Epaper_24-12-23 ISB by Pakistan Today

g MEETING TO TAKE PLACE

Advisor to Prime Minister on Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik on Sunday emphasized that Imran Khan s release will not be part of the agenda in ongoing talks with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Malik stated that it would be impossible for someone to first call for civil disobedience and then expect relief following the events of May 9 He affirmed that the judicial system will follow its own course and there will

Malik further

tions

the terms of reference (TOR) are clearly defined Meanwhile Bilal Azhar Kayani Chairman of the National Parliamentary Task Force for Development Goals expressed openness to talks with any political party including PTI on pressing national issues Kayani stated that the government is always ready to engage in discussions aimed at eliminating terrorism and achieving

proceed

cies (LEAs), remains steadfast in its determination to eliminate terrorism and extremism in all its forms ensuring the restoration of lasting peace and stability across the country, Insha Allah , the ISPR said The Army Chief highlighted that the courage, resilience, and unyielding determination of Pakistan’s armed forces are the cornerstone of the nation s sovereignty He described the soldiers of the Armed Forces and LEAs as the true heroes of the nation, whose bravery and selfless dedication inspire the entire country

and unyielding determination” of the armed forces and commended their unwavering resilience and steadfastness in the face of terrorism , the ISPR said Interacting with officers and troops, the COAS commended their unwavering resilience and steadfastness in the

of terrorism reaffirming the nation s pride in their sacrifices He emphasized that the martyrs (Shuhada) are the pride of Pakistan, and their sacrifices will never be forgotten

“With the resolute support of the nation the Pakistan Army in collaboration with law enforcement agen-

Earlier upon his arrival in Wana the COAS was received by the the Corps Commander Peshawar Earlier this month, a total of 43 terrorists 18 in KP and 25 in Balochistan were killed by security forces during extensive operations conducted in the provinces since Dec 9 causing a major setback to the TTP and other

PAKISTAN SHELVES FLOATING SOL AR PROJECT

WAPDA signs institutional reforms study under WB’s IARC projec t

The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) has entered into a Rs1 14 billion Institutional Assessment and Reforms Consultancy (IARC) contract with a consortium of international and local firms The consortium includes France-based Ginger Sofreco Uruguay’s GME and Pakistan’s Warm Waters Advisory IARC is a World Bank-funded project having total value of Rs1 14 billion The IARC endeavour is designed to thoroughly evaluate WAPDA’s organisational structures, functions and resources

The contract is meant to embrace international standards optimisingn WAPDA s operational framework and fostering sustainable development

The signing ceremony, held under the chairmanship of WAPDA Chairman Lt Gen (Retd) Sajjad Ghani was attended by senior officials from the authority and representatives of the consultancy firms Speaking on the occasion,

General Manager (Hydro) Planning Dr Khawar Munir highlighted the project s importance This reforms study is not just a project; it is a commitment to embrace innovation, modernize operations, and ensure sustainable development through strong institutional reforms Munir stated

The IARC project is designed to evaluate WAPDA s organisational structures, operational functions, and resource utilisation This in-depth assessment will identify the organisation s strengths and areas requiring improvement paving the way for enhanced efficiency and effectiveness

The project also signifies

WAPDA’s intent to align with global best practices By adopting insights from the IARC study the authority aims to streamline its operations and reinforce its role in Pakistan s energy and water management sectors The project aims to ensure long-term sustainability by improving governance and operational mechanisms By committing to institutional reforms through the World Bankfunded initiative, Wapda is taking a vital step

Lord Qurban calls on DPM/FM Dar

Lord Qurban Hussain a British Pakistani political leader of Kashmiri origin on Saturday called on Deputy Prime Minister/ Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar They discussed Pakistan-UK relations and issues pertaining to Pakistani diaspora in the United Kingdom, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister said in a press release The DPM/FM appreciated Lord Hussain’s support in the UK parliament for the rights and freedom of the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and for their right to self-determination The DPM/ FM highlighted the Government s initiatives for the economic growth and development in Azad Jammu and Kashmir

NPC organises free health fair for journalists

ISLAMABAD

s tA f f r e p o r t

The National Press Club (NPC) on Saturday, organized a free medical camp for journalists and their families, in collaboration with the Rawalpindi Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ) and the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) The event provided free medical check-ups tests and medicines to attendees courtesy of specialist doctors from various fields Some notable names included Major General (retd) Dr Ashwar Khan, Dr Abdul Qayoom Awan, and Dr Zahida were also present Key officials from the NPC, RIUJ and PFUJ played a significant role in organizing the event This initiative demonstrates the NPC s commitment to promoting the health and well-being of journalists and their families

LAHORE

s tA f f r e p o r t Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz launched phaseII of the largest-ever scholarship program in the history of Pakistan: Chief Minister Honhar Scholarship Program, under which educational expenses of 30,000 students annually and 120,000 students in next four years will be paid by the provincial government Maryam Nawaz noted while attending the Honhar Scholarship ceremony at one of the renowned educational institutions of Islamabad: FAST National University of Computer and Engineering Science Students of 65 universities 12 medical and dental colleges, and 359 colleges in Punjab are receiving Chief Minister Honhar Scholarships

