scientists academics attend
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Scientists, Academics attend launch of ‘My Strug…

ByJustpaste.in

ISLAMABAD: A distinguished gathering of eminent scientists, academicians, former public sector officials, engineers, and professionals attended the launch ceremony of My Struggles; Journey of a Technologist, authored by renowned scientist and technologist Dr. Farid A. Malik, held at the Islamabad Club on Thursday.

The ceremony was attended by former officers of the Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF), a former Director General of NUST, senior representatives from academia and industry, including the Director of the Thar Coal Project, and several distinguished personalities from Islamabad.

Speaking on the occasion, participants paid rich tribute to Dr. Farid A. Malik’s lifelong contributions to science, engineering, higher education, and national development. They described the book as an inspiring account of perseverance, professional excellence, and unwavering commitment to Pakistan’s scientific and technological progress.

The speakers shared personal experiences and memories of working with Dr. Malik, highlighting his visionary leadership, dedication to mentoring young professionals, and his relentless pursuit of technological advancement. They noted that his remarkable journey serves as a source of inspiration for students, researchers, engineers, and policymakers alike.

 

Addressing the audience, Dr. Farid A. Malik presented a brief overview of his life’s journey, reflecting on the challenges, opportunities, and milestones that shaped his career as a technologist, researcher, educator, and public servant.

“Success is not achieved without struggle. Every challenge presents an opportunity to learn, innovate, and contribute towards national development,” Dr. Malik remarked while sharing the key message of his book.

He encouraged young professionals to remain committed to excellence, embrace innovation, and serve the country with integrity, determination, and dedication.

The participants appreciated the publication as a valuable addition to Pakistan’s scientific literature, observing that it documents not only the personal journey of an accomplished technologist but also the evolution of science, engineering, and technology in the country over several decades.

The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session followed by a book-signing ceremony, where attendees congratulated Dr. Malik on documenting his inspiring life journey and wished him continued success in promoting science and technology in Pakistan.

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    Ishaq Dar holds telephone conversation with Saudi …

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      Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, during which the two sides discussed matters of mutual interest as well as regional and international developments. According to a statement issued by the Foreign Office spokesperson, the two foreign ministers exchanged views on a range of issues of common interest during the telephone call. The conversation focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and maintaining close coordination on important regional and global matters. During the discussion, Ishaq Dar and his Saudi counterpart also reviewed the prevailing regional situation. The two ministers exchanged views on developments affecting peace and stability in the region and discussed the importance of continued diplomatic engagement and cooperation among countries. The foreign ministers also discussed multilateral cooperation and matters related to international forums. They emphasised the importance of maintaining coordination between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on issues of common concern at both regional and international levels. According to the Foreign Office, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close contact and cooperation through bilateral and multilateral platforms. The telephone conversation comes as Pakistan and Saudi Arabia continue to maintain close and longstanding relations based on political, economic, diplomatic and people-to-people ties. Both countries regularly consult each other on regional developments and issues of mutual interest. Pakistan considers Saudi Arabia an important partner in the Middle East, while Saudi Arabia has maintained close relations with Pakistan over the years. High-level exchanges between officials from both countries have remained an important feature of their bilateral relationship. The discussion between Ishaq Dar and Prince Faisal bin Farhan also reflects the importance attached by both countries to regular diplomatic consultations. Such contacts provide an opportunity for the two sides to exchange assessments of emerging regional developments and coordinate their positions on matters discussed at international forums. Multilateral cooperation was another important aspect of the conversation. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have worked together at various international platforms and have frequently supported closer coordination on issues affecting the Muslim world and the broader international community. The two ministers also reiterated the importance of continued engagement between their respective governments. By maintaining regular communication, both sides aim to strengthen their strategic partnership and enhance cooperation on matters of mutual interest. The telephone conversation is expected to contribute to ongoing diplomatic efforts to further deepen Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations. Both countries have repeatedly expressed their desire to expand cooperation across multiple areas and maintain strong institutional and political contacts. The Foreign Office spokesperson did not provide further details about the specific regional issues discussed during the call. However, the reference to the regional situation and multilateral cooperation indicates that the conversation covered broader developments beyond bilateral relations. The reaffirmation of close coordination on bilateral and multilateral platforms demonstrates the continued importance of the relationship between Islamabad and Riyadh. Regular communication between senior officials remains a key mechanism for both countries to exchange views, coordinate diplomatic positions and respond to developments in the region. The latest telephone conversation between Ishaq Dar and Prince Faisal bin Farhan therefore underscores the two countries’ commitment to maintaining close diplomatic engagement and strengthening cooperation at both bilateral and international levels.

