Articles by Asif Jalal

World

Minister inargurated AIOU Sheikhupura campus

Advertisement - ISLAMABAD, Nov 09 (APP): Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain inaugurated the Sheikhupura Regional Campus of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU). Addressing the ceremony, Minister stated that the establishment of the new campus will provide exceptional convenience for local students, especially girls in pursuing higher education. “This is indeed a welcome development that will open doors of learning for the youth of Sheikhupura and its surrounding areas,” the Minister remarked. He also emphasized the importance of distance education in Pakistan as well as in the whole world, which is increasing day by day, said a press release here on Sunday. He underscored that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the usefulness of the distance learning system became evident to the entire world and as a result the University’s enrollment has now reached 1.2 million students. The Federal Minister lauded the remarkable progress achieved by AIOU under the dynamic leadership of Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Nasir Mahmood, noting that the University has expanded its reach and strengthened its role in promoting inclusive education across the country. Meanwhile, he said that government was taking serious steps to stabilize the economy and the nation is moving steadily towards self-reliance. “Our policies are being appreciated internationally, and we are successfully reducing our dependence on the IMF,” he added. Rana Tanveer Hussain also suggested launching computer classes at the Sheikhupura Regional Campus, saying, “I request the Vice Chancellor to initiate computer classes here so that student enrollment may further increase and the youth may have access to modern educational opportunities.” Addressing the ceremony, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Nasir Mahmood said that the number of AIOU students in Sheikhupura has already exceeded 10,000, which is still less compared to the potential and facilities available. He reaffirmed that the University’s mission is to ensure that every child in this region is enlightened with the light of knowledge and benefits fully from AIOU’s academic services. Prof. Dr Nasir Mahmood appreciated the continuous support of the government and expressed gratitude to the Federal Minister for gracing the event. He reiterated AIOU’s commitment to expanding educational access, especially for women and underprivileged segments of society through its vast network of regional campuses and innovative distance learning programs. The event was attended by university officials, faculty members, students and a large number of local dignitaries, who appreciated AIOU’s efforts to make quality education accessible at the doorstep of every citizen.

5 hours ago

Politics

KP to launch measles and rubella vaccination campaign in schools

Advertisement - PESHAWAR, Nov 09 (APP): The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to launch a Measles and Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign across both public and private schools in the province. According to the provincial health department on Sunday, the campaign will run from November 17 to November 28, 2025, targeting children aged six months to five years for vaccination against measles and rubella. The education department stated that health teams will visit public and private educational institutions in Peshawar district during the campaign to ensure all eligible children are vaccinated. Follow-up activities will also be carried out to guarantee complete coverage. Furthermore, all public and private schools and institutions have been directed to facilitate the vaccination teams and cooperate with the health department. Authorities warned that legal action will be taken against private schools that refuse to allow vaccination during the campaign, in accordance with relevant laws.

5 hours ago

Business

Zubair Ghangra nominated as a Member of District Human Rights Committee Hyderabad

Advertisement - HYDERABAD, Nov 09 (APP): Another remarkable achievement for the Hyderabad SITE Association of Trade & Industry, the true representative body of Hyderabad’s industrial sector. The Chairman of HSATI, Zubair Ghangra, has been nominated as a Member of the District Human Rights Committee Hyderabad by the Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh. According to the notification issued by the Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, dated 7th November 2025, the committee has been formed to promote and safeguard human rights and to monitor and prevent any violations at the district level. The committee will be chaired by the Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad, while its members include the Senior Superintendent of Police, Superintendent of Prison, and District Officers of Education, Health, Women Development, and Social Welfare Departments, among other representatives from various sectors. On this occasion, Chairman HSATI Mr. Zubair Ghangra expressed his gratitude to the Government of Sindh and the Human Rights Department for reposing their trust in the representatives of trade and industry. He stated that “the protection of human rights is not only a governmental obligation but also a social, moral, and civic responsibility of every citizen.” Mr. Ghangra further stated that he would utilize this important platform to put forward constructive proposals and take practical steps for the welfare of industrial workers, social empowerment of women, and provision of basic facilities to citizens. He emphasized that industrial institutions do not merely generate employment but also play a crucial role in promoting human dignity, equality, and a culture of social welfare. He assured that the Hyderabad SITE Association will continue to extend full cooperation with the Government of Sindh in all initiatives aimed at social justice, community welfare, and sustainable human development. On this proud occasion, the Patron-in-Chief, office bearers, members of the Managing Committee, and the General Body of HSATI congratulated Chairman Zubair Ghangra on this prestigious recognition. They stated that this is not only a personal success for him but also a matter of great pride for the entire industrial community of Hyderabad. His nomination is a clear acknowledgment of the growing role of the business and industrial community in the process of social and human development. The Hyderabad SITE Association of Trade & Industry reaffirms its commitment to continue serving the industrial sector and contributing to the progress and prosperity of Hyderabad with the same dedication and spirit.

