KP Introduces Kalash Marriage Bill to Legally Recognise Minority Traditions

Kalash community Marriages to Get Legal Status Under New KP Law

Historic Bill Aims to Protect Culture and Rights of Kalash Community in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

The government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has introduced the Kalash Marriage Bill 2026 in the provincial assembly to formally regulate the solemnisation and registration of marriages within the Kalash community. The bill sets 18 years as the minimum legal age for marriage for both men and women and has been referred to a committee for further review before final approval.

The legislation aims to provide legal recognition to Kalash marriage customs and traditions while ensuring protection under provincial law. It outlines conditions such as mutual consent, sound mental capacity, and restrictions on prohibited relationships. The bill also formally acknowledges traditional practices like *shisha-istongas* (purification ritual) and *maraat* (wedding feast), which validate marriages within the Kalash culture.

Additional provisions address unique customs such as *alashing*, where a woman may marry by choice without prior consent, followed by later verification from her family. The bill also includes procedures for appointing marriage registrars at local levels and defines rules around divorce, compensation, and financial responsibilities between families in case of separation.

Community representatives have welcomed the move, calling it a historic step toward preserving cultural identity while gaining legal protection. Stakeholders involved in drafting the bill emphasized that it is based on extensive consultations and does not impose new rules but rather formalizes long-standing traditions of the Kalash people living in the valleys of Chitral.

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PTCL refutes news of potential change in the investment position of e& in Pakistan

Islamabad - Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) notes recent media reports regarding a potential change in the investment position of e& (formerly Etisalat) in Pakistan.

The company would like to reject the baseless and speculative reports and is not aware of the sources referenced in these reports. As a publicly listed entity, PTCL emphasizes the importance of accurate and responsible reporting, as unverified information may lead to unnecessary market speculation.

PTCL’s shareholders remain fully committed to the company’s long-term strategy and growth trajectory. This is reflected in key strategic initiatives, including the acquisition of Telenor Pakistan and Orion Towers, Ufone’s 5G spectrum acquisition, and the continued expansion of the company’s fiber network across the country.

The Board has recently reviewed PTCL’s Q1 2026 performance and continues to provide clear strategic direction for the company’s future growth and transformation. e&, as the managing shareholder, remains closely engaged with PTCL, with a shared focus on delivering long-term value and advancing Pakistan’s digital ecosystem.

PTCL remains committed to creating sustainable value for its customers, stakeholders, and shareholders.

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Bangladesh Launches First Unit of Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant

Rosatom-Backed Nuclear Project Boosts Bangladesh’s Energy Security

Bangladesh has launched the first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, a landmark project developed with support from Russia. State nuclear agency Rosatom described the development as a major milestone for the country’s energy sector.

The project marks Bangladesh’s entry into nuclear power generation and is expected to help expand electricity supply, support growing energy demand, and strengthen long-term energy security. Officials say the plant represents a significant step toward diversifying the country’s power mix and reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.

Analysts view the launch as a strategic advancement for Bangladesh’s infrastructure ambitions, with the project expected to play an important role in supporting industrial growth and future development.

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Rs. 900 Billion Probe: Pakistan Seeks International Arrest of Bahria Town Founder

In a major move to address massive financial crimes, Interpol has issued Red Notices for Pakistani real estate mogul Malik Riaz Hussain and his son, Ali Riaz. This development follows a formal request from the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and signals a significant escalation in one of Pakistan's most substantial corruption probes.

Key Details of the Investigation

The pursuit of Malik Riaz, the founder of Bahria Town, centers on staggering allegations of financial misconduct. 

According to official sources, the core of the investigation includes:

Financial Scope: Alleged irregularities and money laundering exceeding Rs. 900 billion.

Specific Allegations: Land acquisition fraud, financial misreporting, and the misuse of authority in sprawling property developments.

Case Status: Authorities have confirmed that the complex investigations are now complete, providing the legal foundation for international intervention.

The Role of the Red Notice

While a Red Notice is a powerful tool, it is important to distinguish its legal function:

A Red Notice is not an international arrest warrant. Rather, it serves as a global "wanted" alert, notifying law enforcement agencies worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest individuals pending extradition.

Looking Ahead

By involving Interpol, Pakistan is reinforcing its commitment to a high-stakes accountability drive. Officials emphasize that international cooperation will be the "crucial next phase" in ensuring the accused are brought back to Pakistan to face the legal system. This move underscores a zero-tolerance approach toward high-value financial crimes within the country's real estate sector.

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K2 Airways Launches Pakistan-Uzbekistan Cargo Flights to Boost Trade

New Cargo and Passenger Routes Strengthen Pakistan-Uzbekistan Connectivity

K2 Airways has launched cargo flights between Pakistan and Navoiy, Uzbekistan, marking a new step in strengthening trade and freight connectivity between the two countries. The service began on April 28 using a Boeing 737-400 cargo aircraft and is expected to support smoother cargo movement and boost bilateral trade. The development also reflects growing cooperation in aviation and logistics between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

Karachi-based private carrier K2 Airways, which received its charter license from the Government of Pakistan in May 2018, is expanding its network through this new cargo route. The launch is seen as an important move to enhance commercial ties and improve transport links as regional trade activity continues to grow.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan’s private airline Centrum Air has launched direct passenger flights between Lahore and Tashkent, starting April 21, 2026. Operating twice weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays with Airbus A320 aircraft, the route aims to serve tourists, students, and business travelers. In partnership with Gerry’s Group as its general sales agent in Pakistan, the service also signals rising travel demand and deeper connectivity between the two countries.

