before she was injured in a car accident in 1983 and went on to become a pioneer in wheelchair tennis. Brown Grimes is a former managing director of the Women’s Professional Tennis Council, now known as the WTA Tour Board; president of the U.S. Tennis Association; and president of the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Barrett was the ‘’Voice of Wimbledon’’ on the BBC from 197106. His wife, former top-ranked player Angela Mortimer Barrett, was inducted into the Hall in 1993. Agassi and Steffi Graf are the only other married couple in the Hall. Davenport wishes she’d done a better job during her career of following Billie Jean King’s advice to ‘’enjoy the process.’’ But she’s proud that she believes she always played the sport for the right reasons.—AP
Cup champions India ended their disappointing campaign in the Asia Cup with an eight-wicket romp over minnows Afghanistan in their final league match in Dhaka on Wednesday. Spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin shared seven wickets as India skittled Afghanistan for 159 after electing to field at the Shere-Bangla stadium. Openers Ajinkya Rahane and Shikhar Dhawan then put on a 121run stand as India surpassed the modest target in the 33rd over of their innings. Rahane scored 56 and left-handed Dhawan made 60 before both batsmen fell in successive overs, but Rohit Sharma and Dinesh Karthik saw their team through in the onesided contest. The first-ever onedayer between the two teams had no bearing on the tournament because Pakistan and Sri Lanka have already qualified for Saturday’s final. India finished the fivenation tournament with two wins against hosts Bangladesh and Afghanistan, but having lost key MIRPUR: Nawroz Mangal was bowled during Afghanistan vs India in Asia Cup match matches against Sri Lanka on Wednesday. and arch-rivals Pakistan. Afghanistan, preparing for their maiden World Cup appearance next four matches, their lone victory brought on to bowl the 12th over, struck with his first and third delivyear, were beaten in three of their coming against the hosts. S a m i u l l a h eries to reduce the Afghans to 55Shenwari top- 3. scored with 50 With Jadeja and off-spinner and Noor Ali Ashwin quickly taking care of the Shami ................. 7.2-0-50-2 Afghanistan Innings: Zadran made 31, next four batsmen, Afghanistan Noor c Kohli b Jadeja ... 31 Mishra ................ 10-1-21-1 but eight Af- found themselves struggling at 95Nawroz Mangal b Shami 5 Jadeja .................. 10-1-30-4 ghanistan bats- 7 in the 26th over. Rahmat lbw b Jadeja ....... 9 Ashwin ............... 10-3-31-3 men failed to Shenwari boosted the total with Asghar b Jadeja .............. 5 India innings: reach double six boundaries and a six in his fifth Najibullah b Ashwin ....... 5 Rahane lbw b Mirwais figures in good one-day half-century as the last Mohammad Nabi c Ashraf ............................. 56 batting condi- three wickets added 64 valuable Karthik b Jadeja ............... 6 Dhawan b Muhammad tions. runs. Shahzad lbw b Ashwin . 22 Nabi ................................. 60 The batsJadeja returned with four for 30, Samiullah lbw b Shami .. 50 Sharma not out .............. 18 men appeared but Ashwin (3-31) and team-mate Mirwais b Mishra ............ 9 Karthik not out .............. 21 c o m f o r t a b l e Mohammed Shami (2-50) finished at Shapoor Zadran lbw Extras: (lb 1, w 3, nb 1) .... 5 against the the top of the tournament’s bowlb Ashwin .......................... 1 Total: (2 wickets) ......... 160 seamers, racing ing list with nine wickets each. Dawlat Zadran not out ... 2 Fall of wickets: 1-121, 2-123 to 54-1 by the They were one ahead of Saeed Extras: (lb2, w12) ........... 14 Bowling: ........... O-M-R-W 12th over, beAjmal of Pakistan (eight wickets) Total: (all out, 45.2 overs)159 Mohammad Nabi10-0-30-1 fore wickets col- and two more than Ajantha Mendis Fall of wickets: 1-30, 2-54, 3- Shapoor Zadran .. 6-0-25-0 lapsed in a heap of Sri Lanka (seven), both of whom 55, 4-60, 5-64, 6-83, 7-95, 8- Dawlat Zadran ..... 5-0-25-0 against the have games in hand. Samiullah ........... 4.2-0-32-0 111, 9-137, 10-159 turning ball. Sri Lanka will take on Bowling: ........... O-M-R-W Mirwais ................. 5-0-26-1 L e f t a r m Bangladesh in the last league match Kumar ................... 8-1-25-0 Rahmat Shah ........ 2-0-21-0 spinner Jadeja, on Thursday.— AFP
