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  • Petrol, diesel prices in Pakistan likely to drop as global oil prices decline

    Petrol, diesel prices in Pakistan likely to drop as global oil prices decline

    In a potential relief for Pakistanis grappling with inflation, the government is expected to reduce petrol prices for the first half of May 2024, following a dip in global oil prices.

    According to reports, petrol prices could drop by around Rs3.75 per litre, with a final announcement scheduled for midnight on April 30, 2024.

    This price cut, if implemented, is a response to a recent decline in international petroleum product prices, with a drop of $1.86 to $107.16 per barrel observed.

    High-speed diesel (HSD) prices are also likely to be adjusted, with a reduction of around Rs7.85 per litre anticipated, owing to a $4.3 per barrel decrease in global prices.

    Additionally, the stability of the Pakistani rupee against the US dollar has contributed to the downward trend.

    Since the previous fortnight, the local currency has remained steady at a weighted average rate of approximately Rs278.38 per USD.

    However, these figures are subject to change, as there are still three more trading sessions before the final pricing announcement.

    Fluctuations in the global market and exchange rate movements could impact the final decision.

    In the last pricing update, the government increased petrol prices by Rs4.53 to Rs293.94 per litre, while high-speed diesel saw an increase of Rs8.14 to Rs290.38 per litre.

    The upcoming price adjustments, if confirmed, could provide some relief to consumers affected by inflationary pressures.

  • Not just a game: PUBG Pakistan is partnering with the Prime Minister Youth Program

    Not just a game: PUBG Pakistan is partnering with the Prime Minister Youth Program

    Who doesn’t know PUBG? The game where you can interact with others, where people have found love (and betrayal) and friends. Well now, the famous video game ‘PUBG mobile’ has now collaborated with the Prime Minister Youth Program and Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan.

    PUBG Mobile’s collaboration with the Prime Minister Youth Program and Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan marks a major step towards helping and working with the potential of Pakistan’s youth. The program aims to create a platform where gaming isn’t a totally negative way to spend your time. You can showcase your skills in competitive gaming events meaning the new age of esports.

    The partnership between PUBG Mobile and the Prime Minister Youth Program is highlighting esports as a real and important avenue for skill development and career opportunities. This program seeks to engage youth from across Pakistan, providing them with access to professional gaming resources and mentorship opportunities.

    Moreover, this initiative is in line with the broader objectives of the Prime Minister Youth Program and the HEC to empower young people through education, skill-building, and innovation.

    Participants can expect a diverse range of activities, including tournaments, leagues, and educational seminars conducted by professionals within the gaming industry.

  • No plans for fixed tax on solar power, says Power Division

    No plans for fixed tax on solar power, says Power Division

    The Power Division has dismissed recent media reports suggesting that the government is imposing a fixed tax on solar power.

    According to a notification released by the Information Ministry today, these reports are unfounded and inaccurate.

    The Power Division clarified in a statement that there is no substance to the claims about a fixed tax on solar power.

    It highlighted that neither the Central Power Purchasing Agency nor the Power Division has submitted any summary to the government proposing such a measure.

    The statement highlighted that the Net Metering Policy of 2017 was designed to encourage the use of alternative energy sources, contributing to a significant increase in solar energy adoption.

    This rapid solarization is seen as a positive trend, aligning with the government’s objectives to promote clean energy.

    The Power Division also mentioned that any proposed changes or amendments to current policies are aimed at alleviating financial burdens on the economically disadvantaged.

    It stressed that protecting the interests of the 152,000 net metering consumers remains a priority.

  • Gold price drops by Rs600 per tola in Pakistan following global rate decline

    Gold price drops by Rs600 per tola in Pakistan following global rate decline

    Gold prices in Pakistan experienced a notable decrease on Saturday, mirroring a similar downward trend in international markets.

    The cost of gold per tola dropped by Rs600, settling at Rs244,400. This decline came after a recent surge in prices, adding a new dynamic to the local market’s fluctuations.

    Similarly, the price for 10 grammes of gold fell by Rs514, concluding the day at Rs209,534, according to the latest data released by the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA).

    These changes reflect the sensitive nature of gold prices to international trends and the inherent volatility in the market.

    Friday had seen a significant uptick in gold prices, with an increase of Rs2,500 per tola.

    This rapid shift highlights the unpredictable nature of gold valuations, influenced by a myriad of factors including global economic conditions, currency exchange rates, and market speculation.

    On the international front, gold prices also faced a downturn on Saturday, with a reported drop of $6 per ounce.

