تازہ ترین

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    93% admissions at top colleges go to private-schoo…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Concern has been raised over the quality of education in Karachi’s government schools and the ability of their students to gain admission to the city’s leading government colleges. According to admission data, the overwhelming majority of students admitted to Karachi’s top 10 government colleges completed their matriculation from private schools. Despite these institutions being government colleges, around 93 out of every 100 students admitted to them are graduates of private schools, while only about seven come from government schools. Data obtained from the colleges shows that a total of 13,211 students were admitted to these institutions. Of them, 12,264 had completed their matriculation from private schools, while only 947 were graduates of government schools. This means that 92.8% of admissions were secured by students from private schools, while government school students accounted for just 7.2%. In other words, for every 100 students admitted to these government colleges, approximately 93 come from private schools and only seven from government schools. At Adamjee Government Science College, 613 students were admitted. Among them, 585 had completed matriculation from private schools, while only 28 came from government schools. Similarly, Government D.J. Sindh Science College admitted a total of 1,258 students. Of these, 1,214 were graduates of private schools and only 44 had studied at government schools. At Delhi Government Science College, 801 students were admitted. The figures show that 773 came from private schools, while only 28 were graduates of government schools. Government Boys College for Men, Nazimabad, admitted a total of 1,317 students. Of these, 1,257 had completed their matriculation from private schools, while only 60 came from government schools. The same trend is even more visible among government girls’ colleges. Government Sir Syed Girls College admitted 2,507 students. Among them, 2,266 had completed matriculation from private schools, while only 241 were graduates of government schools. At St Lawrence Government Girls College, 691 students were admitted. Of these, 631 came from private schools and only 60 from government schools. Similarly, at PECHS Government College for Women, 1,517 students were admitted. A total of 1,420 had studied at private schools, while only 97 had completed matriculation from government schools. At Khatoon-e-Pakistan Government College for Women, 2,107 students were admitted. Of these, 1,876 were graduates of private schools, while only 231 came from government schools. The figures for boys and girls at Government Degree College Malir Cantonment were also included. According to the data provided, 402 students were counted in the combined figures, while the reported breakdown listed 1,316 students from private schools and 86 from government schools. Meanwhile, Government Degree Boys and Girls College Stadium Road admitted a total of 998 students. Of these, 926 had completed matriculation from private schools, while only 72 were graduates of government schools. The situation at government girls’ colleges is similarly concerning. At Sir Syed Girls College, 2,266 students from private schools secured admission compared with only 241 from government schools. At PECHS Government College for Women, the ratio was 1,420 private-school graduates against 97 government-school graduates. At Khatoon-e-Pakistan Government College for Women, 1,876 private-school graduates were admitted compared with just 231 from government schools.

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    Peshawar High Court blocks deportation of two Afgh…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Peshawar High Court has stopped the deportation of two Afghan journalists who are currently living in Pakistan. The court has directed the federal government to decide their cases within two months. The petitioners have been identified as Syed Ehsanullah Salehi and Syed Munir Ahmed. Both are Afghan journalists. The court said the two petitioners entered Pakistan on valid visas. They are currently residing in the country. According to the petitioners, they have applied for resettlement in France. Their applications are still under consideration. The petitioners also informed the court that the French embassy has already verified their cases. Their lawyer told the court that both journalists face a risk of arrest and deportation. He said the fear of deportation has also restricted their freedom of movement in Pakistan. After hearing the case, the high court directed the federal government to determine the matter within 60 days. The court also issued directions for the situation if the government fails to reach a decision within the given period. It said the Ministry of Interior should grant the petitioners temporary permission to remain in Pakistan. The ruling provides temporary relief to the two Afghan journalists while their cases are being reviewed by the relevant authorities. Separately, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said Afghan nationals who wish to return to Pakistan in the future can do so after obtaining a valid visa. The development comes as Afghan nationals in Pakistan continue to face scrutiny over their legal status and documentation. The court’s decision means that the two petitioners cannot be deported while the government considers their cases within the period set by the court

