National

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    PSX closes higher despite volatile trading

    ByJustpaste.in

      The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed a positive trading session on Tuesday, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index gaining 1,116 points to close at 177,083 points. The index remained volatile throughout the trading session and moved within a range of 1,755 points. It reached an intraday high of 178,768 points before easing from its peak as investors adjusted their positions. Trading activity remained strong, with approximately 710 million shares changing hands in 25 billion rupees worth of transactions. The high trading volume reflected continued investor participation and active buying and selling across various sectors. Despite the rise in the benchmark index, the overall market capitalisation declined by around 120 billion rupees, falling to 19,833 billion rupees by the end of the session. The market’s performance reflected a mixed trend, as investors continued to monitor economic developments and market conditions while actively repositioning their portfolios.

  • 28 mine workers killed, Parliament raises safety concerns

    ByJustpaste.in

    Islamabad: A serious safety crisis in Pakistan’s mining sector came under the spotlight after the National Assembly Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development questioned why many mine workers remain unregistered even after losing their lives in dangerous mining accidents. The committee expressed concern that families of deceased workers may struggle to receive compensation and welfare support because authorities lack complete records of people working inside mines. Members demanded immediate steps to register all mine workers and ordered a review of mining safety arrangements across the country. The issue was discussed during the meeting of the Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, chaired by Syed Rafiullah, following a deadly coal mine accident in Balochistan. Members offered prayers for the workers who lost their lives and said repeated mining accidents show serious weaknesses in monitoring and enforcement systems. During the discussion, committee members questioned officials about whether the workers who died in the accident were officially registered. Officials informed the committee that complete registration details were unavailable, raising concern among members about the protection available to mining workers and their families. The committee questioned how workers could spend their lives working in dangerous conditions while government departments lacked basic information about their employment status. Members rejected the argument that many mine workers are seasonal employees and therefore difficult to register. They said anyone working in a mine, whether permanent, temporary or seasonal, should be counted as a worker and provided protection. The committee stressed that registration should not depend on the type of employment. It said workers who risk their lives underground deserve safety measures, legal protection and welfare benefits. Officials informed the committee that worker registration involves different institutions, including provincial departments and labour related organisations. However, members questioned why coordination gaps continue despite years of discussions. The committee also raised concerns over mine inspections and safety checks. Members asked when mines were last inspected, whether safety rules were followed and how many workers were present at different mining sites. Officials stated that mining safety falls under provincial responsibility, but the federal government cannot ignore the issue and must collaborate with provinces to improve worker protection. The committee directed authorities to conduct a complete survey to identify how many mines are operating, how many workers are employed and how many workers are officially registered. The Federal Minister assured the committee that action would be taken and a long term strategy would be developed to ensure every mine worker is registered. Another major concern raised during the meeting was the lack of emergency facilities near mining areas. Members questioned whether proper trauma centres, ambulances and emergency services were available near mines to save workers after accidents. They pointed out that discussions about emergency facilities had taken place in previous years, but clear improvements were still needed. The committee said safety rules cannot remain only on official documents; they must be visible at mining sites through practical action. Members also suggested reviewing mining leases and ensuring that mine operators follow safety standards before continuing operations. The committee recommended that all provinces and Gilgit Baltistan review mining conditions, worker registration systems and compliance with safety procedures. Officials informed the committee that a survey would be carried out to assess the situation on the ground and identify gaps in the current system. The committee also discussed the Workers Welfare Fund and recommended taking up the issue of its management and distribution at the Council of Common Interests level. Members stressed that workers across Pakistan must receive their legal rights and no labourer should remain invisible in government records.