5 hours ago

Health

Sweet-flavoured traps: How nicotine pouches are hooking the young

Advertisement - ISLAMABAD, Nov 09 (APP): Sleek tins, fruity flavours and a promise of “smoke-free relief” are pulling a growing number of young Pakistanis into a quiet addiction, nicotine pouches. Small white packets tucked between the gum and lip, they deliver a sharp dose of nicotine without smell or ash, and are rapidly becoming a daily habit among teenagers and young adults. Recent studies show use of nicotine pouches among 16- to 24-year-olds has tripled globally since 2022, from under one percent to 3.6 percent in 2024. Experts say Pakistan is following the same path, with shops and online sellers offering the pouches freely, no age limits, no warnings. Zar Wali, a cobbler in Islamabad who doubles as a street vendor, says demand is soaring when questioned by APP how this addiction is growing. “A 20-pouch tin costs around Rs 250 to 300. Brands like Velo, Zyn and Loop are popular mint, coffee, berry, whatever you want,” he said. “People buy them every day.” Each pouch contains 3–14 milligrams of nicotine, absorbed through the mouth’s soft tissues. One lasts about an hour but many users go through an entire tin daily. “It costs me Rs 300 a day, but I can’t stop now,” said Murtaza alias Sherry, a barber from Pandorian, Islamabad. “It gives a stronger kick than cigarettes, and no one even notices, not even at work.” Health experts warn the absence of smoke does not make these products safe. “They cause gum irritation, swelling and mouth sores,” said Dr Farah Malik, a dental surgeon in Islamabad, in response to an APP query. “Long-term use damages soft tissues, leading to gum disease, oral infections and even tooth loss.” Some users face graver consequences. Subhan, a private driver from Rawalpindi, started using the pouches to quit smoking. Within months, he was addicted. “I used one every hour,” he said. “Later, doctors told me I had pancreatic cancer. Surgery cost me over Rs 2.5 million, and I’m still on chemotherapy.” Dr Ateeq ur Rehman, a cancer specialist in Islamabad, talking to APP said pancreatic cancer has a survival rate of less than 10 percent when detected late. While there is no proven link between nicotine pouches and pancreatic cancer, he warned prolonged exposure to nicotine can still harm major organs. “Nicotine is toxic,” he said. “It raises blood pressure, affects the heart, liver and pancreas, and disrupts cell function. Continuous intake — even through smokeless products — increases the risk of chronic disease and possibly cancer.” Pakistan’s tobacco laws ban the sale of cigarettes to anyone under 18, but nicotine pouches escape scrutiny because they are not classified as tobacco products. “It’s a dangerous loophole,” said a senior official at the Tobacco Control Cell. “These contain pure nicotine — the same addictive chemical as in cigarettes — yet children can buy them freely.” Globally, regulators are starting to act. In the United Kingdom, health groups such as Action on Smoking and Health have called for strict packaging and age limits. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration is reviewing rules after a surge in teenage use. Doctors and educators in Pakistan warn that without awareness campaigns and clear laws, the problem could escalate fast. “It’s like naswar or cigarettes the addiction starts quietly but becomes hard to escape,” said Dr Malik. “This one just hides behind a modern image.” A recent national survey in Pakistan of 14,232 children aged 10-16 found that 3.4 percent of boys and 2.7 percent of girls reported having used nicotine pouches, a higher share than those who reported smoking cigarettes. Nearly one?third of respondents said they would accept a nicotine pouch if offered by a friend, and roughly one in three said they found it “easy” to buy such products. A separate point-of-sale survey found that although nicotine-pouch outlets comprised just 7.9 percent of stores across nine Pakistani districts, nearly 12 percent of those displayed dedicated advertising and many placed the products within reach of children. This underlines how the availability and social normalisation of pouches are contributing to early uptake among youth a worrying indicator of how widespread the “modern alternative” has become. As cases of tobacco-related illness rise, experts fear this new form of “smokeless addiction” could spread unchecked — unless authorities move quickly to curb access and inform the public.