The chief minister highlighted, “The first ceremony of the Honahar Scholarship Program was held at the

Inflation rate at lowest level in six years: Bilal K ayani

Convener Parliamentary Task Force on SDGs, Bilal Azhar Kayani has said the country is fast moving towards improvement at the economic front and the rate of inflation has come down to the lowest level in the last six years

He said the PTI always unveiled the plaques only and made claims that the country was moving towards improvement

He said that the Punjab chief minister was launching project every other day, adding that Maryam Nawaz did outstanding work in the health

Any decision on

sector He said the government that continued from 2018 to 2022 caused a lot of damage to the country He said that on the economic front the country was moving towards improvement while the policy rate had been significantly reduced He said the inflation rate had decreased to the lowest level in the last six years The journey of economic improvement and the war against terrorism would be continued he added Bilal Kayani said that Nawaz Sharif had started motorway projects for development of the country as infrastructure was the basis of the country s development He said work had started on Jhelum Road; the project would be completed by 2025, while work would now could be seen on 128 kilometres of the road He condemned the terrorist incident in South Waziristan saying that the government and the military leadership were determined to uproot terrorism

disobedience rests with par ty ’s founder: Yousafzai

University of Punjab in which scholarships were awarded to 2,473 students, whereas in the 2nd ceremony held at FAST University Islamabad, scholarships will be distributed among a total of 2,570 students of Rawalpindi Division ”

She said “Under this Scholarship Program talented students can pursue higher education from the best institutions without worrying about their financial situation She added Punjab government is responsible for paying 100% of the educational expenses of successful students under the Program

She said, “Students of 68 subjects/disciplines will be able to meet their educational expenses in the form of scholarships under the Program “She added Students under the age of 22 with a domicile of Punjab will be eligible for the Honhar Scholarship

She highlighted, Monthly income of parents of the eligible student should be less than Rs300,000 per

month

The Punjab CM said, In order to ensure transparency in the Scholarship Program, all applications were received and processed through an online portal ” She added “In addition to the committee of each educational institution the scrutiny process was also carried out by a provincial-level committee and the entire process was supervised by a steering committee chaired by the Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb

She said, “Under the Honahar Scholarship Program, 1886 students of UET Lahore were awarded scholarships ” She added ”1660 scholarships are for the students of public sector universities while 637 scholarships are for the students of federal universities which will be distributed among the students of private sector universities

Lord Qurban calls on DPM/FM Dar

NPC organises free health fair for journalists

ISLAMABAD

S ta f f R e p o R t

LAHORE

S ta f f R

p o R t Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz launched phaseII of the largest-ever scholarship program in the history of Pakistan: Chief Minister Honhar Scholarship Program, under which educational expenses of 30,000 students annually and 120,000 students in next four years will be paid by the provincial government Maryam Nawaz noted while attending the Honhar Scholarship ceremony at one of the renowned educational institutions of Islamabad: FAST National University of Computer and Engineering Science Students of 65 universities 12 medical and dental colleges, and 359 colleges in Punjab are receiving Chief Minister Honhar Scholarships

The chief minister highlighted, “The first ceremony of the Honahar Scholarship Program was held at the

Inflation rate at lowest level in six years: Bilal K ayani

He said the PTI always unveiled the plaques only and made claims that the country was moving towards improvement

Addressing a press conference, Kayani said reforms in the FBR and other measures were underway and this journey of economic improvement of the country would continue He said the federal government and the Punjab government were continuing their journey of public service He said that the Punjab chief minister was launching project every other day, adding that Maryam Nawaz did outstanding work in the health

Any decision

Bilal Kayani said that Nawaz Sharif had started motorway projects for development of the country as infrastructure was the basis of the country s development He said work had started on Jhelum Road; the project would be completed by 2025, while work would now could be seen on 128 kilometres of the road He condemned the terrorist incident in South Waziristan saying that the government and the military leadership were determined to uproot terrorism

on civil disobedience rests with par ty ’s founder: Yousafzai

She highlighted, Monthly income of parents of the eligible student should be less than Rs300,000 per

month

Defending the dollar

HDedicated to the legac y of

Hameed Nizami Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

M A Niazi Editor Pakistan Today Babar Nizami Editor Profit

under the rug Instead there needs to be an open acknowledgment of

THE plight of the stranded Pakistani Bihari community in Bangladesh is a tragic chapter of South Asia s history that remains unresolved These forgotten people living in appalling conditions across 66 shanty camps have endured decades of neglect political manipulation, and systemic discrimination While the international community, including organizations like the OIC, once provided support, efforts have stagnated, leaving over 500,000 stateless individuals trapped in ghettos Their history rooted in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War continues to cast a long shadow and the lack of closure or empathy only deepens their suffering The Biharis, predominantly Urdu-speaking migrants from Bihar, West Bengal, and other regions of India, moved to East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh) following the partition of 1947 They identified themselves with the Pakistani state their cultural affinity aligning with West Pakistan During the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971 this alignment proved catastrophic Seen as collaborators of the Pakistani military during the atrocities of "Operation Searchlight" and other conflicts, many Biharis became embroiled in violence against Bengalis Their allegiance to Pakistan alienated them from the emerging independent state of Bangladesh Following the war Biharis faced severe retribution and ostracization The Bangladeshi government viewed them as enemies, while Pakistan whom the Biharis had supported turned its back on them Over half a million people were left stranded in a stateless limbo denied citizenship by both Pakistan and Bangladesh This betrayal cemented their fate as an isolated marginalized community unable to integrate fully into society In the aftermath of the war efforts were made to repatriate the Biharis to Pakistan However, these initiatives were short-lived A few flights in the early years brought some families to Pakistan, but the programme abruptly ended due to shifting political priorities Successive Pakistani governments failed to honor their moral obligation to the community that had unwaveringly stood by them Notably in 1988 Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif committed to repatriation efforts contingent on rais-