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    Malik Noor Awan hails PML-N’s AJK victory

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Japan President Malik Noor Awan has congratulated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, party leader Nawaz Sharif, the party leadership, and workers on the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s victory in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections. In his congratulatory statement, Malik Noor Awan said the people of Azad Kashmir had expressed their confidence in the PML-N’s agenda of development, stability, and public service by electing the party to power. He said the victory was not only a success for a political party but also a guarantee of a brighter future, a stronger economy, and sustainable development for the people of Azad Kashmir. Malik Noor Awan stated that the PML-N has always centered its politics on public service, development, and the promotion of democratic values. He said this was the reason the people had once again placed their trust in the party’s leadership. He expressed hope that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PML-N President Nawaz Sharif, new development projects would be launched across Azad Kashmir, employment opportunities would be created, and more effective measures would be taken to improve public welfare. He further said that PML-N workers and the Pakistani community residing in Japan were also delighted with the historic victory and extended their heartfelt congratulations to the party leadership. Reaffirming the commitment of overseas Pakistanis, Malik Noor Awan said they would continue to stand firmly with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and play their full role in supporting the country’s progress and development.

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    Tight security marks peaceful Chehlum procession

    ByJustpaste.in

    The main Chehlum procession concluded peacefully in Karachi on Tuesday after passing through its designated route under comprehensive security arrangements. Thousands of mourners participated in the annual religious procession to mark Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, which commemorates the 40th day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Husain (AS), the grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Law enforcement agencies implemented an extensive security plan to ensure the procession was held without any untoward incident. The event concluded successfully after participants reached the designated endpoint. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed satisfaction over the peaceful conclusion of the procession. He praised the Sindh Police, Pakistan Rangers, and other security agencies for their coordinated efforts to maintain law and order throughout the day. The chief minister also appreciated the cooperation extended by procession organisers, religious scholars, volunteers, and participants. He said their collective efforts helped ensure the religious event remained peaceful and well-organised. Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar also commended the police for their professional performance. He said the successful completion of Chehlum processions reflected effective planning and strong coordination among all institutions responsible for security. A comprehensive security strategy had been put in place ahead of the event. More than 11,000 police officers and personnel were deployed across Karachi to protect Chehlum processions, religious gatherings, and imambargahs. Security officials remained on high alert throughout the day. Additional police personnel were stationed along the procession route and at sensitive locations across the city. Rangers and other law enforcement agencies also assisted in maintaining security. Authorities carried out continuous patrolling, snap checking, and picketing in different areas. Officers were instructed to remain present in their respective jurisdictions and ensure strict monitoring of important public places, government buildings, private installations, and religious sites. To facilitate security arrangements, several major roads along the procession route remained closed. Traffic police introduced a detailed diversion plan to reduce inconvenience for commuters. Motorists were advised to use alternate routes through Lasbela Chowk, Nishtar Road, Kashmir Road, Shahrah-i-Quaideen, Martin Road, Bahadur Yar Jang Road, Soldier Bazaar, and other connecting roads. Traffic police personnel remained deployed across the city to guide commuters and manage the flow of vehicles.

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    Karachi flour price fixed at Rs. 130 per kilogram

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Commissioner of Karachi has taken notice of a sharp increase in flour prices in the city. A meeting was held between the Commissioner of Karachi and the Flour Mills Association where it was agreed to ensure the supply of wheat at lower prices and without interruption. Following the meeting, flour mills reduced the ex-mill price of No. 2.5 flour by Rs. 3 per kilogram fixing it at Rs. 130 per kilogram. Flour mills across the city will sell No. 2.5 flour at an ex-mill price of Rs. 130 per kilogram from today. The price of wheat has also fallen to Rs. 121 per kilogram resulting in a reduction in flour prices. It is worth mentioning that the Flour Mills Association had previously increased flour prices arbitrarily. The price of No. 2.5 flour had been raised to Rs. 133 per kilogram while fine flour was priced at Rs. 149 per kilogram. During the past three months, the price of No. 2.5 flour increased by Rs. 24 per kilogram while the price of fine flour rose by Rs. 31 per kilogram. The price of mill-ground flour (chakki atta) has also increased by Rs. 20 to Rs. 25 per kilogram over the past three months. Wheat is currently being supplied to chakki owners at Rs. 130 per kilogram. However, if wheat prices rise further, there is a possibility that flour prices could increase again.

