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Pakistan has become extremely relevant globally after May conflict, says Tarar
World

Pakistan has become extremely relevant globally after May conflict, says Tarar

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Monday said that Pakistan had become “extremely relevant” on the global stage after its performance during the military conflict against India in May. Elaborating on Pakistan’s image and standing in the world in the conflict’s aftermath while speaking at a function, the information minister said, “In a very short span of time, we have become extremely relevant in our foreign policy. We have seen in the past two years, and especially after the May war, I think that has redefined who we are.” He said the “turning point” after the Pahalgam incident was Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s open offer for an impartial and fair investigation because “we were often blamed for terror acts that were not our fault, and in fact, being the biggest victims of terrorism, there was a propaganda against Pakistan, blaming us for terrorism.” The information minister said that “you can’t be a victim and an aggressor at the same time – it’s an oxymoron, an inherent contradiction, it’s just not possible.” He said no other country could lay claim to the loss of 90,000 lives in the war against terrorism or billions in economic losses. “We are also a shield and a wall between the terrorists and the rest of the world,” Tarar added, saying that the sacrifice of any Pakistani was also for the sake of making the world a better place. The minister said the above sacrifices could not go in vain. “So, I think the time was right that the world heard our story and heard it right. By authoring this investigation just before the war, I think we had a point to prove that our hands were clean, and that point was well taken. “That turning point strengthened our fence, our alliances and countries that were on the fence; it made them realise what Pakistan stands for, and by authoring this investigation, Pakistan made a good diplomatic move which was well received the world over. I think after that, there was immense diplomatic engagement … and that constant engagement really helped us prove our point to the world. “So when I say the world was changing, Pakistan also changed; we saw an aggressive diplomatic change. Our diplomacy worked very well because we were taking it and relations with all countries very seriously. There was no laxity, and there was no room for any complacency, and we were right on the job,” the information minister said. He added that Pakistan did all it could on international media outlets. “We had the strength of the truth, so when we told the story and told it right, the world heard it, and it had an impact. So the right kind of aggressive diplomacy with the right kind of marketing campaign with the right kind of information to counter misinformation and disinformation – so we were everywhere all across,” he further said. Tarar also said he appreciated the “synergy” with the military’s spokesperson in putting out information, saying it would not have been possible otherwise. Returning to his main point about Pakistan’s increased global relevance after the conflict, the minister pointed to the country’s involvement in the Gaza peace process. Referring to diplomatic engagements in the past year, he said they had been at their “peak”, saying that Pakistan hosted a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. “After 14 years, we had 12 prime ministers coming to Pakistan, coming to Islamabad and talking about strategic ties, talking about regional cooperation, talking about counter-terrorism, talking about regional connectivity. Elaborating on the Saudi defence deal, he said people had taken great pride in that agreement and the people of the kingdom also celebrated the union. Tarar also mentioned the launching of the Economic Cooperation Framework, saying it had “really cemented” ties with Saudi Arabia. He said Pakistan’s economic turnaround was also acknowledged by the world. The information minister also touched on the tense relations with Afghanistan after recent skirmishes and the breakdown of talks in Istanbul, saying that “there is a situation with Afghanistan where we now believe that we have an additional forum where we can present evidence of their involvement in acts of terrorism. And we have been constantly saying that we have irrefutable evidence that their land is used for acts of terrorism. “And whenever an incident takes place and when you backtrack and go into the investigations, you will find somewhere or the other an Afghan citizen involved somewhere. So, this is something which we are dealing with and we have given a very loud and clear message in that regard. “So, I think Pakistan’s situation right now in terms of its economy, foreign direct investment, strategic ties, including trade and commerce in the region, outside the region, it’s been very, very optimistic, and we have had great results so far.” Tarar also pointed to growing ties with Malaysia in terms of trade and investment. “So, I think overall in these changing circumstances, Pakistan has played its cards right, and as you saw right after the attack on Doha, the Pakistan delegation was one of the first delegations to reach Doha and express our solidarity with the Qatari leadership. The information minister touched upon the burgeoning relations between Pakistan and the United States as well, with President Donald Trump’s frequent praise of PM Shehbaz and the army chief. “I think the way President Donald Trump has more than once praised Pakistan and praised the prime minister and the field marshal and mentioned those seven planes time and time again. So, you know, that’s a point to ponder upon. And we have had a great visit to the US. “Relations have improved immensely. And the recent visit to China. So, I think Pakistan’s relationship with each country has a unique nature. So, one relationship cannot be at the cost of another relationship. And I think that’s where the success of our foreign policy lies. And that’s how we plan to go into the future with a very, very robust, with a very effective and practical foreign policy which will not only give respect to Pakistan but which will also help us to take our economy to new heights so the life of an average Pakistani can also improve.”

