• Migraine warning signs and treatment options

    ByJustpaste.in

    Migraine is a serious neurological condition that is often described as a severe headache affecting one side of the head. The pain can begin suddenly and become so intense that it is difficult to work, study or carry out daily activities. Doctors say the pain usually starts on one side of the head and may spread behind one eye or to the other side. During a migraine attack bright lights loud noises and strong smells can make the pain worse. Many people prefer to rest in a quiet dark room until the attack passes. Migraine is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea the feeling of vomiting tiredness and weakness. Experts explain that migraines are linked to unusual brain sensitivity.  If migraine attacks happen often or start affecting your daily life you should see a doctor instead of ignoring them. People with chronic migraine may experience attacks on many days each month. Research suggests that about 15% of people worldwide have migraines and around one in two people experience severe headaches at some point in their lives. Common migraine triggers include stress poor eyesight bright lights loud noise smoke strong perfumes lack of sleep, dehydration skipping meals too much caffeine hormonal changes and eating large amounts of sugary or ultra processed foods. Doctors say medicines made specifically for migraines are usually more effective because they target certain serotonin receptors in the brain to help reduce pain. These medicines should only be taken under a doctor’s advice. Common painkillers such as paracetamol or aspirin may provide temporary relief but they do not treat chronic migraine. Symptoms like nausea sensitivity to light tiredness and weakness may continue. If migraines keep coming back it is important to get a proper medical evaluation and the right treatment instead of relying on self-medication.

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    UN warns Afghanistan’s child malnutrition crisis deepens

    ByJustpaste.in

    Afghanistan is facing a rapidly worsening malnutrition emergency as severe funding cuts leave millions without life-saving assistance, the United Nations has warned. Speaking from Kabul, the World Food Programme’s (WFP) Afghanistan Director John Aylieff said the country’s nutrition crisis is escalating at an alarming pace, with growing numbers of severely malnourished children reaching health facilities too late to receive effective treatment. He said child wasting, the deadliest form of malnutrition, has now reached critical levels in nearly one-third of Afghanistan’s provinces. According to the WFP, ongoing conflict, disruptions to trade, the return of thousands of Afghan migrants from neighbouring countries, and shrinking international aid have combined to create an unprecedented humanitarian emergency. The UN official said last year recorded the sharpest annual increase in malnutrition cases, while the situation has deteriorated even further in 2026. Children under the age of two account for around 80 percent of the most severe cases, highlighting the devastating impact on the country’s youngest and most vulnerable population. Aylieff said the WFP has only enough resources to provide treatment to one out of every seven acutely malnourished women and children this year. The remaining six are forced to leave without assistance because of a severe shortage of funds. He warned that the cries of starving children in Afghan health centres reflect a preventable tragedy that could claim countless more lives if emergency funding is not secured. The humanitarian agency also expressed concern that widespread hunger could fuel migration, instability and extremism, stressing that a stable Afghanistan remains important for regional security. Millions of Afghans have also returned from neighbouring countries, including Pakistan and Iran, over the past three years, placing additional pressure on already overstretched resources. Although this year’s harvest has improved, the gains have been overshadowed by the country’s worsening economic and humanitarian challenges. The WFP estimates that nearly 14 million Afghans are currently experiencing acute hunger. However, funding shortages have limited food assistance to only a small fraction of those in need, while preventive food distribution programmes in high-risk areas have been suspended.

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    UN experts urge Canada to protect Sikh Activist

    ByJustpaste.in

    United Nations human rights experts have called on Canada to strengthen security measures for Sikh activist Moninder Singh, citing repeated warnings from Canadian authorities about credible threats to his life. In a letter sent to the Canadian government on June 3 and released publicly under standard UN procedures, five independent experts expressed concern over allegations of foreign intimidation and reprisals targeting Singh, a Canadian citizen. The experts noted that since 2022, Canadian authorities have issued Singh four separate “duty to warn” notices, informing him of serious and imminent threats to his safety. They urged Ottawa to ensure his protection, safeguard his family, and provide security for others facing similar risks. The letter also called on Canadian authorities to speed up investigations, hold those responsible accountable, provide justice to victims, and take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. The appeal was signed by UN special rapporteurs responsible for issues related to counterterrorism and human rights, freedom of peaceful assembly, human rights defenders, freedom of religion, and democratic international order. A copy of the communication was also shared with the Indian government. Singh visited Geneva earlier this year to seek international attention over what he described as the targeting of Sikh activists abroad and the broader issue of transnational repression. The case comes amid longstanding tensions between Canada and India following the 2023 killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar near a Sikh temple in British Columbia. Canadian authorities alleged Indian involvement in the assassination, an accusation New Delhi has consistently denied. The dispute strained diplomatic relations, leading both countries to expel diplomats in 2024. Although bilateral ties have improved under Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, concerns over the safety of Sikh activists continue to draw international attention. Singh, who supports the Khalistan movement advocating for an independent Sikh homeland, said the UN experts’ intervention highlights growing concerns over the safety of Sikh voices abroad.