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    Iran says Pakistan-Turkey-Saudi pact not aimed at Tehran

    ByJustpaste.in

    Iran has said it has no reason to believe that the new security agreement between Pakistan, Turkey and Saudi Arabia is aimed against Tehran. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the agreement should not be viewed as a direct threat to Iran. He said the new regional security arrangement reflects a broader change in how countries in the Middle East are approaching their security needs. Baghaei said regional states are increasingly recognising that the United States cannot guarantee long-term security in the region. He also accused Washington of contributing to instability in the Middle East. He said regional security arrangements could help strengthen stability if they take into account the political and historical realities of the region. He also called for such arrangements to be broad and inclusive. Baghaei said Iran would not resume direct negotiations with the United States while Washington continues to violate an interim agreement between the two sides. Iran has also linked the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to several demands from Washington. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran and Oman were close to finalising an agreement on new shipping routes through the strategic waterway. He said the agreement was in its final stages. However, Araghchi stressed that an agreement with Oman would not automatically lead to the reopening of the strait. He said the United States would first need to meet several conditions set by Tehran. Iran is demanding compensation for damage caused by US attacks. It is also calling for an end to US military threats and sanctions against Iran. Iran has further demanded an end to attacks against its regional allies. Other demands include the removal of restrictions on Iranian shipping and the release of frozen Iranian assets. The Strait of Hormuz is a major international route for oil and gas shipments. Its prolonged closure has raised concerns over global energy supplies and shipping. Iran and the United States are currently not holding direct talks. Tehran says it will not enter direct negotiations while Washington continues to breach the interim agreement reached earlier this year. Messages between the two countries are being exchanged through intermediaries. Iran has also made a major change in its national security leadership. Former Revolutionary Guards commander Mohsen Rezaei has been appointed secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. Rezaei replaces Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, who had been appointed to the position in March. No official reason was given for the change. The move, however, comes at a sensitive time for Iran as tensions with the United States and Israel remain high. Rezaei, 71, is a senior figure in Iran’s political and security establishment. He led the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps from 1981 to 1997. He served during much of the Iran-Iraq war. He later spent more than two decades as secretary of Iran’s Expediency Discernment Council. Rezaei also served as vice president for economic affairs from 2021 to 2023 under former President Ebrahim Raisi. Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has also appointed Rezaei as his representative on the Supreme National Security Council. Zolghadr has been appointed as Khamenei’s political adviser. The Supreme National Security Council coordinates Iran’s security and foreign policy. It includes senior military, intelligence and government officials. Meanwhile, differences between the United States and Israel are reportedly growing over military operations across the region. Israeli broadcaster Channel 13 reported that Washington is pushing Israel to move toward ending fighting on three fronts. These include Gaza, Lebanon and Iran. US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper reportedly conveyed the message during a visit to Israel. Washington wants progress toward reducing military operations and closing the three active fronts. Israeli officials, however, have indicated that they want to maintain freedom to act against Iran. Israeli military officials reportedly told their US counterparts that Israel intends to retain the ability to strike Iran if Tehran continues developing its nuclear programme or rebuilding its ballistic missile capabilities. Washington is also pushing for further Israeli withdrawals from positions in southern Lebanon. In Gaza, the United States is seeking progress toward a broader settlement. It is also supporting the deployment of a multinational force in the territory. Israeli security officials have reportedly objected to some US demands. These include reducing military operations and targeted killings in Gaza. The developments point to growing differences between Washington and Tel Aviv over how to manage conflicts involving Iran, Lebanon and Gaza. At the same time, the United States appears to be adopting a more cautious approach toward Iran. Tehran, however, continues to link the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to major concessions from Washington.