KCR project added to CPEC on Sindh CM’s request
Technology

KCR project added to CPEC on Sindh CM’s request

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has appealed to Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif for federal support in establishing the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) project. “A large-scale project like the KCR cannot be completed by the Sindh government alone,” he said during a ceremony marking the upgradation of the historic Cantonment Station, which was chaired by the Prime Minister. Chief Minister Murad Shah expressed gratitude to both the Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and the Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi, highlighting the central government’s commitment to Karachi’s development. He emphasised that upgrading railway lines and branches is a positive development for Sindh’s residents. The CM Shah pointed out that, until the Karachi-Hyderabad motorway is completed, train travel remains the most viable public transport option. He called for expedited federal efforts to finish the motorway, reiterating that improved regional connectivity will greatly benefit thousands of commuters daily. The chief minister underlined efforts made to modernise Karachi’s transport system, including the introduction of electric buses, the launch of the People’s Bus Service, and pink buses dedicated to women. However, he noted that a comprehensive mass transit solution like the KCR is still necessary to address the city’s growing transportation needs. Murad Ali Shah once again requested federal backing for the KCR project, acknowledging that provincial resources alone are insufficient. He reaffirmed the Sindh government’s commitment to fully cooperate with federal authorities and the railways to ensure the successful implementation of the project. It may be noted that the Karachi Circular Railway is intended as a modern urban rapid transit system to ease traffic congestion and promote sustainable mobility in Pakistan’s largest metropolis. Revived after decades of dormancy, the project has seen renewed provincial government keen interest as Karachi’s population and transit demands continue to rise. The federal government’s involvement is crucial for securing international financing and technical expertise for the KCR. The Sindh government has pledged land, logistical support, and integration with other local transport initiatives. Initial phases are expected to serve thousands daily, with future expansion planned.

Punjab CM urges strict adherence to traffic laws to ensure road safety
Sports

Punjab CM urges strict adherence to traffic laws to ensure road safety

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif in her message on the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims emphasized the urgent need for responsible behavior on the roads and strict adherence to traffic laws. She said in her message that thousands of families lose their loved ones every year due to traffic accidents, leaving behind profound grief which is impossible to bear. She urged citizens to exercise caution on the roads and make their own safety as well as safety of others their top priority. She appealed to the public to avoid using mobile phones while driving, observe speed limits, prioritize pedestrians and drive with utmost care at all times. Chief Minister highlighted that the Punjab government is taking comprehensive and effective steps to enhance road safety across the province. She stated that stricter fines and additional restrictions have been enforced on traffic violators in Punjab. She outlined that regular vehicle fitness tests are being conducted to minimize risk of traffic accidents. She added that Punjab Safe City Authority (PSCA) initiatives and enforcement of modern traffic management system in various districts are contributing significantly to improve public safety. “If everyone acts responsibly on the roads, accidents will decrease and the citizens of Pakistan will remain safe,” she concluded. Separately, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif congratulated the Pakistan national cricket team on their clean sweep victory in the One-Day International (ODI) series against Sri Lanka, praising the players’ exceptional skill and determination throughout the series. In her message, the CM also commended the visiting Sri Lankan team for their sportsmanship and spirited play, which won the hearts of the Pakistani nation. She expressed confidence that the national team will continue to deliver outstanding performances in future matches, reflecting the high expectations of cricket fans across the country. CM Maryam Nawaz lauded the teamwork and dedication displayed by Pakistani players, emphasizing that such achievements bring pride and joy to the nation. Moreover, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has expressed profound grief over the tragic death of three Motorway Police officers in a traffic accident in Multan. She extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured personnel. The CM described the incident as a great loss to the police force and the nation, emphasizing the dedication and sacrifice of the officers in serving the public.

