Hawks Bay United and Mubarak Village seal victory on the second day of PALS Football Tournament 2019

Hawks Bay United and Mubarak Village seal victory on the second day of PALS Football Tournament 2019

Hawks Bay United and Mubarak Village seal victory on the second day of PALS Football Tournament 2019



  
Karachi: Khalil Rehmat aimed at the perfect time to score his first goal on behalf of Hawks Bay United, thus paving the way for a leading stance for the team against rivals, Khalifa Sports.
His second strike determined the team’s definite win by 2 – 0.

Meanwhile, the second relentless match between Mubarak Village and Buleji Baloch witnessed tough competition with both teams scoring a goal each that led to penalty shoot-outs comprising of 5 goals scored by each team. Mubarak Village emerged victorious as a result of the final penalty shoot-out with Mehar Ali claiming the winning strike, therefore concluding the team’s win by 7 - 6. 

Prior to this day, Hawk’s Bay Combine won the first match of the tournament by 1 – 0 against Kakapir village while Baloch Combine too claimed victory against Gulshan Sports as a result of a penalty shoot-out. 

Given his athletic brilliance, Khalil Rehmat was recognised as the ‘Man of the Match’ on the second day of the qualifying round while Mehar Ali was awarded the same title for the nail-biting win against Buleji Baloch. 

Both Hawks Bay United and Mubarak Village have qualified for the semi-final round. 

The final match is scheduled to take place on Friday, March 01, 2019. All matches are being played at the Buleji Ground of Abdur Rehman Goth, and the tournament is being attended by local notables, government officials, elected representatives, and sports enthusiasts among others.

Pakistan Life Saving Foundation (PALS Rescue), the country’s only privately run near-shore water safety, drowning prevention and rescue body, has organized this first ever football tournament for the youth of fishing communities located along the coastline of Karachi. The tournament titled, ‘PALS Football Tournament 2019’ commenced on February 25 for a total of seven matches that are being played by eight participating teams.  

“Football is the most cherished sport of the local communities which our lifeguards represent. We have therefore, organized this tournament with the purpose of gathering everyone on a unified platform, aiming to achieve community development,” said Reza Samad, Founder & President of PALS Rescue, “We anticipate that it will help enhance soft skills that will further instill a sense of belonging and encourage our people to go an extra mile while they are on duty. With this, we look forward to making PALS Football Tournament an annual retreat and something to look forward to.”

This football tournament which is the first of its kind is expected to bring the already close knit communities for a recreational activity. The final match will be followed by a prize distribution ceremony during which the winning trophy will be given to the victorious team and cash prizes distributed.  

Pakistan Life Saving Foundation (PALS Rescue) was founded as an NGO in July 2004 out of the sheer necessity to commence a free service that would provide life-saving facilities at the beaches of Karachi. It now employs more than 250 highly trained lifeguards representing the fishing community while the demand for their services doubles during the monsoon season. Till date, the organisation has employed more than 1,000 lifeguards and saved over 5,000 lives, and provides protection to 8 million beach visitors on an annual basis. 




#Hyundai Unveils Pakistan’s First Digital Auto Store and Launches Santa Fe and Grand Starex

#Hyundai Unveils Pakistan’s First Digital Auto Store and Launches Santa Fe and Grand Starex

Hyundai Unveils Pakistan’s First Digital Auto Store and Launches Santa Fe and Grand Starex


Hyundai Nishat Motor (Private) Limited (Hyundai) has officially unveiled its hi-end vehicles, Santa Fe and Grand Starex, in Pakistan. Both vehicles were on display at the launch of Hyundai’s first of its kind digital retail store at Emporium Mall, Lahore. These two will be the first of the vehicles manufactured by the joint venture between Hyundai and Nishat Group under the Auto Policy 2016-21.

The Santa Fe is amongst Hyundai’s most popular and trendy SUVs with cutting edge design and technology making it a powerful presence on and off the road. While Grand Starex, a premium 12 seater, takes commuting to the next level with superior comfort and convenience on the go.

Talking at the opening ceremony, Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai, Mr. Tatsuya Sato said, “I welcome you all to the launch of our Hyundai City Store, which marks our first milestone in Pakistan. This is a first step of our great journey to provide our customers with a first class experience. This particular digital showroom is a unique concept store looking to offer customers a friendly environment wherein they can explore Modern Premium Hyundai Vehicles. Our vision is to become the most “valued” and “loved” automobile brand and recreate the global success of Hyundai in Pakistan.”

The digital store is an innovative automotive retail concept, which uses immersive 3D technology to enhance customer buying experiences. Customers can interact with the car of their choice and explore and customize interior and exterior features through digital touchscreens.

Hideo Takenaka, Executive Vice President, Hyundai added, “In the last half a century, Hyundai Motor Company become one of the top five automotive manufacturers in the world.  This has been possible due to our modern, premium brand philosophy aiming to provide consumers with unique experiences by combining exceptional performance and emotional elegance with a strong value proposition.”

In the future, Hyundai plans to bring even more exciting and world famous models in Pakistan and aims to set new benchmarks when it comes to technology and service standards. With the coming of Hyundai to Pakistan, automotive enthusiasts and the public alike are anticipating an exciting journey ahead and are all set to experience the change.

Hyundai operates the world’s largest integrated automobile manufacturing facility in Ulsan, South Korea which has an annual production capacity of 1.6 million units. Hyundai vehicles are sold in 193 countries through some 5,000 dealerships and showroomss.  In a recent survey of J.D Power United States, Hyundai and Genesis were ranked amongst the top 3 brands in terms of Quality. Pakistan market was the last frontier for Hyundai to enter, and in order to achieve success same as attained in the rest of the world, it has chosen Nishat Group as its distributor and progressive assembler for Hyundai vehicles.