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    Lucas Digne returns to PSG in three-year deal

    ByJustpaste.in

    Paris Saint-Germain have completed the signing of France international left-back Lucas Digne from Aston Villa, bringing the experienced defender back to the club more than a decade after his first spell in Paris. The 33-year-old has signed a three-year contract with the French champions. PSG activated Digne’s release clause, with reports putting the transfer fee at around £8.5 million ($11.5m). Digne’s return marks an intriguing new chapter in a career that has taken him across some of Europe’s biggest clubs. He initially joined PSG in 2013 and made 44 appearances before moving on. He subsequently spent time at Roma, Barcelona and Everton before establishing himself as an important figure at Aston Villa. His spell in England ended on a high note. Digne played a significant role in Villa’s successful 2025-26 campaign, helping the club lift the Europa League under manager Unai Emery. The move also comes after an impressive international period. Digne earned his place as France’s preferred left-back during the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup and now arrives in Paris with 64 international caps to his name. For Digne, the transfer is more than simply another move. Returning to his hometown club gives him an opportunity to finish another chapter of his career at a club that has transformed dramatically since his first departure. “I am very honoured to be returning to Paris Saint-Germain,” Digne said, adding that he was impressed by the club’s development and eager to bring his experience to the team. At PSG, Digne is expected to provide experienced competition and cover for first-choice left-back Nuno Mendes. His versatility, international experience and familiarity with the club could make him a valuable squad player. The storyline could become even more compelling this week, with PSG scheduled to face Aston Villa in the UEFA Super Cup on August 12. Digne could potentially make his PSG return against his former side. The reunion promises an unusual twist: Digne could soon find himself lining up against the club he has only just left.

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    Jannik Sinner withdraws from Cincinnati with knee injury

    ByJustpaste.in

    World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the Cincinnati Open after failing to recover fully from a right knee injury, raising fresh questions over the Italian star’s fitness ahead of the US Open. Sinner confirmed his decision on Sunday after consulting his doctors and medical team. The 24-year-old said his knee had continued to bother him despite treatment and that he was not yet ready to return to competitive action. “After consulting with my doctors and my team, I have to announce that I need to withdraw,” Sinner said in a statement published by the ATP. The decision comes just days after Sinner also pulled out of the Masters 1000 event in Montreal. He has now missed both major North American hard-court tournaments that traditionally serve as important preparations for the US Open. Sinner’s withdrawal is particularly significant given his recent form. The Italian arrived at the North American swing on a six-tournament winning streak at Masters 1000 level and has not played since successfully defending his Wimbledon title last month. The Cincinnati setback also means Sinner will enter the final Grand Slam of the season without a competitive match on the North American hard courts. The US Open main draw begins in New York on August 30, leaving him with limited time to regain full fitness. Adding to the uncertainty, world No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz is also expected to miss Cincinnati while dealing with a wrist injury. The two young stars have become the central figures of men’s tennis and contested last year’s US Open final, with Alcaraz winning in four sets. Sinner’s priority now is clear: recovery rather than rushing back. His decision reflects the importance of arriving in New York healthy, particularly with another Grand Slam title within reach. For Cincinnati, however, the absence of both Sinner and Alcaraz is a major blow. For tennis fans, the bigger question is whether the sport’s two leading stars will be fully fit when the US Open begins.

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    Hajj applications go digital as Pakistan lets pilg…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf has announced that Pakistan’s Hajj application process has been fully digitized, allowing prospective pilgrims to apply from the comfort of their homes without visiting offices or standing in long queues. Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, the minister said the digital system had been introduced to make the Hajj registration process easier and more convenient for pilgrims. Around 400,000 registered applicants will be able to submit their applications online. Under the new system, applicants will have several options for paying their Hajj expenses. Payments can be made through credit cards or PSID, while those wishing to pay in cash can print a challan and deposit the required amount. Yousaf said 107,526 pilgrims are eligible to perform Hajj under the government scheme. The collection of the first installment of Hajj expenses will begin on August 17, while the second installment is scheduled to be collected in October. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, with registration closing once the government’s allocated quota is reached. The minister also said pilgrims opting for the private Hajj scheme would be able to select a private operator through the Pak Hajj application. However, he cautioned pilgrims against making direct payments to private Hajj operators.