Indian players return home L AHORE —The 70-member Indian Delegation returned home here on Wednesday after participating in the Pakistan-India Punjab Games held under the banner of Punjab Youth Festival (PYF) 2014. The officials of Sports Board Punjab (SBP) saw off the visiting Indian Delegation at the Wagha border. During their stay in Lahore, the athletes of neighbouring countries featured in Arm-Wrestling, Kabaddi, Tug-Of-War, Wrestling And Weightlifting events. Pakistani athletes dominated the Punjab Games competitions. However, the visiting women team took the honours in kabaddi title clash. Talking to media at the border, the Indian players called the Pakistan-India Punjab Games as remarkable event. The Indian players expressed the hope that such events will continue in future as well to lift the standard of games in the sub-continent. Head of Indian Delegation Arvinder Singh said: “The love and respect, we received during our stay in Pakistan, can’t be described in words. The hospitality of Lahories was unforgettable and we enjoyed taking part in different events of the Punjab festival”. Indian athletes Sakhwinder Singh, Sandeep Singh, Karmeet Singh, Satnam Singh and Dharminder Singh while expressing their views said that though they couldn’t defeat Pakistani players at their home ground, yet they were quite happy to win the hearts of the people.—APP
Puyol to end decorated 15-year career at Barca B ARCELONA —Barcelona captain Carles Puyol, 35, announced on Tuesday that he will leave the club at the end of the season after a decorated 15-year career at the Camp
Nou.Puyol, who did not reveal whether he will continue playing elsewhere, has been plagued by injuries over the last couple of seasons and has undergone three knee operations. “At the end of the season I will leave FC Barcelona. The club are aware of this and we are in agreement,” he said. “We will rescind the final two years of my contract that were still to run.” Puyol signed a new deal with the club in January last year, but admitted in June that he would not stay if injuries continued to prevent him from playing a significant part on the field.
And having featured just 10 times this season in all competitions, he said it was time for a new challenge in a less physically demanding environment. “After the last two operations it has been difficult for me to recover the level I need to be able to continue here, more than I expected and more than surgeons said. That is why I have taken this decision.” Puyol didn’t reveal where he would go at the end of the current campaign and insisted he will give everything in what remains of the season to help Barca succeed on three fronts. “I am not leaving today, there are still three months of the season remaining and those that know me know that I will not give up until the end. I will continue fighting to help the team improve and achieve our objectives this season. “I don’t know what I will do on June 30. What I do know is that I will need time to rest. I have had four years without a break due to the injuries. That is what I will do and then we will see.” The announcement brings to an end an extraordinary career in the Barcelona first team that began in 1999. Puyol is the club’s second most decorated player of all-time, behind only teammate Xavi Hernandez, having made 593 appearances. After beginning life as a right-back, he was converted into one of the most successful centre-backs in world football over the past decade as he won three Champions Leagues and six La Liga titles with his boyhood club. He was also a key part of the Spanish sides that won the European Championship in 2008 and the country’s first World Cup in 2010, memorably heading home the goal that took his side to the final in South Africa with a 1-0 win over Germany. “Carles is an example for everyone on and off the field,” Spain coach Vicente del Bosque said on Tuesday. In total he has represented Spain 100 times with his last appearance coming in a 3-1 friendly win over Uruguay in February 2013, making him one of only eight players to have won a century of caps with La Roja.— AFP
Passive smoking causes damage to kids’ arteries
E
XPOSURE to second-hand smoke in childhood causes irreversible damage to children’s arteries - increasing their risk of heart attacks or strokes when they grow up, according to a large international study published on Wednesday. The research, which lends weight to campaigns for smoking to be banned in private cars and homes, found passive smoking leads to a thickening of children’s artery walls, adding some 3.3 years to the age of blood vessels by adulthood. “Exposure to passive smoke in childhood causes direct and irreversible damage to the structure of the arteries,” said Seana Gall, a researcher in cardiovascular epidemiology who led the study at the University of Tasmania. She said parents, or even those thinking about becoming parents, should quit smoking - both to aid their own health and protect the future health of their children. Smoking causes lung cancer, which is often fatal, and is the world’s biggest cause of premature death from chronic conditions like heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure. On top of the 6 million people a year killed by their own smoking, the World Health Organization (WHO) says another 600,000 die a year as a result of exposure to other peoples’ smoke - so-called second-hand or passive smoking. Of the more than 4,000 chemicals in tobacco smoke, at least 250 are known to be harmful and more than 50 are known to cause cancer, the WHO says - and creating 100 percent