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    Trump warns Iran it has a ‘last chance’ to rea…

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    US President Donald Trump has warned that Iran has a final opportunity to reach an agreement with the United States, saying he postponed planned military action to allow diplomacy one last chance. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said several Gulf countries had urged Washington to delay military strikes against Iran in the hope that negotiations could produce a diplomatic breakthrough. According to the US president, those requests led him to postpone military action once again. Trump stated that multiple regional governments had contacted his administration, asking that Iran be given another opportunity to negotiate. He described the current moment as Iran’s “last chance” to avoid further escalation and urged Tehran to seize the opportunity for a peaceful resolution. When asked why this latest diplomatic effort differed from previous attempts, Trump replied that he wanted to give Iran one final opportunity before what he described as “complete destruction.” However, he did not provide additional details about the conditions that could trigger military action or a specific timeline. Despite his warning, Trump expressed optimism that negotiations could move forward quickly. He said the first phase of a potential agreement would involve reopening the Strait of Hormuz to unrestricted maritime traffic by Tuesday, while the second phase would focus on ending Iran’s nuclear program. The US president acknowledged that dismantling Iran’s nuclear program would not happen immediately and would require additional time to implement. He added that both the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and measures related to Iran’s nuclear activities were included in a memorandum of understanding reportedly reached between the two sides in June. Trump’s remarks come amid renewed diplomatic efforts surrounding the long-running dispute over Iran’s nuclear program and regional security. Tensions between Washington and Tehran have remained high despite repeated attempts to revive negotiations. Earlier in the day, Trump also announced that talks with Iran were expected to take place. However, Iran has maintained that its current discussions are being conducted through Oman rather than in direct negotiations with the United States. The differing public statements highlight the continuing uncertainty surrounding the diplomatic process. No immediate response from Iranian officials was reported following Trump’s latest comments. It also remains unclear whether a formal agreement is close or whether the two sides have narrowed their differences on key issues, including nuclear activities and regional security. Observers say the coming days could prove significant as diplomatic contacts continue and both sides weigh the possibility of further negotiations against the risk of renewed confrontation in the region.

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    Kyle Richards hopes for Little House cameo return

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    Kyle Richards is hoping to make a return to the world of Little House on the Prairie, decades after appearing in the beloved original television series. The actress recently revealed that she has already approached the team behind Netflix’s new adaptation about the possibility of making a cameo. Richards opened up about her interest during an interview with Entertainment Weekly published on August 9, sharing that she would be more than happy to revisit the franchise in any capacity. “I would love to make an appearance. Don’t think I didn’t ask them!” Richards said, making it clear that she has already expressed her interest in joining the new series. Richards has a special connection to Little House on the Prairie because she was part of the original show, which aired from 1974 to 1983. She portrayed Alicia Sanderson Edwards, the adopted daughter of Isaiah and Grace Edwards, characters played by Victor French and Bonnie Bartlett. The actress appeared in 19 episodes of the original series, beginning with its second season. Her involvement in the classic show began when she was only five years old, making the experience an important part of her childhood and early acting career. However, Richards explained that the timeline of Netflix’s new adaptation currently makes her original character’s return difficult. According to the actress, producers told her that the new series begins earlier in the story, before Alicia appears in the original narrative. The Netflix adaptation stars Alice Halsey as Laura Ingalls and Luke Bracey as Charles Ingalls. Its first season is set on the prairie near Independence, Kansas, and follows the Ingalls family during an earlier period of their journey. By the end of the first season, the family decides to move to Walnut Grove, a location that became central to the original television series. Despite the timeline issue, Richards is not giving up on the idea of appearing in the reboot. She jokingly suggested that she would even be willing to portray a completely different character if that would allow her to make an appearance. “I’m like, ‘Well, whatever. I can do a cameo and play someone else,’” Richards said. The actress added that she genuinely wants to be part of the new version of Little House on the Prairie, showing just how meaningful the franchise remains to her. Watching Netflix’s adaptation has also been an emotional experience for Richards because it has reminded her of her childhood and her time on the original show. She explained that seeing the new actor playing Mr. Edwards brought back memories because the character was once portrayed as her father figure on the series. Warren Christie currently plays Mr. Edwards in Netflix’s version. Richards also reflected on the experience of working on the original production as a young child. She recalled being just five years old when she started and remembered wearing the period costumes. For Richards, watching the new adaptation is therefore more than simply following another television series. It has given her an opportunity to revisit an important chapter of her childhood and career. Whether she ultimately receives a cameo remains unknown, but Richards has made her interest clear: she would love another chance to step into the Little House on the Prairie universe.