ing sufficient funds However like many promises before and after, this was never fulfilled Despite financial aid from entities like the World Muslim League, the repatriation of Biharis remains a distant dream Today these people remain trapped in ghettos victims of political apathy As Ben Whitaker s the Minorities Group Report highlighted in 1972 The Pakistanis certainly have a moral obligation to take at least all those Biharis whose loyalty to them in Bengal was the cause of their present predicament ” These words ring truer than ever today, as Pakistan’s silence persists in the face of this decades-old moral debt The current living conditions of Biharis in Bangladesh are appalling The ghettos scattered across Dhaka and 13 other districts are overcrowded unsanitary and devoid of basic amenities Generations of Biharis have grown up in these camps, trapped in a cycle of poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion These stateless individuals remain alienated from mainstream Bangladeshi society Many do not speak Bangla and their cultural and linguistic identity sets them apart As a result integration remains a formidable challenge While some younger generations have sought to adapt, the deep scars of historical animosity persist For many Bangladeshis, the Biharis are still viewed through the lens of the 1971 conflict The vulnerability of the Bihari community has also made them targets of exploitation Over the years these camps have become hubs for illegal activities including drug and human trafficking Most concerning, however, is the role of some vested quarters in leveraging the grievances of the Bihari community to sow discord in Bangladesh and the broader region Reports suggest that the vested interests have exploited the Bihari community’s marginalization to fuel radical ideologies and anti-state sentiments This manipulation has led to instances of violence targeting religious minorities, and contributed to regional instability The rise of extremist narratives within these communities is a consequence of decades of neglect, exploitation, and lack of opportunities for rehabilitation The issue of the stranded Pakistanis in Bangladesh demands an empathetic informed response Healing cannot come through ignoring uncomfortable truths or sweeping historical betrayals

Addressing the plight of the Biharis is not simply a matter of historical accountability it is about restoring dignity to marginalized people and ensuring that the lessons of the past guide us toward a more compassionate, just future. The time to act is now, before the

The Impact of Technology on Education

make digital devices affordable for students

IN our rapidly changing world, technology plays a crucial role in transforming education It is altering not only the methods teachers employ but also the ways in which students absorb information Furthermore technology is creating new opportunities while tackling persistent issues within the educational landscape In Pakistan, the integration of

tools, online classes, and educational applications has

improvements

for

adaptable and

Visualize a

whiteboards take the

boards, and students

the

where

ware and e-books instead of cumbersome printed materials This trend is

ually in many Pakistani institutions Digital learning resources have

ized

approaches allowing

and participatory

learning platforms has

that

The number of

offering a

array of

in-person teaching These platforms enable learners to progress at their own pace and revisit challenging topics whenever necessary The engaging and visual characteristics of these tools not only capture students interest but also enhance their comprehension of the subject matter In remote or marginalized areas, where access to quality education has historically been limited digital solutions are making a significant impact Initiatives like Digital Pakistan strive to close the education gap by providing internet connectivity and digital devices to students, fostering a more inclusive and fair learning environment

The covid-19 pandemic marked a pivotal moment for education globally and specifically in Pakistan As schools and universities temporarily closed online classes became the standard, allowing students to continue their education without disruption Platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Classroom emerged as vital resources for both educators and learners Online education offers a degree of flexibility that traditional classrooms cannot provide Students can attend lectures from their homes

access recorded classes whenever they wish, and engage in discussions through virtual platforms This flexibility is especially advantageous for learners with additional commitments such as part-time employment or family responsibilities The transition to online learning has also encouraged innovative teaching strategies Flipped classrooms, where students watch lecture videos at home and participate in interactive sessions during class, have become increasingly popular This method promotes active learning and critical analysis motivating students to take ownership of their educational journey In addition online education has granted Pakistani students the opportunity to enroll in courses and connect with instructors from prestigious universities worldwide, broadening their horizons and exposing them to high-quality materials With the expanding use of smartphones and mobile internet educational applications have gained traction as valuable learning tools These applications cater to various educational needs and personalize the learning experience In Pakistan, apps like Sabaq, Edkasa, and Noon Academy have become widely adopted These applications provide interactive lessons practice quizzes and instant feedback making the learning process enjoyable and efficient Elements of gamification, such as rewards and leaderboards, encourage students to remain involved and accomplish their learning objectives Educational applications also serve as useful resources for parents and teachers Parents can track their children s progress and offer additional support when required while educators can utilize these apps to assign homework conduct assessments, and customize their teaching based on individual student requirements While technology offers many advantages in education there are challenges that must be tackled to ensure its effective and widespread implementation A significant issue is the digital divide which denotes the disparity between individuals who have access to technology and those who lack it In Pakistan, this disparity is especially evident in rural and underprivileged regions, where internet connectivity and access to digital devices are scarce To close this divide collaboration between the government and the private sector is essential to improve infrastructure enhance internet connectivity and

