Tag: Pakistan

  • Mohsin Dawar safe after attack on convoy

    Mohsin Dawar safe after attack on convoy

    National Democratic Movement (NDM) chairman Mohsin Dawar’s convoy has been attacked by unknown gunmen in North Waziristan on Wednesday afternoon.

    The former MNA survived the attack as he was travelling in a bulletproof car.

    Unknown gunmen opened fire on the car of the former MNA and partner of the former coalition government of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM).

    Mohsin Dawar was campaigning in his constituency for general elections, set to take place on February 8.

    Police have confirmed that Mohsin Dawar is safe and has been shifted to a nearby safe place.

    Police have started search operation in the area.

  • Tributes pour in after senior politician Sartaj Aziz’s death

    Tributes pour in after senior politician Sartaj Aziz’s death

    Senior politician, diplomat, and former finance minister Sartaj Aziz passed away at the age of 94 in Islamabad on Tuesday night.

    Born in February 1929 in Nowshera, Aziz was a veteran politician from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). He served in key governmental posts in his long political career, including as the minister for finance and economic affairs. He also remained a senator from 1985 to 1999 and was elected as an advisor on national security and foreign affairs in the 2013 general elections.

    Aziz’s vast political career spanned academia, civil service, and public office holding.

    Besides serving as the federal minister, Aziz also fulfilled responsibilities as assistant president of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and director of the Food and Agriculture Organisation’s Commodities and Trade Division.

    The two-time finance minister was considered a respected figure in the national discourse, bearing keen insights and analysis on economic and political issues.

    PML-N announced the death of the senior politician on X (formerly Twitter). “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr. Sartaj Aziz. A stalwart, a true icon, and a towering figure! His contributions to the nation and towards the party will never be forgotten.”

    Other politicians and his colleagues started posting pictures of him and recalled the time, they served with him. Ahsan Iqbal said he had the “honour of working with him very closely and will never forget his affection and guidance”.

    Shehbaz Sharif termed it as “not just a personal loss but a loss for the nation.”

    Miftah Ismail said, “Sartaj Aziz’s passing is surely the end of an era.”

    Engineer Khurram Dastgir called it a profound loss to the nation.

    Reacting to the demise of a veteran politician, President Arif Alvi expressed deep grief and solidarity with the survivors of the deceased. He also prayed for Aziz’s forgiveness and patience for his family.

    Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar also expressed sorrow and said that his contributions to the country will always be remembered.

    Career diplomat Maleeha Lodhi paid tribute to him by saying, “Pakistan will be poorer without him.”

    Fellow Academic Adil Najam lauded him by saying, “Thank you, Sartaj sb, for a life well lived; a life of unwavering commitment to Pakistan.”

    Senior journalist, Nasim Zehra showed her respect towards Sartaj by praising him for his “commitment to the very best for Pakistan as Foreign and Finance Minister.”

    Fellow diplomat, Kristof Duwaerts tweeted, “I had the pleasure of interacting with H.E. late Sartaj Aziz on a number of occasions during my time in Pakistan.”

    Indian journalist Aditya Raj Kaul, praised him for being a gentleman and a great diplomat.

    Social worker and activist Khaleel Tetaly lauded Sartaj Aziz as a key advocate for community-led development in Pakistan.

    Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad extended condolences on the passing of Sartaj Aziz for serving Pakistan with his exceptional talent in various capacities for over seven decades.

    Beaconhouse National University paid tribute to their esteemed founding Vice Chancellor and cherished mentor.

  • Gold prices in Pakistan follow global trend, decline by Rs1,300 per tola

    Gold prices in Pakistan follow global trend, decline by Rs1,300 per tola

    On Wednesday, gold prices in Pakistan experienced a reduction, mirroring the global downward trend. 

    The current valuation of the precious metal stands at Rs220,000 per tola, marking a decrease of Rs1,300 throughout the day.

    As reported by the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the 10-gramme gold rate now stands at Rs188,614, reflecting a decline of Rs1,115.

     In contrast, the previous day witnessed a surge of Rs 1,600 per tola in gold prices.

    The international gold rate, despite a $12 dip in the global market, settled at $2,082 per ounce on Wednesday, with a $20 premium, according to APGJSA.

    In contrast, silver rates remained unchanged at Rs2,680 per tola during this period.

  • Why has load-shedding suddenly increased in Pakistan?

    Why has load-shedding suddenly increased in Pakistan?