Senate election on Irfan Siddiqui seat on December 9
Politics

Senate election on Irfan Siddiqui seat on December 9

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday announced the schedule for the by-election on the Senate seat left vacant after the death of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Irfan Siddiqui. The ECP said that the by-election for the vacant Senate seat is scheduled for December 9. Candidates may submit nomination papers from November 20 to 21 to the Returning Officer, while scrutiny will be completed by November 25, the commission stated. The ECP has set November 29 as the last date for filing appeals against the acceptance or rejection of nomination papers. The last date for withdrawing nomination papers is December 1, the commission added, noting that polling will take place on December 9 from 9am to 7pm in the Punjab Assembly.

Sindh enables farmers to buy DAP, urea bags via Benazir Hari Card
World

Sindh enables farmers to buy DAP, urea bags via Benazir Hari Card

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari inaugurated the direct cash transfer initiative under the Sindh Government’s Wheat Growers Support Programme 2025 – a revolutionary and pioneering milestone in the country’s history – enabling farmers to purchase DAP and urea fertilizers through the Benazir Hari Card. According to the press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, the PPP Chairman said that the PPP believes that when the farmer prospers, the nation prospers. “Our vision is to ensure that farmers and small growers are not burdened with the cost of purchasing DAP and urea,” he said. He added that, on his instructions, the Chief Minister of Sindh and his team have devised a comprehensive plan to provide financial assistance to farmers and small cultivators across the province for the purchase of DAP and urea fertilizers. Addressing the Benazir Hari Card holders present at the ceremony, he announced that the financial assistance for purchasing DAP and urea has now been directly transferred to their accounts. Speaking about the initiative, he said that under this program, financial assistance is being provided to farmers owning between one and twenty-five acres of land. He pointed out that nearly 90 percent of farmers in Sindh fall within this category. Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that farmers across the country have been facing great hardship in recent years. He noted that the burden of damage to the agricultural economy has been borne by farmers in Larkana, Punjab, and South Punjab (Wasib). He further said that due to international agreements, provincial governments had been restrained from purchasing wheat or announcing support prices. He said that, following his appeal, Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif declared both a climate emergency and an agricultural emergency in the country, and also waived electricity bills for consumers in flood-affected areas of Punjab – a gesture for which he expressed gratitude. He also appreciated the Prime Minister’s efforts to negotiate with the IMF to allow the provincial governments to announce support prices and procure wheat for the benefit of farmers.

At least eight dead in explosion near Red Fort in New Delhi
Entertainment

At least eight dead in explosion near Red Fort in New Delhi

fAn explosion was reported near the Red Fort in the Indian capital of New Delhi on Monday, in which at least eight people were killed and at least 20 people were injured, local television channels reported. The exact cause of the blast was being investigated, city police spokesperson Sanjay Tyagi said. However, India’s financial capital of Mumbai as well as its most populous state of Uttar Pradesh, which borders Delhi, went on high security alert after the blast, local media reported. “Eight people have been killed in the explosion,” Tyagi said. Mangled bodies and the wreckage of several cars could be seen on a congested street near a metro station in the old quarter of Delhi, as police poured into the area to secure it and push back gathering crowds. Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha said the blast took place minutes before 7pm (6:30pm PKT). “A slow-moving vehicle stopped at a red light. An explosion happened in that vehicle, and due to the explosion, nearby vehicles were also damaged,” he told reporters. “The situation is being monitored.” At least six vehicles and three autorickshaws caught fire, Delhi’s deputy fire chief said, adding that the flames had been doused by firefighting teams. “We heard a big sound, our windows shook,” one resident, who did not give a name, told NDTV. Police tried to clear crowds that gathered around the site of the incident. Visuals on local media showed flames and smoke billowing from more than one vehicle in what was described as a congested street located near a metro station in the old part of Delhi. According to Indian outlet NDTV, the fire brigade was on site, while The Times of India reported that the fire caused by the explosion engulfed three to four other vehicles. Local TV channels reported that the cities of New Delhi and Mumbai were placed on high alert. Earlier, Indian media claimed that 2,900 kilogrammes of bomb-making material were seized during a raid in India’s Haryana area. “Officials confirmed that 360kg of suspected ammonium nitrate, along with 2,900kg of IED (improvised explosive device)-making material, including chemicals, detonators, wires, and other bomb-making components, were seized,” The Times of India claimed in its report, adding that two people were arrested. The Red Fort, known locally as Lal Qila, is a sprawling, 17th-century Mughal-era edifice melding Persian and Indian architectural styles, and is visited by tourists throughout the year. The prime minister addresses the nation from the fort’s ramparts every year on August 15, India’s independence day.