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The Bank of Punjab Delivers Yet Another Record-Breaking Quarterly Performance in Q1 2026

155% Profit Growth Driven by Core Earnings, Strategic Expansion & Digital Innovation

LAHORE, Pakistan – April 27, 2026 – The Bank of Punjab (BOP), one of Pakistan’s leading public sector commercial banks, today announced exceptional financial results for Q1 2026, reflecting strong growth momentum, sound business performance, and an expanding role in Pakistan’s banking sector. The Board of Directors reviewed and approved the unaudited financial statements for the period ended March 31, 2026.

Q1 2026 KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Net Interest Income Rs. 22.1 Billion 47% YoY Growth		Non-Interest Income 69% Growth in Fee-Based Income
Operating Profit 98% YoY Organic Growth		Before Tax Profit Rs. 10.2 Billion 155% YoY Growth

Exceptional Growth Driven by Strategic Execution

The Bank’s record-breaking performance reflects the success of its strategic initiatives centered on core earnings enhancement and operational excellence. The 155% surge in before-tax profit and 98% growth in operating profit—achieved entirely through organic growth—demonstrate the Bank’s ability to execute against market opportunities while maintaining disciplined risk management.

Net Interest Income expanded 47% to Rs. 22.1 billion, while non-interest income surged 35%, highlighting the Bank’s successful diversification into high-margin fee-based services and capital markets products.

Robust Balance Sheet & Capital Position

The Bank’s balance sheet continues to strengthen with:

• Total Assets: Rs. 2,599 billion — demonstrating significant balance sheet expansion

• Deposits: Rs. 1,932 billion with 26% growth in Current Deposits — reflecting improvement in cost of funding

• Capital Adequacy Ratio: 13.37% — reinforcing significant headroom for future growth

• Gross Advances: Rs. 927 billion — positioned for continued loan portfolio expansion

• Investments & Lending to FIs: Rs. 1,429 billion in bonds, equities — reaffirm a disciplined & balanced asset allocation

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Strategic Market Position & Growth Initiatives

The Bank has cemented its position as a trusted enabler of the Government of Punjab, managing critical public welfare initiatives while advancing provincial development objectives. This strategic partnership underscores BOP’s systemic importance and creates recurring revenue streams with stable, predictable cash flows.

By prioritizing digital innovation, customer-centric solutions, and financial inclusion, the Bank continues to capture emerging opportunities in underserved markets while maintaining market leadership across core segments.

Outlook

The Bank remains well-positioned to sustain its growth momentum. Its strong capital position, improving operational efficiency, and diversified revenue streams provide a solid foundation to navigate evolving market conditions while continuing to deliver sustainable returns to shareholders.

About The Bank of Punjab

The Bank of Punjab is one of Pakistan’s prominent commercial banks, providing a broad range of banking services to individuals, businesses, farmers, SMEs, and public sector clients. With a strong provincial legacy and a growing national footprint, BOP plays an active role in expanding access to finance, supporting priority sectors, enabling government-backed development initiatives, and contributing to Pakistan’s economic progress.

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PAFLA Chairman Highlights Freelancers’ Role in Earning Foreign Exchange

KU–PAFLA Seminar: skilled youth an asset for Pakistan

 

KARACHI: Pakistani youth and students equipped with advanced skills and qualifications are valuable national assets, as they hold immense potential to contribute to the global digital economy, bring foreign exchange into the country, and support their families.

 

This was stated by Ibrahim Amin, Chairman of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), at a seminar titled “The Freelance Revolution: From Degree to Digital PR Deals,” held recently at the University of Karachi under the Department of Mass Communication.

 

He highlighted that Pakistan is home to the third- or fourth-largest freelance community globally, with contributions reaching $856 million so far in the current financial year.

 

He emphasized that students should not only pursue academic degrees but also equip themselves with in-demand skills to become part of the rapidly growing global gig economy, which offers billion-dollar opportunities and a means to earn valuable foreign exchange for the country.

 

The session was chaired by Dr. Sadia Mehmood, Chairperson of the Department of Mass Communication. The speakers included Ibrahim Amin, Founder and Chairman of PAFLA; M. Hasan Bin Liaquat, Video Editor, Upwork Trainer, and Top-Rated Freelancer; Syeda Mahrukh Shah, Global YouTube Scriptwriter and Content Strategist; and Sagar Samy, Content Creator and AI Strategist.

 

Bringing together students, aspiring professionals, and industry experts, the seminar focused on how Pakistani youth can tap into rapidly expanding global digital markets.

 

Dr. Raana Afzal, Associate Professor at the Department of Mass Communication, also spoke on the occasion. She highlighted the growing importance of freelancing and digital public relations in today’s fast-evolving media landscape, warmly welcomed the distinguished guests, and encouraged students to make the most of the learning opportunity.

 

In her concluding remarks, Dr. Sadia Mehmood emphasized the importance of soft skills and confidence for continuous growth. “Along with expertise, confidence, mindset, and adaptability are essential for success in today’s competitive world,” she noted.