smoke-free environments is the only way to protect people fully. About 40 percent of all children are regularly exposed to second-hand smoke at home, and almost a third of the deaths attributable to second-hand smoke are in children. This latest study, published in the European Heart Journal, was the first to follow children through to adulthood to look at links between exposure to parents’ smoking and thickness of the innermost two layers of the arterial wall, known as carotid intima-media thickness (IMT). Researchers from Finland and Australia looked at data from 2,401 people in Finland 1,375 people in Australia who were asked about their parents’ smoking habits. The scientists used ultrasound to measure the thickness of the children’s artery walls once they had reached adulthood. The results showed that carotid IMT in adulthood was 0.015 millimeters thicker in those exposed to both parents smoking than in those whose parents did not smoke. Gall said that while this was a “modest” increase, it was nonetheless an important extra and irreversible risk for suffering heart attacks or strokes later in life. Since children of parents who smoke are also more likely to grow up to be smokers themselves, and more likely to be overweight, their heart health risks are often already raised, she said, and the second-hand smoke adds yet more risk. The researchers said the findings showed reducing children’s exposure to smoke is a public health priority.
Students of different colleges presenting tableau during a ceremony to celebrate Cultural Day of Govt College for Women, Shahrah-e-Liaqat.
Traders, cops join hands to combat extortion, kidnapping IRFAN ALIGI KARACHI—Traders and Karachi Police had resolved to deal with threats to the traders of the city jointly while adopting a uniform strategy under which joint committees of traders and cops would be formed and traders would be facilitated in their efforts for obtaining arms license for self-protection. Station House Officer of area concerned would after consulting traders furnish a report about crimes to Police high-ups on weekly basis and under staffing would also be addressed in areas to be identified by traders. These steps were approved in second traders-Police joint conference held Wednesday at Traffic License Branch in Clifton. The conference was held to listen to the traders about their problems and suggestion for making the situation of law and order better in market areas. The traders had badly faced kidnapping for ransom, demands of hefty sums of money in extortion and killings of traders.
Business is seen closed in Patel Para area after the killing of Ahl-e-Sunnat Wal Jamaat worker allegedly in an encounter with Rangers.
Public complaints cell resolves 598 complaints STAFF REPORTER KARACHI—As many as 618 public complaints were received in the month of Feburary2014 by the Public Complaint Cell (PCC-919), established on the directives of Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah at CM House, and 598 complains have resolved which is 96 percent. This was observed by the Special Assistant to Chief Minister Sindh and PCC In charge Imtiaz Mallah in his monthly statement on the performance of the Cell issued here on today. He said that the Provincial Ministers and other officers received complaints from the public through telephone and conveyed the same to the officials of concerned department for early redressal. According the monthly statement of February there were 84 complaints against police,
182 K-Electric, 119 PTCL, 67 SSGC, 38 KMC and 128 complains reported against KWSB. In charge PCC has said that PPP Government believes in easy access to common man to redress the public problems at grass root level consequently has established public complaint cell with toll free telephone No 0800-91915 since 2008. He said by this methodology government was also monitoring performance of different provincial administrative organizations in resolving the public grievances and delivering their efficient deliveries to the people. He advised the general public to register/ convey their problems and grievances at Complaint Cell on telephone numbers 99202065,99208081, 0800-91915, 99202007 (fax), which are functioning round the clock. He assured the people that rapid action would be taken for solution of their problems.
Extra-judicial murder IRFAN ALIGI KARACHI—Extra-judicial murder of worker of Ahl-e Sunnat Wa Jamaat (ASWJ), Syed Farman Shah was a test case for the judiciary to prove its autonomy and freedom to deliver justice to the people. Chief Justice of Pakistan should take Suo Notice of extra-judicial murder of Syed Farman Shah by Pakistan Rangers Sindh. ASWJ Central information secretary Allama Aurangzeb Farooqui said this while talking to newsmen on the occasion of funeral of slain worker Syed Farman Shah at Football ground at Patel Para Wednesday. Meanwhile, workers of ASWJ in reaction to the extrajudicial murder of Syed Farman Shah staged protest on roads around Patel Para.