‘From Indus to Amazon’: Punjab sets up Pakistan Pavilion at COP30
World

‘From Indus to Amazon’: Punjab sets up Pakistan Pavilion at COP30

The Government of Punjab has set up ‘Pakistan Pavilion’ titled ‘From the Indus to the Amazon’ at COP30 Conference in Brazil where countries from around the world have also set up their pavilions. The pavilion has been decorated with the colors of national flag, and has become center of attention of the attendees. Big screens have been installed in the pavilion, where steps taken by the Punjab government for the protection of climate during the last one and a half years, including ‘Suthra’ (Clean) Punjab, have been highlighted. Documentaries of the steps taken by Punjab government in this regard are also being screened at the pavilion. Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif will officially inaugurate the Pavilion. On this occasion, she will express her views on the environment-friendly policies of the Punjab government. Separately, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that science paves the way for prosperity, peace, and a sustainable future. In her message on World Science Day/Week for Peace and Development, she said that the day is observed to raise public awareness about the role of science in promoting harmony and progress in daily life and emphasized that the youth must stay informed about scientific advances and research for peace and development. She added that the Punjab government is working to encourage students and young people to benefit from scientific research. The CM highlighted that providing opportunities in information technology, engineering, and scientific studies is a top government priority. She pointed to Nawaz Sharif IT City as a revolutionary initiative in science and technology and said scientific research would be promoted at the Nawaz Sharif Cancer Institute and Research Center and Maryam Nawaz Autism School and Research Center. Special focus will also be given to medical science research at Nawaz Sharif Medical City. She noted that a unique science and technology show was organized in government schools for the first time in Punjab, where students presented innovative models for peace, development, and promoting a scientific approach. A student from Rajanpur, she said, impressed everyone by presenting a Li-Fi model 100 times faster than Wi-Fi. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has expressed deep sorrow over the sad demise of Professor Dr. Arifa Syeda Zahra. The chief minister conveyed her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul. She said that Dr. Arifa Syeda Zahra’s distinguished services in the fields of education, social development, and intellectual discourse will always be remembered. She added that her contributions have left a lasting impact and earned her great respect at the national and international level.