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Spotify Beats User Growth Forecast as Monthly Active Users Reach 761 Million

Spotify Reports Strong Premium Growth, Pays $11 Billion to Music Industry

Spotify exceeded guidance for monthly active users in the first quarter, adding 10 million users to reach 761 million, driven largely by strong growth in its ad-supported tier. Ad-supported users rose 14% to 483 million, while premium subscribers increased 9% to 293 million, meeting expectations. The company posted first-quarter revenue of 4.5 billion euros ($5.3 billion), supported by 10% growth in subscriber revenue despite a 5% drop in ad-supported revenue.

Spotify executives said continued user growth in mature markets, including the United States, was supported by increased engagement and personalized features. The company highlighted its large user base, creator partnerships, and long-term investment in personalization and infrastructure as key drivers for future expansion across users, formats, and engagement.

Premium revenue climbed 10% to 4.15 billion euros ($4.87 billion), while ad-supported revenue fell to 385 million euros ($456.6 million). Gross profit rose 13%, with margins reaching 33%. Despite strong results, Spotify shares slipped 4.28% in pre-market trading. The company also noted it paid $11 billion to the music industry in 2025 and $70 billion since its founding.

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50 female receive training in dress designing, digital skills at Upper Chitral

PESHAWAR (APP, TagPakistan, Apr 27 ):Around 50 females in the remote Upper Chitral valley were imparted training in dress designing and digital skills, enabling them to explore income-generating opportunities and improve their livelihoods by displaying products in global market.

According to a press release issued here on Monday, the training was jointly organized by Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Programme and PTCL.

Under its Ba-Ikhtiyar Women Project, PPAF reached the deserving women in Boni area of Upper Chitral through Hurja Village Support Programma. While Institute of Rural Management (IRM) is providing technical support in training of female.

50 female receive training in dress designing, digital skills at Upper Chitral

The initiative is designed to empower women by enhancing their vocational skills, thereby facilitating access to sustainable income-generating opportunities, financial independence and improved livelihoods.

The selected female will receive training in two phases separately in dress designing and digital training so that they can display their product on social media for online sale.

Through the Ba-Ikhtiar Women Project, the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund, in collaboration with PTCL & Ufone 5G, is creating new pathways for women.

With digital marketing training, these women will soon be empowered to showcase and sell their products on digital platforms, expanding their reach beyond local markets.

In addition to technical skills, the program also focuses on building confidence and entrepreneurial mindset among participants, encouraging them to take ownership of their work and actively participate in local economic activities.

By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern digital tools, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between rural artisans and broader market opportunities.

Participants have expressed optimism about the training, highlighting that such initiatives not only enhance their skills but also open doors to financial stability and self-reliance.

Community leaders believe that empowering women in remote regions like Upper Chitral can have a multiplier effect, contributing to household welfare and overall socio-economic development of the area.

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Spotify Reports First Quarter 2026 Earnings - Users Surpassed 760 Million Monthly

Spotify announces its First Quarter 2026 earnings, signaling a strong start to

its Year of Raising Ambition, with the company delivering its second-highest gross margin to date.

Karachi - Spotify announced its First Quarter 2026 earnings, marking a strong start to its Year of Raising Ambition, with continued momentum across the business and ongoing innovation on the platform, further personalizing discovery and control for users. 

Q1 results were in line with or ahead of expectations across all key metrics, with robust growth in both MAUs and subscribers. The platform surpassed 760 million monthly active users and delivered its second-highest gross margin to date.

Notable highlights from the Q1 2026 results include:

• Premium Subscribers grew 9% Y/Y to 293 million 

• Monthly Active Users (MAUs) climbed 12% Y/Y to 761 million 

• Total Revenue increased 14% Y/Y constant currency to €4.5 billion 

• Gross Margin improved by ~140 bps Y/Y to 33% 

• Operating Income reached €715 million 

Alex Norström, Co-CEO, said: “We surpassed 760 million MAU, delivered on the subscriber growth we aimed to achieve, and saw healthy engagement from existing users, reactivations and new users alike. Since the global rollout of our more personalized free experience, users in key markets like the US are listening and watching more days per month. All that reinforces our confidence in sustained user and subscriber growth, low churn, and continued progress on revenue and margin.” 

Also read: 8 Years On, Infinite Ahead: BingX Launches $10M Prize Pool and Global Celebrations

Gustav Söderström, Co-CEO, said: “We’re well positioned because of our large, engaged user base, deep creator relationships, and years of investment in personalization and infrastructure at scale. Together, these create a platform that can take advantage of this moment and unlock entirely new growth vectors that will enable us to climb new mountains previously unimaginable. We see significant room to grow across users, formats and engagement and to expand what Spotify is and can become over time.” 

Interested in knowing more? Read the full earnings release here.

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Digital Chokepoint: The Strait of Hormuz and the Threat to Global Subsea Cables

From Oil to Data: Why the Middle East Tension Now Endangers Global Internet

 The Fragile Backbone: Undersea Fiber Optics at Risk Amid Regional Instability

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have moved beyond energy politics, now posing a direct threat to critical digital infrastructure. Experts warn that the undersea fiber optic cables running through this vital waterway are essential for the region's digital economy. As geopolitical friction rises, these cables have become a vulnerable point that could disrupt global connectivity.