The conference agreed that SHO would be responsible for leaving traders satisfied with actions and steps and in case of his failure, traders would lodge a complaint against him at the Deputy Inspector General of Police’s office of district concerned level. Additional Inspector General of Police Shahid Hayat and All Karachi Tajir Ittehad Chairman Atiq Mir jointly presided the conference while representing Police and Traders respectively. More than 300 representatives of traders and SHOs of 20 sensitive Police Stations attended the conference. SSP Farooq Awan and SSP Gul Hameed Sammo were also present. Shahid Hayat told the conference that use of illegal mobile SIMs were a deadly tool being used by the terrorist but the mobile locators recently provided to Police had proved helpful in tracing the callers. The Thana Culture would also be improved and it would be peoplefriendly. He said that cops’ sacrifices for
the elimination of crimes would not go in waste and the city would return to its fame as the city of lights and peace and tranquility. All Karachi Tajir Ittehad Law and Order Committee Chairman Ahmed Shamsi on the occasion gave suggestions for bringing improvement in Police performance and due action on complaints of traders regarding crimes. On the occasion, DIG Sultan Ali Khawaja urged upon traders-cops liaison and asked the traders to lodge complaints against extortionist at Police Stations so that Police could take action for arrest of the perpetrators. All Karachi Tajir Ittehad Chairman Atiq Mir while appreciating the holding of the conference said that traders had practically joined Police force against criminals and in order to protect them and the people, traders had to take up arms against the criminals. He disclosed that traders would soon join a training campaign for using weapons in self-defence.
STAFF REPORTER
PMA seeks abolition of part-time professorship
KARACHI—Sindh Chief Secretary Sajjad Saleem Hotiana has
KARACHI—Office bearers of
CS emphasizes solving water, sewerage issues advised the Secretary Local Government and Administrator KMC to ensure provision of clean potable water and solution of sewerage problems, being faced by the people. He noted to resolve these issue throughout the province. He instructed this, while presiding a meeting, Wednesday, which was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary Muhammad Waseem, Secretary Local government Javed Haneef Khan, Secretary Implementation A. Hafeez Uani, Administrator KMC, M.D., KW&SB Qutubuddin Shaikh and other officers. The meeting also considered the matter of construction of road in Korangi Landhi Industrial Area. Eminent Industrialist Taufeeq Chenoy and Chairman Landhi Association of Industrialists Zaid Basheer, who also attended the meeting with specific reference of Road Issue, elaborated that construction of Road would also facilitate to general public in transportation, in addition to the Industrialist Community. Sajjad Saleem Hotiana called a concrete proposal from the Planning & Development Department to this effect within a couple of Days.
Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) in a press conference here Wednesday demanded that the alleged culture of part-time professorship at medical universities and colleges must be abolished. Dr Shershah Syed, Dr Mirza Ali Azhar, Dr Qaiser Sajjad accompanied by PMA-Karachi President, Dr Idris Adhi and Dr Qazi Wasiq said the trend has severely compromised the quality of education and training imparted to medical students. They also alleged patients are ultimate victims of the situation as they are deprived of their basic rights to quality medication and healthcare.—APP
Sufiana conference to help shaping opinion against terrorism OBSERVER REPORT K ARACHI —Members of MQM Coordination Committee are meeting scholars, clerics and custodians of the dargahs in Punjab in connection with the ‘Sufiana Conference’, which will be held on March 9 in Lahore’s Wahdat Colony’s Dongi Ground. They are extending them invitation for the conference. Coordination members met custodians of different dargahs and scholars and invited them to attend the Sufiana Conference. Coordination Committee member Abdul Haseeb said that MQM wanted to spread the teachings and message of Sufis to public. He hoped that the conference would help in shaping the public opinion against terrorism in the country. Custodians of Dargahs and scholars praised MQM’s efforts for organizing the conference. Abdul Haseeb visited the shrines of Khawaja Abdul Aziz Makki and Khawaja Alauddin Mauj Darya and prayed for the success of the conference.