    The APGJSA noted that the international rate for gold was set at $2,337 per ounce, including a premium of $20.

    This shift in global pricing further underscores the interconnectedness of gold markets and their impact on local prices.

    While gold prices experienced a dip, silver rates remained steady, with the per tola rate holding at Rs2,650.

    The stability in silver pricing contrasts with the more volatile gold market, providing a level of consistency for those investing in precious metals.

    Just a week prior, gold prices in Pakistan had reached an all-time high, with the rate per tola hitting Rs252,200.

    The recent fluctuations are a stark reminder of the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of the precious metals market, where international trends can have a significant impact on local pricing.

  • King Charles’ cancer diagnosis leads to funeral-plan update

    King Charles’ cancer diagnosis leads to funeral-plan update

    Following a cancer diagnosis revealed earlier this year, King Charles III’s funeral arrangements are being regularly updated, Samaa has quoted a The New Zealand Herald report.

    The plans for the funeral for the monarch were planned the day after the late Queen Elizabeth was laid to rest in 2022, as is the usual case in British government.

    A royal commentator told the publication that “Everyone is staying optimistic, but he is really unwell.” The King, however, has been out and about in public, looking more or less the same.

    Operation Menai Bridge

    Assistants to King Charles III are always pouring over copies of his official funeral plans, also called ‘Operation Menai Bridge‘. The document was drafted on September 8, 2022, the day after Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, and is hundreds of pages long.

    Every member of the monarchy has their funeral arrangements set, which are named after well-known bridges and updated on a regular basis. The plan for the Queen’s funeral was known as “Operation London Bridge”.

    An aide told local media, “It’s not an emotional thing, it’s a job, one taken very seriously, and understandably no one plans to get caught out.”

    This February, King Charles III was diagnosed with cancer. Last month, he was seen mingling with bystanders and shaking hands following an Easter service at Windsor Castle. He also met Prime Minister Rishi Sunak this week, looking normal in the photos released by the Palace.

  • Asim Azhar refutes claims of copying Taylor Swift

    Asim Azhar refutes claims of copying Taylor Swift

    Singer-songwriter Asim Azhar has caught the attention of fans and followers alike with a bold move on social media. In anticipation of his upcoming debut album, Azhar has wiped clean his Instagram profile, deleting all previous posts and unfollowing everyone. The unexpected action has left fans puzzled but intrigued, sparking speculation about the reasons behind the digital cleanse.

    When asked about it, Azhar explained that he wants to start a new chapter in his music career. “This debut album is a big step for me, and I wanted a fresh start,” he told a fan who was confused about the changes.

    One person on Instagram said Azhar copied Taylor Swift’s style on social media. Azhar replied, “Many other artists have done similar things before her worldwide.” He added, “But yes, I love her too,” showing he’s not bothered by the comment. Azhar’s clear response showed he’s straightforward and not afraid to admit he’s a fan of other artists.

    Azhar’s reply shows how tricky it can be to handle social media in the music world. It’s normal for artists to get ideas from famous stars like Swift. But they also need to find a balance between showing respect and being original.

  • Actress Amar Khan’s ideal match is like THIS Bollywood star

    Actress Amar Khan’s ideal match is like THIS Bollywood star

    Amar Khan, the talented television and film actor, appeared in the Naidan Maizban YouTube show hosted by Danish Nawaz, Nida Yasir and Yasir Nawaz.

    The host asked Amar, “What have you thought about when a new young person will enter your life, and what kind of person do you want to be – a writer, director, comedian? How do you want your life to be?”

    Amar Khan replied, “Why limit yourself to just one field? The world is vast, just bring me a guy like Ranbir Kapoor”

    The star was quick to clarify which one.

    “Not the Animal one, he was too toxic. I want the Rockstar Ranbir Kapoor.”

    Danish Nawaz humorously commented, “He’ll just spend all day at the shrine.”

    Amar replied, “It’s okay, he’ll be a mystic, rebellious to the world, just not rebellious to me.” 

    Any Ranbir Kapoor lookalike out there, you have a chance!

  • Get ready for ‘Inspector Sabiha’: A gripping story of addiction, trauma, and mystery

    Get ready for ‘Inspector Sabiha’: A gripping story of addiction, trauma, and mystery

    Director Adnan Sarwar brings together elements of a dark past, addiction, and unresolved trauma in his latest project, ‘Inspector Sabiha’. With masterful cinematography, the series promises to delve into the depths of the human psyche. Are you ready to uncover the secrets lurking beneath the surface?
    The recently released trailer gives a sneak peek into the mysterious story of the main character. It’s full of drama and promises an exciting viewing experience for those who love gritty stories.