These subsea networks serve as the primary link between Southern Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, carrying a massive portion of international internet traffic. Since approximately 99% of global data travels via such cables, any damage could lead to a domino effect, crippling financial systems, e-commerce, banking, and cloud services worldwide. Major cable systems like AAE-1 and Falcon are considered the backbone of billions of dollars in AI and digital investments in the Gulf.

While most cable damage is usually accidental—caused by ship anchors or fishing nets—the risk of "unintentional" damage skyrockets during military conflict. Repairing these lines is a grueling and complex task, requiring specialized vessels, specific permits, and security clearances. In a conflict zone, what is normally a difficult fix can turn into a process lasting weeks or even months.

Although satellite internet exists, it lacks the speed and capacity to replace physical cables. If these major routes are compromised, countries like Pakistan and others in the region would experience severe internet slowdowns and cloud service delays. While the presence of multiple redundant cables makes a total blackout unlikely, the resulting pressure on international data traffic would still cause significant economic disruption.

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AlphaX Launches 24/7 TradFi Futures Trading, Empowering Users

AlphaX Launches 24/7 TradFi Futures Trading, Empowering Users with Zero-Fee Access to Global Traditional Markets

Pakistan: AlphaX, a high performance on-chain cryptocurrency exchange committed to delivering a simplified, efficient and reliable trading experience, today announced the launch of zero-fee TradFi perpetual futures trading on its platform, marking a significant expansion beyond digital assets and into traditional asset markets.

The new offering enables fee-free trading of key traditional financial instruments directly on-chain:
• Commodities: Trade GOLD (XAUUSDT), SILVER (XAGUSDT), Brent Crude Oil (BZUSDT), and WTI Crude Oil (CLUSDT) with 24/7 market access
• Stocks: Gain exposure to leading equities including Apple (AAPL), Nvidia (NVDA), and Alphabet (GOOGL), free from market hour restrictions
• Indices: Access and trade continuously major indices such as Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ) and SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)
• Forex: Trade major FX pairs including EURUSD, NZDUSD, GBPUSD, and AUDUSD during standard market hours

All contracts are structured as USDT-margined perpetual futures, allowing users to gain exposure to price movements without holding the underlying assets.

By integrating these products into its platform, AlphaX enables seamless access to globally recognized commodities while maintaining the efficiency and flexibility of crypto-native trading infrastructure. The launch of TradFi futures reflects AlphaX’s ongoing commitment to diversifying its product suite and providing users with broader market access.

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Hemani Marks Historic Milestone as First Exporter in Landmark Transit Breakthrough Connecting Kyrgyzstan to Pakistan

Karachi-Pakistan: -Hemani proudly announces a historic achievement in regional trade connectivity, coinciding with a groundbreaking development in cross-border logistics. Pakistan has marked a major milestone as the first truck from Kyrgyzstan arrived at Sost Dry Port carrying transit goods, successfully bypassing Afghanistan.This first-ever movement of its kind by a Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) country using its own transport signifies the opening of a new alternative trade corridor into Pakistan.


 

Hemani is honored to be among the first exporters to capitalize on this strategic breakthrough, reinforcing its leadership in international trade and logistics innovation.The shipment was facilitated by a partner company of the National Logistics Corporation (NLC) in Kyrgyzstan, and is being widely recognized as a pivotal step toward enhanced regional integration and economic cooperation.

 

“This is not just a logistical success, it is a transformative moment for regional trade,, said at Hemani. “Being part of this milestone underscores Hemani’s commitment to pioneering new trade routes and strengthening economic ties across Central and South Asia.”Hemani pays tribute to and extends its sincere gratitude to the Pakistan Embassy in Kyrgyzstan for their unwavering support and facilitation, which played a crucial role in making this achievement possible.The successful transit highlights the growing potential of alternative corridors that improve efficiency, reduce dependency on traditional routes, and open new avenues for exporters and importers alike.Hemani remains dedicated to leveraging emerging opportunities and contributing to the evolution of global trade networks.

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Mystery Deaths in Mumbai: Four Family Members Die After Suspected Food Poisoning

Watermelon or Contamination? Probe Launched After Family of Four Dies in Mumbai

Tragedy in Mumbai as Parents and Two Daughters Die Following Suspected Toxic Food Exposure

A tragic and mysterious incident in Mumbai has left four members of the same family dead, with preliminary suspicions pointing to possible food poisoning. Authorities are investigating whether toxic contamination in food may have caused the deaths.

According to police, 40-year-old Abdullah Abdul Qadir, his 35-year-old wife Nasreen, and their two daughters, 16-year-old Ayesha and 13-year-old Zainab, returned home after having biryani with relatives on Saturday night. Later, around 1 a.m., the family reportedly ate watermelon. Within hours, all four began suffering severe vomiting and diarrhea.

By early Sunday morning, their condition had worsened and they were rushed to hospital after initial treatment failed. Young Zainab was the first to die, followed by her mother Nasreen and elder sister Ayesha. Abdullah also passed away later that night. Dr. Zaid Qureshi, who examined the patients, said they were in critical condition and suffering from extreme dehydration and persistent vomiting.