Sanofi 1st International Diabetes Conference
Alarming rise in diabetes: 7.1m diabetic in Pakistan AMANULLAH KHAN
Drug peddlers arrested by Rangers and Anti Narcotics force in Malir area.—PO photo Sultan Chaki
KARACHI—Diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate in Pakistan. There are currently (approx.) 7.1million diabetic patients in Pakistan; by 2030 Pakistan is projected to have 11.4 million diabetics and will rank 10th in the world. The stunning fact was highlighted at “Sanofi 1st International Diabetes Conference” held at a local hotel here today. The conference was organized by Sanofi Pakistan in collaboration with the Diabetic Association of Pakistan (DAP) and brought together the following distinguished delegates from esteemed organizations such as World Health Organization, International Diabetes Federation, Turkish Diabetes Foundation and Diabetes Poland As-
sociation Building upon its century long history in the field of Diabetes, Sanofi is committed to improving diabetes management not only through its integrated offering of medicines, treatments and diagnostics, but also through interactive, medical educational events, scientific workshops and conferences, such as this one. The conference was addressed by prominent specialists including Sir Michael Hirst (President, International Diabetes Federation), Dr. Akhtar Hussain (Vice President, International Diabetes Federation), Dr. Gojka Roglic (Technical Officer, WHO), Prof. Leszek Czupryniak (President, Diabetes Poland Association), Prof. Sehnaz Karadeniz (President Elect, International Diabetes
Federation, European Region) and Prof Temal Yilmaz (President, Turkish Diabetes Foundation) This event brought several global diabetes experts onto a common platform to share their opinions, insights, perspectives, best practices with an audience of healthcare professionals from Pakistan. Speaking at the occasion, Sir Michael Hirst pointed out that 1/8th of the world’s population will have diabetes or be at risk of developing diabetes by 2035. He said “diabetes is an increasingly serious social, economic and medical threat faced by nations that must be a high priority of any developing country’s health policy as diabetes is not just a health issue, but a development issue (as it
hinders progress)”. Thanking Pakistani clinicians, Sir Michael acknowledged their “noble work not only in improving the lives of diabetics but also for contributing to IDF through insights and perspectives that help the IDF to formulate localized strategies”. The grand finale to the event was the launch of the KiDS project, a collaborative initiative between, the IDF, DAP and Sanofi Diabetes. The KiDS project aims to foster a safe and supportive school environment for children with diabetes to manage their condition and prevent discrimination while raising awareness about diabetes and the benefits of healthy eating habits and physical activity among school-age children. Following Brazil and India, Pakistan is 3rd country to launch this project.
Passive smoking causes damage to kids’ arteries
E
XPOSURE to second-hand smoke in childhood causes irreversible damage to children’s arteries - increasing their risk of heart attacks or strokes when they grow up, according to a large international study published on Wednesday. The research, which lends weight to campaigns for smoking to be banned in private cars and homes, found passive smoking leads to a thickening of children’s artery walls, adding some 3.3 years to the age of blood vessels by adulthood. “Exposure to passive smoke in childhood causes direct and irreversible damage to the structure of the arteries,” said Seana Gall, a researcher in cardiovascular epidemiology who led the study at the University of Tasmania. She said parents, or even those thinking about becoming parents, should quit smoking - both to aid their own health and protect the future health of their children. Smoking causes lung cancer, which is often fatal, and is the world’s biggest cause of premature death from chronic conditions like heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure. On top of the 6 million people a year killed by their own smoking, the World Health Organization (WHO) says another 600,000 die a year as a result of exposure to other peoples’ smoke - so-called second-hand or passive smoking. Of the more than 4,000 chemicals in tobacco smoke, at least 250 are known to be harmful and more than 50 are known to cause cancer, the WHO says - and creating 100 percent
smoke-free environments is the only way to protect people fully. About 40 percent of all children are regularly exposed to second-hand smoke at home, and almost a third of the deaths attributable to second-hand smoke are in children. This latest study, published in the European Heart Journal, was the first to follow children through to adulthood to look at links between exposure to parents’ smoking and thickness of the innermost two layers of the arterial wall, known as carotid intima-media thickness (IMT). Researchers from Finland and Australia looked at data from 2,401 people in Finland 1,375 people in Australia who were asked about their parents’ smoking habits. The scientists used ultrasound to measure the thickness of the children’s artery walls once they had reached adulthood. The results showed that carotid IMT in adulthood was 0.015 millimeters thicker in those exposed to both parents smoking than in those whose parents did not smoke. Gall said that while this was a “modest” increase, it was nonetheless an important extra and irreversible risk for suffering heart attacks or strokes later in life. Since children of parents who smoke are also more likely to grow up to be smokers themselves, and more likely to be overweight, their heart health risks are often already raised, she said, and the second-hand smoke adds yet more risk. The researchers said the findings showed reducing children’s exposure to smoke is a public health priority.