More widespread rains predicted in the country from Friday to Monday (Morning)

More widespread rains predicted in the country from Friday to Monday (Morning)

More widespread rains predicted in the country from Friday to Monday (Morning)



Islamabad: Met office informed that a strong rain bearing system is likely to approach Balochistan on Thursday (night) and likely to grip southern parts of the country on Friday and may persist in upper parts till Monday (morning). Under the influence of this weather system:

Widespread rain-thunderstorm (with isolated heavy falls) associated with windstorm is expected in Balochistan from Thursday (night) to Sunday (Morning), while at scattered places in Sindh on Friday (1st March 2019) and Saturday.

Widespread rain-thunderstorm (with few moderate to isolated heavy falls and snowfall over the hills) with strong gusty winds also expected in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Islamabad, Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir from Friday (night) to Monday (morning).

Note: Heavy falls may cause flash flooding in local nullah/riverine of Balochistan and hill torrents of DG Khan from Friday (evening/night) to Saturday and trigger landslides in Malakand, Hazara, Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir during Saturday and Sunday. All concerned authorities are advised to remain ALERT during the period.



WAPDA, NLC discuss strategic cooperation to implement mega projects

WAPDA, NLC discuss strategic cooperation to implement mega projects

WAPDA, NLC discuss strategic cooperation to implement mega projects


Lahore: A 5-member team of National Logistics Cell (NLC), headed by the Director General (DG) Major General Muhammad Asim Iqbal today visited WAPDA House to discuss the strategic possibilities of cooperation in mega projects in Pakistan. In a meeting with Chairman, Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) Lieutenant General Muzammil Hussain (Retd), and other senior officers concerned, the areas wherein WAPDA and NLC could benefit from the expertise and experience of each other were thoroughly deliberated upon.

Speaking on the occasion, WAPDA Chairman said that WAPDA projects provide great opportunities to the local and international firms, wherein they can be partners in progress through open competitive biddings. Like other firms, NLC may also join hands with WAPDA to take the country to the next stage of development. Nationwide presence of NLC like that of WAPDA may provide a strong basis for the strategic cooperation between the two organizations to implement mega projects in water and hydropower sectors, the Chairman said.

NLC DG thanked WAPDA Chairman for providing them the opportunity for the useful interaction. He briefed the meeting about creation of NLC, its organizational structure, roles, presence, core competencies and iconic projects. He said that NLC is keen to provide logistic support to WAPDA for its projects, besides establishing campuses of its Applied Technologies Institutes in the project areas for skills development in the locals, so as to enable them to get jobs during construction of the projects. It was agreed in the meeting that senior officers of both sides will have close liaison to identify the areas of mutual cooperation. WAPDA Chairman and NLC DG exchanged souvenirs as memento of the visit.PR



Murad Ali Shah order vacation of forest land, Hindus lands from illegal occupation

Murad Ali Shah order vacation of forest land, Hindus lands from illegal occupation

Murad Ali Shah order vacation of forest land, Hindus lands from illegal occupation


Karachi (26 Feb, 2019): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah directed Sindh police to support district administration and Forest department to vacate forest lands and the lands and other properties of Hindu community members illegally occupied by some people. He said that the 70,000 acres of forest land was under encroachment and out which some 25,000 acres have been vacated. “Now, the forest department needs some police force to vacate their remaining land,” he said and directed IG police to support the forest department for the purpose.

Mr Shah also said that some Hindus community members have filed complaints of illegal occupation on their lands. He directed the district administration to vacate them and hand over to the legal heirs. This he said on Tuesday while presiding over a weekly law and order but this time it was held after two weeks. The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Mumtaz Shah, Advisor to CM Murtaza Wahab, IG Sindh Dr Kaleem Imam, Principal Secretary to CM Saijd Jamal Abro, Home Secretary Kazi Kabir, Commissioner Karachi Iftikhar Shahlwani, Adl IG Karachi Dr Ameer Shaikh, Adl IG Special Branch Dr Waliullah Dal, DIGs of different zone of Karachi and IGs from Divisional Headquarters joined the meeting through video link.

He said that the incidents of Nimra and Kasre-e-Naz where five innocent children died have left burden on his heart. “We have to take necessary and effective measures to stop such incidents.” The meeting started with five cases, Nimra Baig killed in cross fire, Kasr-e-Naz tragedy where five children died, Malir building collapse, Larkana incident in which three labourers of Bajore were killed and Irshad Ranjhani murder case.

The chief minister was given briefing about the Nirma case and said the inquiry was in progress and would be submitted to the chief minister within new few days. The chief minister said that the killing of an innocent final year MBBS student, Nirma, 20, was quite painful. “There must be her dreams and the dream of her family but all went shattered,” he said and directed IG police to conduct inquiry thoroughly and also start police training particularly about dealing with robbers and dacoits in the market and on the main roads.

The Commissioner Karachi briefed the chief minister about the killing of five children at Kasr-e-Naz and said that the lab reports were being awaited. He said that the father of the children said that when he was taking his wife to hospital his children were also crying but he did not pay his heed to them. He thought that they were also calling his when they were struggling of life but he could not attend them. The chief minister said that may God give courage to the father and mother who lost their five children. The chief minister ordered chief secretary to further strengthen Sindh Food Authority and direct them to keep testing kitchens of restaurants and eateries. The cause of the death as being presumed by the police and others is said to be something else instead of food.

Talking about Malir building collapse, the chief minister was told that the building was constructed without any approved plan. He said that all the agencies, Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), KMC, Rangers, Police and every one rushed there for rescue operation. This created some problems in rescue work at this the chief minister directed chief secretary to develop a system under which only one agency would be responsible to carry out rescue operation. He also issued directive for the proper training of PDMA rescue crew.

The chief minister was told that the investigation into Irshad Ranjhani was in progress. The case was being investigated from all angels, including personal enmity, dacoity attempt or any other reason. The chief minister directed IG police to complete investigation process within two days and report him. The DIG Larkana briefing the chief minister said that about killing of three labourers at Larkana through video link.