Police have registered a case of accidental death and launched an investigation. A partially eaten watermelon has been seized and sent for laboratory testing to determine whether toxic substances, contamination, or bacteria were present. Officials said the exact cause of death will only be confirmed after postmortem and forensic reports are completed. The incident has raised serious concerns over food safety and public health.

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vivo V70 FE - A 200 MP Stylish Lightweight Flagship Built for Clear Travel Portraits

Lahore – vivo today officially launches the V70 FE, a 200 MP stylish lightweight flagship designed for users who want every journey, gathering, and everyday moment captured with clarity and confidence. Built as a go-to travel shot companion, the V70 FE brings together advanced imaging, expressive design, and reliable day-to-night performance in a device made for modern, socially connected lifestyles.

 

Capture Every Journey with Pro-Level Travel Portraits

At the core of the V70 FE is a powerful AI imaging system built around one defining strength: clarity at distance. When distance, crowds, or changing environments make it difficult to capture the perfect shot, the 200 MP OIS Ultra-Clear Camera preserves every detail with confidence. Equipped with a flagship-grade large sensor and advanced stabilization, it delivers sharp, stable images from day to night. With up to 30x zoom supported by Telephoto Enhancement, users can zoom in on distant landmarks, travel portraits, or group moments while maintaining crisp detail and the freedom to crop without compromising clarity.

 

The V70 FE also elevates everyday shooting across both rear and front cameras. A 32 MP HD Selfie Camera with a wider 90° field of view captures brighter, clearer selfies and group shots, making it easy to fit more friends and family naturally into the frame during travel, gatherings, or video calls. Meanwhile, 4K Stable Video on Front and Rear Cameras ensures special moments can be captured in vivid detail, allowing users to create high-quality content ready for social sharing anytime.

 

Enhancing the overall imaging experience is a suite of new AI Imaging Features designed to make travel photography more expressive and effortless. At the forefront is AI Magic Landscape, which introduces signature Snow Town and Aurora effects, transforming ordinary scenes into striking seasonal and night-sky visuals when suitable conditions are detected. Beyond scene enhancement, a range of intelligent editing tools further expands creative possibilities. AI Retouch quickly refines discarded shots into polished photos in seconds, while AI Erase 3.0 removes passersby or unwanted objects with both automatic detection and manual precision. AI UHD restores clarity to low-resolution or older images by intelligently upscaling them into high-definition detail. Together with AI Magic Weather, these AI imaging features allow users to refine, restore, and reimagine photos directly on the device, turning everyday captures into share-ready visuals with ease.

 

Trendy, High-Quality Design That Stands Out

The V70 FE presents a design language that reflects contemporary style and refined craftsmanship. Available in Ocean Blue, and Titanium Silver, the device introduces a fresh, expressive colour palette suited to different settings and personal styles. At the centre of its visual identity is the distinctive Dynamic Ring Design, creating a clean and precise focal point around the camera module with a modern, minimalist aesthetic. A 7.59 mm Ultra-Thin Flat Screen enhances elegance and visual continuity, while the 1.86 mm Extremely Narrow Bezels deliver a more immersive and visually balanced viewing experience. Together, these elements create a refined look from every angle while ensuring comfortable everyday handling.

 

Smooth Power and Performance from Day to Night

Supporting its imaging and design is performance built for continuous use. The V70 FE features a 7000 mAh BlueVolt Battery with 90W FlashCharge, delivering dependable endurance and rapid power recovery to keep pace with busy travel and social schedules. Intelligent power management, including Super Battery Saver, helps maintain connectivity even at low battery levels, while long-term battery optimization ensures durability across years of daily use. A vivid 1.5K Infinity AMOLED Display brings photos and videos to life with rich, natural-looking colours and smooth visuals. Whether reviewing travel shots or watching content on the go, every frame appears bright, clear, and immersive throughout the day. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo built on a flagship-class 4nm process, the device ensures responsive performance across photography, gaming, and multitasking. With IP68 & IP69 Top-Rated Dust and Water Resistance, the V70 FE is built to perform reliably across diverse environments.

 

A Smarter, More Seamless Everyday Experience

Running on OriginOS, the V70 FE delivers a refined and intuitive system experience designed for both creativity and everyday efficiency. Features such as Origin Island and the Origin Smooth Engine enhance responsiveness and overall system fluidity, ensuring smooth interactions across daily use. For privacy and long-term peace of mind, Private Space offers an added layer of protection for personal content. Meanwhile, vivo Office Kit strengthens cross-device connectivity and productivity, making it easier to manage work and daily tasks seamlessly across different scenarios.

 

Price & Availability

The vivo V70 FE will be available nationwide in two premium variants: 8GB + 256GB priced at Rs. 124,999 and 12GB + 256GB priced at Rs. 139,999. Customers can pre-order the device from 28^th April 2026, with official sales commencing from 5^th May 2026 across Pakistan. vivo ensures complete peace of mind with comprehensive after-sales support, including a one-year warranty, a 15-day free replacement policy, and a 6-month warranty for accessories. The V70 FE is officially approved by the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) and is fully compatible with all mobile networks in Pakistan. As an added benefit, Zong 4G users can enjoy 12GB of free mobile internet by inserting their SIM card into Slot 1, including 2GB per month for 6 months.