    In ‘Inspector Sabiha’, the main character has a difficult past with family problems and inner struggles. The trailer shows how she deals with addiction, trauma, and trying to understand herself. It also hints at how her inner struggles affect her outer world. She grew up facing challenges, and now she’s trying to overcome her past while dealing with tough situations in her present life.
    Rabia Butt plays Inspector Sabiha with a strong and serious demeanor. She seems tough, hiding the inner struggles she faces. But sometimes, you see her vulnerable side, especially when addiction takes over. This mix of strength and vulnerability makes her character more real and draws you into her story.

    ‘Inspector Sabiha’ has a great cast including famous actors like Mohammed Ehteshamuddin, Yasir Hussain, Iffat Omar, Yasir Nawaz, Samiya Mumtaz, and Sohail Sameer. The trailer shows each actor giving powerful performances full of emotion. You can feel the chemistry between them, making the story exciting. Audiences will be eager to see what happens next, thanks to the strong performances and gripping storyline.

    However, as they say, content is king – or queen, in this case – and it is the plot itself that serves as the true cornerstone of Inspector Sabiha, weaving a web of intrigue and suspense that captivates from the very first frame. With high stakes and hurdles that the protagonist must overcome, the series promises to unravel the tangled threads of a mystery that stretches far beyond the surface, diving deep into the darkest recesses of the human soul in search of truth and redemption.

    The trailer announcement on Instagram gets you ready for the upcoming drama. It hints at exciting revelations to come. “Before the sin, there was a story that started it all,” it says mysteriously. It sets the scene for what’s to come, hinting that the past is about to speak up. The network that brought you ‘Gunah’ is getting ready to tell a story that started a fire.
    Don’t miss the big reveal of the story everyone’s talking about. Because in the world of Inspector Sabiha, finding out the truth is just the beginning. Watch the show every Friday on Express TV, and get ready for an exciting experience that’s sure to thrill fans of this genre.

  • Sonya Hussyn respects Sher Afzal Marwat for rejecting second marriage

    Sonya Hussyn respects Sher Afzal Marwat for rejecting second marriage

    Lawyer and MNA Sher Afzal Marwat, the popular PTI leader, has been praised for standing up against family pressure. He refused to marry again just to have a son. Many people on social media praised Marwat for his decision, including actor Sonya Hussyn.

    “In our tough world, I really admire this man,” wrote the Saraab actor in an Instagram post. “He knows how important it is to be kind and to follow the basic rules of relationships.”

    Thinking about what Marwat said, Hussyn felt sad about how society always wants a son. “Getting married just to have a son is really unfair,” she said. But she praised Marwat for being loyal to his wife. She said his strong commitment and family values would protect his daughters from future problems. “By making this choice, he not only did right by his wife but also kept his daughters safe from a lifetime of sadness,” she wrote. “I’m sure his daughters will make him very proud one day.” Hussyn finished her post by saying, “Respect, sir.”

    Earlier this week, Marwat had told Nadir Hussain’s podcast that his family wanted him to marry again to have a son. However, Marwat said he couldn’t do that to his wife. “I couldn’t bring another woman into our lives just to have a child,” he had stated in the podcast. “Like everyone else, a woman has just one life. She has basically burned everything in her life just to start a new life with you.”

  • ‘Saqib Nisar acted as messenger in judiciary for Imran Khan’, reveals Azaz Syed

    ‘Saqib Nisar acted as messenger in judiciary for Imran Khan’, reveals Azaz Syed

    Azaz Syed, senior journalist of The News, revealed on Geo’s ‘Report Card’ that Imran Khan, founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was in contact with a few judges from Lahore and Islamabad during the past few years.

    Referring to Faisal Vawda’s recent statement on Samaa News where he stated, “There were two judges who called Imran Khan when he was in the container and one of those judges is still serving.”

    Azaz claimed that Faisal Vawda’s statement was indeed true.

    Furthermore, Syed narrated, “The former Chief Justice of Lahore High Court, Amir Bhatti, directly contacted a judge in Islamabad and pressured him to take a decision in favour of Imran Khan.”

    Azaz Syed implicated former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Saqib Nisar, who used to act as a liaison between the federal and Punjab judiciary on behalf of Imran Khan.