He said that various culprits involved in the incident directly and indirectly have been arrested. The main culprits were still at large but all his links have been established. The chief minister talking to DIG Sukkur on video link said that a person was attacked at Khairpur on a similar patter as were attacked in Larkana. He said such incidents were unacceptable at any cost, therefore police patrolling must be intensified.

On a query the DIG told the chief minister the killers of Ramsha Wassan murder case have been arrested. Appropriate security have been provided to the family and in the investigation process the family have been taken on board. He also said that Ramesh who was kidnapped one and a half month ago have been recovered. The chief minister directed IG police to issue necessary directives to all the police ranges and zones to improve law and order in their respective areas.

Karachi L and O: Adl IG Karachi Dr Ameer Shaikh giving progress of law and order said that Musharraf Mahsood involved in kidnapping for ransom has been arrested by AVCC. A bank dacoit Asif alias Kala involved in number of bank dacoities in Karachi have also been arrested. The SIU has also arrested a gang of four involved in dacoities with murder and injuries, especially with the people drawing cash from banks and ATMs. Saeed involved in bank dacoities in DHA has also been arrested in Parachinar.

He said that 11 gangs involved in Ice have been crushed in the area of South, City and Central district. 30 narcotics dens identified in different areas of the city were busted. 1387 kilogram charas and 4.5 kg heroin recovered. The chief minister directed Adl IG Karachi to further focus on street crime. This is still a threat to the peace of the city.



At least 44 killed by cow vigilantes in India over last 3 years: Human Rights Watch

At least 44 killed by cow vigilantes in India over last 3 years: Human Rights Watch

At least 44 killed by cow vigilantes in India over last 3 years: Human Rights Watch


NEW DELHI (BLOOMBERG) - Radical cow protection groups in India have killed at least 44 people over the last three years and often received support from law enforcement and Hindu nationalist politicians, said a new report from Human Rights Watch.

The 104-page report unveiled this week examines Hindu nationalist vigilante attacks and said 36 of the dead were members of India's large Muslim minority.

About 280 people have been injured in more than 100 attacks between May 2015 and December 2018, the report by the New York-based group said.


Members of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, which supports policies to protect cows revered by the country's majority Hindus, have "increasingly used communal rhetoric that has spurred a violent vigilante campaign against beef consumption and those deemed linked to it", the group said.

Mr Modi has previously condemned vigilante violence and said killing people because of cow worship "is not acceptable". In India's federal structure, law and order is a state subject.

"No less than the Prime Minister called such elements criminals and urged state governments to act against anyone perpetrating violence under the false pretext of cow vigilantism," BJP lawmaker and spokesman G.V.L. Narasimha Rao said in a text message on Wednesday (Feb 20).

He said cow-related violence has also happened under opposition Congress party governments.

"BJP bashing is a favourite theme of organisations and international media."

Mob kills man, 50, in India after rumours swirl that his family stored, consumed beef at home
The report, which also highlights the impact these so-called cow vigilantes have had on the rural economy, comes ahead of national elections in which some expect increased religious tensions between Hindus and Muslims.

A recent major attack against security forces in India's Muslim-majority Jammu and Kashmir has also heightened tensions, with one BJP-appointed governor of an Indian state calling for citizens to boycott travelling to Kashmir and Kashmiri businesses outside of the state.

Human Rights Watch said there is no government data for cow-related incidents in the comparable period before Mr Modi came to power in 2014.

However, the group cites India civil society and media groups, including a fact-checking site, that found such incidents took place between 2012 and 2015, with none resulting in any deaths.

There have been news reports from across India of deadly attacks on Muslims dairy farmers and those suspected of eating beef.

As recently as December, a police officer was killed while responding to a mob of Hindu radicals rioting in the state of Uttar Pradesh over cow deaths.

The Human Rights Watch report is one of the first detailed surveys of deaths linked to violent cow protection groups, which are not tracked separately in official Indian crime statistics.

Since the partition of British India in 1947, which created Muslim-majority Pakistan, the sizeable Muslim minority in Hindu-majority India have suffered discrimination and violence.

There are an estimated 170 million Muslims in India, and academic research shows there is actually declining inter-generational social mobility among Muslims, despite gains for poor Hindus.

The Human Rights Watch report notes the country's rural economy has been disrupted by the vigilante violence, which also hurts many Hindus.

India's bovine meat export industry, one of the largest in the world, has been hit as farmers fear going to cattle markets or travelling to sell with spent dairy buffalo.

Farmers have generally sold unproductive livestock to slaughterhouses - some of which have been targeted by Hindu nationalist politicians.

But now farmers are simply letting the animals roam free. That has led to the destruction of farmers' crops, the report notes.





India-Pakistan tension and situation after air strikes: BBC Duniya with Sarika (BBC Hindi)

India-Pakistan tension and situation after air strikes: BBC Duniya with Sarika (BBC Hindi)

India-Pakistan tension and situation after air strikes: BBC Duniya with Sarika (BBC Hindi)

India-Pakistan tension and situation after air strikes: BBC Duniya with Sarika (BBC Hindi)
India-Pakistan tension and situation after air strikes: BBC Duniya with Sarika (BBC Hindi)






Pakistan 'shoots down two Indian jets' over Kashmir - BBC News Report

Pakistan 'shoots down two Indian jets' over Kashmir - BBC News Report

Pakistan 'shoots down two Indian jets' over Kashmir - BBC News Report


Pakistan 'shoots down two Indian jets' over Kashmir - BBC News
Pakistan 'shoots down two Indian jets' over Kashmir - BBC News





Emirates signs deal for 40 A330-900s, 30 A350-900s

Emirates signs deal for 40 A330-900s, 30 A350-900s

Emirates signs deal for 40 A330-900s, 30 A350-900s



Karachi / Dubai February 25, 2019 – Emirates airline today announced an order for 40 A330-900 aircraft, and 30 A350-900 aircraft, in a heads of agreement signed with Airbus. The deal is worth US$ 21.4 billion at list prices.