 

For more details, visit the official product page: https://www.vivo.com/pk/products/v70-fe

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Fraud Gang Busted for Selling Substandard Goods Under Fake OPAS Turkish Brand

Scammers Accused of Using Counterfeit OPAS Logo to Market Low-Quality Products

A gang of fraudsters is active. The fraudulent company allegedly sold substandard products by registering a fake logo of the Turkish multinational company OPAS

Karachi (TagPakistan Desk -  27 April 2026) - According to details, Lahore-based counterfeit company Blue Tech allegedly registered the logo of Turkey’s well-known multinational brand “OPAS” and falsely declared itself as the authentic representative of OPAS, even though the Turkish company Opas is the only real and authorized distributor of OPAS products in Pakistan.

The fraudulent company also allegedly attempted to blackmail and demand money from AT Electricals, the official distributor selling genuine OPAS products in Pakistan, by using the illegally registered fake logo.

In this regard, the fraudulent company also filed a complaint against AT Electricals, the legitimate distributor of the Turkish multinational company OPAS.

Following this, an inquiry was held at the office of AT Electrical, the sole authorized distributor of OPAS in Karachi.

However, the owner of the company, Tanzeem Taj, produced all legal documents, registration records, and power of attorney, fully proving the company’s legitimate status.

On the other hand, the Turkish company OPAS has also come out in support of its official distributor AT Electricals. In a clarification letter, OPAS has confirmed that AT Electricals has been its official and sole representative in Pakistan since 2016.

According to the Turkish company, its brand identity was misused, and the counterfeit company allegedly imported low-quality Chinese products under fake branding, manufactured counterfeit cam switches locally, and illegally used the OPAS logo and packaging. As a result, the substandard counterfeit products were introduced into the market under the name “OPAS,” damaging the brand’s reputation.

OPAS is currently working with IPO Pakistan, FIA, Sindh Police, and other relevant agencies to counter misinformation spread by the counterfeit entity Blue Tech Electric and to protect its intellectual property rights.

According to the Turkish company, all allegations circulating on electronic and social media—claiming copyright infringement or misconduct by AT Electricals and Trading Company—are completely baseless, misleading, and contrary to facts.

The Turkish company has also clarified that the fraudulent company Blue Tech attempted to damage its brand through fake registrations and that it has no business relationship with OPAS and was never authorized to use the OPAS trademark in any form.

OPAS has also submitted complaints to several institutions, including the Turkish Consulate in Karachi and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and has demanded strict action against those involved in selling counterfeit products.

The alleged counterfeit OPAS products have reportedly started disappearing rapidly from the market, while relevant agencies continue their investigations. The Turkish company has also urged for action against the owner of the counterfeit company Blue Tech, Imran Sohail.

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Merchant Navy Under Dual Attack - by Syed Qalbe Muhammad

Merchant ships are under dual attack. First, seafarers and their families are still suffering and remain afraid due to the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Then the other trauma emerged: pirates from the world-famous piracy hub, Somalia, have raised their heads again. This development shows that the merchant navy has come under dual attack.

While global forces are busy resolving the shipping crisis, and especially the oil supply issue through the Strait of Hormuz, Somali pirates have taken advantage of the situation and restarted hijacking ships for ransom. As a result, both main hubs of sea traffic are disrupted again, and the world may face a deeper crisis of oil supply and shortages.

Somali pirates attacked M.T. Honour 25 on April 21, 2026. There were 11 Pakistani nationals onboard this ship along with an Indonesian captain. A few years ago, the IMO ruled out Somali piracy and no longer considered this area a High Risk Area (HRA). All previous allowances and extra precautions for transiting this area were suspended, and this region was treated as a normal sea passage like any other. But this attack has again caused panic in the shipping industry.

Seafarers are still afraid to travel through the Strait of Hormuz, and now Somalia, Djibouti, and Yemen are no longer in the safe zone. If the situation at sea remains out of control, piracy may get stronger in other African countries as well.

A few days ago, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, expressed concern for 20,000 seafarers in the Persian Gulf and is advancing a maritime evacuation framework built on coastal state cooperation. Yet another threat has now affected the industry.

I suggest that these problems be resolved by connecting all stakeholders of the industry and concerned states with immediate effect. For the time being, incentives for onboard crew members should also be increased to ensure the uninterrupted movement of the shipping industry. International pressure must always be built to ensure safe passage for seafarers.

Also read: TCS Welcomes New Boeing 737 Freighter at Karachi Airport

Until now, the Government of Pakistan has shown good efforts for peacekeeping, but no concrete steps have been taken to release Pakistani seamen from Somali pirates, which is the need of the hour. Previously, a few similar incidents occurred in Somalia involving the kidnapping of ships with Pakistani seamen onboard. Ansar Burney and former Governor of Sindh Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ibad negotiated with the pirates and paid extortion money, which is against international law. The government should take strong decisions to avoid these incidents in the near future.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry is popular as a workaholic minister, but a lot of effort is still required to build a strong shipping network in the country. If global problems and Somali piracy issues are not resolved, most seafarers may lose their jobs, and perhaps their lives as well.

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TCS Welcomes New Boeing 737 Freighter at Karachi Airport

New TCS Cargo Jet Aims to Open Trade Routes and Cut Transit Times

A new Boeing 737 freighter aircraft in bold red and white livery carrying the TCS logo arrived at Jinnah International Airport to an enthusiastic welcome, marking a major milestone for Pakistan’s cargo and logistics sector. The delivery flight was honored with a traditional water-gun salute on arrival.