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    Iran cannot be subdued, people are forcing enemies…

    ByJustpaste.in

    TEHRAN: Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has said that Iran cannot be subdued, claiming that the country’s people are standing united against external pressure and forcing their opponents to retreat. Qalibaf made the remarks while congratulating General Mohsen Rezaei on his appointment to the Supreme National Security Council. He described Rezaei’s inclusion in the council as evidence of the confidence placed in him by Iran’s Supreme Leader. According to Qalibaf, Iran is currently passing through one of the most sensitive periods in its history. He said recent developments had demonstrated to the international community that attempts to bring Iran under pressure would not succeed. The Iranian parliament speaker said national unity remained strong across the country, with the public, military and diplomatic institutions standing together under the leadership of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Qalibaf further claimed that the Iranian people were demonstrating resilience in the face of their adversaries and were now putting pressure on the opposing side to back down. His comments come amid heightened tensions surrounding Iran and the United States, with disagreements over regional security, military threats and the strategic Strait of Hormuz continuing to dominate international attention.

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    Ben Shelton storms into montreal quarter-finals after Fonseca Test

    ByJustpaste.in

    Defending champion Ben Shelton continued his impressive run at the ATP Montreal Masters, defeating Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca in straight sets to book his place in the quarter-finals. The 23-year-old American, seeded 10th, produced a composed performance to win 6-3, 7-6 (7-3) on Sunday. Shelton has now reached the last eight without dropping a set and extended his winning streak in Canada to nine matches. The victory, however, was anything but routine. Strong evening winds made conditions difficult, forcing both players to adjust their games. Shelton relied on his powerful left-handed serve and aggressive baseline play while trying to keep his composure during the second-set battle. “It was tough today, not easy conditions,” Shelton said. “It all came down to grit. The tennis was not clean.” Fonseca, regarded as one of the most promising young players in men’s tennis, had opportunities to change the momentum. The Brazilian led 3-1 and 40-30 in the second set when he landed awkwardly after attempting a smash, appearing to hurt his ankle. The 18-year-old continued, but his performance became increasingly erratic. He finished with 32 unforced errors, allowing Shelton to stay in control. The American eventually sealed victory on his second of four match points when Fonseca sent a return into the net. Shelton will next face 13th-seeded Czech Jakub Mensik, who advanced by beating Botic van de Zandschulp 6-4, 7-5. Mensik overturned a second-set deficit by winning 12 of the final 14 points, including a memorable winning lob. Elsewhere, Spain’s Daniel Merida continued his remarkable hard-court breakthrough by defeating Tallon Griekspoor 6-3, 6-1 in just 69 minutes. The 63rd-ranked Spaniard had never won a tour-level hard-court match before arriving in Montreal. He has now won four consecutive matches on the surface and secured a first Masters quarter-final, guaranteeing a rise into the world’s top 50. Merida will face American 12th seed Learner Tien, who defeated Argentina’s Thiago Tirante 6-4, 6-4. “This is a dream come true,” Merida said after the victory, underlining the confidence behind his breakthrough season. With Shelton chasing another Montreal title and Merida enjoying a stunning rise, the tournament is shaping up for an exciting finish.