Ex-judges, top lawyers urge CJP to summon full court on 27th Amendment
Politics

Ex-judges, top lawyers urge CJP to summon full court on 27th Amendment

As the government made moves toward the passage of the 27th Constitutional Amendment, former judges and top lawyers on Monday urged Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi to summon a full court meeting to discuss the proposed legislation. The request came in a letter, dated November 9, that was penned by senior counsel Faisal Siddiqi. It was also signed and endorsed by former SC senior puisne judge retired Justice Mushir Alam, former Sindh High Court (SHC) judge retired Justice Nadeem Akhtar and nine other top lawyers. The letter said that the missive was being written “not in normal times but in times that presented the greatest threat to the Supreme Court of Pakistan since its establishment in 1956”. It termed the 27th Amendment Act as the “biggest and the most radical restructuring of the Federal Appellate Court structure since the enactment of the Government of India Act, 1935”. “We say this without any fear of contradiction that no civilian or military government in Pakistan’s history has even tried, let alone succeeded, in relegating the Supreme Court of Pakistan as a subordinate court and permanently denude it of its constitutional jurisdiction, as is being done through the proposed Constitution (Twenty-Seventh Amendment) Act, 2025,” the lawyers and judges said in the letter. “If your Lordship is in agreement with us that this proposed amendment act is the biggest and most radical restructuring of the Supreme Court of Pakistan since its inception, then we would most respectfully request, and fully expect your Lordship, to call a full court meeting to discuss this proposed Amendment Act and to give an appropriate response to the federal government in the form of inputs and suggestions regarding this proposed amendment act,” they added. “We would respectfully not like to explain to your Lordship that the Supreme Court has every right and power to give its input to the federal government on any proposed amendment act,” the legal experts said, adding that the legislation proposes “radical restructuring” of SC’s basic essence, structure and its constitutional obligation to administer justice for all. The letter reiterated the call for an immediate full court meeting, noting that the Amendment was expected to be passed by November 11 “or any day thereafter”. The lawyers and judges went on to add that in case this request was declined on the “pretext of neutrality or noninterference with legislation (which we consider to be reasons without any substance), then we would at least expect you to accept and admit in a written response to us that you are now reconciled to be the last chief justice of Pakistan and now reconciled to accept the demise of the Supreme Court of Pakistan as the highest court in Pakistan”. “At least by this admission by you, we would no longer have any kind of expectation from your Lordship to be a defender of the Supreme Court,” they said. The letter requested that, as this was a matter of “utmost public importance”, a copy of the missive be released to the media. Besides Siddiqui and retired judges Alam and Akhtar, the letter was also endorsed by former attorney generals for Pakistan (AGP) Muneer A. Malik, Anwar Mansoor Khan; ex-presidents of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) Abid Shahid Zuberi, Ali Ahmad Kurd, Muhammad Akram Sheikh and Kanrani B. Amanullah; and SC advocates Khwaja Ahmad Hosain, Salahuddin Ahmed and Shabnam Nawaz Awan. Zuberi, Sheikh and Salahuddin are among the petitioners who have challenged the 26th Amendment, which had also faced great opposition from the legal fraternity at the time of its passage in October 2024. Kurd and other lawyers had vowed to launch a protest movement to reject that Amendment and “restore the judiciary’s independence”. Malik and Hosain had last month presented their arguments in the 26th Amendment case as counsels for the Balochistan High Court Bar Association (BHCBA) and veteran politician Afrasiab Khattak, respectively.

Arrest warrant for Aleema reissued by ATC
Politics

Arrest warrant for Aleema reissued by ATC

The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Rawalpindi, with Judge Amjad Shah on Monday while hearing the case related to the November protest at Sadiqabad police station, reissued the arrest warrant for Aleema Khanum as she once again failed to appear for the second time. According to the details, five prosecution witnesses were present in court during the proceedings, while from the accused, three attended in person, while seven appeared through their counsels. Regarding property matters, the court had previously sent letters to the Senior Member Board of Revenue, Secretary Cooperative Punjab, DG Punjab Land Records Authority, Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Chairman SECP, and CDA seeking responses or reports. No reports were submitted today, for which the court issued reminders to these authorities. Soneri Bank reps appeared in the court and provided its details as required. The court also issued re-warrants for the guarantors and beneficiaries who had taken vehicles. The hearing has been adjourned until Thursday, November 13. Separately, an anti-terrorism court cancelled the arrest warrants of PTI Leader Junaid Akbar and granted him interim bail. Judge Abual Hasanat Muhammad Zulqarnain granted him interim bail on a surety bond of Rs 5,000 till December 22. Junaid Akbar appeared before Anti-Terrorism Court during the hearing. The court issued notices to the parties on the bail application. The court directed the parties to present their arguments at the next hearing and adjourned the hearing till December 22. Junaid Akbar appeared in the court along with his lawyer Ayesha Khalid. A case has been registered against him at Kohsar police station.

Uprising Against the Regime!: Resistance, Internal Crisis & Divisions within Taliban
World

Uprising Against the Regime!: Resistance, Internal Crisis & Divisions within Taliban

Anti-Taliban resistance operations are intensifying rapidly across Afghanistan, marked by a dramatic increase in attacks against government officials. The resulting casualties are staggering: resistance groups have reportedly killed 53 Taliban officials in various operations since October 1st. Northern sources have confirmed this significant death toll which highlights the scale of the violence. Furthermore, multiple reports indicate deep-rooted differences among key factions of Taliban, specifically the Kandhari, Haqqani, and Kabul groups, whose indifference has significantly paved the way for unrest and exacerbated the crisis in Afghanistan. Moreover, the recent tensions with Pakistan on the border have also ignited a deep mistrust among the populace, alongside the major setback of the failed talks in Doha and Istanbul. It showcases the government’s inability to stabilize the country and further deepened a growing popular dissent against the Taliban regime. This deadly combination of internal crisis and diplomatic failure has profoundly ignited a massive uproar against the ruling administration.