One of the urgent challenges in Pakistan is to guide the youth towards the positive and educational uses of the internet The digital era presents vast opportunities for learning and skill acquisition yet many young individuals are unaware of how to tap into this potential effectively Distractions from social media, misinformation, and unproductive usage often overshadow the educational advantages of the internet To counter this digital literacy programs are needed to instruct students on how to access reliable resources utilize online learning platforms, and develop marketable skills Schools, parents, and policymakers must work together to offer training sessions, promote awareness initiatives and establish secure online environments ensuring that the internet serves as a tool for empowerment and advancement rather than as a distraction Another significant challenge is the training of teachers Although digital tools can enhance teaching, their success depends on how well educators can incorporate these tools into their teaching strategies Professional development initiatives that focus on digital pedagogy and the use of technology in the classroom are vital for empowering teachers and optimizing the benefits of digital learning

The incorporation of technology in education has undeniably changed the learning experience for Pakistani youth Digital learning resources online classes and educational applications have rendered education more accessible engaging and tailored to individual needs

As Pakistan continues to adopt technological advancements, addressing challenges such as digital literacy, infrastructure, and teacher training is fundamental to ensure that every student can reap the benefits of these innovations By leveraging technology Pakistan can realize the full potential of its youth preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century The prospects for education in Pakistan are promising, and technology will be crucial in shaping its future With ongoing investment and innovation the country can establish an inclusive and vibrant educational environment that enables every student to thrive

The writer is Director Institute of Humanities and Arts Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology, Rahim Yar Khan

Rethinking per formance appraisals

and contributions

employee throughout the year Instead of fostering a growth mindset the APA technique has inadvertently encouraged a fixed mindset where empl-oyees feel pigeonholed by their ratings The competitive environment fostered by APA hinders teamwork and collaboration, and, instead, pits employees against one another for promotions and perks

Moreover, it discourages knowledge-sharing and mutual support, breeds stress, anxiety and resentment, and affects employee’s morale Besides employees often experience performance-related pressure affecting their mental health especially as they come closer to the evaluation period

The organisations should understand the limitations of the APA technique and explore alternative approaches like the Continuous Performance Management (CPM) technique, which emphasises regular feedback and an open commun-ication environment, allowing employees to receive guidance and recognition in real time Finally, the CPM approach fosters a culture of collaboration encourages professional growth and ultimately leads to enhanced organisational performance BISHARAT ALI KUNBHAR KARACHI

Neglected futures

BALNIGWAR is a town in Balochistan s Kech district that has been facing a serious education crisis The lone high school, now upgraded to a higher

Dr MuHAMMAD AnwAr FArooq

Transforming Learning for Pakistani Youth

The AI Paradox

Academic Integrit y and the Future of Education

TOverall, the culture of producing and submitting AIgenerated assignments is a complex matter and we all are in the midst of a change with less preparation. By focusing on the importance of emerging technologies, education, and relevant policies, teachers can ensure that academic institutions maintain their position as places where integrity, authenticity, and creativity prevail

the originality of assignments

don’t have access to plagiarism-detecting software resulting in the marking of plagiarized assignments

Besides technical aspects the trust between teachers and students is very important This trust is eroded when students make it a continuous practice to submit plagiarized content In this case teachers will require more time to check plagiarism than concentrating on their role as instructors and mentors This will result in an ineffective learning environment in the classroom and may weaken student-teacher relationships

The use of AI-generated content in universities also reflects a social issue related to basic ethical standards If there is no policy to stop students from submitting AIgenerated content it may set a pattern that may range beyond academic to professional life The future requires humans who are critical thinkers, creative problem solvers, and effective communicators Students are not learning these important skills because of their reliance on AI tools This will affect their efficiency and overall work environment

The constant use of AI in academia resulted in important concerns regarding technological ethics It is a need of the time for universities to devise clear guidelines and policies to protect societal values regarding authenticity Academic policymakers need to indulge themselves in the formulation of policies to balance the use of AI with academic integrity

Academic institutions and faculty can adopt several strategies to address the issue of plagiarized assignments Workshops or seminars regarding academic honesty and

Af ter Syria, Israel and the US fear Tehran will build an atomic bomb. Their threats may produce that ver y outcome

the effects of plagiarism are necessary, where students can be educated about the importance of originality In-class assignments discussions and oral presentations should be part of the semester rundown to evaluate students in real time This approach will also help teachers in maintaining academic integrity Teachers may design assignment questions in a way that can encourage students towards brainstorming and creativity Such assignments may include project-based learning feedback methods and peer reviews that focus on authenticity and efforts more than meeting the deadline As Artificial Intelligence is evolving with each passing day, it is important to go ahead of the curve regarding the detection and prevention of plagiarized content The plan of OpenAI to add watermarks in AIgenerated content will definitely enhance the detection strategies This option will attach statistical designs behind the choice of words and punctuation, and this will make it more convenient to identify AI-generated

content Still, continuous development in algorithms regarding AI content is needed to tackle the pace of complexity of AI-generated content The use of AI in academia may demand broader reforms in how we see teaching and learning This may include skills that cannot be automated easily, like critical thinking, empathy, and creativity With these skills, teachers can make students ready for a future where AI is expected to

