leadership crisis epzs
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Leadership crisis at EPZs threatens Pakistan’s industrial future

ByJustpaste.in

Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Industries and Production today exposed alarming governance lapses and structural vulnerabilities in Pakistan’s industrial sector, raising serious questions over the future of Export Processing Zones (EPZs) and the proposed Automotive & Auto Parts Manufacturing Policy 2026–31.

The session, chaired by Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, revealed that the Export Processing Zones Authority has been operating without a permanent chairman for an extended period, leaving critical decisions in limbo. Committee members expressed deep concern that this leadership vacuum is undermining investor confidence and delaying strategic initiatives crucial for industrial growth. Mandviwalla warned that the prolonged absence of leadership threatens compliance with Pakistan’s commitments under the IMF Extended Fund Facility (EFF), particularly the phase-out of incentives and restrictions on EPZ sales to the domestic market.

Industry representatives attending the committee highlighted growing discontent over the draft Auto Policy 2026–31. While the policy aims to boost New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), increase domestic value addition, and expand exports, local manufacturers face crippling challenges. High tariffs on raw materials, steep duties, and overall cost disadvantages were flagged as severe obstacles that could prevent the policy’s objectives from materializing.

“The government’s plan is ambitious, but without resolving operational bottlenecks, domestic producers will be left behind while international competitors gain an advantage,” said a senior industry official. The committee directed all stakeholders to submit formal grievances and scheduled a follow-up joint session with the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Industries and Production to ensure these issues are addressed before the next IMF review.

Officials confirmed that EPZ incentives and operational rules require immediate reform, warning that failure to act decisively could deter foreign and domestic investment, compromise manufacturing growth, and slow Pakistan’s economic recovery.

The committee stressed that rectifying these issues is critical not only for industrial expansion but also for maintaining Pakistan’s international credibility in trade agreements and IMF compliance.

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    Pakistani mountaineers successfully cross historic phargam An Pass 

    ByJustpaste.in

      A team of Pakistani mountaineers has successfully crossed the historic Phargam An Pass in the Hindu Kush mountain range for the first time in 27 years, marking a significant milestone in the country’s mountaineering history. Standing at an altitude of 5,100 meters (16,732 feet), the challenging pass was successfully summited by the expedition team after navigating some of the region’s most demanding terrain. The expedition also made history by becoming the first to include female mountaineers who successfully reached the summit of Phargam An Pass. Their achievement represents a major step forward for women’s participation in Pakistan’s adventure tourism and mountaineering community, highlighting the growing presence of female athletes in high-altitude expeditions. The expedition was organized with the support of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority and took place in Upper Chitral, an area renowned for its spectacular mountains, glaciers, and remote landscapes. The mission aimed not only to revive a historic route but also to promote adventure tourism in the region while showcasing Pakistan’s rich natural beauty. During the expedition, the team made another remarkable discovery by locating the memorial of Austrian mountaineer George Kronberger, who tragically lost his life in the area in 1975. Finding the memorial added historical significance to the expedition, connecting the modern-day climbers with an important chapter in the history of mountaineering in the Hindu Kush. The journey to Phargam An Pass was far from easy. Team members crossed vast glaciers, climbed steep snow-covered slopes, traversed rocky mountain trails, and carefully navigated areas threatened by avalanches. Despite these hazardous conditions, the climbers successfully completed the expedition through careful planning, teamwork, and determination. Expedition guide Zamrud Khan noted that climate change has significantly altered the route to Phargam An Pass over the years. According to him, melting glaciers, changing snow conditions, and shifting mountain landscapes have made the route considerably different and more challenging compared to previous decades. His observations underline the visible impact of global climate change on Pakistan’s high-altitude regions and the increasing challenges faced by mountaineers. A particularly inspiring aspect of the expedition was the participation of three sisters from Chitral—Mahrosh Akhtar, Ismeel Roz, and Madhu Shala Akhtar—who became part of this historic journey and set a new example for aspiring female adventurers across Pakistan. Their achievement demonstrates that women are increasingly breaking barriers in fields traditionally dominated by men and encouraging future generations to pursue outdoor sports and exploration. The expedition team included Kamran Khan, Mahrosh Akhtar, Samar Khan, Nauman Khan, Noorul Rahman, Zohaib Khan, Umar Khattab Sherani, Sahnia Babar, Amina Shabbir, and Madiha Syed. Their successful completion of this demanding mission not only revived a historic mountain pass after nearly three decades but also highlighted Pakistan’s immense potential for adventure tourism. The expedition serves as a testament to the resilience, courage, and teamwork of Pakistani mountaineers while drawing attention to the need for preserving the fragile mountain environment in the face of climate change.

