What Hassan Nisar on Pakistan china relationship latest - watch this video
پاکستان اور چین کے تعلقات پر حسن نثار کا تجزیہ : وسیم بادامی کے ساتھ دیکھئے
@HassanNisar vs #FareedParacha - Nisar left Paracha speechless – watch this vid >>
Islamabad PTI ne band karna tha..lekin kia hokomat ne... #ShakhRasheed ne maidan marlia..dikhye woh kia kehtay han >>
اسلام آباد عمران خان نے بند کرنا تھا، لیکن کیا حکومت نے۔ شیخ رشید سب پر بازی لے گئے، حکومت کو چتمہ دے دیا: دیکھئے شاہذیب کے پروگرام میں وہ کیا کہتے ہیں
Ministers meeting with Army Chief in mid of protest, whats going to happen - watch this vid >>
اسلام آباد دھرنا، نہتے لوگوں پر لاٹھی چار، اور تین وزراء کی اسی درمیان آرمی چیف سے ملاقات: اصل کہانی کیا ہے: دیکھئے شاہد مسعود کا تجزیہ
LG Announces Third-Quarter 2016 Financial Results
LG Electronics Inc. (LG) today announced third-quarter 2016 sales of KRW 13.2 trillion (USD 11.8 billion) and operating income of KRW 283.2 billion (USD 252.7 million), reflecting strong performance of its Home Appliance & Air Solution business and increased profitability in Home Entertainment, which offset sales declines and operating losses from Mobile Communications.
LG Home Appliance & Air Solution Company third-quarter revenue increased 3 percent year-over-year with its strongest performance coming from European and Asian markets. Operating income of KRW 342.8 billion (USD 305.9 million) resulted in a solid operating margin of 8 percent, a 40 percent improvement from the same period last year. Strong performance of air conditioners and premium appliances helped profitability, despite unfavorable currency fluctuations in MEA and Latin American countries.
LG Mobile Communications Company third-quarter revenues were KRW 2.5 trillion (USD 2.3 billion), 23 percent lower than in the same period of 2015. Lower sales of premium devices and expenses related to business structure improvement activities contributed to a quarterly operating loss of KRW 436.4 billion (USD 389.4 million). LG shipped 13.5 million smartphones in the quarter, with North America reporting a 14 percent increase in sales from the second quarter. Priorities for the final quarter of the year will include increasing sales of the new LG V20 smartphone and mass-tier K and X series and finalizing business structural improvements in the mobile division to be better prepared for the challenges ahead.
LG Home Entertainment Company reported the highest operating profit and margin in its history with KRW 381.5 billion (USD 340.4 million) and 9.2 percent, respectively, as sales of premium LG OLED and Ultra HD TVs continued to gain traction in key markets around the world. Due to price erosion driven by intense competition, sales declined by 3.4 percent from last year’s third quarter with revenues of KRW 4.1 trillion (USD 3.7 billion) nearly unchanged from the previous quarter. With the peak holiday selling season ahead, overall demand for TV products is expected to increase although profitability will likely be affected by higher material costs and increased marketing investments.
LG Vehicle Components Company saw a strong increase in third-quarter sales to KRW 674.9 billion (USD 602.2 million), for an increase of 41 percent year-over-year and 6 percent from the previous quarter. The company reported a modest operating loss of KRW 16.2 billion (USD 14.5 million) due primarily to increased R&D investments to support future growth. With more and more electric vehicle projects - led by the GM Bolt - on the horizon, the VC Company expects to see continued growth.
#CokeStudio 9 ends with #AmjadSabri - Rahat Fateh Ali performing ‘Rang’
The wait is almost over for the last episode of Coke Studio as season 9 comes to an end. This season was an exciting mix of some successful and failed experiments and collaborations. In this finale, Coke Studio will share the world renowned Qawwal Amjad Sabri’s final studio recording in collaboration with the magnificent Rahat Fateh Ali Khan.
Late Amjad Sabri will be seen performing in Coke Studio 9 with another maestro Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. The two legends have recorded the Kalaam of Amir Khusro ‘Aaj Rang Hai Imaan’, which has been directed by Shani Arshad and produced by Strings.
The two qawwal families return to the platform for the first time since 1970s when Ghulam Farid Sabri and Ustaad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan performed the ‘Rang’ together. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Amjad Sabri have collaborated again to perform the very track, four decades later.
This year, the great Amjad Sabri himself hit the floor to mark his debut in Coke Studio 9 but who knew that the legendary Qawwal won’t make to see it on television.
“About 40 years ago, my father and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan read this Kalaam at a dargah in Karachi and 40 years later, Rahat and I are reading it again,” told Sabri while he was recording Coke Studio a month before his death, the local media reported.
While, Coke Studio has been producing innumerable mesmerizing songs over the last eight seasons, the second episode of the ninth season, featuring singers Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Momina Mustehsan, recreating legend Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s ‘Afreen Afreen’, has stolen many a heart.