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    China launches Arctic route to bypass global shipping chokepoints

    ByJustpaste.in

    China is preparing to open a regular container shipping route through the Arctic as disruptions at major maritime chokepoints continue to affect global trade. The new service will operate through Russia’s Northern Sea Route along the Arctic coast. It is being presented as an alternative route between Asia and Europe. Chinese shipping company Sea Legend is expected to launch its first regular service on the route. The service will connect Ningbo in China with Felixstowe in the United Kingdom. The route has been described as the “Ice Silk Road”. It is designed to provide faster access to European markets. It could also improve trade links with Turkey and North Africa. The Arctic route could significantly reduce sailing times between China and Europe. The journey between Ningbo and Felixstowe normally takes around 40 days by traditional routes. The Northern Sea Route could cut the travel time by roughly half under suitable conditions. The route has gained attention as shipping companies look for alternatives to heavily congested and politically sensitive waterways. The Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab have become major areas of concern for international shipping. Rising tensions in these regions have increased risks for vessels and raised costs for shipping companies. Marine risk experts say the Arctic is attracting greater interest from shipowners because it can offer shorter journeys and reduce exposure to geopolitical conflict zones. The Northern Sea Route is divided into 28 sections. Different rules and operating requirements apply along the route. Ships generally need permission from the Northern Sea Route administration, which is controlled by Russia’s state nuclear energy company Rosatom. Interest in the Arctic route is not new. Several international shipping companies have previously tested the Northern Sea Route. However, many European operators later avoided regular use of the route because of worsening relations with Russia. Concerns over the potential environmental impact of increased shipping in the fragile Arctic ecosystem have also remained a major issue. The changing climate has added another dimension to the debate. Shrinking sea ice has made some Arctic routes more accessible during parts of the year. The Arctic is now becoming an increasingly important area of competition among major powers. Russia considers the region strategically important for its economy and national security. It also views the Northern Sea Route as a major trade corridor. China has described itself as a “near-Arctic state” and has promoted the concept of a “Polar Silk Road”. Beijing sees greater Arctic access as an opportunity to expand trade and strengthen its global supply chains. The United States, meanwhile, has opposed efforts that could give Russia and China excessive control over Arctic routes. Washington has repeatedly supported freedom of navigation and greater international access to the region. The growing use of the Arctic shipping corridor could therefore have implications beyond commercial trade. For China, the route offers a potential way to reduce dependence on traditional maritime passages. For Russia, it could strengthen the economic importance of its Arctic coastline.

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    Free entry for fans at National Champions Cup 2026 in Multan

    ByJustpaste.in

    Cricket fans in Multan are set for an exciting week of domestic action, with the Pakistan Cricket Board announcing free entry for spectators at the National Champions Cup 2026, which begins on August 11 at the Multan Cricket Stadium. The tournament will run until August 18 and will feature seven day-night matches, giving local supporters a chance to watch some of Pakistan’s leading domestic and international stars without paying an entry fee. Matches are scheduled to begin at 3pm local time. The new 50-over List-A competition will officially open Pakistan’s 2026-27 domestic cricket season. Four teams—Pakistan Greens, Pakistan Whites, Pakistan Blues and Pakistan Gold—will compete in a single round-robin league. At the end of the league stage, the two highest-ranked teams will qualify for the final, setting up a potentially decisive finish in Multan. The PCB has also confirmed the playing XIs for all four sides, along with a 13-player reserve pool. Reserve players will remain with their respective squads during training and match days and can be brought into the team if a player suffers an injury or concussion after the playing XI has been announced. The tournament features several prominent names. Fast-bowling star Shaheen Shah Afridi will captain Pakistan Gold, while all-rounder Shadab Khan will lead Pakistan Greens. Meanwhile, Pakistan Whites will be captained by Saim Ayub, with Sahibzada Farhan taking charge of Pakistan Blues. The leadership choices provide an interesting mix of international experience and emerging talent. Beyond the trophy itself, the competition carries added importance because the PCB is using the tournament as part of its wider preparations for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. A 44-player pool has been assembled, supported by reserve players, giving selectors an opportunity to assess form, fitness and combinations ahead of future international assignments. For Multan’s cricket followers, the combination of free admission, day-night matches and a strong field makes the Champions Cup an appealing mid-August sporting attraction. With Shaheen and Shadab leading rival teams and several players competing for national recognition, the tournament could offer plenty of drama from the opening match to the final.