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    12 Pakistani and foreign groups submit bids to acq…

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    Twelve business groups, including eight prominent Pakistani conglomerates and four foreign firms, have formally expressed interest in acquiring majority stakes in the Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (Fesco), marking the government’s most serious attempt in a decade to privatise the profitable power distribution utility. The Privatisation Commission released the list of interested parties on Friday after the extended deadline for expressions of interest closed. The development represents a major milestone for Pakistan’s long delayed plan to sell off state owned power distribution companies, a process that stalled in 2016 when the previous government abandoned the sale just before bidding began. The federal cabinet has already authorised the sale of majority stakes in three of the country’s most profitable power distribution companies, positioning Fesco as the first test case in the broader privatisation drive. Local business families dominate interest Eight of the twelve groups that submitted expressions of interest are well established Pakistani business families with deep roots in energy, textiles, automobiles and cement manufacturing. A consortium formed by Nishat Mills, controlled by one of Pakistan’s wealthiest businessmen, Mian Mohammad Mansha, and Pak Elektron Limited, owned by the Saigal family, has entered the race. Mansha also participated in the failed 2015 to 2016 bidding round for the same company. The Saigal family additionally submitted separate bids through Maple Leaf Cement and Kohinoor Textile Mills, giving the family multiple entry points into the process. Other major local contenders include Engro Energy Limited, part of the Dawood family’s diversified business empire, and Sapphire Fibers Limited, owned by the Abdullah family. Hub Power Holdings, controlled by the Habibullah Khan family and already a significant player in Pakistan’s power sector, has also thrown its hat in the ring, alongside Lucky Cement, owned by the Mohammad Ali Tabba family. Lucky Cement previously finished as runner up in the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines. Shirazi Investments, which also holds interests in the automobile sector, and Artistic Milliners, owned by the Yaqoob family, rounded out the list of local applicants. K-Electric, Pakistan’s largest integrated power generation and distribution company, submitted documents as well, even as its Saudi and Kuwaiti shareholders pursue international arbitration against the government over a blocked 1.7 billion dollar Chinese investment in the company. Foreign firms from Turkey and China join the race Four international firms rounded out the list of interested parties. Three Turkish companies, Aktor Elektrik Enerji Yatirimlari, Genvera Enerji (part of the Celik Group) and Cengiz Enerji Sanayii ve Ticaret, submitted bids alongside Chinese firm Jiang Xi Electric Power Construction. Officials noted that firms qualifying technically and financially for Fesco will also be eligible to bid for two additional distribution companies, Gujranwala Electric Power Company and Islamabad Electric Supply Company, if they fail to win Fesco. This flexibility likely contributed to the strong turnout, as qualified investors gain multiple chances to enter Pakistan’s power distribution market. Government hails strong investor response Muhammad Ali, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Privatisation and Chairman of the Privatisation Commission, called the response a significant milestone in the broader privatisation of state owned distribution companies. He said the strong interest in Fesco reflects investor confidence in the growth potential of Pakistan’s electricity distribution sector and in the government’s commitment to running a transparent and competitive process. Ali added that the commission will now engage with prequalified investors through detailed due diligence and begin discussing the structure of the post-privatisation regulatory regime. He said the sale aims to improve operational efficiency, modernise ageing distribution infrastructure, strengthen customer service and reduce financial losses across the sector, ultimately supporting more competitive electricity distribution and more affordable, reliable power for consumers. The expressions of interest and accompanying statements of qualification will undergo evaluation against the prequalification criteria set by the commission. Groups that meet the requirements will move to the next stage, gaining access to a virtual data room to conduct detailed buy side due diligence on Fesco’s operations and finances. Concerns remain over guaranteed returns and uniform pricing Despite the enthusiastic response, some analysts have raised concerns about the government’s proposal to guarantee investors a minimum return of 13 percent, warning that such guarantees could discourage efficiency gains and slow technological upgrades at the privatised utility. Questions also remain over whether the government will maintain uniform electricity pricing nationwide after privatisation, a policy that would keep subsidy costs on the federal budget rather than shifting the burden fully to market pricing. Fesco is one of three companies included in the first batch of distribution company privatisations, alongside Gepco and Iesco. The deadline for expressions of interest in Gepco is set for 21 August 2026, while Iesco’s deadline falls on 7 September 2026. Fesco’s financial position underscores its appeal Financial data from the finance ministry’s Central Monitoring Unit shows Fesco held total assets worth 410.3 billion rupees as of June last year, against liabilities of 347 billion rupees. The company posted net positive equity of 63 billion rupees, which climbed 28 percent due to share deposits and asset revaluation gains. Non-current liabilities stood at 217.6 billion rupees, with staff retirement benefits accounting for the largest share at 123 billion rupees. Current liabilities totalled roughly 130 billion rupees, including trade payables of 118 billion rupees. The company reported a profit after tax of 9.4 billion rupees for the period. With twelve qualified groups now in the running, the Fesco privatisation stands as a critical test of investor appetite for Pakistan’s power sector reforms and could shape the pace and structure of future electricity distribution company privatisation efforts.