The latest generation Airbus A330neo and A350 aircraft, will be delivered to Emirates starting from 2021 and 2024 respectively.

In addition, Airbus and Emirates reached an agreement on outstanding A380 deliveries. The airline will receive 14 more A380s from 2019 until the end of 2021, taking its total A380 order book to 123 units.

Commenting on the agreement on A380 deliveries, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, said: “After many months of discussions, we have come to an agreement with Airbus and Rolls-Royce.

“Emirates has been a staunch supporter of the A380 since its very inception. While we are disappointed to have to give up our order, and sad that the programme could not be sustained, we accept that this is the reality of the situation. For us, the A380 is a wonderful aircraft loved by our customers and our crew. It is a differentiator for Emirates. We have shown how people can truly fly better on the A380, and Emirates has set the standards for that by introducing customer experiences that are unique to the A380 like our Shower Spas and Onboard Lounge. The A380 will remain a pillar of our fleet well into the 2030s, and as we have always done, Emirates will continue to invest in our onboard product and services so our customers can be assured that the Emirates A380 experience will always be top-notch.

On the decision to purchase A330Neos and A350s, HH Sheikh Ahmed said: “Emirates’ fleet strategy to operate a young, modern, and efficient all-wide body fleet remains unchanged. The 40 A330neos and 30 A350s that we are ordering today will complement Emirates’ fleet mix, support our network growth, and give us more flexibility to better serve seasonal or opportunistic demand. Both the A330neos and A350s will play an important role in our future fleet and network plans.”

The A330neos will be deployed on Emirates’ regional destinations, and also enable the airline to serve smaller airports and thereby open new routes and connectivity for its global network. The A350s will supplement Emirates’ long-haul operations, providing the carrier with added flexibility in terms of capacity deployment on 8 to 12 hour missions from its Dubai hub.



#PakAirForce shot down 2 #IndianJets and Taken one pilot arrested–its was the surprise

#PakAirForce shot down 2 #IndianJets and Taken one pilot arrested–its was the surprise

#PakAirForce shot down 2 #IndianJets and Taken one pilot arrested–its was the surprise


#PakAirForce shot down 2 #IndianJets and Taken one pilot arrested–its was the surprise
#PakAirForce shot down 2 #IndianJets and Taken one pilot arrested–its was the surprise




#PakAirForce shot down 2 #Indian Jets and Taken one pilot arrested

#PakAirForce shot down 2 #Indian Jets and Taken one pilot arrested

#PakAirForce shot down 2 #Indian Jets and Taken one pilot arrested


#PakAirForce shot down 2 #Indian Jets and Taken one pilot arrested
#PakAirForce shot down 2 #Indian Jets and Taken one pilot arrested





Pakistan have Export Opportunities of Agro-Products to Azerbaijan

Pakistan have Export Opportunities of Agro-Products to Azerbaijan

Pakistan have Export Opportunities of Agro-Products to Azerbaijan


Islamabad: The Ambassador of Azerbaijan H.E. Mr.Ali Alizada called on Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan in Islamabad today. In the meeting matters relating to increase in agriculture cooperation were discussed. Moreover it was agreed that efforts would be made from both sides for the signing of MoU which will increase the volume of Pak export of potato, citrus and mango to Azerbaijan. The relations between the two nations were established with the independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the areas of cooperation are expansive including economic, cultural and military.

Both the countries have established Joint Working Group on agriculture cooperation; first meeting in this regard was held in December 2017, the second meeting of JWG is likely to be held this year around. Federal Minister Sahibzada Mehboob Sultan said that we are putting all out efforts for the manifold progress in agriculture sector and looking forward for an increased cooperation with Azerbaijan. Since Pakistan is blessed with immense potential hence we could increase trade turnout in agriculture sector. Federal Minister said that much of the potential of agro trade is lost due to the indirect trade; we should do away with shadow economy.

The Minister told the honorable guest that Pakistan citrus, mangoes and potatoes are best in the world, and Pakistani mangoes are exported to 58 countries in the world, and we hope that Azerbaijan import Pakistan mangoes which are of exceptional quality and sweetest taste. Sahibzada Mehboob Sultan said that Pakistan is looking forward to increase the potato export to Azerbaijan as it is also exported to Russia and both the countries must deliberate to find out a way for a direct trade, and the minister further added that we want our potato which is of very fine quality must land in Azerbaijan without adulteration due to direct trade between the two countries, besides this will give both the countries chance to explore new venues of cooperation in agriculture field.
 
Mr. Ali Alizada said that federal Minister must attend the Caspian Agro, 2019 and also introduce potential mango exporters, and he added that these arrangements for enhanced cooperation could be made well ahead of the potential signing of MoU on agriculture. The Azerbaijan Ambassador also added that Pakistan rice is very famous in his country and we are pleased to the prospect of rice export from a brotherly country, as there is a huge rice demand in Azerbaijan.

Sahibzada Mehboob Sultan said that we could explore the possibility of joint ventures in agriculture sector so both countries could mutually benefit from the positive outcome of such ventures, the Minister proposed that we could move ahead in value addition in potato for instance, the starch plant could be the starting point and the incumbent government for the ease of doing business and to support the farmers levied no duty on the import of machinery and hence a plant could be settled in Pakistan . Besides, Pakistan rice can compete with best quality rice in the world and we would be pleased if Pak rice is boosted in Azerbaijan.

H.E Mr. Alizada told the federal Minister that Azerbaijan is exporting finest quality vegetable and fruit seeds to different countries and hoped that Pakistan may like to see the potential in this regard, to which Mehboob Sultan told the honorable guest that he will do what is to be done and apprise the concerned quarters. The Minister said in the end that he hoped both the countries would keep the current track of cooperation and with sincere efforts promote the friendly relations in all spheres including agriculture. Azeri ambassador welcomed the proposal and pledged to work in the direction and bring concerned on the table.