The aircraft was received by Nadir Dar, Khalid Awan, senior regulatory officials, and members of the TCS management team. Branded with the tagline “Shaping New Trade Routes,” the dedicated cargo aircraft is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s freight infrastructure and support faster, more reliable cargo movement.

The freighter will serve high-volume, time-sensitive trade corridors, helping reduce transit times for exporters and importers while opening new commercial routes previously unavailable in the domestic market. Industry observers say the move could boost trade efficiency and enhance Pakistan’s role in regional logistics.

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PTCL & Ufone crowned ‘Effective Marketer of the Year’ in addition to 8 honors at Effie Awards 2026

Islamabad –  Pakistan’s leading telecommunication and digital services providers, PTCL & Ufone, emerged as the biggest winners at the prestigious Effie Awards Pakistan 2026, securing eight awards, including three Gold, two Silver, and three Bronze accolades.

PTCL & Ufone also received the coveted ‘Effective Marketer of the Year 2025–26’ title, awarded to the top-performing marketing organization across industries. Recognized globally as one of the most credible benchmarks of marketing effectiveness, the Effie Awards celebrate ideas that deliver measurable business results and are rigorously judged on strategy, execution, and impact. This recognition reinforces PTCL & Ufone’s leadership in creating campaigns that drive results while building strong connections with audiences nationwide.

A key highlight this year came in the Internet & Telecom category, where PTCL & Ufone secured both Gold and Silver awards. Ufone’s flagship “Data Bohhaaat Hai” campaign won Gold, while its “Babar’s Phone Lost” execution also earned Gold in Social Media (Services), along with Silver for its “Sohni Mahiwal” campaign.

Additional honors included Gold in Passion for Pakistan for “Hockey Hai Pakistan Ki Shaan,” Silver in Positive Change – Social Good (Brands) for “Dil Se Ba-Ikhtiar,” Bronze in Seasonal Marketing for UPaisa, Bronze in Brand Integration & Entertainment Partnership for Peshawar Zalmi x Ufone, and Bronze in Corporate Reputation for “Dil Se”- PTCL & Ufone Social Impact platform.

 
These achievements reflect PTCL & Ufone’s ability to combine creativity, cultural relevance, and purposeful storytelling to deliver meaningful outcomes. From humor-led digital engagement and modern storytelling to celebrating national pride, empowering women entrepreneurs, strengthening strategic partnerships, and advancing social inclusion, each campaign showcased the commitment by PTCL & Ufone in building a brand that create lasting value for customers and communities alike.

Spanning telecom services, digital platforms, sports, culture, and purpose-led initiatives, the wins demonstrate PTCL & Ufone’s holistic approach to marketing where commercial success and societal impact go hand in hand. 

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8 Years On, Infinite Ahead: BingX Launches $10M Prize Pool and Global Celebrations

Pakistan – BingX, a leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3-AI company, today officially launches its 8th anniversary celebration, unveiling its INFIN8 campaign under the theme '8 years on, infinite ahead'. 

At the heart of the INFIN8 campaign is the concept of infinity, symbolized by the continuous loop of a racing circuit and inspired by BingX’s partnership with Scuderia Ferrari HP. Much like the precision and momentum of motorsports, this reflects BingX’s commitment to constant motion, iteration, and boundary-breaking innovation. 

To mark the milestone, BingX has launched a large-scale trading event that invites its global community to join the celebration. Designed as a racing-inspired experience, the event features milestone-based rewards, individual and team competitions, and social engagement incentives. The campaign will run across a total of four sessions from April 27 to June 2. Traders can unlock rewards through progressive challenges, compete for up to $150,000 in individual prizes and $50,000 in team competitions, and share in a total prize pool of up to $10 million. 

As a part of the celebration, BingX is also bringing the experience offline through a series of events spanning the globe, including Bitcoin Pizza Day festivities in Brazil, a large-scale meetup in Mexico City, and a gathering in Argentina. These gatherings reflect the spirit of “8 years on, infinite ahead,” turning milestones into moments that unite users beyond the platform.

Over the past eight years, every milestone at BingX has been part of a continuous cycle of progress: refining products, expanding access, and redefining what is possible in trading. From pioneering an “All in AI” strategy to expanding a unified ecosystem that bridges crypto and traditional finance, this momentum continues to propel the company forward, with each achievement powering the next leap toward an infinite future.

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PTCL & Ufone crowned ‘Effective Marketer of the Year’ in addition to 8 honors at Effie Awards 2026

Islamabad – Pakistan’s leading telecommunication and digital services providers, PTCL & Ufone, emerged as the biggest winners at the prestigious Effie Awards Pakistan 2026, securing eight awards, including three Gold, two Silver, and three Bronze accolades.

PTCL & Ufone also received the coveted ‘Effective Marketer of the Year 2025–26’ title, awarded to the top-performing marketing organization across industries. Recognized globally as one of the most credible benchmarks of marketing effectiveness, the Effie Awards celebrate ideas that deliver measurable business results and are rigorously judged on strategy, execution, and impact. This recognition reinforces PTCL & Ufone’s leadership in creating campaigns that drive results while building strong connections with audiences nationwide.