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    Cambridge paper leak case: students hand over 17 papers evidence to NCCIA, but investigation still not complete

    ByJustpaste.in

    Islamabad: The investigation into the alleged Cambridge A Level and O Level paper leaks has drawn fresh criticism after affected students claimed that they provided complete evidence, forensic details and technical assistance to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), but the inquiry remains incomplete. Students associated with the Accountability4Cambridge movement said they made every possible effort to help NCCIA investigate the case and submitted evidence related to 17 leaked examination components. They claimed they even conducted their own forensic checks and prepared detailed records before handing them over to authorities. The students said their main demand was a quick investigation because their future depends on the final results. They wanted the matter resolved before results were announced so that affected students could receive relief if unfair practices had affected their grades. However, according to the students, NCCIA has still not completed its investigation. They claimed that the investigation officer assigned to the case has gone on training, causing further delay. The Accountability4Cambridge representatives said they submitted a complete evidence package to NCCIA, including 44 exhibits with verification details. They said the material was prepared carefully to help investigators identify where the papers were leaked and who was involved. The students said they tracked the movement of leaked papers and provided information about possible sources, online groups and communication channels where the leaked material was shared. Their evidence included details about WhatsApp numbers, Telegram groups and payment methods allegedly used to purchase the leaked papers. The students submitted the evidence directly to NCCIA’s forensic department and expected progress within days, but they were later informed that the assigned official was unavailable because he had gone for training. The controversy started after students alleged that Cambridge examination papers reached some candidates before the official exams, creating an unfair advantage for those who accessed them early. According to Accountability4Cambridge, around 17 examination components were leaked during the June 2026 examination series. They said Cambridge International acknowledged four of these components, while the remaining cases were still disputed. Students argued that a leaked paper could damage the grades of honest candidates because grade boundaries may change when some students score unusually high marks after seeing questions in advance. They said a student who worked honestly could lose university opportunities if their grades dropped because of unfair competition. The students also raised concerns about delays in the official response. The Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education had directed NCCIA to provide findings by July 21, 2026, but the deadline passed without a final report being submitted. The group said only an informal indication was given that findings would come later, while students continued waiting for answers. During their efforts, students met with various institutions, including the IBCC, Senate committees and NCCIA officials, and prepared documentation to support their claims. They said the evidence was not based only on screenshots but included detailed verification methods such as timestamps, recordings and technical information to support the authenticity of the leaked material. The students said they wanted authorities to identify the people responsible and ensure accountability instead of allowing the matter to continue without a clear conclusion. They also demanded stronger action from Cambridge, including transparency regarding how the leaks happened, where they originated and what action was taken against those involved. The students further demanded reforms in the examination system, including better protection of papers, separate arrangements for Pakistan and measures to prevent future leaks. They warned that the issue concerned not only marks but also the future of thousands of students who depend on Cambridge results for university admissions in Pakistan and abroad.

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    Atif Aslam reflects on decade-long India music ban

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    Pakistani singer Atif Aslam has spoken about his decade-long absence from the Indian music industry, reflecting on the ban imposed on Pakistani artistes following the 2016 Uri attack. In an interview with Kris Fade on his YouTube channel, the 43-year-old singer discussed how the restrictions affected his professional relationship with India and his millions of fans there. Atif said it had been almost 10 years since he was banned from working in India, explaining that the decision was made by the Indian government. He also pointed out that Indian artistes have faced similar restrictions in Pakistan, describing the situation as something beyond the control of individual musicians. Atif revealed that he has not recorded a song for the Indian market during the past decade. Despite the ban, however, he said his music continues to reach Indian listeners through different means. According to the singer, some fans use VPNs to access his music, while others share his songs through CDs. Although he made it clear that he does not support piracy, Atif said music ultimately finds its way to audiences who want to listen to it. Addressing his Indian fans directly, the singer delivered an emotional message and assured them that he has not forgotten them. He said he does not necessarily miss working in India but genuinely misses the people who supported his music throughout the years. Atif also reflected on how the ban unexpectedly influenced his artistic journey. He explained that his experience with playback singing had taught him a great deal, but the absence of opportunities in India pushed him to focus more deeply on creating his own music. Rather than viewing the ban entirely negatively, Atif said the situation gave him an opportunity to explore himself creatively. He expressed gratitude to his supporters as well as those responsible for the restrictions, suggesting that the circumstances ultimately encouraged him to develop a different side of his musical identity. The restrictions on Pakistani artistes in India began in the aftermath of the September 2016 Uri attack. The Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association subsequently called on its members to stop working with Pakistani artistes. Restrictions became even stronger following the 2019 Pulwama attack, when the All India Cine Workers Association announced a complete ban on Pakistani actors working in Indian cinema. Despite being unable to work in India for years, Atif has remained one of the most popular Pakistani singers among Indian audiences. His connection with Indian music lovers dates back to his breakthrough with “Aadat,” which featured in the 2005 Bollywood film Kalyug. He later became known for several successful Bollywood songs, including “Tera Hone Laga Hoon,” “Tere Sang Yaara” and other popular tracks that strengthened his position as one of the region’s most recognised playback singers. Atif’s latest comments highlight the lasting connection between his music and Indian listeners, even after years of political and industry-level restrictions.