Two terrorists killed as forces foil attack on Cadet College Wana
Politics

Two terrorists killed as forces foil attack on Cadet College Wana

Security forces on Monday thwarted a terrorist attack on Cadet College Wana in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s South Waziristan district, reportedly carried out by the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), security sources said. “A suicide bomber belonging to Fitna al Khawarij detonated explosives at the main gate of the college, injuring six civilians,” security sources said in a statement. Fitna al Khawarij is a term the state uses for terrorists belonging to the banned TTP. “Swift action by security personnel prevented the attackers from breaching the premises.” It added that a clearance operation was underway, with initial reports indicating that four to five terrorists have been killed. It added that the attackers attempted to replicate an incident similar to the 2014 Army Public School tragedy – when TTP terrorists killed 147 people, including 132 schoolchildren – but were successfully neutralised before they could inflict large-scale damage. Separately, at least 24 terrorists were killed by security forces in three separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, said a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Monday. The ISPR said the KP intelligence-based operations (IBO) were conducted between November 8-9. During an intelligence-based operation in the general area of Shawal in North Waziristan, eight terrorists were killed by the security forces. “During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged the khwarij location, eight Indian sponsored khwarij were sent to hell,” said the military’s media wing. In July, the government designated the banned terrorist outfit Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan as Fitna al Khawarij, mandating all institutions to use the term khariji (outcast) when referring to the perpetrators of terrorist attacks on Pakistan. In the second IBO conducted in the Dara Adam Khel district of the province, 12 terrorists were killed after “an intense fire exchange”. The military’s media wing added that sanitisation operations were being conducted in the areas to “eliminate any other Indian sponsored kharji found in the area”. It added that under Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, approved by the Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan, the security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan “will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country”. In a later post on X, the ISPR said security forces conducted an IBO in Kalat district on the night of Nov 1 on the reported presence of terrorists belonging to “Indian proxy Fitna al-Hindustan”. “During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged the terrorists’ location and resultantly, four Indian sponsored terrorists were sent to hell.” The ISPR said weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the slain, who were actively involved in numerous terrorist activities. It added that sanitisation operations were being conducted to eliminate any other “Indian sponsored terrorist” found in the area. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid rich tributes to Pakistan’s security forces for their successful intelligence-based operations against terrorist elements of Fitna-ul-Khawarij in Shawal, North Waziristan, and Darra Adam Khel. President Zardari commended the security forces for their courage and professionalism, describing the success of these operations as a reflection of the nation’s steadfast resolve and unity. He said that Fitna-ul-Khawarij and their India-backed facilitators are enemies of Pakistan’s peace and stability. The president reaffirmed the national resolve to root out terrorism and stated that the elimination of foreign-backed militants is being carried out through complete national consensus. He also paid tribute to the martyrs and lauded the unwavering determination of the armed forces, emphasizing that operations under Azm-e-Istehkam would continue until the scourge of terrorism was completely eradicated. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the security forces for killing 20 terrorists during the successful operations. He said the armed forces stand as a solid wall in defense of the nation, with the entire country salute their sacrifices. “The protection of Pakistan is our foremost priority, and we remain resolute in eliminating every form of terrorism,” the prime minister affirmed.

NADRA urges citizens to update marital status
Technology

NADRA urges citizens to update marital status

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has urged all married citizens to update their marital status in official records at the earliest in order to avoid any legal complications in future. According to NADRA local chapter sources, the authority has pointed out by general and social media (Facebook) that many individuals have registered their marriages with the Union Council but have not yet updated their marital status in the NADRA database. The authority has emphasized that such individuals should promptly visit NADRA centers to have their marital status recorded correctly. The update process is part of NADRA’s ongoing effort to maintain accurate and up-to-date citizens data. Furthermore, NADRA has launched an SMS service to inform married citizens in this regard, the sources said.

Family denies rumours about Senator Irfan Siddiqui’s health
Health

Family denies rumours about Senator Irfan Siddiqui’s health

The family of Senator Irfan Siddiqui, Parliamentary Party Leader of the Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) in the Senate, has strongly denied the reports circulating on social media about his health. According to family sources, Senator Siddiqui is under treatment at a local hospital. The baseless and fabricated information being spread on social media is highly condemnable and regrettable. The false reports on social media have caused severe mental distress to Senator Siddiqui’s family, the sources said. The Senator has not been put on a ventilator, the family sources confirmed. They added that the senator is receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to breathing difficulties. Senator Siddiqui has been under treatment at a local hospital in Islamabad for the past few days due to respiratory problems.

World Science Day for Peace & Development celebrated
World

World Science Day for Peace & Development celebrated

Pakistan joined the global community in celebrating World Science Day for Peace and Development 2025, with a national event organized by the Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) in collaboration with the Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS) and the Economic Cooperation Organization Science Foundation (ECOSF). The event, held in Islamabad, brought together leading scientists, diplomats, educators, and policymakers to highlight the power of science in building trust, driving innovation, and shaping a sustainable future. This year’s theme, “Trust, Transformation and Tomorrow – The Science We Need for 2050,” underscored the vital role of scientific knowledge in addressing global challenges, promoting peace, and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in line with UNESCO’s vision for inclusive and sustainable progress. The chief guest, Shahid Iqbal Baloch, Federal Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST), commended PSF, PAS, and ECOSF for successfully organizing the event and for their continued efforts in promoting research and innovation in Pakistan. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the national science and technology ecosystem, fostering public trust in science, and aligning national priorities with the SDGs. “Trust in science is the foundation of progress – it transforms uncertainty into opportunity and inspires future innovation,” Mr. Baloch remarked. He urged scientists, educators, and policymakers to work collectively to create an enabling environment for research, technology, and innovation that benefits all segments of society. The event began with a warm welcome from Dr. Muhammad Akmal, Chairman, Pakistan Science Foundation, who thanked the distinguished guests, partner organizations, and participants. He emphasized that PSF is fully committed to advancing science, research, and innovation in the country. “World Science Day reminds us of our shared responsibility to use science with trust, inclusivity, and for the well-being of humanity,” Dr. Akmal said. Dr. Aslam Baig, Secretary General, Pakistan Academy of Sciences, highlighted the importance of integrity, transparency, and effective communication in building trust in science. He reaffirmed PAS’s commitment to promoting evidence-based policymaking and maintaining high scientific standards in Pakistan. Mr. Fawad Pashief, UNESCO Representative to Pakistan, praised the country’s active engagement in UNESCO’s science programs. He reiterated UNESCO’s support for initiatives that strengthen the role of science in peace and development. “Building trust in science is essential not only to counter misinformation but also to ensure equitable access to knowledge and reinforce public confidence,” he stated. Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Memon, Executive Director, ECOSF, underscored the importance of scientific and technical cooperation at regional and global levels. He highlighted ECOSF’s ongoing regional programs to promote STEM education, innovation, and sustainable development. Two thought-provoking keynote addresses were delivered during the event. The first, by Dr. Ahmad Ali Sarohi, Director General (Africa), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focused on “Science Diplomacy and Trust in a Fragmented Global Landscape.” He elaborated that science diplomacy serves as an effective bridge to foster dialogue, trust, and collaboration among nations. Dr. Sarohi emphasized Pakistan’s active role in international scientific partnerships to promote peace and progress. The second keynote, by Dr. Muhammad Sabih Anwar, Professor of Physics and former Dean at LUMS Lahore, explored the event’s main theme “Trust, Transformation and Tomorrow – The Science We Need for 2050.” He highlighted the transformative power of science to reshape societies and economies, calling for ethical scientific advancement, inclusive innovation, and greater investment in education and research to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future. The speakers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trust in science, fostering regional cooperation, and leveraging innovation for sustainable development. The event stood as a testament to the shared belief that science is not merely a tool for progress but also a bridge to peace, trust, and global harmony.

‘Extrajudicial killings intolerable in democracy,’ declares SC judge

Supreme Court judge Athar Minallah, in his dissenting opinion, has stated that individuals of law enforcement agencies involved in extra-judicial killings, enforced disappearances and custodial torture deserve the severest punishment under the law. “Enforced disappearances, extra-judicial killings, custodial torture and murders, and excessive use of force are the most intolerable crimes in a democratic society […]

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