Coke Studio is a Pakistani music television series which features live studio-recorded music performances by various artists. (Web Desk)
PepsiCo announces 2025 global sustainability agenda - takes steps toward environmental, health and social priorities
PepsiCo Inc has announced an ambitious global sustainability agenda designed to foster continued business growth by taking important steps to address environmental, health and social priorities all around the world. According to an announcement of the company here on Wednesday, the company's efforts, which focus on creating a healthier relationship between people and food, include specific 2025 goals to continue transforming PepsiCo's food and beverage product portfolio, contribute to a more sustainable global food system and help make local communities more prosperous.
In this context, PepsiCo Chairman and CEO Indra Nooyi said that "to succeed in today's volatile and changing world, corporations must do three things exceedingly well: focus on delivering strong financial performance, do it in a way that is sustainable over time and be responsive to the needs of society."
She said that "the first ten years of PepsiCo's performance with purpose journey have demonstrated what is possible when a company does well by also doing good. We have created significant shareholder value, while taking important steps to address environmental, health and social priorities all around the world." "PepsiCo's journey is far from complete, and our new goals are designed to build on our progress and broaden our efforts," Nooyi continued. "We have mapped our plans against the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and we believe the steps we are taking will help lift PepsiCo to even greater heights in the years ahead. Companies like PepsiCo have a tremendous opportunity - as well as a responsibility - to not only make a profit, but to do so in a way that makes a difference in the world."
PepsiCo's Performance with Purpose agenda for the coming decade is focused on three core priorities ie helping to improve health and well-being through the products it sells; protecting our planet and empowering people around the world.
Across its business and in partnership with others, PepsiCo is taking a holistic approach to achieving progress in all three areas. The company's plans have been informed by current scientific research, consumer expectations and dialogue with key stakeholders, as well as by the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In pursuing these goals, the company's actions will be consistent with responsible capital allocation, commitment to its financial targets and the creation of shareholder value. The company believes that achieving these goals will enhance its long-term financial performance and returns.
In the field of products, PepsiCo's ambition is to enable better nutrition at scale by continuing to develop a broader portfolio of food and beverage choices and increasing access to great-tasting, nutritious options. Informed by the latest dietary guidelines of the World Health Organization and other authorities, the company will continue to refine its food and beverage choices to meet changing consumer needs by reducing added sugars, saturated fat and sodium levels in its product portfolio.
Under the company's new goals set for 2025, at least two-thirds of its global beverage portfolio volume will have 100 calories or fewer from added sugars per 12-oz serving. At least three-quarters of its global foods portfolio volume will not exceed 1.1 grams of saturated fat per 100 calories. At least three-quarters of its global foods portfolio volume will not exceed 1.3 milligrams of sodium per calorie. The company also reaffirms its commitment to deliver on its global labeling and responsible advertising to children policies. PepsiCo has and will continue to support industry actions in these areas.
The second area where initiatives have been taken is related to our Planet. PepsiCo's ambition is to reduce the environmental footprint of the food system through operational efficiencies and mobilization of its suppliers and business partners. As part of its focus on protecting the planet, PepsiCo will work to achieve positive water impact; significantly lower its carbon emissions, with significant efforts to reduce emissions related to agriculture and packaging; promote sustainable sourcing of crops; and reduce waste.
Specifically, PepsiCo plans to improve the water-use efficiency of its direct agricultural supply chain by 15 percent in high-water-risk sourcing areas by 2025. These savings equate to the same approximate volume of water used in PepsiCo manufacturing operations. It plans to improve the water use efficiency of its direct manufacturing operations by 25 percent by 2025. This is in addition to the 25 percent improvement in water-use efficiency the company has achieved since 2006 and will include a focus on high-water-risk areas.
With the PepsiCo Foundation and its partners, work to provide access to safe water to a total of 25 million people in the world's highest water-risk areas by 2025, a continuation of efforts that began in 2006. It will reduce absolute greenhouse gas emissions across the company's value chain by at least 20 percent by 2030, with a focus on collaborating with suppliers, business partners and customers to reduce emissions related to agriculture, packaging and transportation.
It will achieve zero waste to landfill across its direct operations by 2025 and reduce the food waste it generates in its direct operations by 50% by 2025. It will design 100 percent of its packaging to be recoverable or recyclable by 2025, while partnering to increase packaging recovery and recycling rates. On the people end the company said that PepsiCo's ambition is to empower people and social development across its operations, supply chain and communities.
PepsiCo plans to expand its Sustainable Farming Initiative (SFI) to approximately 7 million acres by 2025, covering crops that collectively comprise approximately three-quarters of its agricultural-based spend. It will extend the principles of the company's Supplier Code of Conduct to all franchisees and joint venture partners. These principles already apply to PepsiCo's direct suppliers. The company plans to invest $100 million in partnership with the PepsiCo Foundation to support initiatives to benefit 12.5 million women and girls around the world by 2025. PepsiCo's Product, Planet and People goals are more fully discussed in the company's 2015 Sustainability Report, available at www. pepsico.com/purpose.-PR
Chinese newlywed 'allows guests to molest her during the ceremony to raise money for her honeymoon'
Bizarre footage has emerged of a Chinese newlywed allowing guests to molest her during the ceremony - apparently to raise money for her honeymoon.Video said to have been captured in northern China shows male revellers lining up and paying to grope the 'bride' during the wedding festivities. The funds collected were reportedly then used to pay for the happy couple's honeymoon.