    The electricity crisis has become more severe across the country with the start of the new year.

    Transmission systems were reportedly affected due to a technical fault at Guddu power plant and reduction in hydro power generation. Unannounced power outages in all power distribution companies (DISCOs), including LESCO, has made life difficult for people.

    The transmission system was affected by reduced power generation and heavy fog in the plains.

    Unannounced load shedding continues every hour in various areas of the LESCO region. Due to an increase in shortfall, the duration of load shedding in the city exceeded 12 hours.

    According to an INP from Kushmore, the breaker could not be repaired despite the passage of several hours after fire broke out in the switchyard of Guddu Thermal Power Plant following a technical fault. Sources claim that it may take 15 days to buy a new breaker.

    On the other hand, Powerhouse officials have said the alternate high transmission line also tripped due to heavy fog.

    Electricity supply to different areas of Sindh, Punjab and Balochistan remained suspended for more than five hours due to tripping of the alternative high transmission line. According to Guddu Thermal Power House officials, it is difficult to restore power from the alternate high transmission line until the sun comes out.

    Lack of electric supply for more than six hours has put a halt on businesses as well as shopkeepers, factory workers.

  • Supreme Court issues notice to IGP, chief secretary on PTI’s petition

    Supreme Court issues notice to IGP, chief secretary on PTI’s petition

    The Supreme Court issued notices on Wednesday to the Inspector General of Police Punjab (IGP), chief secretary, and advocate general in response to a plea filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), seeking a level-playing field in the upcoming general elections on February 8, 2024.

    A three-member bench, including Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, and Justice Musrat Hilali, heard the case and adjourned the hearing until January 8.

    PTI leader and lawyer, Sardar Latif Khosa, presented arguments on behalf of party leader Shoaib Shaheen.

    The proceedings of the case were broadcast live on SC’s website and YouTube channel.

    The apex court directed the ECP on December 22 to address the concerns of PTI regarding level playing field in the upcoming general elections, set to take place on February 8.

    At the beginning of the hearing, CJP Isa reprimanded Khosa for using the title “Sardar” with his name.

    “Stop using words like Sardar, Nawab, and Peer,” the CJP said while expressing displeasure over the use of such a title.

    Qazi Faez Isa asked the PTI lawyer for evidence that ECP violated the apex court’s direction regarding level-playing field matter.

    “I have brought the CD containing all evidence,” Khosa replied adding that PTI leaders were not allowed to submit their nomination papers.

    “The entire Pakistan has seen what is happening with PTI.”

    After this, CJP advised PTI lawyer to avoid “political speech” in the courtroom and talk about constitution and law.

    “What does the IG and the chief secretary have to do with the election?” the CJP wondered.

    “Do you want action against individuals or the Election Commission?” the CJP asked.

    Sardar Latif Khosa replied to CJP that it’s the responsibility of ECP to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections in the country.

  • Watch: Atif Aslam and Hadiqa Kiyani sing their hit ‘Hona Tha Pyaar’ in nostalgic video

    Watch: Atif Aslam and Hadiqa Kiyani sing their hit ‘Hona Tha Pyaar’ in nostalgic video

    If you’re a fan of all things nostalgic, you’re in for a thrill. Singing veteran Hadiqa Kiani has posted a video on her Instagram featuring fellow star crooner Atif Aslam singing a song with her.

    The duo recreated their melodious hit ‘Hona Tha Pyaar’, a song hailed by fans as the perfect blend of Atif’s soulful vocals and Hadiqa’s enchanting voice. Their collaboration brings out the emotions of love and longing, making ‘Hona Tha Pyaar’ a cherished gem in the world of music. The artists’ chemistry and the song’s timeless appeal continue to resonate with fans, creating a lasting impact in the hearts of music enthusiasts.

  • Chahat Fateh Ali Khan harassed in Sheikhupura

    Chahat Fateh Ali Khan harassed in Sheikhupura

    Singer Chahat Fateh Ali Khan had a harrowing experience in Sheikhupura while meeting his fans after announcing a foray into politics by running in the 2024 national elections.

    In a video that went viral, Chahat is seen walking down the street while people in the crowd appear to be laughing at him.

    Despite him trying to make them stop, the teasing didn’t end, and Chahat ended up shouting at the crowd. Lots of people online slammed the crowd’s rudeness.
    To add to his troubles, his nomination papers for the general elections were rejected because of his dual nationality. However, Chahat remains determined in his political ambitions and plans to continue seeking approval for his nomination papers.

