Author: newsdesk

  • Petrol, diesel price in Pakistan to remain unchanged for first two weeks of January 2024

    Petrol, diesel price in Pakistan to remain unchanged for first two weeks of January 2024

    The interim government has chosen to uphold the current petrol price in Pakistan for the initial two weeks of January 2024.

    This decision is attributed to the absence of any significant decrease in global crude prices and amidst a stable exchange rate between the Pakistani rupee and the US dollar.

    The diesel price will also stay unaltered for the upcoming fortnight.

    As a result of this development, the prices for petrol and diesel will persist at Rs267.34 and Rs276.21 per liter, respectively.

    These revised prices will be effective from January 1, 2024.

    Earlier in the month, the government had reduced the prices of petrol and diesel by Rs14 and Rs13.5, respectively, following the bi-weekly revision.

  • President Pakistan Olympic Association Lieutenant General (R) Arif Hasan resigned

    President Pakistan Olympic Association Lieutenant General (R) Arif Hasan resigned

    Pakistan Olympic Association (PAO) President Lieutenant General (retired) Arif Hasan resigned from his post after 19 years.

    Lt Gen Retd Arif Hasan wrote in a letter to the Executive Committee of the Pakistan Olympics Association members that he is resigning as President of POA on January 1, 2024.

    He further wrote that the decision was not easy but due to ill health, he needed help to continue the responsibility of heading such an important organization.

    Arif Hasan is currently living in America where he confirmed his resignation when contacted by Geo News, while Secretary POA Khalid Mahmood has also confirmed Arif Hasan’s resignation.

    Arif Hassan was appointed as the Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the South Asian Games in 2002, after which he remained active in Pakistan Sports, in 2004 he became the first President of the Pakistan Olympic Association and was then elected for four consecutive terms.

    After the resignation of Arif Hasan, the executive committee of the POA will temporarily decide on the acting president until the next elections.

  • Our people of the year 2023: Motaz and Mahrang

    Our people of the year 2023: Motaz and Mahrang

    2023 saw the world witnessing war and injustices on a global scale, and the rise of indigenous leadership. It is said that leaders are not born, they are made. The war on Gaza and some indigenous movements have caused a paradigm shift in the collective consciousness of people by changing the way pop culture approaches celebrity culture. This time the choice was not hard. Heroes of 2023 are neither politicians nor actors, they are people who have not deliberately made their way to the limelight. Circumstances made them stand up for the cause they stood for.

    Motaz Azaiza

    Motaz, the photojournalist famously known as “The Eye of Gaza”, has emerged as the world’s window into Gaza. His Instagram and Twitter accounts provided a very real and horrifying peek into the oppression carried out by the Israeli forces.

    The world saw his transformation over a short time, as the war lingered on for more than 80 days. From grey hair at 24 to his struggle to have access to the internet, the world him document the horrors unfolding in Gaza’s genocide. His followers increased from thousands to millions and he became that one person who people prayed for when seen offline for a long time.

    This young man graduated from the University of Gaza in English Language Literature, pursued his passion for photography, and struggled as a freelancer in the limited options available in Gaza but his efforts got recognized post-October 7. His valour and commitment got appreciated in the form of him being declared the “Man of the Year” by GQ Middle East and the pictures taken by him making it to Times Top 100 Photos of 2023.

    “No one is safe, nowhere is safe, and fear is everywhere. Either I stay at home or I go outside. Why should I stay at home? I have to stand up and show the world the truth through the camera lens,” Motaz told The New Arab in an interview and this encapsulates the motive behind his work.

    Mahrang Baloch

    Mahrang, a student leader from Balochistan, is again a leader crafted by circumstances. At 30, she is leading a movement against the extra-judicial killings and missing persons in the country.

    Mahrang was just a young girl when her father was forcibly abducted and later found dead with signs of torture back in 2009. According to her, this incident changed her life completely. Unfazed, she became vocal about the inhumane acts. Her brother faced the same persecution in 2017 but that made her even more resolute to speak against this injustice. She actively led different movements in her student years. Mahrang was a student leader in 2020 when the removal of the quota system at Bolan Medical College emerged and she led the campaign to oppose the suggestion successfully as she believed that this quota system preserve opportunities for students from remote areas.

    The human rights activist describes herself as a political worker and an advocate of #endenforceddisappearences.

    She is currently leading the sit-in by Balcoh protestors in Islamabad, becoming the voice of tens of thousands of Baloch suffering the loss of their beloved in the province through the platform of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee. The death of Balach Baloch instigated a new wave of awareness about the issue and this time Mahrang is determined to not let the phenomenon of the “Baloch Genocide” go unnoticed.

    Both causes are close to our hearts, inspiring us with their bravery and determination.

  • Top three blunders by Pakistani celebrities in 2023

    Top three blunders by Pakistani celebrities in 2023

    Pakistani celebrities found themselves in the spotlight in 2023 for various reasons, and unfortunately, not all were positive. Let’s delve into the top three blunders that grabbed public attention:

    From social media missteps to controversial statements, these incidents stirred discussions and raised questions about the responsibility that comes with fame.