However, the identity of the woman is not yet known and some of those who viewed the video online suggested she was in fancy dress and that the footage was taken in a Thai cabaret night club filled with Chinese tourists. Footage shows 'guests' handing over money before the woman presses their hands to her chest.
On each occasion, her 'wedding dress' is pulled down before she appears to pose for photos with those who are manhandling her.
The first man to appear in the film can be seen handing over cash before standing behind the bride and clamping his hands around her breasts while guests carry on dancing in the background.
Read more: >>>>
Dil nashad ke bujhtaay hua armaan ki manind...sabhi sapnay hoay jatay hain qabaristan ki manin - read full >>>
دل ناشادکے بجھتے ہوۓ ارمان کی مانند
سبھی سپنے ہوۓ جاتے ہیں قبرستان کی مانند
دیار دل کے موسم میں خزاں ہے اب مکیں ایسے
میں اپنے گھر میں بھی لگتا ہوں اک مہمان کی مانند
یہ جو ہجر مسلسل ہے مجھے جینے نہیں دیتا
کسی بیمار کے بگڑے ہوۓ سرطان کی مانند
ہوئی مدت رہ دنیا پہ لاوارث پڑا ہوں میں
مسافر کے کسی بھولے ہوۓ سامان کی مانند
مرا ہمدم بھی پاگل ہے ہمیشہ درد دیتا ہے
سمجھتا ہی نہیں میری دل نادان کی مانند
کبھی ملتے تھے ہم گنگا میں جمنا کی طرح لیکن
بچھڑ کر ہو گۓ ھیں ہجر کے عنوان کی مانند
جگر چھلنی سہی غم میں ہنسی ہونٹوں پہ اب بھی ہے
کڑی مشکل سے بچنے کے کسی امکان کی مانند
بڑا دم ہے تجھے کھو کر بھی زندہ ہوں اسد لیکن
کسی حالات سے ہارے ہوۓ انسان کی مانند
Breaking revelation – A Pakistani senator meet to whom in Afghanistan, in Kabul – Watch this
Breaking News
پاکستانی سینیٹر کابل میں دہشت گردوں سے ملا ہوا ، تہلکہ خیز ویڈیو سامنے آ گئی
Breaking News پاکستانی سینیٹر کابل میں دہشت... by myvoicetv
Mere bas main agar hota..! to main tujh ko bhula deta...read full
مرے بس میں اگر ہوتا! 😨😨
تو میں تجھ کو بھلا دیتا 😪😪
جو اس دل پہ کھدا ہے نقش وہ تیرا مٹا دیتا
ترے سب خط جلا دیتا
جو میں نے تجھ پہ لکھا ہے
وہ پانی میں بہا دیتا
تری چاہت، محبت 💝 💛💛3💖 کے دیے جو دل میں روشن ہیں
انہیں خود ہی بجھا دیتا
مرے بس میں اگر ہوتا!
تو میں خود کو سزا دیتا
تری پلکیں، ترے آنسو، تری آنکھیں بھلا دیتا
تری خوشبو، ترا لہجہ، تری باتیں بھلا دیتا
جو تجھ کو سوچتے گزریں
وہ سب شامیں بھلا دیتا
وہ جن میں دیپ جلتے تھے تری آنکھوں کے جادو سے
میں وہ راتیں بھلا دیتا
میں وہ صبحییں جو تیرے نام سے آغاز کرتا تھا
انھیں یکسر بھلا دیتا
میرے بس میں اگر ہوتا!
تو میں خود کو سزا دیتا
تجھے دل سے بھلا دیتا
میرے بس میں اگر ہوتا!
(شاعر نامعلوم)
PMLN breaks load taking records – you will surprise after watching this video >>
ن لیگ قرض لینے کے تمام ریکارڈ توڑ کر نیا ریکارڈ قام کیا، جو نہ کبھی توڑا جاسکے گا نہ بنایا ۔ دیکھئے
HBL Profit Surges to Rs 25.8 Billion - Bank declared a third quarter dividend of Rs3.50per share
HBL today declared a consolidated profit after tax of Rs25.8 billion for the first nine months of 2016, with earnings per share ofRs17.47. Along with the results, the Bank declared a third quarter dividend of Rs3.50per share (35%).
HBL’s balance sheet has grown by 7% over December 2015to reach Rs 2.4 trillion. DomesticCASA deposits increased by 9% and the CASA mix improved to 89% as at September 30, 2016. The domestic deposit mix continued to improve,and current accounts now form 35.6% of deposits. Average current accounts for the first nine months of 2016 increased by 19% over the comparable period of 2015, enabling HBL to reduce its cost of domestic deposits.With average domestic loans also growing across all segments, the Bank was able to grow net interest income by 7% to Rs62.2 billion for the first nine months of 2016.
Fees and Commissions continued their growth trajectory, rising by 18% to Rs13.7 billion for 9M2016. Bancassurance, trade, investment banking and general banking related fees continued to make significant contributions to the fee income.With enhanced recoveries, the Bank was able to reduce provisions by 58% compared to the first nine monthsof 2015while growth in administrative expenses was restricted to 10% over the same period of2015.The NPL coverage ratio improved over the previous quarter to reach 90% as at September 30, 2016.
