A recent study has revealed that over 800 million adults worldwide are now living with diabetes, nearly doubling previous estimates. Published in *The Lancet*, the research highlights the alarming rise in diabetes cases, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where the disease has become a major public health challenge. The study found that approximately 828 million adults aged 18 and older were diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes in 2022. Even more concerning is the fact that nearly 59% of individuals aged 30 and older—around 445 million people—are not receiving the necessary treatment for the condition. This…
Author: Hasnain Abid Khanzada
It’s often said that we spend more time at work than anywhere else, and this reality highlights just how deeply our workplaces can affect our mental well-being. When that environment turns toxic, the consequences can be far-reaching, leaving emotional and psychological scars that persist long after we’ve walked out the door for the last time. While leaving a toxic workplace may provide immediate relief, the impact can last much longer. A toxic boss, for example, can erode self-esteem, affect mental health, and create long-term challenges in future work environments. However, with the right approach, recovery is possible, and it is…
A 14-year-old girl has sadly passed away from dengue fever in Lahore, marking the city’s first confirmed fatality from the disease this year. The girl had been admitted to Mayo Hospital just two days earlier, presenting with a high fever. Despite the medical team’s best efforts, she succumbed to complications from the viral infection. The Punjab Health Department has confirmed her death and expressed growing concern over the ongoing dengue outbreak in the region. Authorities are urging the public to take preventive measures as the number of dengue cases continues to rise across the province.
Fans of Pakistan’s hit romantic comedy *Fairy Tale* are abuzz with excitement following a cryptic tweet from the show’s writer, Sarah Majeed, teasing the arrival of *Season 3*. In a simple yet intriguing post on September 4, 2023, Majeed wrote just one phrase: “Season 3,” leaving fans and the Pakistani television community eagerly speculating about what’s to come. *Fairy Tale*, which stars the beloved duo Sehar Khan and Hamza Sohail as Umeed and Farjaad (affectionately dubbed “Farmeed” by fans), has become a nationwide sensation. The series has captivated audiences with its charming storyline and the undeniable chemistry between its lead…
In a remarkable milestone for space exploration, India’s prestigious space agency, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), has achieved yet another extraordinary feat. On Saturday, ISRO celebrated the successful launch of its first solar mission, marking a historic moment in India’s space journey. The mission, named *Aditya-L1*, takes its name from the Hindi word for the Sun, and is India’s first dedicated probe to study the Sun’s dynamic behavior. The rocket’s ascent was broadcast live on the ISRO website, drawing nearly 500,000 viewers in real-time. Additionally, thousands of spectators gathered at a nearby viewing gallery to witness the groundbreaking launch.…
Pakistani actors Sarah Khan and Imran Ashraf, known for their exceptional talent, are all set to captivate audiences once again with their remarkable on-screen chemistry. The pair, who were last seen together in the hit drama *Raqs-e-Bismil*, have left fans eagerly anticipating their next collaboration. The exciting news was revealed by both Sarah and Imran, who shared a striking image on social media. In the picture, Sarah is seen holding a gun, posing confidently for the camera. The post’s caption begins with the words “Bismillah,” followed by the title of their upcoming drama, *Namak Haram*, with a hint that it’s…
**The Growing Challenge of High Production Costs in Pakistan’s Agriculture** Pakistan’s agriculture sector is currently facing its most pressing challenge: the escalating cost of crop production. In recent years, the prices of key agricultural inputs—such as electricity, petroleum products, fertilizers, and pesticides—have risen sharply, making it increasingly difficult for farmers to manage their production costs. Unless these issues are addressed, the government’s goals of promoting agricultural growth, controlling inflation, and keeping food prices affordable will remain out of reach. The issue came to a head in July 2024, when the Punjab government set district-specific wheat prices between Rs2,800 and Rs3,050…
**ISLAMABAD**: The All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (Aptma) has urged the government to revisit its agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding the planned cessation of gas supply to captive power plants in the textile sector by the end of January 2025. Aptma stresses that maintaining a steady gas supply is vital for the industry’s recovery and for boosting exports. The call was made during a meeting with Commerce Minister Jam Kamal on Friday, where an Aptma delegation, led by Chairman Kamran Arshad, highlighted key concerns affecting the textile sector. The delegation emphasized that without uninterrupted gas access, the…
The Punjab government has taken a significant step by amending its agricultural income tax (AIT) law, aligning the tax rates for individuals and businesses with the federal income tax rates. The newly passed bill also brings earnings from commercial or “income-generating” livestock under the purview of AIT, while eliminating certain exemptions that were previously enjoyed by farmers with landholdings under 12.5 acres or absentee landowners—unless their annual income is below the tax threshold of Rs600,000. Additionally, the amendments introduce tougher penalties for tax defaulters. These changes aim to create a more equitable tax system, close major loopholes for tax evasion,…
**ISLAMABAD**: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) held a consultation session on Tuesday to discuss its new framework for registering Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), aimed at creating a “secure environment” for the IT and e-commerce sectors in Pakistan, according to a press statement. VPNs are commonly used worldwide to access content that is blocked or restricted in certain countries. In Pakistan, VPNs are often used to access platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and other restricted websites. The announcement follows reports from across the country of “restricted access” to VPN services, coupled with poor internet connectivity. Digital rights activists have criticized the…
