Author: Ashir Awan
Empowering Students with Technology Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced the distribution of 35,000 Core i7, 13th-generation laptops under the Chief Minister’s Laptop and Merit Scholarship Program. Targeting top achievers and minority students, the program prioritizes disciplines like Computer Science, Medicine, Engineering, and Agriculture. Boosting Education Across Punjab In addition to laptops, 40,000 scholarships will be awarded, benefiting 18,000 female students and ensuring equitable access for Southern Punjab. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and academic excellence across the province.
Empowering Engineers with AI Skills The Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) is introducing a free, six-week online training program on Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), starting December 1, 2024. Partnering with PakAngels Silicon Valley USA, iCode Guru, and Aspire Pakistan, the initiative aims to equip engineers with globally recognized AI skills, enabling them to stay competitive in the evolving tech landscape. Transforming Engineering with AI The course focuses on leveraging AI for automating tasks, innovative design generation, and advanced data analysis, offering tools that enhance efficiency without coding knowledge. Participants will receive certification with a traceable QR code, aligning with the rising…
Driving Bilateral Trade at the Pakistan Industrial Expo A talented entrepreneur from Karachi has made history by strengthening Pak-China relations through the successful organization of the 8th Pakistan Industrial Expo. Held from November 9-11, 2024, in Lahore, the event featured 120 prominent Chinese exhibitors, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and industrial solutions. This initiative highlights Pakistan’s potential to foster innovation and drive economic growth through international collaboration. Enhancing Cooperation Between Pakistan and China This expo not only showcased industrial advancements but also reinforced bilateral ties between Pakistan and China. By bringing together leading businesses, the event served as a platform for collaboration,…
Revolutionizing Soldier Training with Advanced Simulation Pakistan unveiled the Haadif Small Arms Simulator at IDEAS 2024, capturing widespread attention. This indigenous multi-weapon simulator is designed to enhance shooting accuracy, tactical skills, and combat readiness. Soldiers can train with a variety of weapons, including the G3 rifle, LMG, SMG, and pistols, in both stationary and moving scenarios. Its advanced features prepare soldiers for diverse terrains like mountains and deserts, ensuring adaptability to challenging combat situations. IDEAS 2024: Showcasing Defence Innovations The 12th International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2024 is underway in Karachi, showcasing Pakistan’s latest defence technologies. Organized by the…
Robust Growth in Export Figures Pakistan’s textile exports recorded a 10.44% growth in the first four months of FY 2024-25, reaching $6.146 billion, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). Total exports during this period amounted to $10.889 billion, reflecting a 13.55% year-on-year increase. October 2024 saw exports climb to $2.984 billion, a 5.22% rise from September and a 10.97% jump compared to October 2023. Sector-Specific Highlights The textile sector maintained its momentum, with October exports rising by 13.11% to $1.625 billion. Despite this, cotton yarn exports faced a significant decline of 45.59% during July-October. In contrast, rice exports…
Affordable Charging for Electric Vehicles Pakistan is making significant strides to promote electric vehicle (EV) adoption by reducing electricity costs at EV charging stations. Power Minister Awais Leghari announced a new pricing structure aimed at making EVs more affordable for consumers. This initiative covers all charging and battery swapping stations for small cars, two-wheelers, encouraging a shift toward cleaner, greener transportation. Building an EV Ecosystem The introduction of EV models by various automakers, especially from China, is gaining momentum in Pakistan. Notably, a partnership between Chinese automaker BYD and Pakistan State Oil is set to establish a nationwide EV charging…
PSX Opens on a Positive Note with Significant Gain The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) began the day with a strong performance on Tuesday. The benchmark KSE-100 Index surged by 844.22 points, marking a 0.89% rise. This boost has driven the index to 95,839.89 points during intra-day trading, reflecting a positive sentiment among investors and traders. The market’s upward momentum is indicative of growing investor confidence in the economy. Investor Confidence Drives Market Upward This rally in the stock market comes as investors continue to respond positively to economic developments and market dynamics. The KSE-100 Index’s rise is a sign of…
Significant Price Reductions in Solar Energy Components The cost of solar batteries in Pakistan has decreased significantly, offering relief to those adopting renewable energy. Lithium battery prices have fallen from Rs. 400,000 to Rs. 380,000, and tubular batteries now cost Rs. 55,000, down from Rs. 70,000. Alongside this, solar panel prices have dropped to a record low of Rs. 28 per watt. Growing Demand and Local Manufacturing Drive Affordability Experts attribute these reductions to stabilized inflation and increased demand for solar energy. Federal Minister Owais Laghari highlighted that 8,000 megawatts of solar panels were imported last year, sparking local manufacturing…
Improved Air Quality Brings Relief With smog levels easing in Punjab, the Environmental Department has announced new measures, including the reopening of schools in the Rawalpindi Division starting tomorrow. However, Lahore and Multan remain excluded due to persistent smog. Rainfall and changes in wind patterns have significantly contributed to the improved air quality. Extended Hours for Hotels and Restaurants Hotels and restaurants can now operate until 10 pm, an extension from the previous 4 pm restriction. Home delivery services remain unaffected. Divisional and deputy commissioners have been directed to enforce these updated guidelines, ensuring smooth implementation across the region.
Significant Growth in Passenger Traffic Pakistan Railways witnessed a remarkable surge in passenger traffic during the fiscal year 2023-24, with 41.91 million passengers traveling by train, a substantial increase from 35.40 million in the previous year. This growth of 6.51 million passengers contributed to a total passenger revenue of Rs. 47.712 billion, surpassing the budgetary target by Rs. 8.712 billion and marking a year-on-year revenue increase of Rs. 13.799 billion. Enhancements in Services and Facilities The department’s success is attributed to several service improvements, including modern dining cars, mobile charging stations, digital ticketing, and enhanced accessibility for disabled passengers. Pakistan…