Author: Faiza Liaquat
As part of a growing commitment to environmental sustainability, the Punjab government has officially launched its “Plastic-Free Punjab Pledge” — a comprehensive campaign aimed at drastically cutting down plastic pollution across the province. Under this new initiative, plastic bags thinner than 75 microns or smaller than 12×16 inches have been completely banned, effective immediately. The regulation targets one of the most persistent forms of pollution — lightweight, single-use plastic bags that are non-biodegradable, hard to recycle, and often end up clogging drainage systems and harming wildlife. The campaign is being driven by the Punjab Environment Protection Department (EPD), which has…
In a powerful blend of sports, style, and global recognition, Pakistan’s cricket sensation Babar Azam has become the first-ever Pakistani to be invited by the world-renowned luxury fashion brand Louis Vuitton. Known for his unmatched elegance on the cricket pitch, Babar is now turning heads in the fashion world — stepping into a league where few athletes, let alone Pakistanis, have ventured. The Louis Vuitton invite is more than just a fashion statement — it marks a cultural milestone. It reflects how South Asian icons like Babar are not only excelling in their craft but also breaking into global lifestyle…
Pakistan’s snooker legend Muhammad Asif is set to represent the country at the Commonwealth Billiards & Snooker Sports Championship 2025, taking place from July 2–6 in Mauritius. The international event, hosted by the World Confederation of Billiards Sports (WCBS) and backed by the Commonwealth Games Federation, will feature top cueists from across member nations. Asif earned his spot by winning the IBSF World Snooker Championship 2024 in Doha, marking his third world title and reaffirming his status as one of Pakistan’s greatest cue sports athletes. The tournament will feature a mix of formats — including Snooker, 10-Ball, Heyball, Blackball, and…
In a key leadership transition, the World Bank has appointed Bolormaa Amgaabazar as its new Country Director for Pakistan, effective July 1, 2025. Her appointment comes at a crucial time as Pakistan faces significant economic and development challenges. Amgaabazar succeeds Najy Benhassine and brings over 20 years of global development experience, having worked across Africa, East Asia, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe. She has held senior roles in the Bank’s offices in the Kyrgyz Republic, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste, and has also contributed to international development in her home country, Mongolia. Expressing her commitment, Amgaabazar said, “The World Bank and Pakistan…
At a time when Pakistan’s national hockey team faces serious financial challenges, two respected businessmen have stepped forward to offer more than just aid — they’re reigniting hope for a sport long eclipsed by cricket. Anwar Khawaja of AK Industries and Khawaja Masood Akhtar of Forward Sports (globally known as a FIFA football supplier) have launched a direct sponsorship initiative for nine national hockey players. The players are divided into two tiers: For years, national hockey players have struggled — often funding their own training and travel, despite representing Pakistan on global platforms. This support marks a shift: not just…
In a significant milestone for its economic journey, Pakistan has been named the most improved emerging market in sovereign credit risk, according to Bloomberg Intelligence’s latest data. The report shows that Pakistan’s credit default risk has dropped from 59% to 47% over the last 12 months — marking the sharpest decline globally. This turnaround is credited to the country’s macroeconomic stabilization efforts, structural reforms, successful IMF engagement, and timely repayment of external debts, which have collectively restored investor confidence and enhanced Pakistan’s credibility in global financial markets. Financial Advisor Khurram Schehzad shared the news via social media, citing the data…
The National Assembly has officially passed the Finance Bill 2025, approving a federal budget of Rs17.573 trillion for the fiscal year 2025–26. Presented by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, the budget outlines the government’s economic direction, focusing on fiscal discipline, development spending, and relief for low- and middle-income groups. All opposition amendments were rejected, while the Pakistan Peoples Party supported the bill after the government accommodated key recommendations, including increased funding for the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and tax relief for salaried individuals. The budget sets a GDP growth target of 4.2%, inflation at 7.5%, and a fiscal deficit…
In a major step toward improving road safety in Pakistan, the Sindh Police Driving School has officially opened at the Police Training College, Saeedabad, Karachi. The initiative aims to professionally train citizens in operating cars, motorcycles, and both light and heavy vehicles. Launched as a pilot project, the school reflects the police department’s commitment to reducing traffic accidents by encouraging responsible, skill-based driving. Inspector General Ghulam Nabi Memon inspected the facility and announced plans to expand the program to Hyderabad, Larkana, and Khairpur. “Safe driving is our target,” said IG Memon, emphasizing that well-trained drivers are key to accident prevention.…
Lyari — often hailed as the heart of Pakistani football — is about to make international headlines. For the first time ever, the Lyari Football Academy will compete in the Norway Cup, the world’s largest youth football tournament, held annually in Oslo. The tournament kicks off on July 26, and young players from Lyari will be standing shoulder to shoulder with youth teams from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas — many hailing from nations with robust footballing legacies. This historic moment is more than just a game. It’s a symbol of how talent, passion, and resilience can break boundaries.…
In a groundbreaking development for Pakistan’s meat export industry, The Organic Meat Company Limited (TOMCL) has become the first Pakistani company to export beef casings to Europe. This remarkable achievement highlights the company’s commitment to global standards and its ambition to expand into high-demand international markets. In a statement filed with the Pakistan Stock Exchange, TOMCL announced this milestone as a major leap in its journey of product diversification and global expansion. The move is expected to not only strengthen Pakistan’s presence in international food trade but also create new export avenues for the country’s halal meat sector. Beef casings,…