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    US waives $20,000 visa bond for Pakistanis

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan has been excluded from the United States’ newly permanent visa bond programme, meaning Pakistani applicants will not be required to deposit a refundable financial guarantee of up to $20,000 when applying for certain US visitor visas. The United States has officially made its 2025 Visa Bond Pilot Program a permanent policy. Under the programme, nationals of selected countries applying for business or tourist visas must provide a refundable financial bond ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 as part of the visa application process. According to international reports, the revised policy increases the maximum refundable bond amount from $15,000 to $20,000 for eligible applicants from countries included in the programme. The list reportedly includes around 50 countries, including Bangladesh, Nepal, and several African nations. Pakistan is not included in the list of countries subject to the visa bond requirement. Afghanistan, India, and Iran are also excluded from the programme. As a result, Pakistani citizens applying for US visitor visas will continue to follow the standard visa application process without the additional refundable financial guarantee required under the permanent visa bond policy.

  • PML-N accuses Gujrat police of political victimisation after rally FIR

    ByJustpaste.in

    GUJRAT: A political row has erupted in Gujrat days after Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) celebrated its victories in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections, with the party accusing the district police of registering what it described as a politically motivated first information report (FIR) against its local leadership. The controversy began after a victory rally organised in the NA-63 constituency, where supporters celebrated PML-N’s electoral success in AJK. During the procession, some participants allegedly resorted to aerial firing. Following the incident, Gujrat Police registered an FIR against around 10 nominated suspects and nearly 30 unidentified persons. Police have also arrested around 10 individuals in connection with the case. Among those named in the FIR is PML-N Gujrat District Coordinator Chaudhry Ali Warraich. The case includes serious offences under Sections 324, 148, 149 and 109 of the Pakistan Penal Code, in addition to other charges related to the incident. Addressing an emergency press conference, Ali Warraich strongly rejected the allegations and accused the police of acting beyond their legal authority. He alleged that the FIR was registered without a proper inquiry and claimed that officials from City Police Station initiated legal proceedings despite the alleged incident occurring within the jurisdiction of Sadar Police Station. “This action was taken overnight without any transparent investigation. We will challenge this FIR through all available legal forums,” Warraich said. He maintained that only the individual found responsible for aerial firing should face legal consequences, adding that innocent participants should not be implicated. “If any person committed the firing, that individual should be punished according to law, but the rest should not be made scapegoats,” he said, demanding that responsibility be fixed on those directly involved. PML-N District President Nawabzada Tahir-ul-Mulk also condemned the FIR, describing it as political victimisation. “We have always opposed violence and lawlessness in Gujrat. Ironically, today our own workers are being implicated in what appears to be a politically motivated case,” he said. AJK MLA Chaudhry Zeeshan Younas, who recently won the LA-38 Jammu-V seat on the PML-N ticket, expressed solidarity with those booked in the case. “Most of those nominated are our supporters and voters. We will not leave them alone and will provide them every possible legal and political support,” he said. Warraich further alleged that Punjab ministers Chaudhry Salik Hussain and Chaudhry Shafay Hussain exerted pressure on the district administration to register the FIR at the request of PML-Q leader Chaudhry Hussain Elahi. However, no official response was immediately available from the ministers or the PML-Q regarding the allegations. According to PML-N leaders, the FIR is being viewed by many local political observers as a reaction to the party’s electoral gains in AJK, particularly in Gujrat, a district long regarded as a political stronghold of the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), which currently has representation in both the federal and Punjab governments. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has reportedly taken notice of the incident and sought a report from the Inspector General of Police, Punjab. Despite repeated attempts by journalists to obtain the police version, Gujrat Police declined to comment on the matter. No official statement explaining the basis of the FIR or the arrests had been issued till the filing of this report.

