trees today healthier
| |

Trees today, healthier Pakistan tomorrow: Presiden…

President Asif Ali Zardari has stressed the need to protect trees and promote plantation across Pakistan. He said tree plantation is not only an environmental priority but also a national responsibility.

In a message issued at the launch of the Monsoon Tree Plantation Campaign 2026, the president said the campaign aims to plant 20 million saplings across the country.

He urged people and relevant institutions to actively participate in the plantation drive. He said increasing the country’s tree cover is essential for protecting the environment and improving the quality of life.

President Zardari said forests play an important role in preserving biodiversity, water resources and the natural environment. Forests also help reduce the harmful effects of climate change.

He stressed that Pakistan needs greater efforts to protect existing forests and increase the number of trees across the country. According to him, a stronger and healthier forest cover can help the country deal with rising environmental challenges.

The president called for collective efforts to build a green, clean and climate-resilient Pakistan. He said government institutions, communities and citizens all have a role to play in protecting the environment.

He also highlighted the importance of planting trees for future generations. He said the trees planted today will help provide a healthier and better environment for coming generations.

The president’s message comes as Pakistan continues to face environmental challenges linked to climate change, changing weather patterns and pressure on natural resources.

He said tree plantation should not be limited to seasonal campaigns. Continuous efforts are needed to protect trees, expand forests and ensure the survival of newly planted saplings.

President Zardari said protecting the environment is a shared responsibility. He called for greater public awareness and participation in plantation activities to make Pakistan greener and more sustainable.

Similar Posts

  • |

    Pakistan women announce squads for Asia Cup and Asian Games

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan have announced their women’s cricket squads for the upcoming Women’s Asia Cup and Asian Games, with Fatima Sana set to lead the national side in both competitions as the team targets success on two major stages. The squads share a core group of players, including Muneeba Ali, Shawal Zulfiqar, Ayesha Zafar, Gul Feroza, Syra Jabeen, Eman Fatima, Eman Nasir, Umme Hani, Tuba Hassan, Nashra Sandhu and Momina Riaz. For the Women’s Asia Cup, Pakistan have added Najiha Alvi, Waheeda Akhtar and Sadia Yousuf to the squad. The Asian Games squad, meanwhile, includes Alia Riaz, Tasmia Rubab and Hamna Bilal. The national team will hold a training camp at the National Cricket Academy from August 16 to 25 as preparations intensify ahead of the two tournaments. The DP World Women’s Asia Cup will be played in Dubai from August 28 to September 13, with all 15 matches scheduled at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Matches will begin at 7:30pm Pakistan Standard Time. Pakistan have been placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals India, Thailand and China. Group B features Bangladesh, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates. Pakistan will begin their Asia Cup campaign against Thailand on September 1, before facing India in a highly anticipated contest on September 5 in Dubai. The semi-finals are scheduled for September 10 and 11, while the final will take place on September 13. The team will then turn its attention to the 20th Asian Games, where the women’s cricket tournament will be held in Japan from September 17 to 22. Pakistan are seeded alongside Thailand and will play their quarter-final against Thailand on September 17. All women’s cricket matches will be staged at the Kurogiy Athletic Park in Aichi. If Pakistan advance, they will play the semi-final on September 20 against either Sri Lanka or Malaysia. The bronze and gold medal matches are scheduled for September 22. Pakistan enter the Asian Games with a proud record, having won women’s cricket gold medals at the 2010 Guangzhou and 2014 Incheon Asian Games. With a settled core, emerging talent and Fatima Sana leading both campaigns, Pakistan will hope to turn their preparation into another memorable chapter in women’s cricket. Pakistan women’s squad for ACC women’s Asia Cup  Fatima Sana (captain), Ayesha Zafar, Eman Naseer, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Momina Riasat, Muneeba Ali Siddiqui (wk), Najiha Alvi, Nashra Sundhu, Sadia Iqbal, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, Waheeda Akhtar. Reserves – Tasmia Rubab, Humna Bilal, Maham Anees, Sadaf Shamas Support Staff Wahab Riaz (coach/mentor), Ayesha Ashar (team manager), Abdur Rehman (spin bowling coach), Umaid Asif (fast bowling coach), Abdul Majeed (fielding coach), Imran Farhat (batting coach), Waleed Ahmed (performance analyst), Moeen (strength & conditioning coach), Dur Samand (Physiotherapist) and Raza Rashid Kitchlew (media manager) Pakistan women’s squad for Asian Games  Fatima Sana (captain), Aliya Riaz, Ayesha Zafar, Eman Naseer, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Humna Bilal, Momina Riasat, Muneeba Ali Siddiqui (wk), Nashra Sundhu, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tasmia Rubab, Tuba Hassan and Umm-e-Hani. Reserves – Natalia Parvaiz, Waheeda Akhtar, Sadia Iqbal, Syeda Aroob Shah, Rameen Shamim Support Staff Wahab Riaz (coach/mentor), Ayesha Ashar (team manager), Abdur Rehman (spin bowling coach), Umaid Asif (fast bowling coach), Abdul Majeed (fielding coach), Imran Farhat (batting coach), Waleed Ahmed (performance analyst) and Tehreem Sumbal (physiotherapist) Schedule of Pakistan’s matches at the ACC women’s Asia Cup: (All matches at Dubai International Cricket Stadium; all matches to begin at 7.30pm PKT) 1 September – Pakistan v Thailand 5 September – Pakistan v India 7 September – Pakistan v Hong Kong, China 10 September – semi-final 1 11 September – semi-final 2 13 September – final Pakistan women at Asian Games (All matches at Korogi Athletic Park in Aichi prefecture) 17 September – Quarter-final 4 – Pakistan v Thailand 20 September – Semi-final 1 & 2 22 September – Bronze and Gold Medal matches