Would Raj K apoor fit in new India? Probably not

If he made a film like 'Shri 420' today, he would have been c alled ‘anti-national ’

This year has normalised Israel-Iran conflic t Does Khamenei regard nuclear weapons as the way to ensure regime sur vival?

CIran’s elites, stunned by B ashar al-A ssad ’s fall, wonder if a similar fate awaits them. ‘Nobody could believe this’

Asked about war with Iran Trump says: Anything can happen

The air force is already preparing for the next great task, which may receive a tailwind from the new resident of the White House ” a senior Israeli military official told a recent briefing as reported by Haaretz New plans to attack nuclear facilities in Iran are being made under much more favourable conditions than in the past

There are more opportunities ” Such public threats may be bluff – but Khamenei cannot be sure Does he regard nuclear weapons as the best last way to ensure regime survival?

This month s revelation by UN inspectors of a dramatic acceleration in illicit Iranian production of near weapons-grade uranium suggests he might In response the UK France and Germany last week threatened to snap back the full range of sanctions lifted after the 2015 Iran nuclear deal Trump wrecked that deal – yet recently expressed interest in resuming talks Iran insists it wants a diplomatic solution and says claims of nuclear non-compliance are baseless Trump may restrain Netanyahu rather than risk another war – but then again he may not

It s an existential choice Either Iran copies North Korea, whose open pursuit of nuclear weapons has brought international ostracism and economic devastation Or it emulates Ukraine which surrendered its nukes in 1994 in return for security guarantees and threw in its lot with the west Some in Kyiv bitterly regret that decision, believing Russia would not have invaded had Ukraine been nuclear-armed Seen this way the choice facing Iran is fundamental broadly affecting its identity as a religious autocracy and future place in the world Khamenei, 85, may try to fudge the issue, but cannot do so indefinitely

Karim Sadjadpour noted In the past 15 years alone, Iran has experienced three major national uprisings – in 2009, 2019 and 2022 – that brought millions of citizens into the streets ” The elimination of independent power centres and the brutish loyalty of security forces have so far shielded the regime from Syrian-style coups, he wrote This may change Iran’s elites, stunned by Assad’s fall, wonder if a similar fate awaits them

“Nobody could believe this said foreign minister Abbas Araghchi betraying a comical lack of imagination Rising food costs, youth unemployment, anger over a spate of executions and human rights abuses, official corruption, power cuts and prospective fuel price increases are undetonated cluster bombs of popular discontent Iran s reform-minded president Masoud Pezeshkian, was so fearful of mass protests against a draconian new “chastity” law toughening hijab rules for women that he persuaded the national security council to suspend it last week The 2022 death in custody of Mahsa Amini a young woman accused of violating misogynistic dress codes, sparked regime-shaking demonstrations “Iran’s leaders believe Iran could be next in line after Syria not only as a target for foreign bombardment but as a locus of a civil coup that would draw its strength from the success of the rebels in Syria, wrote Israeli commentator Zvi Bar el Antony Blinken, US secretary of state, offered some free advice last week Iran is at a turning point he suggested One choice it could make and should make is to focus on trying to build a better more successful country that delivers for its people and to stop getting involved in adventures or misadventures throughout the region ” Sounds sensible – but Khamenei is not listening As long as he’s in charge Iran will continue to make wrong choices and internal and external pressure on the regime will continue to rise How ironic, and liberating, if the old tyrant’s myopic, mulish obstinacy were to spark a second Iranian revolution

His films were not bombastic, nationalism-spewing propaganda They told stories of the ordinar y citizen, one who had hopes in the new, post-independent India

Tis not known The ostensible purpose of this meeting was to inform him of the centenary of their patriarch Raj Kapoor, but it turned out that each of the attendees had nurtured a dream to meet him or to s i t n e x t t o h i m T h i s w a s t h e r e f o r e a d r e a m come true for all of them The manner in which the short video has been edited makes it clear who the real star in the room was Modi spoke of India s soft power and then r e c a l l e d h o w h e a l o n g w i t h t w o o t h e r J a n Sangh colleagues, had gone to see the film Phir Subah Hogi (1958), Ramesh Kaul s adaptation o f D o s t o e v s k y ’s C r i m e a n d P u n i s h m e n t A n d now that subah (morning) had come he beamed at the Kapoor descendants A n y o n e f a m i l i a r w i t h t h e f i l m w i l l r i g h t away notice the irony Phir Subah Hogi was a d e c i d e d l y l e f t - l e a n i n g f i l m , a c r i t i c a l l o o k a t post-independent India and its failures I cannot say how much of the film Modi recalls, but he would do well to see it again or at least listen to the songs S a h i r L u d h i a n v i w a s a t h i