    The incident has sparked discussions on social media about how public figures entering politics are treated.

  • Financial crunch in KP: Textbook size to be cut down

    Financial crunch in KP: Textbook size to be cut down

    The caretaker setup in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has come up with a new plan to make do with the scarcity of funds. According to Dawn, the provincial government did not release the funds required by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Textbook Board to publish course books due to the financial crisis in the last three years.

    In the meantime, the government provided books to students free of charge.

    The caretaker government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has decided in the last cabinet meeting to reduce the size of textbooks and provide half of schoolchildren with old course books hoping this will save over three billion rupees for printing books.

    The printing of books in the upcoming academic year 2023-24 was estimated to cost Rs8.528 billion but the amount will go down to Rs5.247 billion by cutting the size of textbooks and providing 50 percent of schoolchildren with the books that were collected from the students after their promotion to next grades.

    As per the report, the government is on a saving spree, and for that, 6-12 graders will be given 50 percent of old books to be collected by schools from students promoted to the next grades. The government says that only the books in good condition will be given away to students with the move saving the government Rs1.8 billion, according to the documents.

    The students of grades 4-5 will use 20 percent of the old books saving the government Rs334 million.

    Reducing the textbook size from nursery-grade 12 will save the government Rs. 1.1 billion.

    Dawn’s Muhammad Ashfaq talked to officials in the Education department of the province who stated that downsizing of textbooks and distribution of old books to school children came “under compulsion” as the finance department didn’t release funds for printing textbooks to the board on time. They said that even the total payment of Rs 10 billion to printing companies for the previous year was done in piecemeal. This time around, printing companies have shown no interest although the bid was announced multiple times.

    The officials feared a two-month learning loss for schoolchildren in the next academic year saying the publishers won’t be able to deliver orders by the end of May.

  • Fashion guru Asim Jofa’s daughter passes away in London

    Tragedy has struck the family of designer Asim Jofa.
    The fashion guru has taken to his Facebook page to share the heart-wrenching news of the passing of his youngest daughter from a sudden brain hemorrhage in London. Jofa requested prayers for his daughter.

    Adcave Pk also conveyed the sad news, extending heartfelt condolences to Asim Jofa on the loss of his youngest daughter. The post urged everyone to keep the departed soul in their prayers.

    Jofa, a standout Pakistani fashion designer known for his distinctive designs, high-quality clothing, modern cuts, and innovative marketing, has been a stalwart in the fashion industry for many years.

  • Canada to provide remote work visa for freelancers

    Canada to provide remote work visa for freelancers

    The Canadian government intends to give remote work visas for freelancers and digital nomads in 2024, to adapt to the changing nature of the labour market, reports Samaa.

    The program is aimed at drawing international talent by enabling people to live temporarily in the country while working remotely.

    According to the policy, a specific visa will be issued to freelancers, who are working remotely in Canada.

    Digital nomads were previously permitted a maximum of six months of stay on tourist visas in Canada.

    The government is now developing a comprehensive “tech talent strategy” to attract foreign workers in an effort to increase the size of its workforce.
    Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada spokesman Isabelle Dubois emphasized the expected advantages, stating, “We anticipate that some digital nomads will opt to stay in Canada, contributing their skills to employers here.”

    In an attempt to draw in highly qualified IT professionals who thrive in remote work, plans are in motion to establish a framework that would allow entrepreneurs to apply for extended work licenses, which might last up to three years.

    Asserting Canada’s dedication to allowing remote workers, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Office promised further information in the coming months.

    The number of US citizens who work as digital nomads soared to 17.3 million, moving up by 2 percent in 2023.

    Apply for a Canada visa from Pakistan

    Pakistanis can also apply for a Canada Visit, via a temporary resident visa that allows South Asians to travel for tourism, business meetings, or to visit family members, according to Pakistan Observer.

    For Pakistanis, the Canada Visitor Visa offers multiple entries over 10 years, allowing stays of 180 days per entry. To apply for a visa, applicants must be without criminal or immigration convictions.

    The financial statement should prove the job, own residence, or family, to demonstrate a temporary visit intention. Adequate funds for the stay is also a pre-requisite.

    Required documents include a valid passport, national ID, and possibly additional documents like bank statements. The application process involves the submission of forms, checking the accuracy, and uploading supporting documents, followed by an appointment at the local visa center.

    Visa and biometric fees need to be paid at the center, and tracking information is shared.