H.E Mr. Alizada added that we support Pakistan stance on Kashmir issue on OIC forum and we commend the immense support from Pakistan to strengthen Azerbaijan army and with the support from a friendly country like Pakistan Azeri military/army force is now a power to reckon with and ranks among world’s top fifty forces. It is pertinent to mention that the next JWG meeting is likely to be held in August, 2019 in Islamabad. Azerbaijan is a member state of the Council of Europe, the OSCE and the NATO partnership for Peace (PFP) program, and a member of UN since 1992. Azerbaijan is a member of the Non-Aligned Movement and holds observer status in the World Trade Organization (WTO). Azerbaijan has a high level of human development that ranks at par with most Eastern European Counties.




SMEDA – JICA to Launch 1st Skills Olympic for Auto Parts Manufacturing Industry

SMEDA – JICA to Launch 1st Skills Olympic for Auto Parts Manufacturing Industry

SMEDA – JICA to Launch 1st Skills Olympic for Auto Parts Manufacturing Industry


Lahore: Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) is going to launch the first-ever Skills Olympic in Pakistan next week in collaboration with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for auto-parts manufacturing Industry. It was disclosed by CEO SMEDA Mr. Sher Ayub Khan, in a press statement issued here today.

He informed that SMEDA and JICA had been executing a 4 years’ comprehensive program for enhancing manufacturing capabilities, quality production and localization share of auto parts in Pakistan. Through this program, Japanese way of improving productivity and quality has been introduced in over 50 auto parts manufacturing concerns under the guidance of 5 Japanese Experts since August 2015, he said adding that apart from technical assistance, the developing support system and relevant skills set of workers was the prime consideration of this project.

CEO SMEDA told that considering importance of workers’ skills, SMEDA and JICA experts had jointly imparted various Japanese Quality Techniques at the shop floor level and succeeded to considerably minimized rejection rates of the product modules. In order to further bolster workers’ skill levels and create sense of attaining highest skill standards, 1st Skills Olympic is planned in 11 diverse skills including Welding, Painting, Cutting and Machining, Surface Finish, Parts inspection, Fork Lifter Driving etc., he said and informed that the events are being organized both at Lahore and Karachi on March 2nd, 2019 and March 9th, 2019 respectively wherein over 250 workers would be competing amongst each other to prove their pre-eminence in respective skills.

It is notable that Auto sector, being the most important and fastest growing sectors in Pakistan, contributes towards the nation’s economy through employment and revenue generation. Local vendors play an important role in the growth of auto industry as they bear the responsibility of producing auto parts and sub-assemblies according to the benchmark set by the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

Unfortunately, Pakistan has not been able to derive maximum benefits in terms of technical know-how, production technology and quality control in order to upgrade the vendor base of auto sector, due to lack of proper training and relevant guidance and the issue has been amicably addressed through joint intervention of SMEDA and JICA, the outcome of which would be exhibited in the first ever Skills Olympics to be held next week in Lahore and Karachi. Various Officials from eminent organizations of the private and public sector along with diplomats, International Development Experts would witness the upcoming Skills Olympics. PPI




Karandaaz, ABL join hands for developing innovative credit scoring model for SMEs

Karandaaz, ABL join hands for developing innovative credit scoring model for SMEs

Karandaaz, ABL join hands for developing innovative credit scoring model for SMEs


KARACHI: Karandaaz Pakistan under its third round of Innovation Challenge Fund (ICF) has signed an agreement with the Allied Bank Limited (ABL) to support the bank for developing an innovative, cash flow-based credit scoring model for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), a statement said on Monday. 

During this annual challenge, Karandaaz had invited ideas from entities interested in developing and testing innovative credit scoring models for SME lending in the country, it added.

ABL, the fifth largest bank of Pakistan with ‘AAA’ rating assigned by PACRA, will use this support, including risk sharing, from Karandaaz to design and test its innovative method of calculating credit scores for SME obligors looking to avail of credit facility from the bank.

Currently, banks approach assessing credit risk for lending to small and medium sized businesses based on collateral.

Although SMEs accounts for 30 percent of GDP, generate 78 percent of non-agriculture employment, and contribute 25 percent of manufactured goods exports, their ability to access finance suffers due to collateral related impediments, it said.

As procedures and requirements for SME financing remain complex, time-consuming, and costly, the SMEs end up relying on their own resources or informal financial service providers to meet their financing needs, it added.

The innovative idea emerging from the collaboration between Karandaaz and ABL will disrupt the status quo for assessing credit needs and risks of SMEs and help lead the industry to break away from the conventional, collateral-based model presently used. 

Tahir Hassan Qureshi, CEO of Allied Bank, said: “Allied Bank Limited, with its extensive outreach of over 1,300 branches across the country aims at becoming the first bank of choice for the customers.”

“Simultaneously, we have undertaken various initiatives to provide high-tech innovative solutions to meet customers’ requirements and create sustainable value through quality growth, efficiency and diversity for all stakeholders.”

Being a socially responsible institution, ABL had always endeavoured to play a proactive role in contributing towards the economy and society, he said.

“We are confident that the success of this innovative credit scoring model will add value to our modelling capabilities. The associated learnings would also benefit the overall banking industry and SME financing landscape in the country.”

Ali Sarfraz, CEO of Karandaaz, said: “We are confident that the funding from Karandaaz to Allied Bank will help the bank pursue the agenda of disruption and innovation in financial sector and develop a model of innovative credit scoring that favours SME lending.”

“Karandaaz is committed to the financial inclusion of small and medium enterprises and we can see that this round of Karandaaz Innovation Challenge Fund has motivated innovators to look beyond the obvious and come up with credit scoring ideas that suit small and medium sized entrepreneurs.”