HBL is committed to delivering new and innovative products and, earlier this year, became the first bank in Pakistan to enable biometric sign-on to its mobile app. The Bank strives to continuously raise its service levels to keep improving the customer experience. HBL’s reach now includes nearly 2,000 ATMs and over 14,000 POS machines to provide access and convenience to its broad array of customers.
The consolidated Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) as at September 30, 2016 was 16.4% with the Tier 1 CAR at12.7%, well above regulatory requirements.The Bank’s credit ratings were re-affirmed earlier this year by JCR-VIS at AAA/A-1+ for long term and short term respectively. The ratings are supported by the healthy capitalization ratios and HBL’s sound liquidity profile and reflect the systemic importance of the Bank.
HBL has continued to deliver strong results. With growing liquidity and capital, the Bank is well positioned to leverage opportunities in the improving economic conditions and play its role in the development of Pakistan as its largest commercial bank.
News Desk
UN: #Afghan War Caused Over 8,000 Civilian Casualties This Year
The United Nations says the war in Afghan has caused more than 8,000 civilian casualties, including nearly 2,600 deaths, in the first nine months of 2016.
The U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, UNAMA, while releasing the casualty toll Wednesday, renewed its call for all parties to the conflict to prevent harm to civilians. The Mission said it has been deeply concerned by the continuing increase in child casualties since 2013.
Child casualties
"In the first nine months of 2016, UNAMA documented 2,461 child casualties [639 deaths and 1,822 injured], a 15 percent increase on the same period in 2015. Ground engagements caused more than half of all child casualties in 2016.
The report blamed Taliban-led anti-government forces for causing 61 percent of all civilian casualties.
While this represents a 12 percent decrease from the same period in 2015, UNAMA continues to document anti-government elements perpetrating illegal and indiscriminate attacks, as well as deliberate targeting of civilians, the agency warned.
Fighting against insurgents
Fighting between Afghan forces and insurgents has again been cited as the leading cause of civilian casualties, showing an 18 percent increase this year. Suicide and complex insurgent attacks, and improvised explosive devices or IEDs are cited as other major causes.
The report noted a 72 percent increase in civilian casualties from aerial strikes by pro-government forces this year, saying one third of these were caused by international military forces. There were more than 11,000 conflict-related civilian casualties in 2015, marking the highest number of casualties since 2009 when UNAMA began documenting them. The conflict has since intensified, with Taliban insurgents expanding their activities to many more Afghan provinces this year.
The Afghan war is estimated to have caused 70,000 civilian casualties, including over 25,000 deaths since the counting began seven years ago.
Plea to better protection of civilians
Increased fighting in densely populated areas makes it imperative for parties to take immediate steps to ensure all feasible precautions are being taken to spare civilians from harm, said UNAMA Chief Tadamichi Yamamoto.
The report accused pro-government Afghan forces of causing 23 percent of all civilian casualties, noting a 42 percent increase compared to last year, primarily due to the use of indirect and explosive weapons and aerial attacks.
UNAMA added it was unable to ascertain responsibility for eleven percent of civilian casualties which resulted from the ground fighting in the first three quarters of 2016. The majority of the remaining casualties, it stated, were caused by unattributed unexploded ordinance.
There is an urgent need for the government to implement the National Civilian Casualty Prevention and Mitigation policy and for anti-government elements to cease the use of indiscriminate and illegal devices and tactics, said Yamamoto.
U.N. officials are also worried over the rising number of civilian displacements the conflict has caused this year. They have warned more than a million Afghans will be on the move by end of 2016, including tens of thousands of Afghan refugees returning mostly from neighboring Pakistan. The total number of the returnees has exceeded 400,000 since the start of the year, according to U.N. estimates.
News Source: Voice Of America
Coca-Cola invites Deaf Community to experience #CokeStudioSeason9 - #CokeStudioForDeaf
Following the epic finale of what has been the biggest and boldest edition of Coke Studio, Coca-Cola has invited members of the Deaf Community to experience the music of Season 9. The innovative technology piloted under the project “Coke Studio for Deaf”, and unveiled via a heart-warming video just before the season launch has been installed at the Deaf Reach School, Karachi campus.
Announcing the big news, the General Manager of Coca-Cola Pakistan, Rizwan U. Khan stated, “Coke Studio encompasses a philosophy of bridging barriers and blurring boundaries. Over 9 seasons we have bridged generational, cultural, gender, age, and geographical gaps. Last year we realized that there are 9 million people who have some form of hearing impairment, and have not experienced the magic of Coke Studio. We firmly believe music is a feeling everyone should experience. So we launched a unique initiative called Coke Studio for the Deaf and have installed the setup in partnership with the Deaf Reach Program to invite members of the Deaf Community to experience this unique initiative.”
The setup invented in China, was first tested out by the Coca-Cola brand team earlier this year when it was installed in Bangkok. A group of 8 students and faculty of the Deaf Reach School were taken to Bangkok to try out the system first hand. Their experience was nothing short of remarkable, with the group members actually experiencing Coke Studio for the very first time in their lives. Based on this great success, Coca-Cola Pakistan decided to acquire the system for use in Pakistan, with a vision to enable more people from the Deaf Community to also experience the music of Coke Studio.