5 hours ago

Politics

CM KP pays tribute on Iqbal Day, vows to fulfill poet’s vision

Advertisement - PESHAWAR, Nov 09 (APP): Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Muhammad Sohail Afridi stated that the message of Allama Muhammad Iqbal remains a vital source of national guidance today. In his message released on Iqbal Day on Sunday, the Chief Minister paid tribute to the national poet for delivering enduring message of self-reliance, faith, and action. CM Afridi emphasized that Iqbal’s philosophy was a call to renew national resolve to become a dignified, faithful, and independent nation that determines its own destiny and upholds justice and fairness. He affirmed that current government’s vision—a Pakistan built on the foundations of justice, merit, and self-restraint is the realization of Iqbal’s dream. He concluded by reiterating the commitment to creating a transparent, empowered, and awakened society in line with Iqbal’s thoughts, ensuring Pakistan fulfills the dreams of both Iqbal and the Quaid-e-Azam.

6 hours ago

Technology

Shaheed Benazirarbad police accelerates crackdown against criminals

Advertisement - NAWABSHAH, Nov 09 (APP): District police has mounted a series of operations against criminal elements across the district. The initiative was taken on the directives of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shaheed Benazirabad, Shabir Ahmed Sethar. According to police spokesperson, Police from various stations, during successful raids and patrols, arrested several suspects and recovered narcotics, weapons and a stolen motorcycle. The Airport Police Station arrested an active criminal, Muhammad Owais Khokhar, and recovered two packets of gutka from his possession. Bandhii Police arrested a suspect, Muhammad Brohi and recovered 1,950 grams of charas from his possession. A case has been filed against him. Similarly, Daur Police, during patrolling, arrested drug peddler Wazir, son of Haji Zameer Hussain Dahri, for possession of marijuana. Dauratpur Police arrested two active criminals, Sawan Unar and Aamir Unar, under FIR No. 123/2025, Sections 324 and 353 of the Pakistan Penal Code. A 30-bore pistol along with three bullets was recovered from their possession, and a separate case was registered under Section 24 of the Sindh Arms Act. In another operation, Dauratpur Police arrested suspect Ikhtiar Halio and recovered charas from him. A case was registered under FIR No. 125/2025, Section 9(1)(3)(b) of the CNSA. Meanwhile, P.P. Nawab Wali Muhammad Police recovered a motorcycle that had been stolen three months earlier and returned it to the rightful owner, Manzoor Brohi. The owner expressed gratitude to the police for their efficient work and appreciated the efforts of the SSP and the police team. SSP Shabir Ahmed Sethar reiterated that operations against criminal elements will continue without discrimination and that ensuring the safety and security of citizens remains top priority of police.

6 hours ago

World

International Culture Day brings together students, parents from over 50 countries: Ambassador Hashmi

Advertisement - BEIJING, Nov 9 (APP): Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi has said that the International Culture Day organized by the Pakistan Embassy College Beijing (PECB) is a significant annual event that brings together students and parents from over 50 countries. He noted that the celebration offers participants an opportunity to explore diverse cuisines, music, customs, and handicrafts elements that showcase cultural diversity while fostering unity and mutual understanding. “This is an event we organize every year, and students from Pakistan Embassy College always deliver outstanding performances,” he told APP. Praising the school’s contributions, he highlighted that PECB is truly an international institution, representing more than 50 nationalities and standing as the oldest international school in Beijing. “By bringing together parents, friends, and children from so many countries, including our Chinese friends, we strengthen bonds of friendship and mutual respect,” he said. Ambassador Hashmi said that the event attracted nearly a thousand participants, with social media amplifying the college’s efforts to promote Pakistan’s soft image and international solidarity. A variety of cultural stalls, art and history exhibitions, and children’s activities were organized at PECB, drawing enthusiastic interest from the international community. Pakistani food, handicrafts, and traditional attire were among the main highlights, attracting much attention from visitors. The stalls allowed participants to experience the flavors, fashion, and folk traditions of different nations. A vibrant mix of performances, including Pakistani, Chinese, Bangladeshi, and African songs and dances received warm applause from the audience. Students and families from China, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and several African nations, showcased their national cultures through stalls featuring traditional dress, crafts, and cuisine. Visitors also enjoyed history, geography, and science exhibitions, as well as fun activities for children, including a haunted house. To mark the occasion, Ambassador Hashmi and his wife were joined by the principal, teachers, and students in cutting a celebratory cake. The festivities concluded with a lucky draw, where participants received gifts.

6 hours ago