“Small and medium sized businesses must be provided an environment where access to finance through formal channels is easy for them so that they grow, create more jobs, and benefit the overall economy.”

Karandaaz Pakistan is supporting small and medium entrepreneurs by: increasing access to finance for unbanked populations by leveraging digital technologies, developing and disseminating evidence-based insights, and encouraging innovation in financial space.

It has been funded by the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.




APBF calls for raising exports to 11pc of GDP for sustainable growth

APBF calls for raising exports to 11pc of GDP for sustainable growth

APBF calls for raising exports to 11pc of GDP for sustainable growth


Lahore: All Pakistan Business Forum has recommended the government to raise exports to 11 percent of the GDP till the end of its term with a keen focus on value addition for a sustainable economic trajectory. Moreover, the FDI should only be encouraged that provide a net forex surplus by curtailing imports and increasing exports, he added.

APBF president Syed Maaz Mahmood believes that IMF should be a stop-gap arrangement to reduce the magnitude of this bailout, which may have forced excessive devaluation, steep monetary tightening, cut in development and defence expenditures. He shared that the existing tax system is heavily skewed toward indirect taxation and a direct tax can certainly improve tax collection in some instances.

He said the sustainable solution to Pakistan’s problems lies in the structural reforms. Loans simply serve to bridge the gap until the effects of the reforms take effects. The problem occurs if the country takes loans but fails to reform, he added.

While talking about tax policy, he explained that it was largely contingent on implementation and systems of checks and balances. Right now, we can see very large inefficiencies in tax collection. For example, the number of active corporate income tax filers is around one percent of the number of commercial and industrial electricity users.

Similarly, the number of entities that are registered for the general sales tax (GST) is around 180,000 out of about 1.5 million retailers. The message is that tax compliance must be improved and tax base broadened. This cannot be achieved with a single policy change, but by a systemic approach, he added. He observed the government preferred direct taxation to meet revenue shortfall as opposed to resorting to increasing indirect taxes because direct taxes tend to be more progressive in nature, therefore, the burden on the lower income strata of the population is lesser.

He said that consistent borrowing by developing economies to shore up its reserves in desperate times is only likely to lead towards a debt trap. He said that borrowing from friendly countries should only be seen as a short-term solution to prevent reserves depletion and consequent further depreciation of the currency.

Syed Maaz Mahmood explained focus should be on promoting exports and restricting imports alongside making domestic industry more competitive and subsequently expand its export market.

He emphasized that concentrating on import substitution is imperative to narrow import bills and certain imported products such as oil are of a fixed nature, therefore, the government needs to enhance focus on import substitution industries, as chemicals, agriculture and steel are potential industries.

The incumbent government’s stance towards the IMF in its initial months of power was confusing. He said that undertaking structural reforms require political will. He said that the early signs from the government are positive and exhibit zero-tolerance against corruption. He said that enacting structural reforms, such as improvements in tax collection system, bureaucracy and ease of doing business requires major political will and strict implementation of policies, he added. PPI




Pfizer, Aga Khan University Hospital, Patient Behbud Society To Jointly Support Cancer Patients

Pfizer, Aga Khan University Hospital, Patient Behbud Society To Jointly Support Cancer Patients

Pfizer, Aga Khan University Hospital, Patient Behbud Society To Jointly Support Cancer Patients


KARACHI (25th February, 2019) Pfizer Pakistan Ltd. (Pfizer) has entered in to a partnership with The Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) for self-funded patients and The Patient Behbud Society for AKUH (PBS) to provide access to quality targeted therapy treatment to cancer patients without financial means.Patients suffering from gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET)will benefit from the partnership.

The announcement came during an official signing ceremony held at the University Hospital premises in Karachi., The partnership is part of Pfizer's patient access program: MASEEHA for cancer patients.Speaking at the ceremony, Hans Kedzierski, CEO, AKUH, said: AKUH endeavours to provide access to our health care services for needy patients who may not, on account of financial constraints, be able to afford our regular Hospital charges.

Patients who receive financial support receive the same level of care as all other patients. Last year alone we spent more than PKR 2.5 billion on welfare programmes. Our oncologists and other experts aim to provide the best possible treatment to patients and we plan to increase our capacity to treat more patients.

Syed Wajeeh, Country Manager of Pfizer Pakistan, in his message said: We are very pleased to share that we are making significant investments in patients access program in partnership withAKUH and PBS.

TheAgreement stands out as an excellent example of cooperation between these institutes in an area of public service to those patients who don't have access to these crucial medicines to enhance their quality of life.Mr.

Nadeem Mustafa Khan, President, PBS appreciated Pfizer Pakistan's support and said: It is indeed heartening to see our partners like Pfizer Pakistan coming forward to help deserving patients by donating expensive cancer drug.

The more we collect donation and zakat, the more we can serve such needy patients, with even more barakaat to the givers of this charity.Dr. Adnan A. Jabbar, Associate Professor and Section Head Medical Oncology, AKUH, said: Disparity in care is a major challenge across the world with cost of treatment a major contributor in low middle income countries like Pakistan.

