Author: Ashir Awan
Pakistan leads Asia’s digital transformation with its first Smart Village in Roras, Sialkot! Launched under the Digital Pakistan vision by Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, this groundbreaking initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in rural areas. The Smart Village Centre will offer education, digital healthcare, and employment opportunities while training 100 youth in business and IT skills within six months. Collaborating with global partners like ITU, Huawei, Bedari NGO, and Tele-Education, the project strives for nationwide expansion to create a digitally inclusive Pakistan. This initiative promises to revolutionize rural living, empowering communities with access…
Great news for international travelers flying with PIA! Ticket prices are set to decrease significantly as the IMF waives the Federal Excise Duty (FED) on international flights. Passengers can save up to Rs. 350,000 on flights to the USA, Rs. 210,000 to Europe and Australia, and Rs. 105,000 on routes to the Middle East and Africa. Although domestic flights are excluded, the waiver extends to an 18% sales tax on aircraft leases and purchases. To enhance PIA’s financial stability, Rs. 46 billion in negative equity will be transferred to a holding company. These changes align with ongoing privatization efforts, promising…
The federal government introduces a groundbreaking initiative to empower students and promote green transportation in Pakistan! Top 120 students from the Federal Board will receive free electric bikes (E-bikes) under this program. In addition, Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain announced 39,000 e-bikes and 1,900 electric rickshaws will be available through concessional loans. To support this eco-friendly initiative, 40 charging stations are being installed along motorways and highways, with additional stations planned at petrol pumps in Islamabad. Aligned with PM Shehbaz Sharif’s vision of a sustainable Islamabad, this project paves the way for clean, efficient, and modern transportation solutions nationwide.
Punjab takes a bold step toward clean air with the formation of the Beijing-Punjab Clean Air Working Group during CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s visit to China. This groundbreaking collaboration will revolutionize air quality management in Punjab, leveraging China’s advanced expertise in eco-friendly solutions. The initiative will focus on key areas such as green energy, e-transport solutions, eco-friendly machinery, and hydropower advancements. The Punjab Environment Department has also signed a landmark MoU with Blue Tech Clean Air Alliance to combat smog and enhance environmental sustainability. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in Punjab’s journey toward a cleaner, greener, and healthier…
Gujrat Gymkhana proudly earns ISO 9001 certification, becoming the second club in Pakistan to achieve this prestigious status. This recognition, awarded by Mr. Chaudhry Abdul Jabbar, CEO of ISOQAR Certification Pvt Ltd, reflects the club’s relentless commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence in member experiences. Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Jawad Hussain Jaffery, Gujrat Gymkhana is transforming into a vibrant hub of modern recreation. Exciting new additions like Paintball, a state-of-the-art Bowling Alley, and Padel Tennis — in partnership with Funventure.pk — aim to set new standards for leisure and entertainment in the region. With this achievement, Gujrat Gymkhana…
Barron Air, a leading U.S.-based cargo company, is set to launch its cargo air service in Pakistan. The company has officially approached Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to express its interest in starting operations within the country. With a strong track record of providing outsourced services for major companies like FedEx Courier, Barron Air’s entry into Pakistan’s aviation market is expected to boost economic activity. This development is anticipated to generate significant job opportunities for Pakistanis, especially in logistics, ground handling, and aviation support sectors. The move signifies growing international interest in Pakistan’s logistics sector, reflecting the country’s potential as…
The Punjab and Sindh governments have announced the early disbursement of December salaries and pensions for Christian employees to facilitate Christmas celebrations. The Punjab government will release payments by December 20, while the Sindh government will issue salaries and pensions on December 18, 2024. This thoughtful move aims to provide financial relief to Christian employees, ensuring they can fully enjoy the festive season. Notifications have been sent to relevant departments to ensure timely processing of payments. Both provincial governments’ initiatives reflect a commitment to inclusivity and support for religious diversity, highlighting their efforts to promote unity and well-being for Christian…
Pakistan’s Jabran Asad Khan has brought pride to the nation by clinching a gold medal at the 2024 New Jersey Open Taekwondo Championship. Competing against world-class athletes, Khan’s outstanding performance, marked by skill, discipline, and determination, set him apart as a champion. His victory represents a monumental achievement for Pakistan’s presence in the international Taekwondo arena. Jabran Asad Khan’s triumph is a testament to the growing strength of Pakistan’s martial arts community, inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue excellence on the global stage. This golden victory not only highlights Jabran’s mastery in Taekwondo but also reinforces Pakistan’s position…
The Pakistan Army has once again showcased its tactical excellence by winning its 6th gold medal at the prestigious “Exercise Cambrian Patrol 2024” held in the UK. Competing against 143 teams from around the world, Pakistan’s contingent displayed unparalleled endurance, leadership, and operational prowess in the challenging mountainous terrain of mid-Wales. COAS General Syed Asim Munir met the team, lauding their grit and perseverance in bringing pride to the nation. The Cambrian Patrol is known as one of the toughest military exercises globally, testing teams on mental resilience, physical stamina, and tactical strategy. The Pakistan Army’s remarkable performance reinforces its…
Laiba Ghanyani has made history as the first visually impaired graduate from IBA Karachi, a landmark achievement in the institute’s 70-year history. Her graduation with a BS in Social Sciences and Liberal Arts, majoring in Psychology, highlights the growing emphasis on inclusive education in Pakistan. Her inspiring journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience, breaking barriers for individuals with disabilities in higher education. Laiba’s story reflects a broader push for accessibility and equal opportunity within academia. This monumental achievement serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges, showcasing how determination and support for inclusive education…