  • | |

    Karachi Colleges impose immediate ban on Tobacco a…

      The Directorate of College Education Karachi has announced a comprehensive ban on the use of tobacco products and narcotics in all public colleges across the city. The decision aims to create a healthier, safer, and drug-free educational environment for students, teachers, and other staff members. According to an official notification issued by the Directorate of College Education Karachi, the prohibition covers a wide range of tobacco and nicotine products. These include cigarettes, electronic cigarettes (vapes), nicotine pouches, pan (betel quid), and gutka. The use, consumption, or possession of these products within college premises is now strictly prohibited. The notification states that the ban has come into effect immediately and must be implemented without delay. College administrations have been instructed to ensure full compliance with the new policy and take all necessary steps to maintain a tobacco-free and drug-free environment within their institutions. Under the new directives, principals of all colleges have been assigned the primary responsibility for enforcing the ban. They are required to ensure that students, faculty members, administrative staff, and visitors strictly adhere to the rules. Principals have also been instructed to monitor college premises regularly and adopt preventive measures to discourage the use of tobacco products and illegal substances. The Directorate emphasized that educational institutions should remain places that promote learning, discipline, and healthy lifestyles. The use of tobacco products and drugs not only affects the health of individuals but can also negatively influence the academic environment and the well-being of students. By implementing this ban, the department hopes to protect young people from developing harmful addictions and encourage healthier habits. In addition to restricting tobacco and drug use inside college campuses, the Directorate has also taken steps to address the issue beyond institutional boundaries. According to the notification, official letters have been sent to Deputy Commissioners across Karachi, requesting their cooperation in preventing the sale and use of tobacco products and narcotics in areas surrounding colleges. The involvement of district administrations is intended to strengthen enforcement efforts and reduce students’ access to tobacco and drug products near educational institutions. Local authorities are expected to work with law enforcement agencies and other relevant departments to monitor vendors operating close to colleges and ensure compliance with applicable laws  and regulations. The Directorate believes that collaboration between educational institutions and district authorities is essential for creating a secure and healthy environment for students. By limiting the availability of tobacco products and narcotics around colleges, officials hope to reduce the risk of substance abuse among young people and reinforce public health initiatives. The decision reflects growing concerns about the increasing use of smoking products, vaping devices, and other addictive substances among students. Educational authorities have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding students’ physical and mental well-being while fostering an atmosphere that supports academic excellence and personal development. With the immediate implementation of the ban, college principals are expected to take proactive measures to ensure compliance and raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco and drug use. The Directorate of College Education Karachi has made it clear that maintaining drug-free campuses is now a priority, and all stakeholders are expected to cooperate in achieving this objective for the benefit of students and the wider educational community.

  • | | |

    PSX ends week lower as KSE-100 loses 4,781 points

    The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) closed the trading week with a significant decline, as the benchmark KSE-100 Index recorded heavy losses amid continued market volatility. The negative trend reflected cautious investor sentiment and sustained selling pressure across several sectors. During the week, the KSE-100 Index fell by 4,781 points to close at 171,021 points. The decline marked a weak performance for the stock market after several volatile trading sessions. Investors remained cautious throughout the week, resulting in fluctuations in share prices. The market witnessed wide swings during the five trading days. The benchmark index moved within a range of 8,857 points. It touched a weekly high of 178,370 points before dropping to a weekly low of 169,512 points, highlighting the uncertainty that dominated market activity. Despite the fall in the benchmark index, trading volumes remained healthy. Investors traded a total of 3.48 billion shares during the week. The combined value of these transactions reached Rs138 billion, indicating that market participation remained active despite the downward trend. The market decline also affected the overall value of listed companies. The total market capitalisation of the Pakistan Stock Exchange dropped by Rs512 billion during the week. As a result, the market’s total value stood at Rs19.278 trillion at the close of trading. Market analysts said investors adopted a cautious approach due to uncertainty surrounding economic conditions and profit-taking after recent gains. Selling pressure in key sectors also contributed to the decline in the benchmark index. Experts believe investors will continue to closely monitor economic indicators, corporate earnings, monetary policy developments and government decisions that could influence market sentiment in the coming weeks. Any positive economic developments or improved investor confidence may help the market recover, while continued uncertainty could keep volatility elevated. The week’s performance underscores the sensitivity of the Pakistan Stock Exchange to economic and financial developments, with investors expected to remain watchful as the new trading week begins.

