Author: Faiza Liaquat

Pakistan’s headline inflation slowed to 3.2% year-on-year in June 2025, down from 3.5% in May — marking the lowest level in nearly four years, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. On a monthly basis, inflation rose slightly by 0.2%, compared to a 0.5% gain in May. The average Consumer Price Index (CPI) for Fiscal Year 2024–25 settled at 4.49%, a dramatic decline from the 23.41% average recorded in FY24. This also marks the lowest annual inflation average since FY2016, when it stood at 2.9%. Urban inflation was reported at 3.0% in June, while rural inflation registered at 3.6% —…

In a forward-thinking step toward digital finance, The Bank of Punjab (BOP) has signed an MoU with Singapore-based fintech Surfin Meta Digital Technologies. The agreement, signed in Islamabad by BOP’s Chief Digital Officer Nofel Daud and Surfin Meta’s Li Jin, was backed by BOP CEO Zafar Masud. What’s the Goal? The partnership will explore: The aim is to improve access to finance for SMEs, startups, and youth entrepreneurs, offering quicker, fairer, and tech-powered solutions. Why It Matters Many small business owners struggle with traditional banking hurdles. This collaboration intends to simplify the process and expand financial access across Punjab and…

The 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League wasn’t just about nail-biting cricket it was a digital revolution in motion. According to data shared by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) during post-season franchise meetings, PSL X delivered historic numbers that shattered previous records and redefined sports viewership in Pakistan. This season witnessed an explosive 647% increase in live streaming viewership compared to last year’s edition. Fans consumed a staggering 48.5 billion minutes of PSL action online, a testament to how Pakistanis are rapidly shifting toward digital platforms to follow their favorite teams and players. What’s even more remarkable is the…

In a huge relief for thousands of educators, the Punjab government is all set to regularize more than 14,000 contract teachers, including around 3,000 Assistant Education Officers. The process will not require Public Service Commission exams, making it easier and faster for teachers already serving in government schools to become permanent. This decision was made during a recent meeting of the School Education Department. A summary will be sent to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for approval very soon. Teachers across Punjab are welcoming this long-awaited move. Punjab Teachers Union General Secretary Rana Liaqat Ali called it a historic step that…

In yet another extraordinary achievement, Pakistan’s Rashid Naseem has shattered global expectations by becoming the world’s fastest boxing puncher, delivering a mind-blowing 386 full-contact punches in one minute. This historic moment dethrones the previous record of 374 held by the UK’s Josh Llewellyn-Jones. Guinness World Records officially recognized Rashid’s 154th record, cementing his status as a global icon in endurance and strength-based sports. But Rashid’s feats don’t stop there. He holds numerous other world records including over 32,000 punches in one hour, 675 punches in one minute while carrying 1kg weights, and even 207 one-handed punches while holding an egg…

In a monumental moment for Pakistan and women’s cricket worldwide, former national team captain Sana Mir has become the first Pakistani woman to be inducted into the International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame. The announcement was made during a prestigious ceremony ahead of the World Test Championship final, where she was celebrated alongside cricketing giants like MS Dhoni, Hashim Amla, and Sarah Taylor. A Journey From Streets to StardomSana’s story is one of grit, resilience, and quiet revolution. From playing cricket on the streets of Pakistan to representing her country on the world’s biggest stages, her career has been…

In a remarkable show of confidence, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) kicked off the 2025–26 fiscal year with its strongest performance yet, as the KSE-100 index surged by 2,508 points in intraday trading to close at a record-breaking 128,135.57. The rally, which reflects a 2% gain, comes hot on the heels of two pivotal developments:China’s $3.4 billion loan rollover, which eases financial pressureThe Pakistani government’s efforts to lower electricity prices, offering relief to industries and consumers alike These measures have sent a strong signal to investors, driving broad participation across sectors. Out of 481 companies that traded on the exchange,…

In a significant boost to Rawalpindi’s traffic management and infrastructure development, the long-awaited Nawaz Sharif Flyover at Khawaja Corporation Chowk on Adiala Road has been opened to the public — even before its official inauguration. Though the formal launch by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz was originally scheduled for June 30, the Punjab Communication and Works Department confirmed that the flyover is now fully functional, offering much-needed traffic relief to thousands of commuters who frequent the congested Adiala Road. A Step Toward a More Connected Rawalpindi The project, completed at a cost of Rs. 2.3 billion, forms part of a…

In a major step toward enhancing data accuracy and public trust, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has unveiled a nationwide initiative that allows citizens to correct errors in their Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) without any fines or legal consequences. This unique amnesty scheme invites individuals — whether they’ve submitted inaccurate details knowingly or unknowingly — to voluntarily update their records. The move is designed to foster accountability, strengthen the integrity of Pakistan’s digital ID system, and provide legal cover for honest corrections. Under this campaign, citizens can: NADRA has made it clear that this is a limited-time…

In a major boost for international travelers, Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport has become the first in Pakistan to offer an on-site international driving license facility. Launched by the Lahore Traffic Police and inaugurated by CTO Dr. Athar Waheed, the 24/7 kiosk allows passengers to apply for new permits, renewals, duplicates, or learner licenses—right before their flight. This one-stop solution eliminates the need for multiple visits to licensing centers, especially benefiting overseas Pakistanis facing time constraints. The initiative aligns with the Digital Pakistan vision, streamlining public service delivery with tech-driven, citizen-centric solutions. The success of this pilot could pave the…