A key highlight this year came in the Internet & Telecom category, where PTCL & Ufone secured both Gold and Silver awards. Ufone’s flagship “Data Bohhaaat Hai” campaign won Gold, while its “Babar’s Phone Lost” execution also earned Gold in Social Media (Services), along with Silver for its “Sohni Mahiwal” campaign.

Additional honors included Gold in Passion for Pakistan for “Hockey Hai Pakistan Ki Shaan,” Silver in Positive Change – Social Good (Brands) for “Dil Se Ba-Ikhtiar,” Bronze in Seasonal Marketing for UPaisa, Bronze in Brand Integration & Entertainment Partnership for Peshawar Zalmi x Ufone, and Bronze in Corporate Reputation for “Dil Se”- PTCL & Ufone Social Impact platform. 

These achievements reflect PTCL & Ufone’s ability to combine creativity, cultural relevance, and purposeful storytelling to deliver meaningful outcomes. From humor-led digital engagement and modern storytelling to celebrating national pride, empowering women entrepreneurs, strengthening strategic partnerships, and advancing social inclusion, each campaign showcased the commitment by PTCL & Ufone in building a brand that create lasting value for customers and communities alike.

Spanning telecom services, digital platforms, sports, culture, and purpose-led initiatives, the wins demonstrate PTCL & Ufone’s holistic approach to marketing where commercial success and societal impact go hand in hand. 

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The Polymath of Chitral: Rehmat Aziz Khan’s Legacy in Letters and Logic

From World Records to Peace Prizes: Celebrating Pakistan’s Multitalented Scholar

Digitizing the Mother Tongue: How Rehmat Aziz Khan is Saving Underrepresented Languages

Rehmat Aziz Khan Chitrali stands as a rare bridge between ancient linguistic heritage and modern digital innovation. He is widely celebrated for setting a world record by inventing a multilingual text editor capable of handling 40 different languages on a single platform—an achievement that earned him an International Innovation Award from Germany. This breakthrough has been pivotal for digital linguistics, ensuring that regional and underrepresented tongues aren't left behind in the age of technology.

Beyond his technical brilliance, he is a literary giant dedicated to the preservation of the Khowar language. With more than ten books spanning poetry, research, and religious studies in languages like Khowar, Urdu, and English, his work (including titles like Kafiristan and Phuphookan Iqbal) serves as a foundational pillar for regional literature. His scholarly efforts have standardized and promoted Khowar, making it a recognized asset in Pakistan’s intellectual landscape.

His contributions to peace and culture have not gone unnoticed, as he holds the distinction of being the first Pakistani poet recognized as a Public Peace Prize laureate. His mantel is crowded with prestigious honors, including the Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan Gold Medal and the Khowar Adab Award 2024. As a member of the Academy of Letters Pakistan, Rehmat Aziz Khan remains a "real Pakistani hero" whose life’s work continues to foster cultural harmony and intellectual progress.

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Meezan Bank Monthly Card Spend Crosses Rs45bn as Digital Payments Gain Momentum

Karachi - Meezan Bank has reported that its monthly card spend has exceeded Rs45 billion, signalling a significant shift in consumer payment behaviour and reinforcing the rapid growth of Pakistan’s digital payments ecosystem.

 

The milestone comes amid a broader transition toward cashless transactions, with increasing adoption of cards, mobile applications and QR-based payments across the country.

 

 Banking industry data suggests that consumers are steadily moving away from cash, driven by convenience, security and expanding acceptance of digital payment channels.

 

According to the State Bank of Pakistan, digital retail transactions in the country have reached 3.1 billion in a single quarter, with a cumulative value of Rs64 trillion. The central bank’s instant payment system, Raast, recorded 645.7 million transactions amounting to Rs18.5 trillion, while the total number of payment cards in circulation has risen to 66.7 million.

 

Within this expanding landscape, Meezan Bank’s latest figures highlight the growing role of Islamic banking institutions in advancing digital financial services.

 

Industry observers note that Shariah-compliant banks are increasingly investing in technology-driven solutions, positioning themselves competitively alongside conventional banking channels.

 

The rise in card usage reflects evolving spending patterns, with consumers using cards for retail purchases, dining, travel, e-commerce and day-to-day transactions.

 

 Meezan Bank official said that this behavioural shift is being supported by improved payment infrastructure, wider merchant acceptance and enhanced security features.

 

Meezan Bank attributed its growth to continued investment in secure payment systems and customer experience.

 

These include advanced fraud monitoring, stronger authentication protocols and tokenised payment solutions, aimed at ensuring safer transactions across both local and international platforms.

 

Meezan Bank official said that sustained growth in digital payments can deliver broader economic benefits, including improved documentation of financial activity, reduced reliance on cash handling and greater formalisation of the retail economy.

 

It may also support financial inclusion by enabling easier access to banking services for previously underserved segments.

 

With regulatory backing and ongoing initiatives such as Raast and merchant digitisation, Pakistan’s shift toward a cashless economy appears to be gaining pace. Meezan Bank’s Rs45 billion monthly card spend milestone is being seen as a reflection of this transition, underlining the increasing trust of consumers in digital financial services and the sector’s role in shaping a more connected and transparent economy.

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