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    Field Marshal visits NEOC, reviews monsoon disaste…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir visited the National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), where he was briefed on preparedness measures and coordinated response arrangements for dealing with monsoon-related disasters. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) briefed the Field Marshal on the authority’s operational capabilities and its technology-driven disaster response mechanism. During the visit, Field Marshal Asim Munir stressed that the protection of human lives and critical national infrastructure must be ensured under all circumstances. He said the Pakistan Armed Forces remain fully prepared at all times to support the civil administration and the NDMA in relief, rescue, and rehabilitation operations whenever required. The Field Marshal also appreciated the NDMA’s efforts to strengthen the country’s disaster management capacity and enhance preparedness for natural emergencies. According to the ISPR, he underscored the importance of maintaining constant readiness, ensuring effective coordination among all relevant institutions, and delivering a timely response to emergency situations during the ongoing monsoon season.

  • Punjab continues Rs25,000 Honorarium for 69,000 Imams

    ByJustpaste.in

    Lahore – The Punjab Chief Minister’s Honorarium Program for Imam Masjid Sahibaan is continuing successfully under the directives of the Chief Minister of Punjab. According to the spokesperson for the Home Department Punjab, the provincial government has allocated Rs 21 billion for the program, while more than Rs 9 billion has already been disbursed to Imams under the scheme since January 2026. It is pertinent to mention that under the Punjab Chief Minister’s Honorarium Program, more than 69,000 registered Imams across the province are receiving a monthly honorarium of Rs 25,000. The spokesperson stated that the monthly honorarium is being disbursed without interruption to registered Imams throughout Punjab through dedicated ATM cards. The payment mechanism has been designed to ensure dignity, convenience, transparency and efficiency in accordance with modern standards. The Government of Punjab has completed all necessary documentation for the honorarium program for the fiscal year 2026–27, and the required payment has been transferred to the Bank of Punjab. The spokesperson further stated that respected Imams are playing an exemplary role in promoting religious harmony, maintaining peace and fostering social welfare across the province. Their services and contributions are helping strengthen social cohesion and reinforce the values of unity and harmony in the society.

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    Solar boom needs battery storage, grid reforms to sustain momentum

    ByJustpaste.in

    Islamabad: Pakistan’s rapid expansion of solar energy has already generated billions of dollars in savings, but experts and policymakers on Tuesday warned that battery storage, grid modernization and supportive policies are now essential to sustain the country’s clean energy transition. Speaking at the Solar, Storage and Flexibility 2026 Conference, Federal Minister for Power Awais Leghari said Pakistan’s energy mix is already 50% clean and is targeted to reach 90% by 2035. He stressed that local manufacturing of battery storage systems and the introduction of a daytime Time-of-Use (ToU) tariff would be key to integrating growing solar generation into the national grid. Addressing the conference, PPP Vice President Senator Sherry Rehman said solar energy has already saved Pakistan US$12 billion, with another US$6.3 billion in savings expected this year. She said the country now faces an energy management challenge rather than a generation shortfall, calling for major investments in battery storage, smart grids and modern transmission infrastructure. Rehman said one in every five Pakistani households now uses solar energy and urged international climate finance to prioritize distributed renewable energy, battery storage and affordable financing for households and small businesses instead of focusing mainly on large utility-scale projects. She also opposed the proposed 18% GST on solar equipment, saying it would have slowed Pakistan’s clean energy transition, and called for targeted subsidies, microfinance and supportive regulations to expand access to renewable energy, particularly in underserved and off-grid communities. Renewable energy experts noted that Pakistan has installed an estimated 38 gigawatts of distributed solar capacity, while imports of lithium-ion Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) surged 220% in 2025, signalling rapidly growing demand for energy storage. Global renewable energy leaders, including Global Solar Council CEO Sonia Dunlop and Renewable Energy Council Asia Pacific representative John Grimes, described Pakistan’s consumer-led solar revolution as a model for other countries but stressed that a comprehensive battery storage policy and modern electricity grid are now critical to maintaining the momentum.