PTI lawmakers protest against bills; uproar overshadows proceedings ISLAMABAD: Amid an uproar caused by opposition lawmakers, the government successfully passed four bills during the joint session of parliament. PTI lawmakers entered the house holding protest placards and chanting slogans such as “PECA Act unacceptable” and “oppression of journalists unacceptable.” Journalists, protesting against the recent amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), wore black armbands during the session. Opposition Leader Omar Ayub’s request to speak on a point of order was rejected by NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, prompting opposition lawmakers to stand, shout slogans, and tear up copies of…
Author: Web Desk
The party puts negotiations on hold after announcing their end ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has shifted its stance from ending talks with the government to putting them “on hold.” Speaking to the media at Parliament House, Barrister Gohar stated that PTI participated in talks with an open heart, presenting only two demands: forming a judicial commission to investigate the May 9 riots and last year’s November protest, as well as releasing “political prisoners.” The PTI chairman’s statement contrasts with his earlier announcement, which declared the end of talks due to the government’s failure to establish the judicial commission within seven…
The incredible benefits of turmeric, ranging from boosting immunity to enhancing skin health, have been cherished for centuries. Turmeric, a golden spice commonly found in kitchens worldwide, is not only a flavorful addition to meals but also a powerhouse for health and beauty. One of its key components, curcumin, is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that helps reduce inflammation and boosts the body’s ability to fight diseases. Turmeric is also a beauty staple, particularly among women. It is widely used in skincare for reducing acne, wrinkles, and improving skin tone. The traditional pre-wedding turmeric “ubtan” ritual for brides is…
The ongoing dry and cold weather in Pakistan has intensified the spread of seasonal flu and related viruses, with health officials reporting a significant rise in cases. According to a report by the National Institute of Health (NIH) presented to the National Assembly, five COVID-19 and 147 swine flu (Influenza A) cases were confirmed during December and January. The affected COVID-19 patients include two each from Rawalpindi and Swat, and one from Islamabad. The NIH report stated that 1,724 patient samples were collected from 14 cities, including Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Gilgit, Lahore, Peshawar, Karachi, Multan, and Swat. Among these: Seasonal Flu…
Pakistan has secured a $1 billion loan from two Middle Eastern banks, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced during an interview with Reuters at the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) annual meeting in Davos. The loan carries an interest rate of 6%-7%. Aurangzeb revealed that the agreement involves two institutions: one offering bilateral financing and the other providing trade finance. Both loans are short-term, with a maturity of up to one year. This funding aims to strengthen Pakistan’s finances following the $7 billion bailout package secured from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in September 2024. The first review of the IMF Extended…
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has directed an investigation into alleged violations in the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) maintenance dredging contract. The cabinet division has formed a four-member committee to probe the matter, including the Chairman of the PM’s Inspection Commission, the Secretary of the Cabinet Division, the Managing Director of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA), and a representative from the Intelligence Bureau Division. The committee will focus on reviewing deviations, omissions, or violations in the tendering process and evaluating the reasons for qualifying or disqualifying bidders. It will also identify responsible parties and recommend measures to safeguard public interest.…
Pakistan’s Stock Exchange (PSX) saw a remarkable rebound on Thursday as the KSE-100 index closed nearly 600 points higher after two days of significant selling pressure. The index, which dropped by almost 1,600 points on Wednesday, made a strong recovery driven by foreign investments and a focus on cement stocks. Trading began on a mixed note, with the KSE-100 index hitting an intraday low of 113,234.31. However, increased buying activity in the afternoon pushed it to a high of 114,319.62. It ultimately closed at 114,037.79, marking a gain of 594.36 points or 0.52%. Buying activity was prominent in key sectors…
Gold prices in Pakistan witnessed a substantial rise on Wednesday, reflecting the upward trend in international markets. In the local market, the price of gold per tola increased by Rs4,250, reaching Rs287,450. Similarly, the price for 10 grams of gold rose by Rs3,642, bringing it to Rs246,440, as reported by the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA). Earlier on Tuesday, the gold price per tola had risen by Rs300, settling at Rs283,200. On the same day, Pakistan’s gold prices reflected international trends, with 10 grams of gold increasing by Rs257 to Rs242,798 on January 21. A week prior, the…
Lucky Motor, the authorized assembler and distributor of KIA vehicles in Pakistan, is preparing to take a significant step in the country’s electric vehicle market by introducing a range of electric SUVs, including the premium EV9 model. Muhammad Faisal, CEO of Lucky Motor, announced that the flagship KIA SUV, the EV9, will be launched soon, along with plans for a more compact model, the EV3, in the future. The new electric vehicles (EVs) will be imported as completely built units (CBUs). After the successful debut of the KIA EV5 in October 2024, which has already been delivered to numerous buyers,…
Meta-owned Instagram users in the United States have caused a stir on the internet with an unusual complaint that they are unable to unfollow Donald Trump and JD Vance. According to CNN, on January 22, 2025, Instagram users, including celebrities like singer Demi Lovato and Gracie Abrams, shared their complaints on social media, stating that the platform was not allowing them to unfollow news about the US President, Vice President, and First Lady Melania Trump. The “Close To You” singer wrote, “How curious! Had to block them in order to make sure I am nowhere near that,” while the actress…