At the heart of the unique studio-like set-up enabling hearing impaired persons to feel and experience the music of Coke Studio, is a special sofa or couch embedded with hundreds of vibration engines and LED lights that are synced with the sound of the song being played. A grand LED installation around the couch provides synchronized mood lighting to elevate the experience visually. Finally an LED screen in front of the sofa displays the video playback, while the studio is propped with guitars on stands, table and Coke Studio images adding to the overall ambience.
Richard Geary, founder and director of the Deaf Reach Program in Pakistan for the past 30 years inviting the Deaf Community said, “This is a great opportunity for the Deaf Community enabling them to experience music and become part of society as a whole. We are delighted to host our fellow community members at our Karachi campus for this marvelous sonic treat.”
The setup of Coke Studio for Deaf will open its doors to the Deaf Community throughout the month of October.
I want to be PM of #Pakistan: #MalalaYousafzai
courtesy Khaleej Times 19 Oct 2016
Malala was addressing the second 'Investing in the Future' (IIFMENA) conference in Pakistani female education activist Malala Yousafzai, the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, a key speaker at the two-day 'Investing in the Future' (IIFMENA) conference in Sharjah, spoke extensively about the need for peace, education, empowerment of women and her aspirations of becoming Prime Minister of Pakistan, someday.
Her talk centred around three key areas that she considered vital for women empowerment - quality education, need for women role models and role of men.
"I remember my very close friend who was married of at the age of 11 and became a target of early child marriage. I remember many women relying on their brothers and fathers for living, if they got divorced or their husbands passed away. That is why I know that quality education for girls is not just learning books, passing exams and getting jobs. It is empowerment, freedom and nourishment. It is independence, giving them ability to be self sufficient.
I cannot imagine myself for a second without education. Education is needed the most for girls and women. We need to inspire women to dream beyond limits and in order to do that we need women role models."
Talking to Khaleej Times, Malala said: "This event shows that there is a positive change coming in the Arab world. It is a way to reach out to women especially in the Middle East. We want Muslim women to believe in themselves. Women need to participate in this movement of empowering women. Through such events we see inspiring and amazing women who are not only standing up for their rights but are also ensuring that women participate actively in different fields and definitely it is a positive change."
Need to inspire women Talking about her childhood, Malala said: "When I was in Grade 4, I remember I could only think of women as doctors, teachers or otherwise housewives, nothing else. But when I saw women role models, it broadened my vision. I saw Benazir Bhutto as woman leader and prime minister of Pakistan.
"I heard about women athletes, astronauts, artists, entrepreneurs and many more leading roles that women were taking up. This allowed me to recognise the potential that I have as a woman to achieve anything in my life. And my dream changed from becoming a doctor to becoming the Prime Minister of Pakistan fixing all the issues and bringing in education to my people."
Malala said that in order to inspire women and girls we need to show them role models from the past to current to enlighten them to dream without limits.
"And if there isn't any woman role model in a certain field then we encourage them to be the first."
Citing the example of a young refugee girl she met at a refugee camp in Rhwanda, Malala said the message that girl gave made her cry.
"The young girl was not only made homeless but was also a victim of violence and sexual abuse. She became a mother when she was still in school. But at the end she had a message for men which was that men should respect women because we are not only half of the population but we are also the half who have given birth to them."
Role of men important Emphasising the fact that women emancipation and empowerment is incomplete without men's participation, Malala said: "If my father did not allow me and encourage me to believe in my voice, I would not have been able to stand here and speak out just like many other girls in my hometown, who were not allowed by their brothers and parents."
Malala, who is now 19 years old and is in her final year of secondary school, is planning to join university and study Philosophy, Politics and Economics.
"As this event talks about what we can do together, the commitments we can make to ensure peace, equality to women, to ensure women empowerment. I make a commitment to myself, to the children needing education and to all women needing a voice, that I'll continue my struggle for quality education, women empowerment and peace."
Students in #Islamabad schools becoming drug addicts, Senate body told >>
Courtesy The News 20 Oct 2016
ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Interior and Narcotics Control on Wednesday declared war against drugs across Pakistan while expressing deep concern over reports of increased use of drugs by students in schools of Islamabad having rich family background.
A shocking report presented before the Senate committee revealed that up to 53 percent students of large private schools in Islamabad were addicted to drugs.
The report prepared by a non-government organisation (NGO) stated that 44 to 53 percent students of large private schools in the federal capital were addicted to various kinds of drugs. The addicts are either provided intoxicants by their fellows or teachers, which added to the astonishment of the committee members.
Dr Maria Sultan, Director General of South Asian Strategic Stability Institute (SASSI), attended the meeting as special invitee. “The average age of students in the private schools, in which nearly 44 to 53 percent of pupils are taking either artificial or hard drugs or were addicted to heroin, is in the age groups 12-16 and 16-19,” she said.
“Pupils use drugs during study hours, while they also include some students as young as eight-year-olds,” it said. “At some schools the intoxicants are available at canteens, while addicts also get them easily from street vendors.”