dr ali Bhadur

TRUMP THREATENS TO RECL AIM CONTROL OF PANAMA CANAL

Lifeblood of a Nation: Pakistan, India, and Future of Indus Water Treaty

necessitate a rethinking of the treaty s provisions

Iran protests US arrest of nationals over technology expor t: local media

a grand artery that stretches over 3,000 kilometres from Tibet to the Arabian Sea, is far more than a geographical feature for Pakistan - it is the lifeblood of the nation Nourishing the fertile plains of Punjab and Sindh the river provides sustenance to millions irrigates farmlands and powers the country s fragile agrarian economy For decades the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) of 1960 brokered by the World Bank, has been the fragile diplomatic shield guarding this essential resource But with India s recent calls to rework the treaty, Pakistan now finds itself navigating an alarming water crisis that could deepen already fraught relations with its neighbour

The Indus Water Treaty: A Fragile Compromise Signed in 1960 the Indus Water Treaty is often hailed as one of the most successful water-sharing agreements in modern history, particularly because it has withstood three wars between Pakistan and India

Under the treaty, India was given control over the three eastern rivers - Ravi Beas and Sutlej - while Pakistan retained rights over the three western rivers - Indus Jhelum and Chenab India however was allowed limited use of the western rivers for agriculture, power generation, and non-consumptive uses, provided that it did not significantly alter the flow of water into Pakistan For Pakistan, the treaty was more than just an agreement; it was a lifeline The country’s agriculture depends almost entirely on the Indus River system

More than 90% of Pakistan s food production comes from irrigated land fed by these rivers With an economy and food security tied so intimately to these waters, any disruption - intentional or otherwise - could lead to a great deal of loss for the nation India’s Push to Rework the Treaty

In recent years India has increasingly voiced its dissatisfaction with the Indus Water Treaty Officials in New Delhi have argued that the treaty unfairly favours Pakistan, limiting India s ability to exploit its own natural resources The Indian government has also pointed to rising water needs due to its burgeoning population and the impact of climate change as factors that

More alarmingly water has increasingly become a tool in the wider political chess game between the two nations Following the 2016 Uri attack by militants in Indian- administered Kashmir – which India held Pakistan responsible for - India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi famously declared, “Blood and water cannot flow together ” This marked a significant shift in India s posture toward the treaty In the years since India has stepped up its construction of dams and hydropower projects on the western rivers which Pakistan holds violate the spirit, if not the letter, of the Indus Water Treaty By reworking the treaty, India aims to gain greater control over the Indus River system particularly for hydroelectric power projects in the disputed region of Kashmir The Kishanganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects in particular have been points of contention It is feared that these projects will allow India to manipulate water flows, potentially depriving Pakistan of vital water resources during critical agricultural seasons There has been a great push for this recently with Delhi calling for changes and reworking of the Indus Water Treaty earlier this year granting India greater freedom to use the water of the rivers and thus control the flow Pakistan’s Stance: Where Does the Current Lead? For Pakistan, any changes to the Indus Water Treaty represent a significant threat The country already faces severe water scarcity and its per capita water availability has dropped to alarming levels edging dangerously close to the threshold for absolute scarcity as defined by the United Nations Pakistan s population now over 250 million continues to grow further straining an already overburdened water system

The fear in Islamabad is that India’s increased control over the western rivers could give it the ability to effectively turn off Pakistan’s water tap either by diverting water during times of conflict or by strategically storing it during critical periods of Pakistan s growing season This fear is compounded by the fact that Pakistan has no alternative sources of water on a scale even remotely comparable to the Indus system Pakistan has consistently argued that any

known for its significance as a center of Shia clerical authority and religious seminaries has been the location of Mohammad Mehdi s religious studies for several years

According to Iranian media reports, Mohammad Mehdi has been in the country for several days

The Tabnak news agency stated that he

ance of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei His brother Mohammad Jawad confirmed on social media platform X that Mohammad Mehdi had adopted their father s turban The black turban symbolises completion of religious education in Shia tradition Mohammad Mehdi is the fourth of Nasrallah’s five children: Hadi, Zeinab Mohammad Jawad Mohammad Mehdi and Mohammad Ali Hassan Nasrallah who led Hezbollah was killed in an Israeli airstrike on September 27, alongside other Hezbollah leaders in Beirut s southern suburbs

His eldest son, Hadi, was killed in combat with Israeli forces in southern Lebanon in 1997 at the age of 18

MOIZ SOHAIL

PIA EXPANDS FLEET; EYES EUROPEAN OPERATIONS REVIVAL AMID PRIVATISATION EFFORTS

ISLAMABAD

R E P O R T In an age where regional integration hinges on effective connectivity, Pakistan’s strategic geographical position offers a vital gateway to landlocked Central Asian states a cost-effective and strategically advantageous trading partner for Pakistan Realizing the trade potential between these regions, however, requires overcoming policy, technical, and regional challenges through collaboration and visionary strategies

This was the central theme at the launch event for Bridging Horizons: Unraveling the Enigma of Connectivity between Pakistan and Central Asia, a book authored by Dr Faisal Javaid Dr Uzma Siraj and Prof Dr Arkadiusz Żukowski

