Salik says Madrassah Registration Bill delayed due to ‘legal complexities’
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, has acknowledged the longstanding need for the registration of Madrassah, but cited legal complexities as the reason for delays in finalising the Madrassah Registration Bill In a statement issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Hussain emphasised that the registration of Madrassah had been a requirement for many years, with consultations having taken place with religious scholars,
RAWALPINDI
S TA
Six soldiers embraced martyrdom and 22 terrorists were neutralised in three intelligence-based operations conducted in three districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa the military s media wing said on Saturday The Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), in a statement issued here, said the engagements took place on Friday and Saturday It said security forces foiled a terrorist attempt to attack a security post in Thall district and killed three Khwarij terrorists However, during the intense fire exchange, six brave sons of soil, having fought gallantly paid the ultimate sacrifice and embraced martyrdom the ISPR said The martyred soldier include: Sepoy Nizamuddin, Naib Subedar Muhammad Khaliq, Havaldar Jadid Ali and Lance Naiks Shaheedur Rehman Sifatullah and Wilayat Hussain In Tank district it said an intelligence-based operation (IBO) was conducted by security forces in the Gul Imam area, during which nine terrorists were sent to hell while six others were injured In another operation in North Waziristan district, ten terrorists were “successfully neutralised”, the ISPR said It added that sanitisation operations were being conducted to eliminate any other terrorists found in the area Security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers
RS25 BILLION OPERATIONAL COST HIKE
IN OIL SECTOR
TO mar Ayub files contempt plea in PHC against his arrest outside Adiala jail
PESHAWR s
Leader of the opposition in national Assembly Omar Ayub on Saturday filed a contempt of court petition in the Peshawar High Court (PHC) against his arrest by the Rawalpindi Police Ayub, in the petition, has named Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi the Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Attok District Police Officer (DPO) as respondents
According to the petition, Omar Ayub had been granted protective bail by the Peshawar High Court but despite the court’s order he was arrested from outside Adiala Jail The PTI leader claims that his detention was illegal and without justification, asserting that his constitutional rights were violated Ayub demands the high court to initiate contempt of court proceedings against the officials involved in his
arrest The development comes just days after Ayub, along with four other PTI leaders was arrested in connection with the attack on the GHQ attack case despite being on bail The Rawalpindi Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) had intervened, ordering the release of the PTI leaders and issuing contempt of court notices to five police officers involved
ICMA Pakistan, CCP collaborate to highlight competitive landscape
ISLAMABAD s ta f f r e p o r t
The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMA Pakistan), in collaboration with the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) organized a seminar titled Competitive Landscape in Pakistan on Friday December 6 2024 at the ICMA Pakistan Campus in Islamabad The event was attended by corporate finance leaders, costing and cost audit experts, CFOs, legal practitioners, representatives from regulatory bodies, and members of the general public The seminar aimed to raise awareness about competition law in Pakistan CCP Chairman Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu along with his team comprising Ahmed Qadir Dr Ikram-ul-Haq, Barrister Ambreen Abbassi, Marryum Pervaiz, Hafiz Naeem, Salman Zafar, Faiz-ur-Rehman, and Noman Ahmed, provided insights into the CCP’s role in curbing abusive trade practices prohibited agreements deceptive marketing mergers and acquisitions cartelization and promoting competition advocacy Chairman of ICMA Pakistan s Islamabad Branch Council (IBC), Mr Muhammad Imran, FCMA, highlighted ICMA Pakistan’s efforts in fostering a competitive market environment that benefits both consumers and businesses He emphasized the significance of cost audits and pricing frameworks developed in collaboration with the CCP Speakers from ICMA Pakistan, including Rizwan Arshad, Haider Abbass, and Muhammad Rizwan, also shared their perspectives on the importance of competition in enhancing economic efficiency ICMA Pakistan President Shehzad Ahmed Malik presented shields to the speakers and panelists as a token of appreciation The audience showed keen interest in the presentations, and the event concluded with a dynamic Q&A session
in the arrests The ATC expressed its displeasure over the illegal detention, stressing that the arrests were made despite the court’s clear instructions
The ATC Rawalpindi issued stern orders barring the arrest of any accused within a 500-meter radius of Adiala Jail in the future The judge also expressed frustration over the continuing violations of bail orders, highlighting that the law must be respected at all levels of the judiciary
On the same day Ayub along with PTI leaders Raja Basharat and Ahmed Chatta, was presented before the Rawalpindi Anti-Terrorism Court The PTI legal team, led by senior lawyer Babar Awan presented interim bail orders for Omar Ayub and Raja Basharat in the court The police presented Ayub Basharat, Chatta, Majid Daniyal, and Malik Azeem, but the court granted relief by accepting the bail documents
275 mar t yred in 636 terrorist attacks in KP this year: CTD
PESHAWAR s
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province has witnessed a harrowing toll of violence this year, with 275 individuals martyred and 460 others injured in 636 terrorist attacks according to a detailed report compiled by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police The report released by the CounterTerrorism Department (CTD) highlights the devastating impact of terrorism on both civilians and security personnel in the region Of the total number of martyrs, 142 were police officials, while 133 were civilians The report also recorded 214 police officers and 246 civilians among the injured The attacks carried out by banned organizations included six suicide bombings 113 IED blasts and 355 instances of gunfire across various parts of the province These incidents have added to the ongoing security challenges faced by the province, which continues to be a battleground for extremist groups In response to the growing wave of terror, the provincial government, along with the CTD has intensified efforts to combat the insurgents The CTD report states that 2 981 intelligencebased operations (IBOs) were conducted throughout the year, resulting in the deaths of 246 terrorists Additionally, 739 terrorists were arrested, 29 of whom were identified as high-profile targets Significant material recoveries were also made during these operations, including 849 kilograms of explosives 162 hand grenades seven suicide jackets and numerous firearms These seizures underscore the persistent threat posed by the insurgent networks operating within and around the province Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur recently addressed the media at the CTD headquarters in Peshawar, emphasizing the provincial government s ongoing efforts to curb terrorism "The law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has improved significantly under our government s administration Gandapur stated We have 16 active CTD stations across the province, and we are strengthening the prosecution process as well "
Punjab c abinet approves funds for Model Bazaars expansion
below notified rates The 13 new Model Bazaar spots are: Mandi Bahauddin, Okara, Narowal, Chiniot, Sharaqpur, Jhelum, Wazirabad, Khanewal, Muzaffargarh, Bhalwal, Pattoki, Jaranwala and Chunian
The chief minister also praised MNA Afzal Khokhar who is also chairman of the Punjab Model Bazaars Management Company (PMBMC) for his steadfast commitment to expanding this public welfare initiative Mr Khokhar, however, said PMBMC Chief Executive Officer Naveed Rafaqat Ahmad and his team made exceptional efforts to
the enhanced
Naveed Rafaqat Ahmad said he had briefed the Planning and Development (P&D) Board about the project s profile and ensuring the cabinet s approval He said his approach included the acquisition of state land at no cost, significantly reducing project expenses and enhancing the feasibility of constructing 13 new bazaars With an annual footfall exceeding 60 million customers, the PMBMC has become a benchmark for excellence in public service The expansion of Model Bazaars is expected to further enhance access to affordable goods create thousands of jobs and uplift
Punjab offers free solar installation to replace subsidy
TH E Punjab government is plugging away to find a solution to the power crisis Back in August, it cut Rs 45 billion from its annual development programme to give a Rs 14 per unit subsidy to consumers of less than 300 units Now it has come up with a CM Punjab Free Solar Panel Scheme offering to install free of charge solar panels to consumers of 200 units or less for whom 1100-Watt panels would be provided while consumers of 100 units would receive 550-Watt panels The first year of the scheme would benefit 100,000 consumers, compared to the 7 3 million consumers who benefited from the subsidy It may been pointed out to the CM that subsidizing the consumer actually meant money being paid to the Independent Power Producers in capacity which had been shorn off the Punjab Budget which meant that roads schools or hospitals would not be built It thus made more sense to put that money in solar generation so that the need for the subsidy could be eliminated If baseline consumers could convert to solar power, the federal government would be relieved of the subsidy it is paying for them It is assumed that the government will be picking up the cost of the green meter which even baseline consumers will prefer, as the Scheme does not specify who is to pick up the cost There will be an effort to avoid fraud, by linking the scheme to the consumer s ID card, and the kit to be provided will not generate more power than is already used However the inventiveness of people’s minds is unlimited and there will doubtless be frauds Then there is the case of those consumers who may not be able to apply for the scheme, because while they consume units below the threshold, the cumulative bill of several consumers is above it
However, the Punjab government is showing a commendable commitment to solar power it needs to beware that storage is presently inefficient which means that consumers remain WAPDA consumers
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stations if solarized would reduce the government’s burden considerably The distribution companies would go bankrupt but they would be paying the price of falling behind the technological curve
Dedicated to the legac y of late Hameed Nizami Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor
M A Niazi Editor Pakistan Today Babar Nizami Editor Profit
These monuments are far more than just structures; they are fragments of history frozen in time Cultural heritage, however, extends beyond architecture It pulses through the melodies of music, the rhythm of dance, and the depth of poetry The soulful verses of poets like Bulleh Shah and Shah Abdul Latif
Pakhtunkhwa offers soulful Pashto poetry and exemplifies resilience, while Balochistan boasts ancient craftsmanship and storytelling traditions Despite its value Pakistan s cultural heritage faces significant threats Urbanization has engulfed many historical sites while climate change and pollution have taken a toll on ancient landmarks Neglect and insufficient funding exacerbate these challenges, and many traditions are slowly fading as younger generations lose touch with their roots Protecting cultural heritage is not just a moral obligation; it is vital for national identity pride and even economic growth Heritage tourism is a
TH E growing influence of technology on modern life has sparked a transformation across the globe, yet the social and economic implications of these changes are far from uniform While the digital era has introduced remarkable conveniences it has also reshaped traditional structures bringing forth challenges that vary significantly by region In Pakistan, for instance, internet outages, digital censorship, and VPN issues have increasingly become points of contention, especially as authorities justify these measures under the guise of national security
This development underscores a more profound dilemma how far should governments go to regulate digital access in the name of security and at what cost to personal freedoms economic growth and societal progress?
Globally, the internet has revolutionized everything from education to commerce to social interaction In democratic societies where free access to information is seen as a fundamental right the imposition of restrictions or surveillance measures can quickly raise concerns The rise of social media and the ubiquity of digital communications have both democratized information and, paradoxically, made it easier for authoritarian regimes to control and monitor dissent In countries like Pakistan where security concerns are often cited internet censorship has become increasingly pervasive with recent months seeing significant outages linked to political unrest and social movements The most notable example is the government s decision to block platforms like X (formerly Twitter), which were used by political groups, raising alarms about the potential for long-term damage to Pakistan's digital landscape Pakistan s reliance on the internet for economic activity education and political discourse has made these disruptions particularly damaging The tech sector, for instance, has faced devastating financial losses According to the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), the recent internet issues and the implementation of a national firewall could cost the economy upwards of $300 million with more losses expected if the situation persists Such disruptions have also led to increased VPN usage as citizens
A path to economic growth and national unity
attract countless visitors Essential upgrades including better roads accommodations and guided tours would greatly enhance the tourism experience Promotion plays a crucial role in drawing global attention Pakistan must showcase its rich heritage through social media campaigns, documentaries and international cultural events Modern tools like virtual reality and digital archives can make these treasures accessible to a global audience Not only would this generate revenue, but it would also improve Pakistan s global image Cultural festivals offer another opportunity to foster unity and attract tourists Events like the Lok Virsa Mela celebrate Pakistan’s diversity and provide a platform for artisans and performers These festivals also bridge the gap between urban and rural communities Supporting local craftsmen is equally important These individuals preserve traditions through their artistry, and financial assistance or training can ensure their survival Exporting traditional crafts like carpets jewelry and pottery can also boost the economy while sharing Pakistan s stories with the world Education is a key element in preserving heritage Schools should integrate local history and culture into their curricula Field trips to historical sites and participation in traditional activities can instill pride and a sense of responsibility in younger generations Cultural heritage also promotes harmony transcending ethnic and linguistic barriers Folk music and dance are universal languages that unite people, while festivals create bonds that are stronger than differences Tourism, in turn, fosters international goodwill Visitors leave with lasting memories of Pakistan’s hospitality becoming ambassadors of its charm This soft power is invaluable for enhancing Pakistan s standing on the world stage Despite its immense potential, developing foreign tourism in Pakistan is a formidable challenge Concerns about safety, inadequate infrastructure and poorly maintained roads deter
and businesses seek ways to bypass restrictions However, this has been met with further government scrutiny including plans to regulate VPNs citing concerns over their role in facilitating circumvention of restrictions Beyond economic concerns these restrictions have raised serious questions about the right to digital freedom In many countries, especially authoritarian regimes like Iran and China, such digital controls have been part of a broader strategy to monitor citizens and suppress dissent While Pakistan has yet to officially adopt such extreme measures the emergence of a national firewall a strategy to filter and block online content indicates a potential shift toward stricter controls Although the government has denied implementing such a system, many experts believe these tactics are already in place, with social media platforms regularly targeted during periods of heightened political tension The growing use of VPNs to circumvent these measures reflects not only a demand for free information but also a growing resistance to authoritarian control What is concerning is the way these actions not only curtail political freedoms but also disrupt the everyday lives of ordinary citizens In Pakistan, the digital divide is widening with rural areas and lowerincome communities facing even greater challenges in accessing basic services including healthcare and education For the middle class the inability to
As countries like Pakistan grapple with the balance between security and digital freedom, it is crucial that they consider the long-term consequences of these decisions on their people , economies, and global standing. The rising tide of digital sur veillance and censorship may ver y well be one of the defining challeng es of the digital ag e , but its effects on human rights, freedom of expression, and economic growth cannot be ignored
travelers Airports often fail to meet global standards, and much of Pakistan’s beauty remains hidden from the world Overcoming these hurdles requires decisive action including enhanced security modernized infrastructure and strategic promotion Only then can Pakistan truly claim its place as a global tourist destination In 2022, the travel and tourism sector contributed 5 9 percent to Pakistan's GDP and generated 4 2 million jobs, as reported by the World Bank Group and the World Travel and Tourism Council Despite these figures the sector's potential remains underutilized considering the country s rich array of tourist destinations Visitor spending in Pakistan reached $16 billion in 2022, with projections indicating this could grow to $30 billion by 2033, signaling significant opportunities for future expansion in the tourism industry
Preserving cultural heritage is about more than safeguarding the past It is about honoring ancestors inspiring future generations and building a bridge to tomorrow By cherishing its cultural wealth, Pakistan can achieve not only economic progress but also social harmony Heritage is more than history; it is identity pride and limitless potential Pakistan’s cultural heritage is its most valuable asset Let us protect celebrate and share it with the world
The writer is Director of the Institute of Humanities and Arts, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology, Rahim Yar Khan
The writer is a freelance columnist
Preser ving cultural heritag e is about more than safeguarding the past It is about honoring ancestors, inspiring future g enerations, and building a bridg e to tomorrow By cherishing its cultural wealth, Pakistan can achieve not only economic progress but also social harmony Heritag e is more than histor y; it is identity, pride , and limitless potential. PakistanÊs cultural heritag e is its most valuable asset. Let us protect, celebrate , and share it with the world
Pillars of progress
dr MuhaMMad aNwar farooq
Popularity myth exploded
injuries on more than 200 of them
The Islamabad rally was a political mistake
TH E much hyped PTI campaign for release of Imran Khan and triggering a revolution for real independence through the participation of millions of people has proven to be only a confrontation between CM KPK Ali Amin Gandapur and the federal government He has twice marched on the capital bringing ten to fifteen armed individuals from KPK using official resources of the province which should not be a difficult task considering the fact that the province is being ruled by PTI He attacked the capital on the eve of the
SCO conference which fizzled out without achievement of declared goals though the protestors all from KPK damaged many properties and even killed two policemen during the confrontation between them and the law enforcing agencies The CM vanished from the venue and made his appearance two days later in the KPK assembly telling a bizarre story about his escape and return to the provincial capital In response to the final ‘do or die’ call by Imran Khan it was again CM KPK Ali Amin Gandapur who led the crowd of 10,000-15,000 gathered from KPK only armed with guns and tear gas shells to attack the capital None of the party leaders from other provinces and party supporters responded to the call of the leader whom the social media as well as certain sections of the mainstream media billed as the most popular leader in the country The lack of response from other provinces has adequately exploded the myth of Imran enjoying the back of the majority of the people throughout the country Before the protestors reached the Blue Area one of them ran a vehicle over Rangers personnel killing three of them and inuring many others They also killed one policeman on their way to D-Chowk besides inflicting
Before the march actually started some armchair gladiators and media analysts had started predicting development of a very alarming situation as a result of the ensuing confrontation One of the media stalwarts even went to the extent of saying that it could trigger a civil war in the country Their naivety was amazing in making such exaggerated predictions without bothering to check the ground realities regarding their make-belief and uncontrolled propensity to create commotion and despair within the society
Revolutions are spontaneous mass movements and not the marches on the state capital by 10 000-15 000 hired and coerced individuals Those who predicted a revolution are advised to study the history of American Revolution, French Revolution, Chinese communist revolution, communist revolution in USSR, Iranian revolution in 1979 and Arab Spring in the early 2010s
Any anodyne observer and student of politics would not deny the fact that Imran Khan has a considerable following in the country But that popularity is not to the extent of catapulting him in the position of a revolutionary The touchstone for judging the myth of his popularity were the by-elections on four seats in Punjab where the party lost by big margins including the daughter of Shah Mahmood Qureshi in Multan Further recounting in two national assembly constituencies also led to reversing the results that had announced victory of PTI-supported candidates It indicated the fact that the officials supervising the election in those constituencies might have played a dirty role in changing the actual vote count
precedented persecution against workers of the party To reinforce that claim the party is drumming up the propaganda of deaths of the PTO workers The figure started from 278 claimed by Lateef Khosa It came down to 25 and then 12 as stated by different leaders of the party In spite of insistence by the government to provide corroborative evidence, none has been given It tells how the party is trying to dish out fake news about the deaths of its workers without any concrete proof of its claims However an investigative report by Geo Fact Check confirms the death of only three individuals with gun shots But it is not clear whether they were hit by the bullets fired by the protestors or the law enforcing
a d e p rovo c a t i v e s p e e ch e s
ag a i n s t t h e fe d e r a t i o n a n d t h e A r my I a m a f r a i d t h ey a r e
s a d ly m i s t a k e n a b o u t t h e r e s o l v e o f t h e fe d e r a t i o n t o a l l ow
t h e r e p e a t o f a ny s u ch m i s h a p . T h e C M K P K a n d t h e p a r t y
n e e d s t o a d o p t a l e g a l c o u rs e fo r t h e r e l e a s e o f I m r a n K h a n .
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c u l t u r e t o r e s o l v e t h e c o n t e n t i o u s i s s u e s A ny a p p ro a ch t o
t h e c o n t r a r y w i l l h av e s e r i o u s c o n s e q u e n c e s fo r t h e p a r t y
The latest march on Islamabad was not only a political blunder but also a rebellion against the federation without the required support of the masses The response of the federation to defeat the self-styled revolutionaries was quite legitimate and justifiable because when the writ of the state is challenged the way it was it becomes incumbent upon it to restore its writ by all means Let us not forget that the Islamabad High Court had declared the march as illegal and instructed the government to take all possible measures to stop it
Now in the backdrop of the operation carried out by the federal government to flush out the violent mob from the Red Zone a sustained campaign has been unleashed by the social media warriors of the party as well as the party leaders dubbing the action as un-
N o n e o f t h e p a r t y l e a d e rs f ro m o t h e r p rov i n c e s a n d p a r t y
s u p p o r t e rs r e s p o n d e d t o t h e c a l l o f t h e l e a d e r w h o m t h e
s o c i a l m e d i a a s w e l l a s c e r t a i n s e c t i o n s o f t h e m a i n s t r e a m m e d i a b i l l e d a s t h e m o s t p
C a n T r u m p s p l i t C h i n a a n d R u s s i a ?