Program like this partnership with AKUH & Pfizer, helps cancer doctors reduce this gap in treatment outcome by providing highly effective drugs for their patients who may otherwise would not have been able to benefit from them. NNI



#Emirates Forges Codeshare Partnership with China Southern Airlines to Enhance Trade Opportunities in China for Pakistani Businesses

#Emirates Forges Codeshare Partnership with China Southern Airlines to Enhance Trade Opportunities in China for Pakistani Businesses

Emirates Forges Codeshare Partnership with China Southern Airlines to Enhance Trade Opportunities in China for Pakistani Businesses

Photo caption: Executives from Emirates and China Southern at the signing ceremony for a codeshare agreement between the two airlines. From left to right: Mr. T.G. Venugopal, Senior Manager, Codeshare Cooperation of Emirates; Mr. Wang Wenwu, SVP, Publicity of China Southern; Mr. Badr Abbas, Senior VP Commercial Operations, Far East of Emirates; Mr. Anand Lakshminarayanan, SVP Revenue Optimisation and Airline Partnerships of Emirates; Mr. HAN Wensheng, Chief Operating Officer of China Southern; Mr. WU Guoxiang, SVP, International and Corporate Relations of China Southern; Mr. Adam Li, VP of Emirates China Ms. Huang Ya, SVP, Ground Services of China Southern; and Mr. SU Ming SVP, Network Planning and Revenue Management of China Southern)

Karachi / Dubai /Guangzho: Emirates and China Southern Airlines (IATA code: CZ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to progress a comprehensive reciprocal codeshare agreement, which is set to open up new destinations for passengers travelling between China and the Middle East and Africa. The partnership will provide improved connectivity to Pakistani passengers who travel frequently to China for trade and business.

Pakistan and China are longstanding strategic partners with trade links across the border for several businesses. The two neighbouring countries have also launched the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which is a framework for regional connectivity aimed at enhancing geographical linkages and improved trade and business opportunities. This code share agreement will go a long way in enhancing connectivity for Pakistani businessmen who can choose to travel to an increased number of Chinese cities.

The partnership with the Guangzhou-based carrier will allow Pakistani passengers to enjoy seamless connectivity on domestic flights within China, adding eight new destinations to its global network. The Chinese cities covered by the codeshare agreement include Fuzhou, Chongqing, Kunming, Qingdao, Xiamen, Chengdu, Nanjing and Xi 'an during the initial phase of the partnership, subject to necessary government approvals.

Passengers travelling from China will have more choice and travel seamlessly with minimum connection times, when flying to destinations in Emirates’ Middle East network such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Muscat, Kuwait and Cairo. The codeshare agreement also includes flights to African destinations such as Seychelles and Lagos, operated by Emirates.

Pakistani Passengers can also enjoy hassle-free stopovers in Dubai, and experience what the city has to offer before flying to their final destinations. The codeshare partnership will provide customers with the simplicity of purchasing connecting flights using one reservation, and a smooth ticketing, check-in, boarding and baggage check experience during the entire journey.

“We’re pleased to establish a partnership with China Southern Airlines, allowing Emirates’ Pakistani customers to benefit from increased choice, flexibility and ease of connection to different cities across China’s provinces, by connecting in Guangzhou. The addition of the eight domestic routes in the initial stage expands our reach in China, beyond the three Chinese hub cities of Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou,” said Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Divisional Senior Vice President of Strategic Planning, Revenue Optimisation & Aeropolitical Affairs. “Pakistan and China share strong trade ties. With this partnership, our Pakistani passengers will have more options for their travels to China for the purpose of trade and business.”

“Today’s signing is especially monumental for Emirates, as it represents the first codeshare agreement between Emirates and a China-based airline. It is also the largest airline in China by passenger numbers so we are excited by the prospects the agreement brings. This will be an important milestone in our efforts to deepen Emirates' presence in the Chinese market,” continued Kazim.

Emirates currently has codeshare agreements in place with 23 partners around the world. With the new codeshare partnership with China Southern Airlines, Emirates customers in Pakistan will be able to enjoy connectivity to over 160 destinations in Asia Pacific.




Hyundai Nishat Motor Unveils Pakistan’s First Digital Auto Store

Hyundai Nishat Motor Unveils Pakistan’s First Digital Auto Store

Hyundai Nishat Motor Unveils Pakistan’s First Digital Auto Store




Highly anticipated Hyundai Santa Fe and Grand Starex also unveiled to the audience in Lahore

Hyundai Nishat Motor (Private) Limited (Hyundai) has officially unveiled its hi-end vehicles, Santa Fe and Grand Starex, in Pakistan. Both vehicles were on display at the launch of Hyundai’s first of its kind digital retail store at Emporium Mall, Lahore. These two will be the first of the vehicles manufactured by the joint venture between Hyundai and Nishat Group under the Auto Policy 2016-21.

The Santa Fe is amongst Hyundai’s most popular and trendy SUVs with cutting edge design and technology making it a powerful presence on and off the road. While Grand Starex, a premium 12 seater, takes commuting to the next level with superior comfort and convenience on the go.

Talking at the opening ceremony, Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai, Mr. Tatsuya Sato said, “I welcome you all to the launch of our Hyundai City Store, which marks our first milestone in Pakistan. This is a first step of our great journey to provide our customers with a first class experience. This particular digital showroom is a unique concept store looking to offer customers a friendly environment wherein they can explore Modern Premium Hyundai Vehicles. Our vision is to become the most “valued” and “loved” automobile brand and recreate the global success of Hyundai in Pakistan.”

The digital store is an innovative automotive retail concept, which uses immersive 3D technology to enhance customer buying experiences. Customers can interact with the car of their choice and explore and customize interior and exterior features through digital touchscreens.

Hideo Takenaka, Executive Vice President, Hyundai added, “In the last half a century, Hyundai Motor Company become one of the top five automotive manufacturers in the world.  This has been possible due to our modern, premium brand philosophy aiming to provide consumers with unique experiences by combining exceptional performance and emotional elegance with a strong value proposition.”

In the future, Hyundai plans to bring even more exciting and world famous models in Pakistan and aims to set new benchmarks when it comes to technology and service standards. With the coming of Hyundai to Pakistan, automotive enthusiasts and the public alike are anticipating an exciting journey ahead and are all set to experience the change.

Hyundai operates the world’s largest integrated automobile manufacturing facility in Ulsan, South Korea which has an annual production capacity of 1.6 million units. Hyundai vehicles are sold in 193 countries through some 5,000 dealerships and showrooms.  In a recent survey of J.D Power United States, Hyundai and Genesis were ranked amongst the top 3 brands in terms of Quality. Pakistan market was the last frontier for Hyundai to enter, and in order to achieve success same as attained in the rest of the world, it has chosen Nishat Group as its distributor and progressive assembler for Hyundai vehicles.