Governor Ch Muhammad Sarwar is taking oath as Provincial Commissioner Punjab Boy Scouts Association from Chief Commissioner Pakistan Boy Scouts Association Abdul Karim Baloch at Governor House.
Solid waste management system in five cities SALIM AHMED L AHORE —Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that after successful experiment of solid waste management in the provincial metropolis, this modern system of cleanliness is being introduced in five big cities of Punjab including Faisalabad, Multan, Gujranwala, Sialkot and Rawalpindi. He said that a number of projects are running successfully in Lahore and different cities of the province with the cooperation of friendly country of Turkey. He said that metro bus project is a glorious example of Pak-Turk friendship. He said that the historical fraternal relations between Pakistan and Turkey have turned into useful economic ties and trade and economic relations between the two countries would further strengthen in future. He was talking to a delegation led by Chairman Board of Directors of AlBayrak Group of companies Ahmat Al-
Nurses belonging to Myo Hospital Nursing Association are demonstrating outside Press Club in favour of their demands.
Courage, discipline required against terrorists OBSERVER REPORT LAHORE—The Chief Justice of Lahore High Court, Mr. Justice Umar Ata Bandial has said that terrorist activities are meant to demoralize and intimidate the public but we should have courage and demonstrate greater discipline among our ranks. Hon’ble Chief Justice said this while talking to a delegation of Wazirabad Bar Association headed by its President Iftikhar Ahmad Chohan in Chamber here, Wednesday. Hon’ble Chief Justice informed the delegation that last night he had visited the injured advocates and court staff in PIMS Islamabad where the victims were in high
spirit. The delegation also offered Fateh for the martyrs of the Islamabad tragedy and prayed that may Almighty Allah rest the departed souls in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved members to bear this irreparable loss with fortitude. Earlier, office bearers Lahore High Court Bar Association led by its President Mr. Shafqat Mahmood Chohan also met the Hon’ble Chief Justice and discussed security measures for the courts in the Provincial Metropolis. The Bar offered that even advocates be checked thoroughly and entry points to the court premises be reduced in order to better manage the security of the courts.
Literacy dept sets up 1500 Adult Literacy Centres SALIM AHMED L A H O R E —A delegation headed by Mr Nik (UK), Ms Rubina (Education Specialist, UNICEF) Ms. Ainee Nasir Jamy, (D.A.T.A) & Ms. Huma Mir (D.A.T.A) met Secretary Literacy & NFBE Department. D.A.T.A group (Consultants) made a brief introduction of their organization and its activities. Secretary Literacy & NFBE Department shared vision, mission and objectives of Literacy Department. He stated that this department is imparting education to those who are deprived of the facilities of education.
promotion of cooperation in energy and other sectors and assured that investment by Turk investors would be welcomed. Chairman Al-Bayrak Group Ahmat Al-Bayrak said that his group would promote cooperation with Punjab in different sectors. Describing metro bus project as a masterpiece, he said that completion of this project within a short period of time is a big achievement of Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif. The delegation included former Director General Energy and Privatization of Turkey Hasan Koktas, former Minister for Environment and Forests Osman Pepe, Managing Director AlBayrak Waste Management Bahri Tursakoz and Binyamin Karaka whereas Chairman Lahore Transport Company Kh. Ahmad Hasaan, Addl. Chief Secretary Energy, Secretary Local Government and Managing Director Lahore Management Company were also present on the occasion.