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

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    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

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    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.

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    Pakistan completes 3-0 clean sweep against South K…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan’s national hockey team secured an impressive 4-3 victory over South Korea in the third Test match to complete a dominant 3-0 clean sweep in the Pakistan-South Korea Hockey Test Series. The thrilling encounter was played at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium in Islamabad under the supervision of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF). The final match of the series showcased Pakistan’s determination and fighting spirit. South Korea started the game aggressively and took an early lead through Kim Hyung Jin in the 10th minute. The visitors maintained their advantage throughout the first half, going into the break with a 1-0 lead. Pakistan responded brilliantly in the second half with an outstanding comeback. Hayat Zakaria leveled the score in the 32nd minute, giving the home side much-needed momentum. However, South Korea quickly regained the lead when Yang Ji Hoon scored in the 33rd minute. The contest remained highly competitive as Pakistan continued to attack. Rana Waheed Ashraf equalized in the 45th minute before Kim Yong Bok restored South Korea’s advantage in the 50th minute. Refusing to give up, Pakistan displayed remarkable resilience as Abdul Rehman scored in the 55th minute to make it 3-3. Just two minutes later, Shahid Hanan netted the winning field goal in the 57th minute, completing an unforgettable comeback and sealing a 4-3 victory. The win marked Pakistan’s third consecutive success against South Korea in the Test series, highlighting the team’s growing confidence and improved performances. The clean sweep is expected to boost the morale of the national squad as it prepares for upcoming international competitions. Federal Ombudsman Naveed Kamran Baloch attended the match as the chief guest and appreciated the exciting contest as well as the commitment shown by both teams. At the closing ceremony, Pakistan Hockey Federation President Mohiuddin Ahmad Wani presented a commemorative shield to the chief guest. Several prominent hockey personalities, including PHF Development Committee Chairman Olympian Hassan Sardar, Selection Committee Chairman Olympian Samiullah Khan, and Pakistan Sports Board Director General Yawar Hussain, were also present at the event. Pakistan’s impressive performance throughout the series reflects the team’s positive progress and offers renewed hope for the revival of the country’s rich hockey tradition. The comprehensive 3-0 series victory serves as an encouraging sign for Pakistan hockey and demonstrates the squad’s ability to compete at a high international level.

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    Pakistan exempted from US visa bond requirement 

    ByJustpaste.in

      Pakistanis have been exempted from the United States’ proposed US$20,000 visa bond requirement, after the country was left out of the list covered by the new policy. The United States has officially made its 2025 Visa Bond Pilot Program a permanent measure. However, Pakistan is not included among the countries subject to the financial guarantee requirement. Under the program, travelers from certain countries may be required to pay a visa bond of up to US$20,000 before entering the United States. The bond serves as a financial guarantee to ensure visitors comply with the terms of their visas, including departing the country before their authorized stay expires. According to the latest list released by US authorities, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and India are not among the countries included in the permanent visa bond program. As a result, Pakistani applicants seeking US visas will not be required to deposit the US$20,000 financial guarantee under this policy. The visa bond initiative was originally introduced as a pilot program in 2025 to reduce visa overstays and encourage compliance with US immigration laws. The program allows the US government to impose a refundable financial bond on visitors from selected countries that have high rates of visa overstays or other immigration concerns. With the program now becoming permanent, only nationals of the countries designated by the US government will be subject to the bond requirement. Since Pakistan has not been placed on that list, Pakistani travelers applying for US visas will continue to follow the standard visa application process without the additional financial bond. The decision is expected to provide relief to many Pakistani citizens planning to visit the United States for tourism, business, education, or family-related purposes, as the proposed bond could have posed a significant financial burden on applicants. While the visa bond requirement does not apply to Pakistan, all applicants must still meet the existing US visa eligibility criteria, including submitting the required documentation, attending a visa interview when necessary, and satisfying immigration officers that they intend to comply with the conditions of their visa.