The shocking revelations left the members of the Senate committee appalled, who sought an inquiry report into the matter within 15 days. The committee also summoned the IG Islamabad and chief secretaries of the concerned meeting, headed by the committee Chairman Abdul Rehman Malik, that drug test should be made mandatory in educational institutions to arrest trend of drug addiction in the youth. The committee suggested that mobile teams of Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) should visit schools. Malik said that many children from rich background were drug addicts.
"Hundreds of people die every day in the country due to drug-related complications. I declare war on drugs and appeal to the armed forces, the civil society, politicians and media to play their due role for welfare of those suffering from addiction and help save our coming generations," Malik said. He wanted that all television channels should devote 0.5 percent of air time to raise awareness on devastating affects caused of drug addiction.
Malik was of the view that drug business had a serious role in promoting terrorism. He said Afghanistan and India were involved in spreading drugs. He said alarming situation of drug addiction could not be tolerated anymore. The meeting was told that Afghanistan was the top drug-producing nation, but the United States and Europe had their eyes shut on this bitter reality. Moreover, he said, 40 percent of all drugs coming from Afghanistan routed through Pakistan onwards to other countries.
The committee will lead a campaign against drugs, a walk against drugs will be held at Constitution Avenue and media and civil society and NGOs have been appealed to participate in campaign against drugs. "It is a time to take strong action against drug dealers across the country, agencies must identify black sheep among themselves who are abetting drugs smugglers and dealers,” he said.
“Drug is as much dangerous as much terrorism is and those dealing with drugs are no less bad than terrorists," he said and added that punishment must be increased and necessary legislation was need of the hour. Malik appreciated chief ministers of all four provinces and law enforcement agencies for maintaining peace during Muharram across the country. He said efforts and sacrifices of our security agencies are highly appreciable and much-admirable and will not go waste.
“Keeping in view the alarming situation of drug addiction, particularly among the students, the committee chairman declared war on drugs which was fully endorsed by the committee. He said Afghanistan on one hand is supplying death in shape of terrorism and on the other hand in collaboration with India it is involved in spreading of drugs. Expressing grave concerns over the supply of drugs in reputable educational institutions in the capital city, Rehman Malik said that strict action to be taken against those schools and owners where drugs are being supplied easily.
In this backdrop, the committee recommended that more strict measures be taken by the government and strict legislation should be enacted in this regard. Malik proposed that it should be made mandatory for every public and private school, college and university to have a drug test of every student at least twice a year and the report should be checked by the ANF.
Senators Shahi Syed, Chaudhry Tanvir Khan, Syed Shibli Faraz, Mukhtar Ahmed Dhamra, Muhammad Saleh Shah, Talha Mehmood, senior officials of the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control, ANF and Islamabad Police attended the meeting.
Jovago Pakistan launches new Web Extranet for hotel managers
Jovago,Pakistan’s leading online hotel-booking company, has officially launched the web version of the Extranet App, an application that aims to give more flexibility and independence to hotel managers.
Karachi: Jovago is seeking to further empower its hotel partners across all markets with top-notch technology by unveiling the Web Extranet, a web version of the previously launched Extranet App on Android. The tool allows hotel managers to confirm and view their incoming Jovago reservations, change their rates and update availability.
According to Charles de Moucheron, Chief Operating Officer at Jovago, the Extranet Web is a logical addition after the launch of the Extranet App. “After integrating the first channel managers in May 2016, we are now integrating multiple hospitality software solutions for our hotels partners to work better with us. While the App lets you market your hotel when on the go, the web version allows hotel managers and their staff to work comfortably from their workstation.
It was built using the latest technology, delivering the shortest loading time currently available in the market, this is essential to accommodate markets where internet speed is still limited,” he said.
The new version is a so-called progressive web application, which delivers an app-like experience to the user. With a market that is highly characterized by a "mobile-first" adaptation, the tool is mobile-optimized, which means the app size can adapt to any screen size; be it on the mobile, smartphone, tablet or desktop.
"The Web Extranet is extremely user friendly and it gives me the control over my business," Gul Rais, General Manager, Rose Palace Hotel Lahore.
New features such as reviews, statistics and a finance section where hotels can review their invoices will soon be introduced. The launch of the Web Extranet is part of a wider program by Jovago to bring on board the latest technology to the hospitality industry in order to democratize travel in Pakistan.
Patent reveals LG is working on a transparent foldable display
The display industry has been pushing forward relentlessly and it is because of that we can enjoy things like high-performance OLED technology and curved panels, among other things. The latter is a fairly new advancement and represents a major steppingstone toward the ultimate goal of a fully flexible display.
This is hardly a new concept and the race has been on for quite some time now. Traditionally, Samsung and LG have been most actively involved in the endeavor. The former demoed a foldable panel back in 2014 and promised a foldable smartphone by 2015. That, apparently proved to be a bit of an tight deadline, but we are sure R&D is still in full steam.
Around the same time, LG offered a slightly more laid-back roadmap. A newly unearthed patent document might just suggest the 2017 deadline is achievable. Sadly, it provides little info, but early concept renders make one thing clear - LG is not only going for a foldable panel, but a transparent and touch-sensitive one as well.