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    Post-mortems find no torture signs in Lahore custodial deaths

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    LAHORE: Post-mortem examinations of two women who died while in police custody in Lahore have found no visible signs of physical torture or assault, according to detailed medical reports. The women, identified as Anmol and Amina, had been detained in connection with a theft-related case. They reportedly became seriously ill while in custody and were taken to hospital. Both later died. The post-mortem examinations were conducted after their deaths. A medical board reviewed the findings before finalising the reports. According to the reports, no external injuries or marks suggesting physical violence were found on either woman. However, medical examiners observed dark spots on the lungs of both women. Blood clots were also found in their hearts. The reports stated that the liver, kidneys and stomachs of both women appeared normal. Samples of blood and internal organs have been sent for histopathological analysis. The testing is expected to help determine the precise cause of death. The findings come as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths. A separate judicial inquiry has also been completed under the relevant provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure. The magistrate who conducted the inquiry inspected the bodies and reported that there was no apparent evidence of physical torture. However, the inquiry report did not establish the final medical cause of death. It stated that the definitive conclusion would depend on the post-mortem and forensic examination results. Police had earlier said the women became critically ill while being moved between police units. Officials had raised the possibility of drug use or poisoning. Police also alleged that the women had a history of drug use and that withdrawal or another medical complication could have contributed to their deteriorating condition. Investigators were also examining whether the women might have consumed a toxic substance before their arrest. The families have rejected these claims and demanded an independent investigation. Relatives said they were initially informed about the case and asked to arrange legal assistance before learning that the women had died. The circumstances surrounding their detention and deaths have therefore remained under scrutiny. Investigators are also examining CCTV footage from the police station. Videos reportedly show the women inside the premises shortly before their deaths. The footage is expected to help investigators establish their movements and condition while they were in custody. The families have also raised questions about the handling and transportation of the bodies after death.

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    Kerosene price reduced as government extends relief on petroleum products

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    The federal government has extended the latest reduction in petroleum prices by lowering the cost of kerosene oil, providing additional relief to consumers who rely on the fuel for household and commercial use, particularly in remote and off-grid areas. According to a notification issued by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), the price of kerosene has been reduced by Rs3.58 per litre. Following the latest revision, the new retail price of kerosene has been fixed at Rs301.64 per litre, down from the previous rate of Rs305.22 per litre. The reduction comes as part of the government’s broader revision of petroleum product prices aimed at passing on the benefit of changes in international oil markets to consumers. Earlier, the Petroleum Division announced fresh prices for major petroleum products effective from August 4, confirming a decrease in the prices of both petrol and high-speed diesel. Under the revised rates, petrol has become cheaper by Rs4.80 per litre, bringing its new price down to Rs331.95 per litre. Likewise, the price of high-speed diesel (HSD) has been reduced by Rs2.45 per litre, setting the new rate at Rs389.93 per litre. The latest cuts are expected to provide modest relief to motorists, transporters, and businesses facing high operating costs, while the reduction in kerosene prices is likely to benefit households in regions where the fuel remains a primary source for cooking, heating, and lighting.

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