Meezan Bank and Master Motors Limited sign a Memorandum of Understanding for Promoting Master Motors Limited – Changan

Meezan Bank and Master Motors Limited sign a Memorandum of Understanding for Promoting Master Motors Limited – Changan

Meezan Bank and Master Motors Limited sign a Memorandum of Understanding for Promoting Master Motors Limited – Changan



Meezan Bank, Pakistan’s leading Islamic bank and the Best Bank in Pakistan has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Master Motors Limited (MML) and Master Motor Corporation Pvt Limited (MMCL). Both the companies are part of Master Group – makers of Master Molty Foam. MML has signed a Joint Venture agreement with the reputed and no. 1 Chinese passenger car brand “CHANGAN”.

Under this MoU, Meezan Bank, MML and MMCL have agreed on a joint campaign to promote the ‘Changan Karvaan’ Passenger minivan through Meezan Bank’s flagship auto finance product ‘Car Ijarah’. The ‘Karvaan’ is a modern and spacious multi-functional minivan for the middle-income group with a  powerful 1.0L engine, 7 spacious seats and powerful Dual AC. Meezan Bank will provide financing for this vehicle through an attractive financing package including a range of additional services and benefits such as early vehicles delivery as well as free initial services.”

The signing ceremony took place at Meezan House, Meezan Bank’s Head Office, Karachi.

Mr. Irfan Siddiqui – President & CEO, Mr. Arshad Majeed – Group Head Consumer Finance of Meezan Bank Ltd. Mr. Nadeem Malik – Chairman and Mr. Danial Malik – CEO Master Motors Limited attended the ceremony with their respective teams.  MOU has been signed by Mr. Irfan Siddiqui and Mr. Nadeem Malik.

Mr. Irfan Siddiqui – President & CEO of, Meezan Bank lauded the agreement as a welcome move for Pakistan’s Automotive industry and said that it will boost healthy competition in the market.




بھارتی فضائیہ کے طیاروں کی لائن آف کنٹرول کی خلاف ورزی، دراندازی کی کوشش ناکام، پاک فضایہ کی موثر جوابی کارروائی سے بھاگ گئے

بھارتی فضائیہ کے طیاروں کی لائن آف کنٹرول کی خلاف ورزی، دراندازی کی کوشش ناکام، پاک فضایہ کی موثر جوابی کارروائی سے بھاگ گئے

بھارتی فضائیہ کے طیاروں کی لائن آف کنٹرول کی خلاف ورزی، دراندازی کی کوشش ناکام، پاک فضایہ کی موثر جوابی کارروائی سے بھاگ گئے


راولپنڈی (ٹائمزآف چترال مانیٹرنگ) بھارتی فضایہ کے طیاروں کی لائن آف کنٹرول کی خلاف ورزی، دراندازی کی کوشش ناکام، پاک فضایہ کی موثر جوابی کارروائی سے بھاگ گئے۔ بھارتی طیاروں نے مظفر آباد سیکٹر میں دراندازی کی کوشش کی لیکن شاہینوں کے فضا میں بلند ہوتے ہی بزدل بھارتی طیارے بدحواسی کے عالم میں بالاکوٹ کے قریب ہتھیار پھینک کر بھاگ کھڑے ہوئے۔ 

وزیرا عظم عمران خان حال ہی میں اپنی تقریر میں کہا ہے اور بھارت پر واضح کردیا ہے کہ ہم سوچیں گے نہیں فوری جواب دیں گے جبکہ آرمی چیف بھی مکار دشمن کو دندان شکن جواب دینے کے احکامات دے چکے ہیں۔ پاک فوج بھارت سے ملحقہ تمام سرحدوں پر چوکس اور چوکنا ہے۔ کسی بھی جارحیت کا منہ توڑ جواب دیا جائے گا۔



 ڈی جی آئی ایس پی آر میجر جنرل آصف غفور نے ٹویٹ کرتے ہوئے کہا "بھارتی طیاروں نے مظفر آباد سیکٹر سے دراندازی کی، پاکستانی طیاروں نے بروقت اور فوری کارروائی کی، بھارتی طیارے بالا کوٹ کے قریب سے واپس بھاگ گئے، بھارتی طیارے جلدی میں کچھ پے لوڈ بھی گرا گئے۔"

بھارتی ایئر فورس کی جانب سے دراندازی کی کوشش کی گئی جس کے بعد پاک فضائیہ کی بروقت اور مؤثر کارروائی کے بعد بھارتی طیارے فرار ہوگئے۔

ترجمان پاک فوج نے کہا کہ بھارتی دراندازی کے واقعے میں کوئی جانی یامالی نقصان نہیں ہوا تاہم پاک فضائیہ کی بروقت اور مؤثر کارروائی کے بعد بھارتی طیارے فرار ہوگئے۔

ادھر بھارتی میڈیا اس خوش فہمی میں مبتلا ہے کہ بھارتی فضائی طیاروں نے پاکستان میں گھس کر دہشت گرد کیمپوں کا صفایا کردیا ہے۔ بھارتی اخبار ٹائمز آف انڈیا نے لکھا ہے کہ بھارتی فضایہ کے 12 میراج 2000 فائٹر جیٹ ایل او سی عبور کرکے دہشت گرد ٹھکانوں پر 1000 کلو گرام کے بم گرائے ہیں۔ اخبار نے بھارتی فوج کے ابلاغ عامہ کے حوالے سے لکھا ہے کہ بھارت فورسز نے لائن آف کنٹرول کی دوسری جانب جیش محمد، حذب المجاہدین وغیرہ کے تریبیتی کیمپ تباہ کردہئے ہیں۔






خبر اصل سورس پر پڑھیں : ٹائمزآف چترال