It appears LG is envisioning a book-shaped device that is capable of folding in on itself. The left half of it appears to be a transparent touchscreen, showing multimedia controls. These will likely control the content on the other half of the panel, which would probably benefit more from being non-transparent, for the sake of quality. Another interesting idea is that, perhaps, the touchscreen on the transparent half will register interaction on both sides.
#Sherpao cautioned the federal govet on the growing disappointment among people of #KP
(PPI) Peshawar: Chairman Qaumi Watan Party Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao has cautioned the federal government on the growing disappointment among people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa if due share is not given to the province in the projects associated with CPEC.
These views were stated while addressing a mammoth gathering on the fourth Foundation day of Qaumi Watan Party in which thousands of Party workers univocally demanded rights for the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
“Why do we not see any tenders, or construction of economic zones, transmission and crude oil lines in KP? The federal government is making false promises and statements claiming that work on the western route is in progress. In a frivolous attempt, the federal government is deceiving us by constructing a small portion of the route in Mianwali and Attock. People of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will never be a part to this hypocrisy.” Aftab Sherpao added
The chairman clarified that the Chinese government has taken steps to associate their backward areas with the project whereas the federal government in Pakistan has ignored the smaller federating units depriving them from any prospects of a developed future.
He added “The Prime Minister should ensure transparency and come clear regarding the 46 Billion Dollars project. Meetings with representatives of smaller provinces should be held and they should be taken into confidence. Concealing developmental projects reflects the pessimistic and cynical attitude of the federal government intended to cheat the smaller provinces off their rights.”
The Chairman also stated that the delay in census and politicizing integration of FATA with KP are an attempt by the foes of Pakistan to maintain status quo and instability in the region. He cited examples of the states of Kalat and Bahawalpur which were merged into the larger provinces.
“We demand census and merger of FATA and KP before the general elections of 2018. The constitution does not provide any provision for holding referendum or making FATA a separate province. Changes in FATA can only be carried out by the president after consultations with the grand Jirga which has already supported merger of FATA and KP. Those advocating delay in the merger on one pretext or another are the enemies of Pakhtoon nation”
The Chairman also pointed towards the paralyzed foreign policy and stated that the present Govt has failed in its primary objective to establish friendly relations with neighboring countries. Aftab Sherpao stated that the absence of a foreign minister, at this crucial juncture, is beyond comprehension.
Aftab Sherpao stated that the Federal government lacks the statesmanship ability, strength and vibrancy to represent Pakistan. The Federal government is incapacitated by its insular, prejudiced and narrow vision to serve Punjab while ignoring the rest of the country.
“They have failed to represent the case of Pakistan internationally and gradually we are alienating our friends. We are turning decades of service, hospitality and friendship with Afghan brothers into hostility and India is taking full advantage of the situation. The international organizations are indifferent towards the atrocities of Indian armed forces in occupied Kashmir which reflects the ineptitude of our foreign policy.”
The chairman also criticized the delay in issuance of NFC award which is not only hampering the progress but is also promoting consternation among people of the smaller federating units. Additionally the chairman demanded that the federal government should ensure monthly release of the net hydel arrears in order to ensure smooth financial management in the province. Aftab Sherpao vowed to resist exploitation of people of KP and stated that QWP will make every effort to ensure people of the province get their due rights.
LG Brings Streamlined Payment Option to Smart TVs
LG and Paymentwall will give developers the opportunity to create apps that enable LG webOS Smart TVs in over 200 countries to support more than 140 different payment methods. This partnership will give consumers easier access to paid apps, movies, games and much more through LG’s intuitive webOS Smart TV platform.
By expanding the number of markets where online payments via LG webOS Smart TVs will be accepted, this integration with Paymentwall will allow LG customers to enjoy a larger selection of paid content globally via the LG app store. By simply clicking the Buy Now button and entering a credit or debit card number, owners of LG Smart TVs with webOS will be able to conduct hassle-free online purchases all over the world without having to sign in separately. LG webOS Smart TV owners will also get support for payment via desktops, laptops, tablets or mobile devices using QR codes and other secure verification protocols.
The versatility of the webOS platform has made LG’s Smart TVs the ultimate choice for customers seeking a wide selection of engaging content. LG’s new webOS 3.0 platform delivers an expansive world of content, including live TV, streaming services as well as fun and challenging games. webOS is also compatible with next-generation 4K Ultra HD programming, as well as High Dynamic Range (HDR) movies and shows.
“By collaborating with Paymentwall, we’re able to evolve the smart TV purchasing experience on the LG webOS platform much faster than if we had worked alone,” said Brian Kwon, President and CEO at LG’s Home Entertainment Company. “This partnership is another example of how LG’s collaborative effort has elevated us into one of the leaders in the global smart TV industry.”
Lenovo Launches the #C2Power #Smartphone in Pakistan
Designed to bring premium quality at an optimum price
Karachi: Lenovo, the world’s No.1 PC vendor, announced the all-new high performance Lenovo C2 Power smartphone now available in retail stores across Pakistan.
Lenovo C2 Power comes with a 5-inch wide-view HD display and is powered by a quad-core 1.0 GHz processor that is operated by the Android 6.0 Marshmallow system. The built-in storage of the new smartphone is 16GB and is expandable to 32GB of storage support and a 3500mAh user interchangeable battery to deliver a smooth, responsive and fast multimedia experience. For the users, the C2 Power brings the powerful Waves MaxxAudio® technology in order to switch from their headphones and sink into the world of crystal-clear surround sound.
In order to capture key moments with family and friends, Lenovo facilitated the smartphone with an 8MP autofocus rear camera with a Sony sensor and LED Flash, and a 5MP front camera to take optimal shots. The 155.6g lightweight smartphone has a rapid charging feature that allows consumers intensive use of the smartphone without running out of battery.
Commenting on the latest additions to Lenovo’s smartphones line-up, Sharay Shams, General Manager, Mobile Business Group, Lenovo Middle East said: “We are delighted to launch the Lenovo C2 Power, which successfully meets a consumer’s day-to-day needs. A powerful device with a long battery life is what every consumer wishes for and we, knowing our consumers, have incorporated that with a stylish look at an affordable price.”
Lenovo C2 Power is available for a retail price starting from PKR 16,600.
Tameer Bank appointed partner as Punjab government gears up for disbursal of digital interest-free loans
Scaling up its m-agriculture along with digital & financial inclusion initiatives to a colossal level, Pakistan’s premier microfinance Bank Tameer, has joined hands with the government of Punjab for giving out smart digital loans to farmers across Punjab worth in aggregate over PKR 2 billion for over 35,000 farmers; total scheme announced by the government of Punjab is over PKR 77 billion for 450,000 farmers. The partnership will go on to strengthen the collective efforts put in order to bolster Pakistan’s standing as a major agricultural country by increasing overall yield and productivity of the crops.
Tameer Microfinance Bank has been appointed partner Bank of the historic program that will go on to transform the socio-economic outlook of the country by providing digital loans, digital disbursements and repayment to farmers across Punjab. The scheme will not only provide interest-free loans but will also address long-existent issues faced by local farmers through smart phone based crop and weather advisory and comprehensive consultancy services besides maintaining a digital platform to empower the farmers by keeping real-time monitoring and performance evaluation.
To help farmers benefit from the host of digital services, the government of Punjab will distribute smartphones under the scheme to allow farmers access to E-credit scheme (Digital Wallet), weather Alerts, Crop Calendar, E-Zarri Baithak, Agri TV and more.
Commenting about the development, President & CEO Tameer Bank Ali Riaz Chaudhry said: “It gives us immense pleasure to be part of this historic scheme to revitalize Punjab’s agriculture potential. We are bringing in Telenor Pakistan, Tameer Bank and Easypaisa’s technological infrastructure to support and expedite the government of Punjab’s interest-free loans scheme for small farmers. We are positive that through calculated and focused implementation, monitoring and support, we will be able to help the farmers increase their yield many folds and contribute additionally to the socio-economic progress of the country. We thank Chief Minister Punjab, Mian Shehbaz Sharif for trusting in Tameer Microfinance Bank as the partner.
The Punjab government’s interest-free loan scheme is being led by Ministry of Agriculture & Finance in support from State Bank of Pakistan, Punjab Institute of Technology Board, Ministry of Finance.
PTA asked to direct cellular cos to collect consumers’ details
Business Recorder (15 Oct 16) - by FAZAL SHER
ISLAMABAD: A parliamentary bod
Senator Daud Khan Achakzai, convener of the Sub-Committee of the Committee on Delegated Legislation while presiding over the meeting said that the government deducts Rs 35 withholding tax and other taxes from the consumers whose income was less than Rs 100,000.
He asked the PTA to restrict mobile companies to collect all details of consumers before issuing mobile phone SIMs to stop deduction of Rs 35 withholding tax/FED etc. from those whose income was less than Rs 100,000.
Achakzai questioned where the FBR was depositing the amount collected through withholding tax from non-taxpayer consumers who are not holders of National Tax Numbers (NTNs).
A senior official of the PTA told the meeting that the Authority only regulates functions of cellular companies and it has nothing to do with the deduction of withholding tax from the consumers. “PTA does not regulate fiscal laws but it only regulates services of cellular companies,” he said, adding the deduction of withholding tax is the job of FBR and only they can devise mechanism to avoid deduction of withholding tax from consumers whose income is less than 100,000.
He said that the PTA held several meetings with the FBR over tax deduction, and FBR appointed a consultant on the recommendation of the PTA.
Senator Kalsoom Parveen said that all cellular companies were accountable to the PTA following issuance of licenses to them.
The committee also discussed rules, regulations, notifications and SROs of the PTA and asked the Authority to inform the committee about amendments to all existing rules and regulations during the next meeting.
PTA officials informed the meeting that the PTA was an autonomous body and it formulated 22 regulations under Telecom Act. The PTA made 19 amendments to the exiting regulations, they added.
They said that amendment to Telecom Act can be made through the Ministry of Information Technology following the approval of the Parliament. However, they said the PTA does not need any amendments to the rules and regulations.
Senator Javed Abbasi said that if there was need of amendment to the Telecom Act, then the PTA should propose amendment and submit it to the committee after vetting it from the Ministry of Law.
An official of the Ministry of IT told the meeting that the existing Telecom Act had become outdated and the Ministry of Law was working on proposed amendments to the Act.
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