Young generation urged
Seek inspiration from leaders of Pakistan Movement OBSERVER REPORT LAHORE—Parliamentary Secretary for Information & Culture, Rana Muhammad Arshad has said that young generation should seek inspiration from the life and achievements of the leaders of Pakistan Movement. He said that present government is fully aware of the role of youth in the progress and development of the country. He said that the measures taken by Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif for the youth have also been appreciated at international level. He was presiding over a meeting of the committee set up by Chief Minister Punjab for observing birth and death anniversaries of leaders of Pakistan Movement in a befitting manner. Members of the committee including Additional
Secretary Information & Culture Rana Fazal Abbas, Director PILAC Dr. Sughra Sadaf, Executive Director Punjab Council of Arts Chaudhary Muhammad Asif, Director Iqbal Academy Hanif Shahid, Principal Government College Township Dr. Muhammad Ijaz Butt, Principal Cadet College Sialkot Sultan Sikandar Ghuman, Columnist Muhammad Saleem Butt, Vice President PML-N Lahore Shahzad Sharif, Assistant Prof. Masood Ahmed and Miss Hareema Tariq also attended the meeting. Rana Muhammad Arshad said that living nations never forget their glorious history and national heroes. He said that government is taking all out measures for apprising the young generation of the struggle and sacrifices of the forefathers of the nation during independence movement.
CM condoles OBSERVER REPORT LAHORE—Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif met chief pilot of his helicopter Col. Retd. Muhammad Safdar and condoled the death of his brother Rafaqat Hussain Awan, Additional Session Judge who was martyred in Islamabad katchery terrorism incident. Provincial Minister for Environment Col. (R) Shuja Khanzada also accompanied the Chief Minister. Sympathizing with Col. Retd. Muhammad Safdar, Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif strongly condemned the incident of terrorism in Islamabad katchery. The Chief Minister said that he was deeply grieved over the loss of precious human lives including Additional Session Judge Rafaqat Hussain. He said that terrorist activities of all kind are unacceptable and reiterated that terrorism and extremism will be eliminated. He said that incidents of terrorism cannot defeat the determination of Pakistani nation. Shahbaz Sharif offered Fateha for the departed souls of Additional Session Judge Rafaqat Hussain Awan and other persons martyred in Islambad incident.
Skills of gypsies showcased OBSERVER REPORT
Minister for Population Welfare Begum Zakia Shahnawaz and Convener and Gen Secretary for Punjab Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, Hina Parvez Butt chairing meeting of Punjab Women’s Parliamentary caucus.
Bayrak who met him, here Wednesday. Cooperation in energy, solid waste management and other sectors was discussed in the meeting. Talking to the delegation, the Chief Minister said that a system of solid waste management on the pattern of Lahore is being devised for other cities of the province as well. He said that Punjab government is extending special facilities to foreign investors in the province. He said that after Lahore, metro bus project is being started in Rawalpindi and would result in provision of speedy, comfortable and economical travelling facilities to lakhs of citizens. Shahbaz Sharif said that more than 175,000 persons travel by metro buses in Lahore daily. He said that government has started a number of welfare projects for the common man and metro bus project is a shining example of the best utilization of public funds to facilitate the masses. He said that Al-Bayrak group should consider
LAHORE—Provincial Minister for Labour and Human Resource, Raja Ashfaq Sarwar has said that gypsies are Pakistani citizens and have a beautiful and colourful culture. He said that Punjab government is utilizing all resources for the promotion of culture of Punjab besides giving an identity and necessary facilities to the gypsies. He was talking to mediamen on 2nd day of Gypsy Mela at Children Library Complex, Wednesday. District Officer Labour Muhammad Naeem, DEO Social Welfare and Chief Executive Officer of an NGO ‘Godh’ Nazir Ahmad Ghazi and representatives of different labour organizations and NGOs were present on the oc-
casion. The Minister witnessed ments prepared by the gypsies. gypsies and also appreciated the set up by different departments. the stalls of handicrafts and gar- The Minister lauded the skill of quality of products at the stalls He appreciated the efforts of Godh regarding identity and rights of gypsies. He said that according to their ancient tradition, gypsies move from one place to another due to which they have no permanent address and difficulty is faced in the issuance of identity cards to them. However, excellent work is being carried out for the registration of children of the gypsies and giving them Pakistani citizenship. Gypsies from all over the country displayed their specific skills in multi-colour dresses and expressed their culture through their handicrafts, songs and skills. The aim of holding of this mela was to pinpoint the problems of the gypsies and their solution by the concerned Folk singers performing during Gypsy Mela at Children Library Complex. departments.