Published by IPS Press – the publishing arm of the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), Islamabad, the book explores the historical, economic, and policy-driven dimensions of Pakistan-Central Asia relations offering actionable insights into challenges and opportunities for fostering stronger ties

The launch ceremony hosted at Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology (FUUAST), Islamabad, was addressed as chief guest by Ambassador (r) Riaz Hussain Bukhari Pakistan’s former envoy to Uzbekistan Prof Dr Ijaz Shafi Gilani chairman Gallup Pakistan, Khalid Rahman,

chairman IPS Ambassador (r) Syed Abrar Hussain vice chairman IPS Dr Ihtsham Ul Haq associate professor, FUUAST, Islamabad, and Dr Uzma Siraj, head IR Department, FUUAST The event attracted an audience of scholars diplomats policymakers and students reflecting the growing interest in PakistanCentral Asia relations

The speakers highlighted the critical role of regional trade, the enduring cultural and historical bonds and Pakistan’s strategic location as a potential linchpin for multidimensional connectivity

Emphasizing the book s central thesis, Dr Uzma Siraj underscored that connectivity is the cornerstone of regional integration, where Pakistan’s strategic location connects landlocked Central Asian states to global markets She noted that while the trade potential between Pakistan and Central Asian countries is immense, achieving this requires over-

coming a multitude of challenges In this context she added that the book presents actionable strategies to enhance connectivity, including exploring alternative routes In addition to exploring routes, it is important to ensure policy implementation and translate agreements into actions Ambassador Riaz Hussain noted It becomes urgent as Pakistan has signed over 255 bilateral and multilateral MoUs, protocols, and agreements with Central Asian countries since 1991 He projected that bilateral trade could grow to $4 billion with robust policies and investments

Adding to the economic dimension, Dr Ihtsham Ul Haq delved into the trade potential between Pakistan and Central Asia Citing the Gravity Model of International Trade he explained how Central Asia represents a cost-effective and strategically advantageous trading partner for Pakistan

ISLAMABAD S TA F F R E P O R T

Muhammad Amin Virk, Chairman of Fair Trade in Tobacco, expressed grave concerns during a media talk held in Islamabad about recent reports indicating the government s plans to increase excise taxes on tobacco products He highlighted that such measures would disproportionately harm tax-paying legal tobacco companies while incentivizing the growth of illicit trade "Instead of further burdening the already tax-compliant legal tobacco sector the government must focus on enforcing the existing tax regime on illicit cigarette manufacturers operating in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir," said Virk "These entities control 63% of the market but contributed a meager Rs 5 billion in taxes during FY2023-24 This blatant tax evasion undermines the national exchequer and incentivizes unlawful activities " Refuting claims made by foreign-funded local think tanks that

increasing excise taxes reduces smoking rates Virk stressed the contrary Raising taxes on taxcompliant brands does not discourage smoking; it drives consumers toward cheaper illicitly traded brands that defy all federal and provincial health and commercial laws These brands are sold below the Minimum Legal Price (MLP) and continue to dominate the market," he emphasized Virk revealed shocking figures: "Out of nearly 300 local tobacco brands only 15 pay taxes and adhere to Track and Trace System (TTS) requirements The remaining brands whether smuggled or illicitly produced, flout every local regulation, including taxation, pricing, and public health laws These entities are bleeding the nation's economy dry " He appealed to the government to prioritize implementing the current tax regime and ensure equitable taxation "The solution is not overburdening the tax-paying legal sector but holding tax evaders accountable Universal enforcement

of the TTS and strict regulation can potentially boost Pakistan s annual tax collection from Rs 300 billion to Rs 700 billion," Virk asserted Virk also called attention to the importance of the tobacco sector in agriculture "Tobacco is deeply integrated into Pakistan s agricultural ecosystem supporting thousands of farmers and workers The legal tobacco sector paid nearly Rs 300 billion in taxes last year Imagine the possibilities if all manufacturers paid their fair share " he concluded Virk called for the universal enforcement of the Track and Trace System across all tobacco manufacturers to ensure transparency and accountability He advocated for a rationalized excise tax policy that promotes equitable implementation across the sector preventing undue burden on tax-compliant businesses He highlighted the untapped economic potential of the tobacco industry, stressing that effective regulation and universal taxation could significantly enhance revenue collection without harming the legitimate players in the market

‘PRODUCT OF ESTABLISHMENT’ SEEKING POWER WITH US SUPPORT: KH ASIF

Kundi announces politic al, technic al committees as per APC decision

Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Sunday announced the formation of political and technical committees in line with the unanimous decision made at the All Parties Conference

The committees aim to promote harmony among political parties and address key issues in the province The notification, signed by Governor Kundi, reveals the establishment of an 11-member political committee and a 12-member technical committee

The political committee chaired by Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, includes the following members Federal Minister Engineer Amir Maqam Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz Sikandar Hayat Khan Sherpao Qaumi Watan Party Maulana Atta-ur-