  • | |

    Cockroach’ protests end in stunning victory

    India’s Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on Saturday after days of youth-led protests over alleged irregularities in major entrance examinations. The resignation came as thousands of young people gathered in New Delhi and other parts of the country under the banner of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The protesters had demanded Pradhan’s removal and major reforms to the country’s examination system. They also raised wider concerns about unemployment and limited opportunities for young people. Pradhan confirmed that he had submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a statement, he said he was deeply concerned about the events of the previous 10 days. He said the decision was not about personal prestige. He added that India’s youth were an important strength of the country and said efforts were needed to prevent young people from becoming trapped in uncertainty. The announcement immediately triggered celebrations at the main protest site at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke told the cheering crowd, “We have done it.” Hundreds of protesters responded with loud applause and celebrations. The CJP later announced that its demands had been accepted following talks with the government. It said the protests would therefore be called off. The movement had focused on alleged irregularities in examinations, including concerns over the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). Protesters demanded greater transparency and accountability in the examination system. They also called for compensation for people affected by examination irregularities. Another demand was the withdrawal of legal cases against protesters. The government held two rounds of talks with CJP representatives during the week. However, the discussions initially failed to produce an agreement. Pradhan submitted his resignation before a third round of talks was scheduled. The protests also faced a strong response from police. Authorities used tear gas and batons when demonstrators attempted to march from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament. The campaign gradually expanded beyond examination issues. Protesters also highlighted unemployment, lack of opportunities for young people and broader concerns about governance. The demonstrations became one of the most significant challenges to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government since his re-election in 2024. India’s opposition leader Rahul Gandhi also backed the protesters. He described Pradhan’s resignation as a major development and urged Modi to apologise to students and address their concerns. Gandhi also called for action against those accused of violence against students during the demonstrations. The resignation brought an emotional response from protesters. One 27-year-old participant who visited the protest site for the first time on Saturday described the atmosphere as highly charged, particularly after the minister’s resignation.

  • | |

    Harper’s brisk knock powers Galle to strong total against Dambulla

    Sam Harper struck a quickfire 40 off just 22 balls to lay the foundation for a strong total from Galle Gallants against Dambulla Sixers in the eighth fixture of the Lanka Premier League 2026 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Wednesday. Batting first after winning the toss, Galle posted 178 for 8 across their full 20 overs, with Harper’s early aggression setting the tone for the innings. Dambulla Sixers named a playing eleven of Marques Ackermann, Niroshan Dickwella as wicketkeeper, Reeza Hendricks, Pavan Rathnayake, Gulbadin Naib, Vishva Lahiru, Sachitha Jayatillake, Ramesh Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, captain Dushmantha Chameera and Fazalhaq Farooqi. Galle Gallants fielded Lasith Croospulle, Sam Harper as wicketkeeper, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Charith Asalanka, captain Dasun Shanaka, Mohammad Nawaz, Chamika Karunaratne, Dinura Kalupahana, Sahan Arachchige, Akif Javed and Vijayakanth Viyaskanth. More details on the match are expected to follow as the innings progresses.

  • | | |

    Ducky bhai questions parents’ role in children?…

    Pakistani YouTuber Ducky Bhai has questioned the growing criticism of YouTubers over their alleged negative influence on children, arguing that parents must also take responsibility for their children’s upbringing and online activities. In his recent remarks, Ducky Bhai rejected the idea that YouTubers alone are responsible when children are exposed to inappropriate or negative content. He questioned where parents are when children are spending significant amounts of time online and consuming digital content. According to Ducky Bhai, content creators should make an effort to keep their videos clean and appropriate. However, he stressed that YouTubers cannot be expected to act as parents for every child watching their content. He argued that parents have a key role in deciding what their children watch and how much time they spend online. Monitoring internet activity, setting boundaries and discussing appropriate content with children, he suggested, should be part of responsible parenting. Ducky Bhai also referred to his own childhood while explaining his perspective. He recalled that his father encouraged him to focus on his studies and used rewards, including the promise of a PlayStation for good performance, as motivation. He further revealed that his father had installed security measures on his computer that allowed him to monitor his activities. According to Ducky Bhai, this close supervision helped his parents remain aware of what he was doing online. His comments have renewed discussion about the responsibilities of parents and digital content creators in an age when children have easy access to YouTube and other online platforms. While creators can influence young audiences through the content they publish, Ducky Bhai believes parents cannot simply shift the entire responsibility onto YouTubers. Instead, he says families should actively monitor children’s digital activities and guide them toward appropriate content. The debate highlights a broader challenge for modern families: balancing children’s access to entertainment and technology with parental supervision. As online platforms continue to become an important part of children’s daily lives, both content creators and parents face increasing pressure to ensure that young viewers are exposed to safe and suitable material.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *