Thursday, 31 January 2019

Punjab to control Senate after creation of two provinces

ISLAMABAD: The Senate -- the symbol of Federation -- will be dominated and controlled by the Punjab if two federating units are carved out of it as per a constitutional amendment moved by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in the National Assembly.Considering the policies of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), the PML-N’s proposed legislation, aimed at having Bahawalpur and south Punjab as new provinces, has bleak prospects of passage in Parliament.Not only in the central legislature but also in the Punjab, two-thirds majority will be required to approve this amendment. If the PTI and PML-N do not join hands in the provincial assembly, the constitutional amendment can’t become a reality. Similarly, they have to join hands for its approval in the two parliamentary chambers.Under the Constitution, all the provinces have equal representation in the Senate so that the federating units, regardless of their size in area or population, have the uniform weight in the Upper House of Parliament and have a forum where they speak for the rights of their regions.In case the present constitutional amendment is sails through Parliament, Pakistan will obviously have six provinces. In the Senate, the three provinces--(remaining) Punjab, Bahawalpur and south Punjab--will have representation equal to the rest of Pakistan.As a result, the principle of parity in the Upper House will evaporate into thin air, making the Federation topsy-turvy. In reality, the balance of provinces in Senate has been a “great bulwark” against hegemony of the big brother, Punjab.In the case of Bahawalpur and Janubi Punjab being the new provinces, the PML-N, on the basis of the present party position, will have majority in Punjab (at Lahore), and PML-N and PPP will have government in Bahawalpur while the PTI will rule Janubi Punjab.However, Parliament can provide that the amendment will become effective in the next general elections or after a certain period of time. The PML-N has 104 such seats in the current Punjab Assembly from Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Sargodha and Sahiwal.In current Bahawalpur division, the PML-N has 13 MPAs, the PTI has 12 provincial lawmakers; the PPP has 4 legislators and PML-Q 2 MPAs. In the proposed Janubi province, the PML-N has 17 MPAs, PTI 43 members and PPP one lawmaker while there are two independent legislators.There is not a single agriculture or engineering university in the two proposed provinces. A new formula of resource distribution among provinces will be required in the wake of creation of more federating units.A tweet said calling it “Janubi Punjab” would be a mistake, like it was a mistake to call Pakhtunkhwa NWFP. These are real people in that part of the country. They have their own language, culture and civilisation, distinct from Punjab. Why naming it in reference to Punjab? Why not Siraiki Suba [province]?Response to it came from a person who hails from that area. He posted that Saraikistan will be an appropriate name for the new province to be created in present day Janubi Punjab. Another tweet asked the PML-N to correct a mistake noted in its bill: the Multan division was divided sometime back and districts of Sahiwal and Pakpattan were excluded from it. Pakpattan and parts of Sahiwal are Seraiki dominated areas, and are geographically and demographically connected with Multan.

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EAC members protest Finance Ministry’s laxity

ISLAMABAD: The members of high profile Economic Advisory Council (EAC) have protested laxity of Finance Ministry over convening the EAC session on short notice after which the government decided to postpone its meeting till next week.The government had made plans to hold EAC meeting on Thursday (today) and sent email messages about the meeting for getting their input on “medium term strategy paper” before making it public.Minister for Finance Asad Umar had announced on eve of second amendment bill before the Parliament that the medium term strategy would be announced this week. Now it seems that the government will have to delay its plan for sharing its medium term strategy paper with the public till next week as it wants to incorporate viewpoint of renowned economists belonging to high profile EAC. It is expected that Prime Minister Imran Khan may chair the EAC meeting next week for getting input of EAC on government’s strategy.However, some EAC members showed their non-availability on such a short notice of the meeting by raising point that how it would be possible for them to share their input on 37 page report within short span of time.Then it was proposed to hold meeting on Friday but again the members opposed it arguing that some members would be busy in their prior scheduled engagements. Now the government is considering convening the EAC meeting next week probably on Monday.When this scribe contacted one top official of Finance Ministry on Wednesday, he said that the government shared draft copy of medium term budgetary framework with the EAC members enabling them to share their input after reading this document in details. However, the official made efforts to convince this scribe that it was not worthwhile to file story about the internal discussions held among the members of EAC and government functionaries after which the meeting was postponed from this ongoing week.Four members of high profile EAC had already resigned from this forum and the latest one is Sakib Sherani who claimed to tender his resignation because of his personal reasons. However, there are increasing complaints within the ranks of the EAC that most of the members were bypassed in the key decision-making process as the government did not bother to consult them on finance supplementary (second amendment) bill 2019 and macroeconomic framework.When this scribe filed story on this subject after which the Finance Ministry made plans to convene EAC meeting for getting their input on medium term strategy paper. Meanwhile, Chief Economist, Department for International Development (DFID), UK, Rachel Glennerster called on Finance Minister Asad Umer here on Wednesday. Ms Glennerster appreciated the measures taken by the government to stabilise the macroeconomic imbalances and informed the finance minister of the support being provided by DFID towards economic and social development of Pakistan.The chief economist also had exchange of views with the finance minister on government's plans to reform the energy sector and promote renewable energy solutions. She informed the minister that DFID is ready to assist the government of Pakistan to tap climate finance funds to support the drive for renewable energy. The finance minister appreciated the work being done by DFID in Pakistan.

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Pakistani school on lowest, Indian on top ranking in Dubai

DUBAI: Pakistani curriculum schools in Dubai are on the lowest categories while Indian curriculum schools are shining with top ranking in the latest report of schools’ inspection conducted by the government of Dubai.One of the two Pakistani curriculum schools in Dubai has upgraded its ranking while the others’ standing declined in 2018-19, according to the schools’ inspection body of Dubai, Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).Pakistan’s Shaikh Rashid Al Maktoum School in Dubai slightly improved its ranking from “weak” to “acceptable” after eight years, a report by the schools’ inspection regulator Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) revealed.Shaikh Rashid Al Maktoum School is the only Pakistani school in Dubai that is run by the government of Pakistan through its consulate in Dubai. While the ranking of another Pakistani-curriculum school Pakistan Education Academy went down from “acceptable” to “weak”. The ‘Pakistan Education Academy’ runs under private governing body.The performance of the schools is divided in five categories (1) Outstanding (2) Very Good (3) Good (4) Acceptable and (5) Weak. Unfortunately, both Pakistani curriculum schools are in the last two categories, although, Shaikh Rashid Al Maktoum School has finally showed some upward trend after eight years of inspection.On the other hand, total of 73 per cent students attending Indian-curriculum schools in Dubai are receiving 'good' quality of education or even better, according to the KHDA report.The 2018-2019 'Indian Curriculum Schools' report showed that 31 out of 35 Indian-curriculum schools were inspected by the KHDA. This year, 21 schools were rated 'good' or better, compared to 18 schools last year.One school was rated 'outstanding', 15 were rated 'good', five were 'very good', nine were 'acceptable', and one was 'weak'. The KHDA report suggested the Pakistani curriculum schools to improve teaching standards provide a wider skill-base of governors and make them more accountable for the improvement in learning resources and school standards.

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Cabinet to discuss law and order situation today

ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet in its meeting today (Thursday) will review the law and order situation in the country in the wake of recent incidents of terrorism in different parts of the country and will have discussion on political situation as well.Well-placed sources told The News that the Sahiwal tragedy will also figure in the discussions. Prime Minister Imran Khan will chair the meeting and it will deal with 21-point agenda. The federal cabinet is expected to review effective policies regarding softening of Pakistani visas, Haj Policy and Plan 2019 and Anti-Narcotics Policy 2018.Adviser to the PM Dr Ishrat Hussain will brief the cabinet concerning NGOs. The cabinet will discuss and approve additional technical grant for the Prime Minister’s Youth Training Scheme (PMYTS) and an agreement for the promotion of sports between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

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Funeral prayers for police staff martyred in Loralai attack offered

LORALAI: Funeral prayers were held on Wednesday for seven police staff martyred in Tuesday's attack at the DIG police compound in Loralai.Balochistan IGP Mohsin Hasan Butt, Commissioner Zhob Division Basheer Ahmed Khan and Commandant Loralai Scouts Col Mukhtar were among the government officers who attended the funeral prayers.The deceased will be laid to rest in their respective hometowns. On Tuesday, nine people were martyred when three armed suicide bombers tried to enter the DIG police compound in Loralai. The martyred included three policemen, five civil employees of police and one civilian candidate. The injured included 12 policemen and nine civilian candidates.The police on duty responded and shot one of the three suicide bombers at the entry of DIG complex who detonated his suicide jacket. The remaining two attackers started indiscriminate firing and got into one side of the room. FC Balochistan and Army troops were called in. Around 800 candidates were safely evacuated. During the clearance operation, the remaining two suicide bombers were shot dead and the area was cleared.

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SC report clears Aman Foundation in Amal’s death case

KARACHI/LONDON: Leading charitable organisation The Aman Foundation has expressed satisfaction with the investigative hearings process and the resulting report produced by a committee constituted by the honourable Supreme Court of Pakistan, which has clearly concluded that Aman Ambulance was not responsible for Amal Umer’s death.On August 13, 2018, Amal was killed when a policeman fired a bullet attempting to kill a robber, who had looted her family a few minutes earlier in Karachi’s Akhtar Colony area as they waited at a traffic light to attend a concert on the eve of Independence Day. The committee set up to investigate the death of Amal Umar submitted its report in the Supreme Court few days ago.The report was submitted by a six-member committee, which includes AD Khawaja, the former inspector-general of Sindh police, and is headed by Justice (Retd) Khilji Arif Hussain. According to the report, National Medical Centre (NMC) where Amal was taken, refused to take responsibility for the death of the 10-year-old. The hospital also changed the date and time of Amal’s death. “The hospital did not give the proper medical equipment to transfer the wounded child and even lied to the committee,” the report said.“NMC also changed the date and time of her death so that it could be proved that the child was dead on arrival at the hospital.” Reacting to the report, Amal Foundation’s General Manager and spokesperson Khaqan Sikander welcomed the report by the esteemed committee. He regretted that a lot of fake news was spread around the events of the tragic death of Amal.He said: “There are a few facts which we at Aman Foundation would like to clarify as we feel it is important for the correct information and an accurate reporting of such information to be made public, considering the nature and sensitivity of the case.” The esteemed committee concluded clearly that Aman Ambulances were not responsible for Amal’s death. Hence the reports being circulated by certain sections of the media which erroneously state that “Aman has admitted its negligence” or “has been found responsible” and other similar mis-statements are factually incorrect and misleading, he added.“Our internationally recognised systems have helped us save more than 1 million lives in the last decade only and we are committed to serving the public in the best manner possible. Furthermore as a professional organisation involved in public service, we are always open to improving our service delivery standards and have expressed this commitment in relation to Amal’s case as well.”Sikander explained that Aman Foundation is a non-profit organization and currently operating with merely 60 life-saving ambulances while Karachi requires a minimum of 200 (as per WHO guidelines) ambulances. He concluded: “Our thoughts and prayers remain with Amal and her family. We have been and will continue to be committed to serving the people of Pakistan.”

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IHC to hear petitions against Zardari today

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) will hear petitions, challenging eligibility of former president and PPP’s Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari as MNA, today (Thursday).Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice Athar Minallah would hear two identical petitions filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s Usman Dar and Khurram Sher Zaman seeking disqualification of Asif Zardari under Article 62 (1)(F) for concealing his assets in his nomination papers submitted to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).During the Monday hearing, the IHC CJ had removed the objections of registrar office on the petitions and allowed them for initial hearing. The court had asked the petitioners to satisfy the bench that it was a matter of public interest and should be heard on priority basis. The IHC CJ observed that political issues must be addressed at political forums, adding that the parliament should form a committee to view the matter.

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‘Swat Motorway to be opened on May 1’

Bureau reportPESHAWAR: Chief Minister Mahmood Khan on Wednesday said that the Swat Motorway would be opened for all sorts of vehicular traffic on May 1, 2019. The decision to this effect was taken during a meeting of chief minister with the Federal Minister for Communication Murad Saeed.The meeting was attended by the Chairman National Highways Authority, Director General Frontier Works Organisation, MD Pakhtunkhwa Highways Authority, Secretary Communication and Works, Secretary Irrigation, Project Director Swat Motorway and others, said a handout. The meeting reviewed the pace of progress on the Swat Motorway and exchanged views about the project.The meeting reviewed the pace of progress on the Swat Motorway and exchanged views about the project. The meeting expected that the Swat Motorway would be ready for inauguration on May 1, 2019.The meeting thoroughly debated the extension of Swat Motorway and agreed to extend for the integration of whole Malakand division with the province. The meeting also agreed to open up Kohat to Dera Ismail Khan road for traffic soon in the best public interest.

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Up to 7,076 people received information from govt depts under RTI, seminar told

PESHAWAR: Chief Information Commissioner Right to Information Commission Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Azmat Hanif Orakzai has said that 7,076 people have received information from the government departments under the Right to Information Act in the province.“The number of people seeking information under the RTI law to check the performance and transparency of the government departments is increasing as so far 12,859 applications have been submitted in the government departments for receiving information,” the chief information commissioner said this in his presentation to the legal fraternity over the RTI law at a seminar arranged in the Peshawar High Court Bar on Wednesday.About the performance of the commission, he said the commission had received 5,379 complaints against the public bodies, out of which 5,154 were decided. He added that penalties, including Rs25,000 fines, had been imposed on various officials, who had denied giving information to the applicants under the RTI law. Currently, he said, 225 complaints are pending with the commission against the departments.Hanif Orakzai said that every RTI law is being evaluated in a centre called “Law and Democracy” Center at Canada and as per the report of the centre KP RTI Act is one of the top-3 best laws in the world.He said the government had introduced the law to improve governance in the province. “The sole purpose of the law is to ensure transparency and accountability in public bodies through a mechanism whereby citizens could seek information of public importance from public bodies as enshrined in article 19-A of the Constitution of Pakistan,” he added.Under this law, he said every citizen can file an application for information from the public body. The Public Information Officer (PIO) within the department or institution cannot ask the purpose of the information sought.He said some departments and officials had tried to amend the law and bound the applicant that he would first take an undertaken to take the information for a specific purpose and not be used for other purposes, but due to criticism over this effort in the media, Prime Minister Imran Khan refused such an amendment to the RTI Law.However, he said, at the start of the commission there were cases of denial regarding the provision of the information, but now the mindset of bureaucracy is changing through awareness sessions and the commission’s actions and penalties against the violators.The chief information commissioner, however, said journalists, lawyers and students were on top for receiving information from government departments under the RTI Law. However, he asked the lawyers to read out the act and give valuable suggestions to the commission for further improvement.Mah-e-Talat, Commissioner Right to Information Commission, highlighted various salient features of the RTI Act. She explained the guidelines for submission of application and then complain in the commission in case of denial of the information by the public body. Peshawar High Court Bar Association (PHCBA) General Secretary Yasir Khattak spoke on the occasion. He assured full support to the commission for further improvement.

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FIA arrests ETPB inspector for fraudulently selling state land

NOWSHERA: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Wednesday arrested an official of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), Peshawar office, for allegedly selling the state land fraudulently, sources said.The sources said Abdul Waheed, son of, Abdul Siddique, a resident of Shafi Building, Nowshera Cantonment, lodged a complaint with the FIA in Islamabad. The complainant said that an inspector of the ETPB, Syed Assadullah Shah, had received Rs3.1 million from him to transfer in his name the state land. The land is owned by the ETPB and sited near the Amann Garh Police Line. The Khasra Nos are 447-448.Abdul Waheed said that the ETPB inspector received the amount from him in two installments of Rs 2million and 1.1million, respectively, and told him that the land had been sold out to him.Abdul Waheed said the ETPB inspector would become evasive when he would demand ownership documents. He said the ETPB inspector gave him a judicial bond (stamp paper) where he had acknowledged having received the amount. The complainant said later he came to know that ETPB inspector took Rs3.1million from him fraudulently and never transferred the land in his name. He said the land is owned by the ETPB which is a federal government entity.“When I insisted on the return of my money, the ETPB inspector flatly refused to do the needful. I had no option but to move the FIA. The Crime Branch of the FIA in Peshawar registered a case against the accused under,” he elaborated.The FIA team took action and arrested the ETPB Inspector Syed Assad Ali Shah. The accused was produced in a court of law and his three days physical remand obtained. The initial grilling the accused confessed that he had received amounts in the past for wrongly allotting the state-owned land.

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One transgender killed, two injured in Karak firing

KARAK: A transgender was killed and his two colleagues were injured in a firing incident here on Wednesday, police sources said. Also, the police claimed to have arrested the principal accused.The sources said that three members of the transgender community identified as Jehangir, a resident of Mansehra, Mushtaq, a resident of Peshawar and Arshad, a resident of Swabi, were travelling back to Kohat after attending a musical concert in Jatta Ismailkhel area in Karak when unidentified gunmen fired at their vehicle in the limits of Banda Daud Shah Police Station.The three transvestites sustained bullet injuries and were being taken to a hospital, but Jehangir succumbed to his injuries on the way. The dead and the injured were shifted to the Tehsil Headquarters Hospital in Banda Daud Shah wherefrom they were later referred to the Divisional Hospital Kohat.The injured transgender, Arshad, nominated Hamadan, the person at whose house the musical concert took place and his two unidentified accomplices in the murder case. The police impounded the vehicle and arrested the accused Hamadan.

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JUI-F activists threaten to hold protest

LANDIKOTAL: JUI-F activists on Wednesday threatened to stage protest against the expected meeting of KP cabinet in Landikotal tehsil of Khyber tribal district. Speaking at a press conference here, Mufti Mohammad Ejaz Shinwari said that the JUI-F and majority of the tribal people had not accepted the so-called merger of Fata into KP.“If the PTI is going to hold the meeting here for the purpose to announce any mega project in Khyber district, then they will welcome the session,” Mufti maintained. He stated the government should create job opportunities in tribal belt instead of misleading the youth through hollow slogans. Landikotal residents were deprived of basic facilities since the independence and they need development projects in the area, he maintained.

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6,000 litres of adulterated milk destroyed

PESHAWAR: KP Food Safety and Halal Food Authority discarded over 6000 litres of adulterated milk after checking more than 200 samples of milk and yogurt during two-day checking camp at Gulbahar on Wednesday. After Hayatabad, it was second two-day camp of the authority and from Thursday it is going to organize similar camp at Bakhsho Pul on Charsadda Road.During the two-day camp, the authority checked the samples and disposed of 6000 litres of adulterated milk. Meanwhile, the DG KP Food Safety Riaz Khan Mahsud said that the milk checking campaign of the authority reflects the confidence of the people wherein awareness among the people bout secured food is increasing in the people.

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Elders assure security forces of cooperation

BARA: Elders at a grand jirga assured the security forces of complete cooperation to check militancy in their respective areas. The elders from Mohmand, Afridi, Mullagori and Shalman tribes attended the jirga held at the headquarters of the Swat Scouts in Warsak on Wednesday.Commandant Swat Scouts Tahir Khattak and local elders including Malik Abdul Manan Mullagori, Malik Fazle Maula, Malik Faizullah Jan, Mufti Abid Junaidi, Kifayatullah alias Jan, Haji Mir Khan and others attended the jirga.Addressing the jirga, Commandant Swat Scouts Tahir Khattak asked the local elders to pinpoint the militants and the security forces would take action against them. He said that the owners of the properties where the security forces established checkposts would be paid rent. He said no effort would be spared to address the issues of the local population. The official urged the elders to strengthen the local peace committees. On the occasion, the elders assured the security forces that the people would not hesitate to render any sacrifice for the restoration of peace.

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Smuggling bid foiled, 118kg hashish seized

MINGORA: The police on Wednesday claimed to have foiled a smuggling bid and seized over 118 kilogram hashish in the limits of Matta Police Station. Speaking at a press conference, a senior police official said that acting on a tip-off, the officials of Matta Police Station had erected a barricade to thwart the smuggling bid. He said the cops signalled a car to stop and recovered over 118 kilogram hashish and one kilogram opium from it. The official said the alleged smuggler, Khalid Khan, was also arrested.

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New rain spell turns weather cold again in upper Sindh

SUKKUR: Another spell of rain with cold wind on Wednesday entered in the upper parts of Sindh including Sukkur, Khairpur, Shikarpur, Ghotki, Jacobabad and other cities that turned the weather cold and breezy.The News learnt that the rain shower caused continuous power breakdown in those parts while gas loadshedding annoyed the residents. The rain water inundated the streets, while the severe cold compelled the citizens to stay at home. The MET office predicted more rain and cold breeze to continue for days to come.

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India will have to resolve Kashmir issue: Sarwar

LAHORE: Punjab Governor Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar has said India will have to resolve the issue of Kashmir according to the resolutions of United Nations. Talking to Kashmiri leader Yasin Malik and his wife Mishal Malik, who called on him at Governor’s House on Wednesday, Chaudhry Sarwar said that peace in South Asia was not possible without independence of Kashmir.“We will not let India succeed in silencing the voice of Kashmiri youth by repression and violence. Pakistan will raise the voice for rights of Kashmiri people in the whole world,” the Punjab governor said. “Instead of silencing the voice of Kashmiri people by bullet, India should resolve the Kashmir issue according to the resolutions of United Nations and honour the basic human rights of Kashmiri people,” he added. Pakistan stands by the right to self-determination of Kashmiri people” said Sarwar.The whole nation is with the Pakistan Army in war on terror, adding terrorism was the issue of whole polity instead of any particular party or community. The Pakistan Army has made unprecedented sacrifices in the war on terror. The Pakistani nation is united against terrorism and also respects the basic human rights, said Chaudhry Sarwar. The day is not far away when terrorism will be eradicated from Pakistan. Meanwhile, members of National Assembly Dr Karamat Khokhar and Shaukat Bhatti also called on the Punjab governor.

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Widespread rains, thunderstorms expected

LAHORE: Met officials said that a westerly wave is present over the country and likely to grip most parts and may persist in upper/central parts till Thursday (today).They predicted that widespread rain-thunderstorm is expected in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Malakand, Hazara, Peshawar, Kohat, Mardan Divisions), Upper Punjab (Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Lahore, Faisalabad Divisions), Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir, while at scattered places in Bannu, DI Khan, Multan, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, DG Khan Divisions, while at isolated places in Mirpurkhas Division.Moderate to heavy falls are also expected at isolated places in Malakand, Hazara Divisions, Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. Snowfall over the hills is also expected in Malakand Division (Swat, Chitral, Kalam, Malam Jabba & Upper Dir), Hazara Division, Murree, Galliyat, Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.On Wednesday, weather remained very cold and dry in most parts of the country. However, rain occurred at isolated places in Malakand, Kohat, Bannu, Quetta, Zhob, Kalat, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Multan, DG Khan Divisions and Islamabad. Wednesday’s minimum emperature was recorded at Skardu where mercury dropped down to -19°C while in Lahore, temperature was 3.3°C and maximum was 16.3°C.

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PAF chief attends bilateral air exercise

ISLAMABAD: Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force (PAF), attended a bilateral air exercise ‘Falcon Talon’ between the Pakistan Air Force and the United States Air Force at a PAF base.During the visit, the air chief flew an exercise training mission in a fighter aircraft, said a press release issued by the PAF Directorate of Media Affairs. Interacting with the combat crew of both the air forces, the air chief congratulated the participants on successful completion of the exercise.He also appreciated the air and ground crew for smooth and professional conduct of the exercise. He said both the air forces had a long history of cordial relations and expressed the hope that the exercise would help the two air forces learn from each others experiences. He said the exercise would strengthen and promote cooperation between the two great nations as well as the air forces.

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‘Teachings of saints can bring peace in society’

ISLAMABAD: Speakers at a string of events have stressed the need to promote the teachings of Sufi saints in order to tackle the growing challenges of violence, extremism and terrorism and promote peace, harmony and brotherhood in the society. The series of conferences and seminars held from Jan 28 to Jan 30 at different colleges and universities aimed at highlighting the Sufi message of peace, since the saints conveyed to the people the message of Holy Quran and Sunnah in very simple words.In this connection, the first event titled ‘Message of Peace and Sufi Poetry’ was organized by the Government College University, Lahore, on Monday, in collaboration with University of Gujrat and Higher Education Commission, Islamabad.Another seminar titled ‘Role of Women in Countering Violent Extremism and Promoting Peace in Pakistan’ was organized by the University of Lahore (UoL), also on Monday, in collaboration with the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) and International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI). UoL Chairman Dr Awais Rauf chaired the session. Punjab Minister or Women Development Ashifa Riaz Fatyana was chief guest on the occasion. CII Chairman Dr Qibla Ayaz and others spoke on the occasion.Another seminar titled ‘Paigham-e-Pakistan and Message of Peace in Sufi Poetry’ was organised by the University of Management Technology (UMT), Lahore, on Tuesday. The event was organized by the UMT Department of Islamic Studies in collaboration with the Department of Islamic Studies, University of Gujrat, and the Higher Education Commission, Islamabad.A conference titled ‘Message of Peace in Sufi Poetry’ was held on Wednesday at Government Islamia College, Kasur. An interactive session titled ‘Peace Building and Role of Civil Society in Development of National Counter-Terrorism Narrative’ was held at the Pakistan Institute of Management, Lahore, in collaboration with Bashar, Aitcheson College Lahore and Islamic Research Institute (IRI) Islamabad.A large number of politicians, faculty members and students from different universities of the country, intellectuals, academicians, lawyers and civil society members attended the events.The speakers maintained that Pakistan was an outcome of the benefaction of Sufi saints, adding that the teachings of the saints should be followed to protect solidarity of the country. They said the social contract of Pakistan and its cultural foundations blended with the characteristics of Sufism tend to accommodate the dissenting thoughts and opposing beliefs, adding that the main strength of revered Sufis was their passion for interfaith harmony, readiness to engage in dialogue and hold followers of other religions in high esteem. Saints and Sufis have always propagated love and brotherhood and there is no place for terrorism, extremism, intolerance and narrow mindedness in Islam, they asserted.On the role of women in peacebuilding, the speakers said women are not only one of the key drivers of change of mindsets but also act as agents of conflict prevention and peacemaking, adding that the contribution of women to the culture of peace is also important because they represent almost half of the global population.They stressed the need to adopt an inclusive approach to negate the narratives of extremism, hate and terrorism and promote peace, harmony and respect for others in the society.On the role of civil society in peacebuilding, the speakers said civil society plays an important role in reducing violence and in facilitating the conditions necessary for building a sustainable peace.They said Pakistan has a vibrant civil society which can play a very effective role in promoting civil freedoms and democracy, human rights, rule of law, peace and reconciliation, stability and humanitarian relief and reconstruction.

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Police unable to check festive firing in Peshawar

PESHAWAR: Despite launching campaigns and issuing warnings of strict action against the station house officers concerned, celebratory firing is taking place almost on a daily basis in the provincial capital and other parts of the province.The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police have failed to check the practice. Thousands of rounds are fired every night, particularly on weekends, posing threats to the life of people.A campaign was carried out in Peshawar and other cities in the province a few months back to bring an end to firing at wedding ceremonies and other festive occasions. Banners and hoardings were displayed as part of the campaign.The police officials went to mosques and hujras (male guesthouses) to seek the help of local elders. Senior police officials claimed to have made the campaign successful.However, there seems to be no end to this practice as firing sounds are heard almost every night not only in the rural and suburban areas but even the urban parts of Peshawar. Those living close to wedding halls complain more often this practice. “First there used to be aerial firing in the remote rural areas. Now, you can hear it in Gulberg, Nauthia, Bhanamari, Bara Gate, Kohati, Gulbahar, Charsadda Road, Warsak Road, Hassan Garhi, University Road and other urban and suburban towns almost every night,” one Arsalan said.He added that aerial firing and as crackers blasts during the fireworks in weddings scared children. “Apart from firing, one can hear explosions of crackers on weekends. It seems there is no police to stop the revellers, putting the lives of people in danger. Many people have been killed and maimed for life after being hit by stray bullets.Several campaigns were run by the police and the government to educate people and go after those involved in the menace. However, police either seem to have failed or they are not competent enough to stop the practice at the sub-divisional and police station level.“The police only take action against those involved in festive firing for a week or two, which encourages the revellers indulging in such activities,” said another resident of Peshawar. The practice is taking place unchecked in other districts of the province as well and the district police officers concerned seem to have failed to stop the practice. The video of a man, who was hit by a stray bullet during celebratory firing, recently went viral on the social media. He can be seen falling on the ground after being hit by the bullet.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2UoGkX8
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Three killed in Kohat accident

KOHAT: Three persons, including mother and her son, were killed and five others were injured in a collision between two cars near Muslimabad on Indus Highway on Wednesday.Police officials said the car was on its way to Bannu and the accident occurred apparently due to over-speeding. As a result, Khan Nisa, her son Muhammad Afaq and one Asif died on the spot. Five passengers were injured in the accident. They were shifted to the hospitals in Kohat.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2DLSdB5
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Khassadar martyred in South Waziristan attack

WANA: A Khassadar force man was martyred and another sustained critical injuries when unidentified assailants attacked them near the Scouts Camp area in Toi Khula tehsil in South Waziristan tribal district on Wednesday. Local and official sources said that unidentified persons opened indiscriminate fire on the Khassadar force near Scouts Camp area. As a result, Musa Kamal was martyred on the spot while Gul Janan sustained serious injuries. The sources said that the injured Khassadar was taken to the District Headquarters Hospital in Wana in a precarious condition. The attackers fled the scene after committing the crime. Local administration confirmed the incident, saying that an investigation had been started but no arrest could be made till filing of this report.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2Uq0ShS
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PML-N to take legal action against 11 KP councillors

MANSEHRA: The PML-N has launched legal formalities to de-seat its 11 tehsil councillors, including six women, for breaching the party discipline. The 11 PML-N tehsil councillors had elected one of them as tehsil nazim with the support of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in the election held earlier this month. “We have served the 11 councillors with show-cause notices as a legal formality to de-seat them,” Zafar Mehmood, the district president of PML-N, told reporters here on Wednesday.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2DLZWzc
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NAB KP to hold public hearing today

PESHAWAR: The National Accountability Bureau Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would hold a public hearing at the regional office today. As per the official communiqué, the bureau stated that in order to provide relief to the general public, the NAB KP has arranged public hearing at his office today from 2 pm to 4 pm. It said that the Director General NAB, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Farmanullah will hear the public complaints. The bureau asked that individuals having information about any incident of cheating public at large, fake businesses, fake housing schemes, assets beyond known sources of income, embezzlement of public funds or any other corruption are requested to visit the bureau for lodging the complaints. The public is advised to bring their written complaints along with CNIC and initial copies of evidence.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2UoG7TQ
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Ex-chairman Saaf Pani Company, CEO granted bail

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court on Wednesday released former chairman and former chief executive officer of Punjab Saaf Pani Company, Raja Qamarul Islam and Waseem Ajmal, respectively, besides four other accused on bail in Punjab Saaf Pani Company scam.A two-judge bench headed by Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan allowed the bail to the suspects, subject to furnishing surety bonds.The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) alleged that Islam, also ex-MPA, was involved in awarding contracts of installation of 84 water filtration plants at higher prices. It said the suspect got the contracts of 102 plants approved from the company’s board of directors and committed forgery in the documents.The bureau accused Ajmal of violating procurement rules and permitting installation of the water plants in Dunyapur tehsil beyond the scope of the project. On the other side, the defence counsel argued that the case against Islam and others was politically motivated and amounted to political victimisation.He said the NAB arrested Islam one day after he was awarded ticket by PML-N for general election 2018 against Choudhry Nisar Ali Khan, a disgruntled leader of the party, from NA-59, Rawalpindi. He said the arrest of a candidate also put a question mark on the fairness of the election.The counsel said Islam being chairman of the Saaf Pani Company had no powers to examine its record. He said Islam being a politician was not aware of the procurement rules. About Mr Ajmal, the counsel said the company had 26 surplus water filtration plants which were to be installed somewhere. He said the NAB neither had complete information about the project nor it received any complaint against it.The counsel said all the suspects had no powers or role in decision making of the company. All the decisions were made independently by the company’s board of directors, he added. He said keeping the petitioners behind bars would serve no purpose as the NAB had already completed its investigation and there was no case of recovery.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2DKKYcq
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Stepmotherly treatment of PMDC: Hundreds of doctors’ future at stake

KARACHI: The future of hundreds of medical doctors who have done their PhD, M Phil and MD with the general universities is at stake because of step-motherly treatment of Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) with them.Their promotions have been stopped while some are facing hurdles in getting jobs. The doctors who have done their PhD and M.Phil from Karachi University have formed a WhatsApp Group (PMDC and KMDC Affected Group) which is consist of more than 30 affected doctors.According to a representative of PMDC Hina Shaukat the cases of those who have done their M.Phil and PhD with foreign universities are seen by a committee. Then they are interviewed and after analysis of their courses the cases are sent to the Council and then Council gives NOC to them. She said as far as Pakistani universities are concerned, their registration is necessary according to PMDC Act.The affected doctors complained that in spite of clear decision of Supreme Court with regard to Karachi University case PMDC is still treating them in an unfair manner. The member of PMDC Council Sindh Dr Tariq Rafi said that the tenure of Council has been ended after the formation of PMDC Ordinance. He said PMDC wrote letters to vice chancellors of general universities to invite PMDC for the visit of their departments of basic sciences.All universities have written letter to us but Karachi University did not write any letter to us. He said if Karachi University had written letter to us then PMDC had visited the university and affected students degrees have been accepted.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2UoFY2K
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Aasia case verdict causes concern: MYC

ISLAMABAD: The Milli Yekjehti Council leadership has termed the Supreme Court's verdicts in Aasia Bibi and Mumtaz Qadri cases to have caused widespread concern.In a joint statement on Wednesday, the Milli Yekjehti Council (MYC) leaders including Dr Sahebzada Abul Khair Muhammad Zubair, Liaquat Baloch, Allama Syed sajid Ali Naqvi, Saqib Akbar and Allama Arif Wahidi said the Supreme Court's verdict in Aasia case reflected the trend of the apex court to overturn the decisions of the lower courts.The MYC leadership said it would have boosted the public confidence in the superior judiciary if the Supreme Court had formed a larger bench and solicited the opinion of the religious scholars over the issue. It said the MYC would soon hold an emergent meeting to discuss the future line of action.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2DKFSwT
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NAB

JHANG: National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Wednesday asked the District Health Authority (DHA) Administrator/Deputy Commissioner to provide service profiles of previous and current DHA Chief Executive Officers along with other official record required for the complaint under processed with the NAB. According to a letter issued by the NAB Lahore Deputy Director Coordination, the DC had been asked to provide details in connection with a complaint being processed with the NAB regarding the appointments of class IV employees in 2017, appointments of sanitary patrol workers done in 2018, details regarding the award of contract for local purchase medicine in 2018-19, details about the funds allocated for measles program required for the inquiry. The NAB also stated that service profiles and record about departmental and otherwise requires of previous DHA CEO Dr Akhtar Hussain Baloch and current CEO Dr Younis Rasheed also required under section 27 of the NAB Ordinance 1999.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2MM4to8
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Glad to see you flourishing,Samuel L.Jackson to India Eisley after 'I Am the Night' premier

Samuel L.Jackson on Thursday took to Twitter to tell India Eisley that he was glad to see her flourishing three days after  "I Am the Night" featuring the 25-year old premiered on TNT."Hey @IndiaEisley1029 sooo glad to see you flourishing!! Missed your face!!," the Pulp Fiction actor wrote.Directed by Patty Jenkins, "I Am the Night" is inspired by the book "One Day She'll Darjeb: The Mysterious of Fauna Hodel authored by Fauna Hodel" Jenkins was also the director of "Wonder Woman " featuring  Gal Gadot.India Eisley plays Fauna Hodel in the six-episode series that tells the story of  the young woman who uncovered the disturbing secrets of the prominent Los Angeles family that gave her up at birth and that just might be connected to the infamous 1947 murder of Elizabeth Short, better known now as the Black Dahlia. 

from The News International - Entertainment http://bit.ly/2FZXIhM
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Ekta Kapoor becomes a mother to a baby boy

Bollywood film and television producer Ekta Kapoor has welcomed her little bundle of joy into her life through surrogacy.According to a report by Mumbai Mirror, the baby boy was born on January 27 and would be brought home to the Kapoor clan soon.The Veere Di Wedding producer is the second in the family to opt for surrogacy after her brother Tusshar Kapoor also went for the surrogate route with his son Laksshya who happens to be quite close to his aunt.In an interview with Hindustan Times earlier, Ekta expressed her love for her nephew saying: “My life has changed. If there’s anything that’s most important in my life [now], then that’s Laksshya. Every day, he does something new and we all look forward to that. I miss him every time I’m travelling on work. You know, the lakshya (target) of my life now is to look after Laksshya.”

from The News International - Entertainment http://bit.ly/2CSiL1P
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Cut all toxic people from your life: Mohsin Abbas Haider advises followers

After raising concern amongst fans and well-wishers with an alarming social media post, singer and actor Mohsin Abbas Haider has come forth expressing gratitude for the support he received.The Na Maloom Afraad actor opened up about his earlier post regarding depression, in a video he shared on Instagram on Wednesday, in which he addressed the issue while also extending his gratitude to all fans and fellow insiders from the showbiz industry who came out to send him love and support.In the video posted on his social media, the actor states: “I just wanted to say thanks to all of you for all those messages of love, concern and support you showed about my depression. We all are suffering in our lives one way or another. Sometimes, we feel like talking about it and it actually really helps. It helped me a lot.” “I’m not the kind of person who would share details about their personal life a lot but I guess when you reach an end, it becomes necessary,” he added.Addressing the comments and messages he received from celebrities in the industry as well as his fans, the singer goes on to state: “The kind of support I received from the industry, fellow actors, friends and fans has only made me believe that we should never hide it and should always talk about it.”Moreover, advising his followers to eliminate toxic people from their lives, Mohsin captioned the video: “PS: get rid of all those toxic people in your life.” 

from The News International - Entertainment http://bit.ly/2SkCG36
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From Rings to Ringo: Peter Jackson helms Beatles documentary

Acclaimed "Lord of the Rings" director Peter Jackson announced Thursday he is working on a documentary detailing the making of The Beatles´ classic album "Let It Be" 50 years ago.The New Zealander said the film was based on 55 hours of never-before-seen footage and 140 hours of audio from the Fab Four´s recording sessions.Jackson said it provided an unprecedented insight into to band´s creative process and their interactions in the studio."This movie will be the ultimate fly-on-the-wall experience that Beatles fans have long dreamt about," he said in a statement."It´s like a time machine transports us back to 1969 and we get to sit in the studio watching these four friends make great music together.""Let It Be" was recorded in January 1969 but not released until May the following year after The Beatles put out "Abbey Road" and subsequently split, making it the final album the band released.The footage was originally shot for a television special that never materialised. Instead, some of it was used in a Michael Lindsay-Hogg documentary also titled "Let It Be".Fans have long believed the album´s creation was marred by the rivalries and infighting that eventually tore the band apart but Jackson said that was a myth."Sure, there´s moments of drama, but none of the discord this project has long been associated with," he said. "Watching John, Paul, George, and Ringo work together, creating now-classic songs from scratch, is not only fascinating -- it´s funny, uplifting and surprisingly intimate."Jackson´s Wellington film studio will restore the old footage using techniques perfected on his BAFTA-nominated World War One documentary "They Shall Not Grow Old".The Beatles film is being made with the cooperation of surviving band members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, as well as the families of George Harrison and John Lennon.A release date has not been finalised.

from The News International - Entertainment http://bit.ly/2Ww7Wvl
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Priyanka Chopra narrates her and Nick Jonas Millennial love story on The Ellen Show

LOS ANGELES: Bollywood's stylish actress Priyanka Chopra spilled the beans about her and Nick Jonas' millennial love story on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.During her second appearance on the popular American talk show, the Quantico actress shared  how her husband Nick Jonas directly messaged her on Twitter and told her that they should connect. She, in the short video clip, can be heard saying, "He DMed me actually. So millennial of us! He DMed me on Twitter, saying: 'I've heard we should connect and uh... I've heard from common friends that we should meet. What do you think about that? I was like, 'just text me'." The couple had tied the knot at Umaid Bhavan Palace in Jodhpur on December 1 and 2 . Her thousands of fans across the world got a glimpse of the fun-filled episode through a promo video, which was shared on the official Instagram account of The Ellen Show. Sharing stunning picture of her look for the show on her Instagram, the 36-year-old actress wrote: "Ready for ya at The Ellen Show - tune in tomorrow!" Priyanka Chopra attended the Ellen DeGeneres Show as a part of her upcoming Hollywood film Isn't It Romantic?'s promotional activities.  The former miss world has become a household name in the US since her role of an FBI agent named Alex Parrish in the American television series Quantico. Priyanka also  co-starred with Jim Parsons and Clarie Danes in A Kid Like Jake. Her next Bollywood release  The Sky Is Pink, co-starring Farhan Akhtar and Zaira Wasim.

from The News International - Entertainment http://bit.ly/2HQlcYi
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WATCH: Jersey Shore star Jenni 'JWoww' Farley posts video of fight with Roger Mathews

American television personality Jennifer Lynn "Jenni" Farely also known ass JWoww who came to prminance as cast member of " Jersey Shore" has taken the internet by storm by sharing her personal videos from her relationship with estranged husband Roger  Mathews.One of the videos shared by the "Jersey Shore" star on her website shows Mathews hitting her.  The 32-year old also wrote a scathing letter on her website addressing her her husband.She also went on to post  disturbing videos from security cameras, with one showing Mathew pushing JWoww to the ground as the couple fight while in their kitchen.The husband is also seen holding his crying son, joking about being on heroin and cheating on JWoww. When contacted by ETonline, Mathew 's representative declined to comment on the matter.

from The News International - Entertainment http://bit.ly/2HGvKJM
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Rekha avoids posing next to Amitabh Bachchan's picture: Watch

MUMBAI: Bollywood's legendary actress Rekha  hilariously reacted when she realised posing next to Amitabh Bachchan's picture at the celebrity photographer Dabboo Ratnani's calendar launch event in Mumbai.Rekha, who found a spot on the list of trends to attend photographer Dabboo Ratnani's calendar launch, abruptly walked away to change the position when she realised posing  next to Amitabh Bachchan's picture. The hilarious video making rounds on internet  in which   Rekha, dressed in black from head-to-toe, stopped to pose for the shutterbugs but flinched and walked a few paces after realising that Amitabh Bachchan's calendar shot was right behind her.Have a look at the now viral video of Rekha from Dabboo Ratnani's calendar launch event: The video is being shared on social media, mostly captioned using ROFL emoticons. "Oh my, this is so hilarious," wrote an Instagram user while another added, "Epic reaction."However, when she posed with actress Vidya Balan, Rekha moved to the same spot with Big B's shot in the backdrop.Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha  got status of a blockbuster onscreen couple in the Seventies. They've co-starred in several films such as Do Anjaane, Mr Natwarlal and Silsila, they also shined in 'Muqaddar Ka Sikandar. Both the stars last time appeared together in Shamitabh, in which Mr Bachchan played one of the lead roles while Rekha made a special appearance.

from The News International - Entertainment http://bit.ly/2DKxUEg
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India issues notice to Rahat Fateh Ali Khan for allegedly smuggling foreign currency

NEW DELHI: Indian authorities have issued a notice to Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan for allegedly smuggling illegal foreign currency.The notice was issued by Indian Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). The 'Afreen Afreen' singer has been accused of smuggling illegal foreign currency through India for three years. According to Indian media, Khan had allegedly got Rs 2.42 crore through illegal means of which he reportedly smuggled Rs 1.6 crore. The report further says Indian authorities have also grilled Rahat Fateh for smuggling money. If the authorities were not convinced by Khan’s response, he would be fined 300 per cent of the amount smuggled.The report further says if the singer fails to pay the fine, a lookout notice will be served to him and there would be a ban on him to perform shows in India. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has lended his voice to quite a few popular Hindi songs which include Tere Mast Mast Do Nain (Dabangg), Teri Ore (Singh Is Kinng), Sajda (My Name Is Khan), Teri Meri (Bodyguard) and Jag Jhoomeya (Sultan). 

from The News International - Entertainment http://bit.ly/2Sfh3kF
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Katrina Kaif says Salman Khan-starrer Bharat has been a journey of ‘discovery and learning’

MUMBAI: Bollywood diva Katrina Kaif has said that Salman Khan starrer her upcoming film Bharat has been a different experience altogether.Katrina said shooting for Bharat has been equal parts inspiring and challenging, Pinkvilla reported her as saying. “It has been extremely inspiring, exciting, challenging and interesting. From the moment I started prep for this film till date, it’s been such a journey of discovery and learning.”Katrina went on to say there have been so many moments while filming that “I will always cherish.”35-years-old diva feels that in showbiz, you will always go through highs and lows and since the time she has joined Bollywood, Katrina feels that she has grown and changed immensely as a person. “I joined Bollywood when I was 18 and I’m not the same girl anymore because my life experiences have changed me,” she said.After Aanand L.Rai’s Zero, Katrina Kaif will next be seen in Ali Abbas Zafar’s Bharat opposite Salman Khan.

from The News International - Entertainment http://bit.ly/2RrepUA
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Indian singer Shivani Bhatia killed in road accident

MUMBAI: Indian singer Shivani Bhatia was killed in a road accident on Wednesday, Indian media reported.Delhi-based singer died in the tragic car accident on Yamuna Expressway when she was on her way to Agra from Delhi.Shivani's husband Nikhil Bhatia, who was accompanying her, was critically injured. The singer’s car was completely damaged from the side where Shivani was sitting. Shivani Bhatia was known for singing remix songs like Dil Ko Tumse Pyar Hua, Shagan and Neele Neele Ambar Par. 

from The News International - Entertainment http://bit.ly/2FYLy98
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Nick-Priyanka's adorable picture with a baby is melting hearts online!

A cutesy picture of Indian superstar Priyanka Chopra with husband Nick Jonas is going viral over the internet capturing hearts of a million people.The recent newly-weds made everyone's heart skip a beat when they a picture of them playing with an infant made its way online. While Priyanka holds the baby gently in the image, Nick is seen caressing his head as they both look at him dotingly. The picture has sparked rumours that the new couple is eager to make an addition to their family soon. Given the fact that the couple just got married and has been making the headlines ever since, it is making everyone gush all the more over the photo. Nick and Priyanka tied the knot in a lavish multiple-day ceremony at Jodhpur’s Umaid Bhawan Palace hotel in December last year. They followed it up with glitzy reception parties, held in New Delhi and Mumbai.On the work front, Priyanka will next be seen in Rebel Wilson starrer 'Isn't It Romantic' slated to release on Feb 13 and Shonali Bose' 'The Sky Is Pink'. 

from The News International - Entertainment http://bit.ly/2MK4CZe
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Sonam on accusations against Rajkumar Hirani

Sonam Kapoor, who is currently promoting her upcoming film 'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga', was asked about the accusations against the film's former producer Rajkumar Hirani during a media interaction. The actress said that while she has always believed the women in the MeToo movement, this time she would like to reserve her judgement.

from Latest Entertainment News, Movies News, Celebrity News, Breaking News | Entertainment - Times of India
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Priyanka to play Ma Anand Sheela in next film

Priyanka Chopra might have been making headlines due to her royal marriage with singer Nick Jonas but now that she has resumed work, she is promoting her upcoming Hollywood flick 'Isn’t It Romantic'.

from Latest Entertainment News, Movies News, Celebrity News, Breaking News | Entertainment - Times of India
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'Manikarnika' box office collection day 5

Kangana Ranaut starrer 'Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi' is holding firm with collections at the box office as the Tuesday collection dropping only 5% from Monday.

from Latest Entertainment News, Movies News, Celebrity News, Breaking News | Entertainment - Times of India
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Yami Gautam felicitated by BSF for 'Uri'

After the tremendous success of 'Uri', Vicky Kaushal and Yami Gautam visited the Wagah Border on the 70th Republic Day and paid their tribute to the BSF Jawans

from Latest Entertainment News, Movies News, Celebrity News, Breaking News | Entertainment - Times of India
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Sushmita Sen gets trolled on Instagram

Sushmita Sen recently shared a light joke about weddings on her Instagram handle and immediately found herself the subject of trolls on the picture sharing app.

from Latest Entertainment News, Movies News, Celebrity News, Breaking News | Entertainment - Times of India
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Varun begins first schedule of 'ABCD 3'

Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan is currently busy shooting for the third installment of the dance film franchise 'ABCD' directed by Remo D'Souza.

from Latest Entertainment News, Movies News, Celebrity News, Breaking News | Entertainment - Times of India
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Empire cast member alleges racial and homophobic attack

Authorities said they are investigating the alleged attack as a hate crime; Jussie Smollett is black and openly gay
A cast member on the hit television show Empire alleged he was physically attacked by men in Chicago who shouted racial and homophobic slurs, police said Tuesday.

Police did not release the actor’s name but a statement from Fox, which airs Empire, identified him as Jussie Smollett, 36. Authorities said they are investigating the alleged attack as a hate crime. Smollett is black and openly gay.

According to a police statement, the actor was walking near the Chicago River downtown around 2 a.m. Tuesday when he was approached by two men who shouted at him, struck him in the face and poured an “unknown substance” on him before one of them wrapped a rope around his neck.

Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said that when officers first came in contact with Smollett, he still had a rope around his neck. While being interviewed by detectives, Guglielmi said Smollett told them that the attackers yelled he was in “MAGA country,” an apparent reference to the Trump campaign’s “Make America Great Again” slogan that some critics of the president have decried as racist and discriminatory.

The police spokesman added that the two men were wearing masks. Investigators have not found any surveillance video or witnesses from which they can put together a description of the offenders, he said.

Smollett was able to take himself to Northwestern Memorial Hospital. He was last reported in good condition.

Guglielmi also said the FBI is investigating a threatening letter targeting Smollett that was sent to the Fox studio in Chicago last week.

Twentieth Century Fox Television and Fox Entertainment released a statement Tuesday in support of Smollett. “The entire studio, network and production stands united in the face of any despicable act of violence,” the statement read. Empire co-creator Lee Daniels also voiced his support for Smollett in an Instagram video: “You didn’t deserve, nor anybody deserves, to have a noose put around your neck. You are better than that, we are better than that, America is better than that.”

California Sen. Kamala Harris, a 2020 Democratic presidential hopeful, knows Smollett personally and called the attack “outrageous” and “awful.”

“He is one of the kindest, most gentle human beings I’ve ever met,” Harris said Tuesday, adding that she’s still learning more details about the incident. Smollett has been active in LBGTQ issues and he released his debut album, “Sum of My Music,” last year.

Empire is shot in Chicago and a Fox spokeswoman said the program is currently in production.



from Entertainment - SUCH TV http://bit.ly/2HE2nrt
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Wednesday, 30 January 2019

Monetary and Fiscal Coordination Board for tightening fiscal policies

ISLAMABAD: At a time when government’s borrowing from State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) recorded a whopping surge to the tune of Rs3.7 trillion in first six and a half months period, the Monetary and Fiscal Coordination Board on Tuesday agreed upon the requirement of further tightening of fiscal policies in order to achieve the stability on economic front.The PTI led government has jacked up the budget deficit target to 5.6 percent of GDP against earlier envisaged target of 5.1 percent of GDP for the current fiscal year so plan for fiscal consolidation was presented before the monetary and fiscal coordination board meeting with the need to achieve the FBR target of Rs4398 billion and non-tax revenue target especially on front of Gas Infrastructure Development Cess (GIDC), SBP profits and dividends. “The revenue surplus from the provinces and controlling expenditures is also part of fiscal consolidation plan,” said the official sources.However, the independent economists argued that on one side the government was doling out incentive package at the cost of negative revenue impact of Rs6.8 billion through finance supplementary (second amendment) bill 2019 few days back and now they are talking about the requirement of tightening of fiscal policies it shows that the government is giving confusing signaling.The borrowing from the SBP peaked to Rs3.77 trillion in first six months and 17 days till January 18, 2019 under PTI led regime against Rs870 billion got by the previous PML-N led regime in the same period in last financial year indicating that the borrowing from the central bank ballooned by more than four times. The Ministry of Finance issued statement to the media at 10:45 pm on Tuesday night and stated that the meeting of Monetary and Fiscal Policies Coordination Board was held here on Tuesday. The meeting was chaired by Finance Minister, Mr Asad Umar.The meeting reviewed the fiscal and monetary policies besides having discussion on the external sector. The on-going adjustment plan for fiscal consolidation was presented to the Board. While reviewing the fiscal policy, the Board observed that there is further scope for tightening of the fiscal stance. The corrective measures taken by the government, both on the fiscal and quasi fiscal deficit were discussed.The meeting observed that fiscal consolidation is a key element of the adjustment plan, and necessary for ensuing macroeconomic stability. The Board emphasized ensuring that revenue targets both on tax and non-tax side are met and expenditure controls continue to remain well in place. The key economic variables for the first half of FY 19 were deliberated in detail. The direction of external trade data is encouraging and points to the fact that fiscal and monetary tightening are having an impact on correcting the imbalances. The growth in remittances is also encouraging.The meeting appreciated the fact that there was substantial participation in the last auction of PIBs. The meeting observed that real interest rates are positive and would help manage aggregate demand and reduce the output gap. On the monetary front, SBP reported that M2 in FY 19 is growing at higher pace while NFA has contracted. Turning to private sector credit, its growth momentum continued and is explained by increased input prices, the continuation of the investment cycle and ample liquidity with banks. Moreover, analysis shows that subsidized and non-subsidized credit to export-orientated sector has increased.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2t3kMnz
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Pak Army makes travel arrangements for family of dying Pakistani in UK

LONDON/BIRMINGHAM: Terminally-ill Pakistan heart patient Nasar Ullah Khan, admitted currently at the Birmingham’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital, has thanked Pakistan Army for making all travel arrangements for his family.Nasar Ullah Khan told in an exclusive conversation that in response to his request for help, Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa “directed for travel arrangements for my wife and two kids”.He said, “All travel arrangements were made by the Army. The COAS’s office got in touch with my family in the morning when they were on their way to the British High Commission to collect visas for the United Kingdom. We are thankful to our COAS for the kindness and interest he has shown. My family received visa at 9 am, tickets at 9:39 AM and at 11:05 am they were in the plane.”Khan said that the PIA Chairman was also helpful in securing reservations at the last minute once Army staff approached PIA for immediate travel requirement.Nasar Ullah Khan said that he was thankful to British High Commissioner Thomas Drew for personally approving visas of his family. “Thomas Drew was extremely helpful and responded to my appeal on passionate grounds. Meeting my family after nine years is like a dream come true for me. The Director General of Inter Services Public Relations (DGISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor was helpful and offered support in my case. I really had no hope until the last weekend that I would be able to meet my family ever but miracles happen. As soon as Geo News and The News highlighted my story, the reaction was immediate and there was outpouring of support.Nasar Ullah Khan’s wife Sania Butt and sons Muhammad Abdullah and Muhammad Saifullah arrived Tuesday evening at Birmingham airport from Islamabad on a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight. They were re-united with Khan at the hospital immediately after landing in Birmingham. They have been issued travel visa for three months.The British High Commissioner and the DG ISPR offered help to Khan after this correspondent revealed that he had only a few days to live and wanted to meet his family. After Nasar Ullah Khan sent out a public message for help to the DG ISPR, the spokesman of Pakistan Armed Forces assured of full support. He said, “Our prayers are with Nasar Ullah Khan and his family. We will get any support or facilitation from Pakistan Army as Pakistani citizens.”

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2MFEnmF
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Pak Army makes travel arrangements for family of dying Pakistani in UK

LONDON/BIRMINGHAM: Terminally-ill Pakistan heart patient Nasar Ullah Khan, admitted currently at the Birmingham’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital, has thanked Pakistan Army for making all travel arrangements for his family.Nasar Ullah Khan told in an exclusive conversation that in response to his request for help, Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa “directed for travel arrangements for my wife and two kids”.He said, “All travel arrangements were made by the Army. The COAS’s office got in touch with my family in the morning when they were on their way to the British High Commission to collect visas for the United Kingdom. We are thankful to our COAS for the kindness and interest he has shown. My family received visa at 9 am, tickets at 9:39 AM and at 11:05 am they were in the plane.”Khan said that the PIA Chairman was also helpful in securing reservations at the last minute once Army staff approached PIA for immediate travel requirement.Nasar Ullah Khan said that he was thankful to British High Commissioner Thomas Drew for personally approving visas of his family. “Thomas Drew was extremely helpful and responded to my appeal on passionate grounds. Meeting my family after nine years is like a dream come true for me. The Director General of Inter Services Public Relations (DGISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor was helpful and offered support in my case. I really had no hope until the last weekend that I would be able to meet my family ever but miracles happen. As soon as Geo News and The News highlighted my story, the reaction was immediate and there was outpouring of support.Nasar Ullah Khan’s wife Sania Butt and sons Muhammad Abdullah and Muhammad Saifullah arrived Tuesday evening at Birmingham airport from Islamabad on a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight. They were re-united with Khan at the hospital immediately after landing in Birmingham. They have been issued travel visa for three months.The British High Commissioner and the DG ISPR offered help to Khan after this correspondent revealed that he had only a few days to live and wanted to meet his family. After Nasar Ullah Khan sent out a public message for help to the DG ISPR, the spokesman of Pakistan Armed Forces assured of full support. He said, “Our prayers are with Nasar Ullah Khan and his family. We will get any support or facilitation from Pakistan Army as Pakistani citizens.”

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2MFEnmF
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Notices to Centre, NAB in plea against Shahbaz, Khawaja brothers’ arrest

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court Tuesday issued notices to the federal government and the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on a public interest petition challenging the arrest of Leader of Opposition in National Assembly Shahbaz Sharif, former railways minister Khawaja Saad Rafique and his brother former provincial minister Khawaja Salman Rafique.Senior lawyer AK Dogar of Lawyers Foundation for Justice filed the petition challenging the arrest of the PML-N leaders for being a violation of their fundamental rights. He contended that the Supreme Court in a celebrated case “Khan Asfandyar Wali vs Federation of Pakistan-2001” had declared Section 24 (d) of the NAB Ordinance ultra vires of the Constitution within an observation that the clause denies the right of an accused to consult and be defended by a legal counsel of his/her choice.He stated that the apex court had also observed that the ordinance required to be suitably amended. The lawyer said that 17 years have passed, but the clause had not been amended despite a clear direction of the SC. He argued that the enunciation of the law by the apex court is applicable to the clause 24 of the ordinance.Therefore, he asked the court to declare the arrest of Shahbaz Sharif and Khawaja brothers unlawful for being detained unconstitutionally and need to be released under Article 4 of the Constitution.The NAB had arrested Sharif in Ashiana-i-Iqbal Housing Scheme scam on charge of misuse of his power being chief minister of Punjab while the Khawaja brothers in Paragon City scam. At present, Shahbaz Sharif is on judicial remand after undergoing physical remand with the NAB for 62 days while Khawaja brothers are still on physical remand with the NAB.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2sSXRLz
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Students throng Jang education expo in Gujranwala

GUJRANWALA: A large number of students and their parents thronged the education expo organised by the Jang Group here on Tuesday.Inaugurating the expo, Deputy Commissioner Naila Baqar said that education always played an important role in the prosperity and development of any country. She appreciated the Jang Group efforts for promoting the education in the country and congratulated the Jang Group administration for holding such a successful expo in Gujranwala.RPO Tariq Abbas Qureshi said that the Jang Group had proved that it was very keen to promote the education in the country. He said that the Jang Group was not only providing guidance to the students, but also playing its due role in the development of the country. The students and their parents praised the Jang Group efforts for organising the expo.About 40 educational institutions had set up their stalls and briefed the students about their career. CTO Ghulam Abbas Tarrar, SSP Operations Saqib Sultan, ADCG Dr Rabia Riasat, CM Complaint Cell in-charge Khalid Aziz Lone, Jang Group Marketing & Advertising Sales MD Syed Sarmad Ali, Director Marketing North Sadia Sharif, General Manager Marketing Operations Amjad Saeed and others were also present. Later, Jang Group Marketing & Advertising Sales MD Sarmad Ali distributed the appreciation letters and shields among the stallholders.Earlier, the Jang Group has successfully arranged the education expos in Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Peshawar, Faisalabad and Multan while this was the fourth expo in Gujranwala.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2ME7lDj
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Why Finance Ministry avoided defreezing special allowance for SC employees?

ISLAMABAD: Former Chief Justice Saqib Nisar had asked the Finance Ministry to defreeze special judicial allowance for all employees of the apex court but the ministry avoided to do it and had conveyed to the SC that the CJP could do it while exercising financial powers delegated to him earlier.The Finance Ministry, which was formally asked to consider the defreezing of the allowance in the case of SC employees, considered the request and found that such an exception for the employees of the apex court would open Pandora Box as various other organisations would also be demanding the same dispensation from the ministry.It was also noted by the ministry that such a favour to Supreme Court of Pakistan would lead to a precedence causing discrimination in which the federal government would have to follow a lengthy litigation in the courts.In the light of these discussions, the Finance Ministry while referring to past notification conveyed to the Supreme Court that the honourable Chief Justice of Pakistan has the financial power to sanction expenditure on any item from within the allocated budget of the apex court. “Supreme Court of Pakistan may take further action in the light of above mentioned delegated financial powers,” the official communication addressed to SC’s Deputy Registrar said.A day before his retirement, the former Chief Justice Saqib Nisar had allowed all employees of the Supreme Court special allowance equal to three times initial basic pay of the Pay scale 2017.A notification issued by the Supreme Court on 16th January 2019 had announced that this special raise in the salary of all the employees from BS-1-22 of the Supreme Court of Pakistan would be applicable with effect from January 1, 2019.The notification unfreezes for the Supreme Court employees the Special Allowance which was admissible equal to three time initial pay of the Pay Scale 2008.However, for other categories of government servants including those serving in armed forces, FBR, Presidency, Prime Minister’s Secretariat, FIA, IB etc such allowances will remain frozen to Pay Scales of 2008 and 2011.According to the notification: “In pursuance of Finance Division’s U.O.No.5(1)-R-3/2018 dated 29.06.2018, in response to this Court’s letter of even number dated 06.06.2018, the Hon’ble Chief Justice of Pakistan, having exercised powers in terms of Finance Division’s (Expenditure Wing) OM No.F.1(5)R.12/81 dated 24th November 1993 read with Rule 4 of the Supreme Court Establishment Service Rules, 2015, has been pleased to unfreeze Special Judicial Allowance which was admissible equal to three times initial basic pay of the Pay Scale 2008 to the employees (BPS 1-22) of the Supreme Court of Pakistan and allowed them to draw the revised Special Judicial Allowance with effect from 01.01.2019 equal to three times initial basic pay of the Pay Scale 2017.”Official documents show that the Finance Secretary was formally approached on 6th June, 2018 by Deputy Registrar SC to convey, “Finance Division revised the basic pay scales in the years 2011, 2015, 2016 & 2017 however, the said allowance was kept frozen at the level of its admissibility as per Pay Scale of year 2008.” The SC added, “The decision of the Finance Division to consistently keeping the Special Judicial Allowance frozen at the level of Basic Scales of 2008 is not only against the initial sanction of this allowance by the Prime Minister but also in contradiction at the very spirit and objection of the NJPMC’s (National Judicial Policy Making Committee) decision. Further, due to constant increase in inflation on yearly basis since 2008, the rate of special judicial allowance needs to be revisited also.”The SC’s letter to Finance Secretary also noted, “It may be worth mentioning that government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa vide their Notification No…… and government of Sindh vide their Officer Memorandum No ….. have defrozen the capped Special Judicial Allowance admissible to the employees of the provincial judiciaries of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh wef 01.07.2016 & 01.07.2018 respectively.”After presenting this background, the Finance Minister was told, “Keeping in view of the above, the Hon’ble Chief Justice of Pakistan has been pleased to order that Finance Division, Government of Pakistan, Islamabad should look into the matter and consider to defreeze the rate of Special Judicial Allowance admissible to the employees of this Court (BS-1 to BS-22) @ 3x initial Basic Pay of 2017 wef 01.07.2018…….”The Finance Ministry after considering the SC’s request, decided not to issue any instructions for defreezing any allowance, which were frozen as a policy decision. The Ministry instead conveyed to apex court that Chief Justice of Pakistan can do by using the financial powers delegated to the Supreme Court.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2sVA65u
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Plea for de-notification: Nisar, govt, ECP issued notices

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court on Tuesday issued notices to MPA-elect Ch Nisar Ali Khan, federal and provincial governments and Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on a petition seeking de-notification of Ch Nisar as member of the Punjab Assembly for not taking oath of his office.The petitioner also urged the court to set aside relevant rules of the Punjab Assembly for not carrying a time limit for parliamentarians-elect to take oath of their office. The other day, Justice Shahid Waheed had asked the petitioner-lawyer to submit a copy of the impugned rules. Advocate Mian Asif Mahmood filed the same on Tuesday and the judge issued notices to the respondents for Feb 4.The lawyer in his petition contended that Khan had not taken oath so far since he had been declared returned in the July 2018 general elections. He pleaded that the act of not taking oath by an elected parliamentarian amounted to depriving people of the constituency of their right to representation.He submitted that Khan was elected as MPA from PP-10 Chakri but he had not taken oath of his office despite the lapse of more than six months. He argued that the act of the respondent tantamount to breaching sacred trust of people of his constituency and a violation of Article 2-A, 17 and 25 of the Constitution.The lawyer further contended that rule 6 of rules of procedure and conduct of business in provincial assembly to the extent of not providing time limit for taking oath were also ultra vires of the Constitution.He asked the court to declare the impugned rules of the assembly null and void for not carrying a time frame of oath taking, de-notify Khan for not taking oath of his office and order a fresh election in the constituency.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2MEn9Gc
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KP doctors flay abolition of professional allowance

ABBOTTABAD: People’s Doctors Forum (PDF) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has resented the decision of the provincial government to abolish the health professional allowance to the teaching faculty of public sector medical colleges in the province.The PDF at a meeting, chaired by its provincial chief Dr Nisar Khan, discussed the decision of the provincial Health Department which the participants termed hasty.Secretary-General and Spokesman for PDF Dr Daud Iqbal told the media that the notification issued by the provincial Health Department had created unrest among the faculty members of Ayub Medical College Abbottabad as well as other public sector medical colleges of KP.He said that the PDF stood by the doctor community and would support the Provincial Doctors Association (PDA) and other forums for the just cause of the doctors. He shared the copy of the notification issued by Health Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2sUj3Ra
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Hanif Abbasi shifted to PIC

LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-N leader Hanif Abbasi, who is serving a life sentence at Kot Lakhpat Jail, was shifted to Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) after his health deteriorated here Tuesday.Hanif Abbasi, who is serving a life sentence at the Central Jail in the ephedrine case, was not feeling well over the past couple of days, it is learnt. His condition worsened Tuesday so he was rushed to the PIC by the jail administration.According to the family sources, Hanif Abbasi had been facing health problems due to a clogged coronary artery. He was shifted to Kot Lakhpat Jail from the Attock Jail in October last year. Reportedly, he was shifted to Central Jail, Lahore as his health condition was not good that time as well while the District Jail Attock also lacked medical facilities.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2MF0N7A
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Boy sexually assaulted, murdered in Kabirwala

KABIRWALA: A nine-year-old boy, Faizan, was raped and murdered in Kabirwala, the police said on Tuesday.The minor went to his Madrassa on Monday evening and never returned. His family started searching for him and his body was found from fields. The police said they arrested a neighbor, Shabbir, on suspicion, who, after investigation, confessed to the crime.The case is one of the numerous incidents of child abuse and murder that have been highlighted in the media after the rape and murder cases of two minors Aasma and Zainab last year sparked widespread condemnation as well as calls to address the issue of child sexual abuse. As many as 11 cases of child sexual abuse are reported from across Pakistan every day, according to the data collected by a non-governmental organisation.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2sW3NDs
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Fresh rain, snowfall likely today as PDMA issues warning

PESHAWAR: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Tuesday issued warning to the administration of Upper Hazara division as widespread rain-thunderstorm (with few moderate to isolated heavy snowfalls) is expected in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa today (Wednesday)."A fresh westerly wave entering western parts of the country is likely to grip different parts of the country may persist in upper parts till Thursday," said an official. According to Meteorological Department forecast, snowfall is also expected in Malakand division (Swat, Chitral, Kalam, Malam Jabba and Upper Dir), Hazara, Quetta divisions, Murree, Galiyat, Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan during the period.The PDMA issued the warning to the district administrations in upper parts of Hazara to adopt precautionary measures to avert fatal incidents during a fresh spell of rain and snowfall expected to lash the division today. The circular, which was issued by Provincial Emergency Operation Centre of the PDMA and received by district administrations in Mansehra, Torghar, Upper Kohistan, Lower Kohistan and Kolai-Palas, said rain and thunderstorms are expected in the region which could possibly trigger landslides in upper parts of Hazara."In such a situation, you are requested to take all precautionary measures to avoid and minimise human losses and damages to property," the circular said. It further added that tourists should be informed of weather forecasts, availability of all emergency services, staff and machines ensured. And in case of any mishap, the PDMA should be informed of all developments besides keeping all relevant departments alert to cope with such a situation.The upper parts of Hazara had received heavy snowfall and rains this winter, which according to the Meteorological Department, is a record in recent years. Also in the day, fault at six feeders of local grid stations plunged many parts of the district into darkness. According to Peshawar Electric Supply Company, Pakhal, Khaki, Dodial and Shinkiari remained without electricity.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2MFQmR7
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Chinese tourists visit museum, historic sites in Peshawar

PESHAWAR: Senior Minister for Tourism Muhammad Atif Khan on Tuesday said that the visit of foreign tourists to Buddhist and historic places in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would boost tourism and attract more visitors to the province.Talking to a 20-member delegation from China here, the senior minister said that the government had taken tangible steps for the promotion of tourism and facilitating tourists.The visit of foreign tourists is meant to highlight the importance of heritage and archaeological sites related to Buddhism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to the world besides promoting religious tourism in the province, he added.A 20-member from China visited the Peshawar Museum and other historic places in the city. They evinced a keen interest in the findings and discoveries of Buddhism and Buddhist heritage.Officials of Tourism Corporation Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (TCKP) welcomed the Chinese delegation and garlanded the visiting guests. Curator Muhammad Asif briefed the visiting tourists on the archaeological sites in Peshawar, Buddhism, a gallery of Buddhist statues, antiques and artifacts.He said there were over 6,000 archaeological and heritage sites in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where research was being carried out to revive these places properly. "The followers of Buddhism would find a treasure trove of Buddhist statues and heritage after thorough research and revival of these sites," the official told the delegation.He said the government had taken a number of steps for attracting foreign tourists, scholars and researchers to the province. The official said a comprehensive policy had been evolved for preserving and protecting the archaeological sites and places in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.The initiatives were being taken to carry out the excavation on archaeological sites along modern techniques and methods, he added. The official mentioned the latest discoveries and the rich Gandhara heritage in various parts of the province. A woman tourist in the delegation hoped the visit would provide an opportunity to the visiting members to share their experiences and knowledge among other tourists, archaeologists and researchers, which could be beneficial for people of both the countries. The delegation also visited historic Masjid-e-Mahabat Khan, Qissa Khwani Bazaar, Andar Shehar, Ghanta Ghar, Chowk Yadgar, Islamia College Peshawar and other sites in the city.

from The News International - National http://bit.ly/2sUbVEp
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