    Nida Yasir faced online mockery after mistakenly stating on Shoaib Akhtar’s show that Pakistan won the 1992 Cricket World Cup in 2006. Netizens swiftly responded with humor, sharing memes and comments about the gaffe. Yasir, known as the ‘queen of memes,’ has previously been trolled for various reasons, maintaining her reputation for unintentional comedic moments on live television. Twitter users seized the opportunity to share their amusement, once again making Yasir the center of online humor.

    Sehar Khan faced backlash for inaccurately labeling Priyanka Chopra’s ‘Barfi’ character. Critics highlighted the importance of using respectful language regarding mental health.

    Sehar apologized, acknowledging her mistake and emphasizing her respect for those with mental disabilities. The incident underscores the responsibility celebrities bear in shaping public perceptions.

    TikTok couple Sehar Hayat and Samir Rasheed faced severe criticism for conducting a poll on social media, asking followers whether they wanted to see a Valima vlog or Sehar in the hospital. After Sehar fell ill, Samir shared a picture of her in the hospital, sparking accusations of a tasteless publicity stunt. The couple deleted the poll amid backlash, with netizens condemning the prioritization of social media over Sehar’s well-being. The controversy drew attention from model Mathira, who called out the perceived fakery. Critics questioned the authenticity of their actions, fueling a social media storm.

  • Pakistan declared ‘best performing destination’ in tourism

    Pakistan declared ‘best performing destination’ in tourism

    Pakis­tan was the ‘best performing destination’ in terms of tourism during the first nine months of 2023, according to the ‘World Tourism Barometer’ published by the World Tourism Organisation of the United Nations, reported Dawn.

    Pakistan made a remarkable 92 percent recovery to pre-pandemic levels in 2023, as the country experienced a 115 percent surge in foreign tourist arrivals compared to the previous year, signaling a robust comeback post-Covid.

    With the recovery reaching 115 percent and projections of international receipts reaching $1.3 billion by the end of the year, Pakistan stands as a beacon in tourism resurgence, showcasing its potential on the global stage, Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Aftab Rana said.

    He attributed this success to the concerted efforts in tourism promotion. Pakistan actively participated in six major global events to project the tourism potential in the country.

    A strategic online outreach, along with the launching of the “Salam Pakistan” tourism brand in August 2023, contributed significantly to attracting a diverse range of visitors from across the globe.

    Minister of State for Tourism Wasi Shah congratulated the PTDC team and industry partners for the achievement, expressing optimism for a stronger performance in 2024 despite existing challenges. Mr. Rana spoke highly of the collaborative efforts of PTDC, provincial tourist departments, and private sector operators, emphasising the role of global events in expanding international partnerships.

    According to the WTO Tourism Barometer, other leading best performing destinations were Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Turkiye, and Romania among countries from Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East. Egypt and Serbia were at the bottom of the destination countries list.

    Key findings of the barometer show international tourism recovered 87pc of pre-pandemic levels in January-September 2023.

    An estimated 975 million tourists traveled internationally between January and September 2023, an increase of 38 percent over the same months of 2022, though 13 percent fewer than in 2019.

    International tourism receipts could reach $1.4 trillion in 2023, about 93pc of the $1.5tr earned by destinations in 2019.

    These results reflect the strong recovery of demand in 2023. By regions, the Middle East continued to lead the recovery by regions in relative terms, with arrivals 20pc above pre-pandemic levels in the first nine months of 2023. Europe, the world’s largest destination region, reached 94pc of pre-pandemic levels, supported by robust intra-regional demand.

    Africa recovered 92 percent of pre-crisis visitors during these nine months and the Americas 88 percent. In Asia and the Pacific, arrivals climbed to 62 percent of pre-pandemic levels.

    By sub-regions, North Africa (+5pc), Central America (+4 percent), and Southern Mediterranean Europe (+1 percent) continued to exceed pre-pandemic levels in January-September 2023.

    International arrivals are expected to reach 1.3 billion overall in 2023, up 33 percent over 2022 and almost 90 percent of pre-pandemic levels, in line with UNWTO scenarios published in January.

    Against this backdrop, international tourism is well on track to fully recover pre-pandemic levels in 2024 despite economic challenges and uncertainty derived from certain geopolitical tensions and conflicts, WTO says.

  • Winter school holidays extended in Punjab

    Winter school holidays extended in Punjab

    The caretaker government of Punjab has extended winter holidays till January 9 in all public and private schools in the province.

    Schools will now reopen on January 10.

    All colleges will also remain closed till January 10, however BS Honours programs will continue on normal schedules.

    The announcement has come as the province deals with intensifying cold and dense fog, reducing visibility greatly at night and early morning when most students are on their way to school.

  • Watch the trailer for Mehwish Hayat and HSY’s new telefilm

    Watch the trailer for Mehwish Hayat and HSY’s new telefilm

    Popular Pakistani actress Mehwish Hayat, known for her roles in hit movies like ‘Jawaani Phir Nahi Aani’ and ‘Punjab Nahi Jaon Ga’, has taken her talent to the global stage. She’s now part of Marvel Studios’ ‘Miss Marvel’, gaining admiration for her outstanding performance.