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    Experts call for gender-responsive water policies …

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    LAHORE: The growing impact of water insecurity and climate change on women took center stage at a dialogue titled “Women and Water,” jointly organized by Women in Struggle for Empowerment (WISE) and the University of Home Economics, Lahore. The event brought together academics, development professionals, and civil society representatives to advocate for inclusive and gender-responsive water governance in Pakistan. Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor of the University of Home Economics, Prof. Dr. Zaib-un-Nisa, underscored the urgent need to tackle water pollution, plastic waste, and inadequate water treatment systems. She stressed that sustainable solutions require greater investment in scientific water management, wider adoption of rainwater harvesting, improved household water storage, advanced recycling technologies, and university-led awareness campaigns to encourage responsible water use. Executive Director of WISE, Bushra Khaliq, said that Pakistan’s water challenges cannot be effectively addressed without recognizing their disproportionate impact on women and girls, who often bear the greatest burden of water scarcity. She emphasized the importance of drawing lessons from organizations working directly in urban water management and called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, academia, civil society, and local communities. She also urged policymakers to ensure women’s voices, experiences, and leadership are fully integrated into water governance at every level. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Iram Rubab, Head of the Sociology Department at the University of Home Economics, described water as a multidimensional issue linked to health, agriculture, family welfare, livelihoods, sociology, and environmental sustainability. She encouraged interdisciplinary dialogue and collaborative research, noting that adopting a gender perspective in water management leads to more effective identification of challenges and practical solutions, particularly as women remain the primary managers of household water resources. The participants agreed that addressing Pakistan’s growing water crisis requires policies that not only strengthen water management but also recognize the vital role of women in ensuring sustainable and equitable access to this essential resource.

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    Army major martyred, five terrorists killed

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    A Pakistan Army major was martyred while leading an intelligence-based operation (IBO) against terrorists in the Razmak area of North Waziristan, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Saturday. According to the military’s media wing, security forces launched the operation after receiving intelligence about the presence of terrorists in the area. During the exchange of fire, five terrorists affiliated with Fitna al Khawarij were killed. ISPR identified the martyred officer as Major Hafiz Ihsan Elahi, 34, a resident of Mianwali district. The military said the officer was leading his troops from the front and fought bravely during the operation before embracing martyrdom. The statement said the slain terrorists were actively involved in multiple attacks against security forces, law enforcement personnel and civilians. Security forces also recovered a cache of weapons, ammunition and other military equipment from the militants during the operation. Following the successful raid, sanitisation operations were launched in the surrounding areas to eliminate any remaining terrorists and ensure the area is fully cleared. The military said the operation forms part of Pakistan’s ongoing counterterrorism campaign under the Azm-i-Istehkam strategy approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan. The ISPR reiterated that Pakistan’s security forces remain committed to eliminating all forms of terrorism and will continue intelligence-driven operations against militants across the country. It added that the sacrifices of soldiers strengthen the nation’s resolve to safeguard peace and security. Pakistan has witnessed an increase in terrorist incidents since the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ended its ceasefire with the government in late 2022. Since then, security forces have intensified intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan to dismantle militant networks.

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    Petrol price cut in Pakistan, diesel gets more exp…

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    The government has announced a slight reduction in the price of petrol while increasing the price of high-speed diesel in Pakistan. The new petroleum prices will take effect from August 12, 2026, according to an official notification. Under the latest revision, the price of petrol has been reduced by Rs1.70 per litre. Following the decrease, the new petrol price has been set at Rs325.92 per litre. At the same time, consumers using diesel will face a price increase. The government has raised the price of diesel by Rs1.39 per litre, taking the new rate to Rs382.25 per litre. The notification was issued by the Ministry of Energy following the latest price recommendations under the petroleum pricing mechanism. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) determines petroleum price calculations under the mechanism established by the federal government. The latest adjustment means petrol consumers will receive a modest reduction, while diesel users will have to pay more from August 12. Before the latest revision, petrol was priced at Rs327.62 per litre, while diesel was available at Rs380.86 per litre. The new rates therefore represent a Rs1.70 reduction in petrol and a Rs1.39 increase in diesel. New petrol and diesel prices in Pakistan According to the notification, the revised rates are: Petrol: Rs325.92 per litre, down Rs1.70 Diesel: Rs382.25 per litre, up Rs1.39 The revised prices will apply from August 12, 2026, under the government’s petroleum pricing mechanism. Petroleum prices remain closely watched in Pakistan because changes in fuel costs can affect transportation expenses and the prices of goods and services. Diesel prices are particularly important for commercial transport, agriculture and other sectors that depend heavily on diesel-powered machinery and vehicles. The latest decision comes as consumers continue to monitor fuel prices amid changing international oil market conditions and domestic pricing adjustments. For motorists, the petrol reduction provides limited relief at fuel stations, while the diesel increase could add to operating costs for transporters and businesses. The government’s latest notification has therefore resulted in a mixed adjustment for consumers, with petrol becoming slightly cheaper and diesel becoming more expensive. The new Pakistan petrol price of Rs325.92 per litre and diesel price of Rs382.25 per litre will remain applicable from August 12, subject to any subsequent government revision under the petroleum pricing mechanism.

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