Rehman Jamiat

Ulema-e-IslamFazl Mian Iftikhar Hussain Awami National Party, Syed Muhammad Ali Shah Bacha Pakistan Peoples Party, Mohsin Dawar National Democratic Movement Professor Muhammad Ibrahim Khan Jamaat-e-Islami Mahmood Khan Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Parliamentarian, Pervez Khattak Former Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Shaukat Ullah Khan Representative of merged districts This committee will work on enhancing cooperation between political parties and will make recommendations to reach a consensus on significant matters, fostering a unified political environment in the province

Additionally a 12-member technical committee has been established which will oversee the monitoring of developmental projects

and provide technical suggestions

The members of this committee include, Dr Ibadullah Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, Maulana Lutf-ur-Rehman Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl Ahmed Karim Kundi Pakistan Peoples Party Inayat Ullah Khan Jamaate-Islami Akhundzada Sikandar Zaman Qaumi Watan Party, Sangeen Khan (Awami National Party), Kifayat Ullah Khan National Democratic Movement, Malik Habib Noor Orakzai Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Parliamentarian Ghazan Jamal Merged Districts Akhundzada Chattaan Merged Districts, Hamaayat Ullah Khan Expert and Musharaf Rasool Expert

The technical committee will focus on advising on developmental issues and promoting cooperation between different parties on key technical matters

December 14 At least five migrants drowned after their wooden boat, carrying many Pakistanis, capsized off Greece’s southern island of Gavdos, the coastguard said, with witnesses saying many were still missing as search operations continued The number of Pakistanis killed in a Greek shipwreck rose to four on December 16 the Foreign Office said additionally confirming that there were 47 Pakistani survivors Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday directed authorities to take solid action against human trafficking and ordered the immediate implementation of the Integrated Border Management System (IBMS) to monitor international travellers The recurrence of such incidents is due to the sluggish actions against the people involved, he added Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the FIA booked four alleged human traffickers and reportedly detained two suspects from Sialkot and Gujrat According to an FIA press release issued today FIA Director General Ahmed Ishaq Jahangir ordered a crackdown against elements involved in the Greece boat accident The release stated that two suspects had been arrested and were identified as Saeed Ahmed and alleged human trafficker Mohammad Aslam “The suspect (Aslam) is an operative of an international gang involved in human smuggling ” the FIA alleged in the press release The suspect extorted Rs8 5 million from the victims According to the release Aslam allegedly sent people to Libya with the help of accomplices, before attempting to send them from Libya to Greece by boat “The suspect was arrested from Gujranwala using modern technology ” the FIA said in the release In a separate operation another alleged trafficker

ISLAMABAD S TA F F R E P O R T

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has decided not to issue birth, death, and marriage certificates to families who deny polio vaccination to their children The new policy introduced in a bid to enhance coverage in the ongoing polio eradication campaign

The provincial government has made it mandatory for individuals to receive polio drops before obtaining these vital documents

The decision comes as part of

the government s continued efforts to curb the spread of polio in the province The directive primarily targets areas around Peshawar and village councils to ensure that children in these regions are vaccinated against the disease A notification from the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Peshawar which was forwarded to the District Health Officer (DHO) and Medical Officer (MO), warns that any violations of this directive will result in disciplinary action

“This decision will ensure that every child is immunised and we

are taking all necessary steps to safeguard future generations from polio said a spokesperson from the health department Polio vaccination has been a long-standing issue in parts of Pakistan with the country still facing challenges in completely eradicating the virus The new measure is expected to incentivise compliance and improve vaccination rates

The policy is being closely watched by both local and international health organisations as a potential model to accelerate polio eradication in other regions of the country

RAWALPINDI

S TA F F R E P O R T

Funeral prayers for 16 personnel of armed forces who embraced martyrdom in exchange of firing against Khwarij terrorists at Makin (South Waziristan) was offered on Sunday at Bannu Garrison

The funeral prayer for a civil camera technician Waqas Ahmed R/O Jamurd who also included in the martyrs was also offered Corps commander Peshawar, senior serving military, civil Officials and large number of people

from the area attended the funeral said an Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release The martyred soldiers include Lance Naik Liaquat Ali Shaheed 30, resident of Kurram; Lance Naik Muhammad Ishaq Shaheed, 31, resident of Karak; Havildar Ayub Khan Shaheed 38 resident of Attock; Havildar Umar Hayat Shaheed resident of Kohat; Sepoy Mahbood Rehman Shaheed 26 resident of Tank district; Havildar Muhammad Hayat Shaheed, 37, resident of Bannu; Lance Naik Sher Muhammad Shaheed, 26, resident of Malakand; Sepoy Ehsanul Haque Shaheed 22 resident of Lower Dir; Sepoy Junaid Shaheed 25 resident of Khyber district; Lance Naik Hamid Ali Shaheed 29 resident of Swabi; Sepoy Kaleemullah Shaheed, 26, resident of Lakki Marwat; Havildar Tahir Mahmood Shaheed, 41 resident of Kohat; Lance Naik Musawwar Shaheen Shaheed 29 resident of Kohat; Sepoy Faiz Muhammad 22 resident of Mansehra; Sepoy Tayyab Ali Shaheed, 23, resident of Haripur district and Sepoy Junaid Shaheed, 26, resident of Shangla district