  • Protection of human life and property top priority, Salman Rafique

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    Lahore: On the instructions of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Provincial Minister and Chairman Cabinet Committee for Disaster Management Khawaja Salman Rafique visited the flood-affected areas and protective bunds of Jalalpur Pirwala. The Provincial Minister reviewed the flood arrangements and protective measures in detail. DG PDMA Saif Anwar Jappa also accompanied the Provincial Minister. On this occasion, Provincial Minister and Chairman Cabinet Committee for Disaster Management Khawaja Salman Rafique said that the protection of human life and property is the top priority of the Punjab government, all institutions are on full alert. Both the protective bunds Jalalpur Pirwala and Nooraja Bhatta have been constructed at a cost of about Rs 2 billion. To prevent floods and other natural disasters, modern machinery and rescue equipment worth billions of rupees have been provided to Rescue 1122 and other related departments. The Punjab government has provided resources for flood prevention in all districts including Multan. Khawaja Salman Rafique inspected the flood embankments, rescue arrangements, evacuation plans and relief preparations on the spot. Khawaja Salman Rafique also directed to ensure timely completion of safety projects and availability of all necessary resources. The provincial minister appreciated the performance of the commissioner, district administration and related institutions for making flood management more effective in the light of last year’s experiences. Commissioner Aamir Karim Khan gave a comprehensive briefing to the provincial minister on the flood arrangements of Multan division. Commissioner Aamir Karim Khan informed about the permanent safety measures taken after last year’s flood. On this occasion, Commissioner Aamir Karim Khan said that the 7.2-kilometer protective flood embankment of Jalalpur Pirwala has been completed. The protective embankment will protect Jalalpur Pirwala from the backflow of Chenab. The flood contingency plan, evacuation plan and rescue plan have been fully implemented. For the first time this year, evacuation points and relief camps have been set up separately. Digital mapping of flood-affected areas, complete data of focal persons and resources have been prepared. Rescue agencies have completed their exercises, the control room and all relevant agencies are on high alert. The current river situation is normal, however, there is full preparedness to deal with any emergency. Member Punjab Assembly Lal Muhammad Joyia, Member Punjab Assembly MPA Nazk Karim Long, Deputy Commissioner Multan Dr. Faisal Saleem, Additional Commissioner Revenue Akhlaq Ahmed, Director Emergency Dr. Hussain Mian and Chief Engineer Anhar Muhammad Azeem were present.

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    Pakistan announces second consecutive cut in petro…

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    The Government of Pakistan has announced another reduction in the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel, marking the second consecutive day of relief for consumers. The revised fuel prices will come into effect from August 5, 2026, according to an official notification issued by the Ministry of Energy’s Petroleum Division. The notification stated that the latest revision has been made under the petroleum pricing mechanism recommended by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA). The adjustment reflects the government’s ongoing review of petroleum product prices in line with market conditions and regulatory recommendations. Under the new rates, the price of high-speed diesel (HSD) has been reduced by Rs4.07 per litre, bringing the new price down from Rs389.93 to Rs385.86 per litre. Diesel is widely used in Pakistan’s transportation, agriculture, and industrial sectors, making the reduction significant for businesses and consumers alike. Petrol prices have also been lowered by Rs3.39 per litre. Following the latest cut, petrol will now cost Rs328.56 per litre, compared to the previous price of Rs331.95 per litre. The reduction is expected to provide some financial relief to motorists and households dealing with high transportation costs. This announcement comes just a day after the government had already reduced fuel prices. On the previous day, petrol prices were cut by Rs4.08 per litre, while diesel prices were lowered by Rs2.45 per litre. The back-to-back reductions indicate a continued effort to pass on the benefit of changing petroleum market trends to consumers. Fuel prices play a vital role in Pakistan’s economy because they directly influence transportation expenses, production costs, and inflation. Lower fuel prices can help reduce operating costs for businesses, improve supply chain efficiency, and ease the financial burden on consumers. However, the overall economic impact will depend on global oil prices, exchange rate movements, and future government pricing decisions. The Ministry of Energy emphasized that the revised prices are based on the pricing mechanism established by OGRA and approved by the federal government. The new rates will officially take effect on August 5, 2026, and will remain applicable until the next scheduled review. The latest reduction in petrol and diesel prices is expected to be welcomed by consumers, transport operators, and businesses, offering short-term relief amid ongoing economic challenges and fluctuating international oil markets.

  • Pakistan’s HIV-affected children reach nearly 7,500

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    The number of children affected by HIV in Pakistan has reached approximately 7,500. According to data from the Federal Ministry of Health, children account for around 12 percent of the 62,000 HIV patients currently receiving treatment. According to the statistics, Sindh has become the largest center of HIV among children in the country with approximately 4,200 HIV-positive children registered in the province. The federal government has sought nutritional assistance from UNICEF, the World Food Programme (WFP), the World Health Organization (WHO) and Nutrition International. According to officials, children suffering from severe malnutrition will be provided with specialized nutritional food and continuous medical monitoring. Parents and caregivers will also be given guidance regarding the nutritional needs of children. Experts say that children living with HIV require 10 to 20 percent more energy and protein than other children. By addressing malnutrition among children living with HIV, treatment outcomes can be further improved.