    Hayat is expanding her career further by establishing her own production house in the UK. Her goal is to showcase Pakistani culture on the international stage.

    In a delightful development, Mehwish Hayat is teaming up with famous designer HSY for an upcoming telefilm. Fans are excited about their on-screen chemistry, evident in the recently released trailer, which has everyone waiting with baited breath for the venture to hit our screens.

    Here is the trailer:

  • Second consecutive decline: Gold price drops by Rs900 per tola in Pakistani markets

    Second consecutive decline: Gold price drops by Rs900 per tola in Pakistani markets

    Gold sustained its downward trend for the second consecutive session on Saturday, experiencing a decline of Rs900 per tola in the Pakistani gold market.

    The price of one tola gold was established at Rs220,000, and the 10-gramme gold recorded a sale at Rs188,615, reflecting a decrease of Rs771.

    These figures were provided by the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA).

    In comparison, Friday witnessed a decrease of Rs1,900 per tola in gold rates in Pakistan. This local downturn aligns with the global moderation observed in the price of gold.

    The international rate of gold, marked by a $20 premium, was set at $2,082 per ounce on Saturday, following an $8 dip in the international market, according to APGJSA.

    In contrast, silver rates in Pakistan remained stable at Rs2,680 per tola.

    Reflecting on the broader trend, the year 2023 saw a noteworthy 20 per cent increase in gold prices in Pakistan, with the price per tola reaching around Rs184,000 by the end of 2022.

    The pinnacle of gold rates in 2023 occurred on September 2, recording Rs242,700 per tola, while the lowest point in the year was noted on October 4 at Rs188,400 per tola, based on APGJSA data.

  • Aymen Saleem shines in yellow outfit at mayoun ceremony

    Aymen Saleem and her husband Kamran Malik, who recently got married, have released wedding photos of the gorgeous ceremonies.

    Photos of former national cricket team player Saleem Yusuf’s daughter arr adorning social media on the photo and video sharing platform Instagram.

    At the mayon, held on December 27 at the actress’s maternal uncle’s house in Karachi, the actress wore floral jewelry and light makeup, complemented by a yellow gharara. Her groom, chose a matching yellow kurta and white pajama for the occasion.

    The former cricketer also wore the same outfit as his son-in-law in Mayun’s ceremony, while his wife and the mother of the bride were seen in orange dresses.

    Pictures of the engagement that took place on December 14 were revealed in which the actress wore a red gown by an Indian designer. Later, pictures of her Dholki in Karachi were also revealed.

  • Top 5 best couples in Pakistani TV shows of 2023

    Top 5 best couples in Pakistani TV shows of 2023

    1.Zara Noor Abbas and Haroon Kadwani in Jhoom

    Jhoom gained acclaim for its story about love, passion and drama. Aryaan falls in love with Maryam, a successful doctor.

    Zara Noor Abbas and Haroon Kadwani, the actors, did a great job showing the loneliness and pain in their characters’ lives. People really liked their performances, and that’s one reason why the show became so popular.

    2.Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi in Tere Bin

    Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi, who play Murtasim and Meerub in Tere Bin, are like the kings and queens of great on-screen chemistry. When they act together, it’s like magic. People all around the world are crazy about their sweet love story and the special spark they share. It’s like they were made for each other in the world of TV shows.

    3.Khushhal Khan and Dananeer Mobeen in Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri

    Khushhal Khan and Dananeer Mobeen, as Saim and Zubia in Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri, showcase relatable goals for young couples. Though the plot of Muhabbat Gumshuda Meri isn’t unique, the story feels fresh, portraying real-life struggles and mistakes. Audiences love the on-screen pair’s moments as they navigate mixed feelings and discover what they want in life and each other.

    4.Hamza Sohail and Sehar Khan In Fairy Tale

    Hamza Sohail and Sehar Khan, the breakout couple from Fairy Tale, are all the buzz of 2023. Hamza’s rapid rise to fame in Pakistan is remarkable. The Umeed and Farjaat dynamic, an enemies-to-lovers tale, is captivating audiences. In the story, 20-year-old Umeed, a chai-loving dreamer, clashes with grumpy CEO Farjaat on a game show in Islamabad. Their evolving chemistry and unique perspectives have made them the most talked-about on-screen couple this year.

    5.Haji Mushtaq and Sabeena Farooq in Kabli Pulao

    Haji Mushtaq and Sabeena Farooq, the standout pair from Kabli Pulao, are the talk of 2023. Kabli Pulao takes a daring turn with the unique love story of Afghan refugee Barbeena (Sabeena Farooq) and middle-aged Pakistani bachelor Haji Mushtaq. The actors skillfully portray the unusual pairing, infusing freshness into the narrative. Sabeena Farooq’s exceptional performance, embracing the Pashto accent, and on-screen chemistry with director Kashif Nisar make for a captivating and impactful drama.