“TH E one thing you never want to happen is you never want Russia and China uniting I’m going to have to un-unite them and I think I can do that ” Donald Trump boasted in an interview with the political commentator Tucker Carlson in October On the campaign trail the president-elect said repeatedly that he would stop the war in Ukraine in 24 hours and that he would be much tougher on China than President Joe Biden has been Trump has never articulated exactly what his plan to un-unite these two countries is and based on his record he might simply devise one on the fly But early indications suggest that the coming administration might seek to damage the Chinese-Russian partnership by reducing tensions (and even improving ties) with Moscow in order to put pressure on Beijing something like the reverse of what Secretary of State Henry Kissinger orchestrated more than 50 years ago, when the United States pursued détente with China to exploit the Sino-Soviet split This school of thought seems to be popular with many people in the Trump universe including those who have been nominated to his national security team Michael Waltz for example a member of Congress whom Trump has tapped to serve as his national security adviser, advocated in The Economist for the United States to help wind down the war in Ukraine as soon as possible and then divert resources to countering the greater threat from the Chinese Communist Party In Beijing and Moscow, leaders are anticipating the interregnum of the next few weeks and the start of Trump’s new term with a mix of anxiety and schadenfreude
The Kremlin’s top priority is to navigate this period safely and avoid a major escalation with the United States over Ukraine before Trump moves into the White House Russian President Vladimir Putin hopes that Trump s presidency will result in a significant decrease in Western support for Kyiv if Moscow plays its cards well even if no formal termination of hostilities in Ukraine is reached Beijing s concerns are quite the opposite Chinese President Xi Jinping s meeting with Biden in November during the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation summit signaled that the Democratic administration will not significantly disrupt the U S rela-
tionship with China on its way out As for the incoming Republican team, Beijing has reasons to be worried both by its campaign rhetoric and by the cast of characters that Trump has nominated to key jobs in his government PUTIN’S PURGATORY Details about Trump s peace plan for Ukraine are scarce, and senior Russian officials have limited their public comments about its potential But even before getting into a formal conversation with Trump the Kremlin needs to weather the next few weeks which it sees as one of the most dangerous periods of the Ukraine war After nearly a year of painful deliberation, the outgoing Biden administration has finally given Kyiv permission to use longrange weapons produced by NATO member states including U S -made Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles and British Storm Shadow missiles against military targets inside internationally recognized Russian territory On November 19, a Russian armament depot in the country’s Bryansk region was hit with what the Russian defense ministry claimed was an ATACMS and two days later a command post reportedly hosting North Korean generals was hit by Storm Shadow missiles in Russia s Kursk region These setbacks, painful as they may be for the Russians, will not have a significant effect on the trajectory of the fighting Russia is gradually gaining more ground on the eastern front What worries the Kremlin is the West s apparent disregard for Moscow s clearly communicated redlines and nuclear deterrent Putin has said on multiple occasions that Ukraine could not use systems such as ATACMS and Storm Shadow without major technical assistance from NATO personnel and that therefore from the Kremlin s point of view their use by Ukrainians is akin to the Western alliance shooting at Russia The West s disciplined and organized nudging of Russia’s redlines has forced the Kremlin to accept NATO shooting at Russian targets in occupied Ukrainian territory including Crimea without much retaliatory escalation beyond its strikes on Ukraine acts of sabotage in the West, and provision of limited military support to rogue actors such as the Houthis in Yemen or North Korea But targeting within Russian borders is an entirely different matter; in the Kremlin’s thinking it must be stopped sooner rather than later
In Moscow’s view the ball is now back in Washington’s court Putin has explicitly warned Western leaders that he will respond to any escalatory steps such as new strikes into Russia or troops sent to Ukraine, with targeted retaliation In doing so, he hopes to stabilize the situation until Trump’s inauguration opens a new window of opportunity to negotiate an end to the conflict favorable for the Kremlin
The Kremlin is aware that the Biden administration s latest moves including lifting restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine, are building Washington s leverage in any future discussions That is why Moscow is pushing back so firmly against the most dangerous escalations while not retaliating against those deemed less significant such as new sanctions against the Russian financial system that the Biden administration
help Ukraine NEW CHINA HAWKS Unlike Putin Xi has many reasons to expect that the transition from Biden to Trump will be a period of relative quiet in relations between China and the United States Once Trump takes office however the situation for Beijing may become risky In recent years Beijing and Washington have worked hard to maintain stability and predictability in their relationship Using several channels of communication, including regular contacts between U S National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi Beijing and Washington weathered January s presidential election in Taiwan mostly avoided disruptive trade and export-control wars, and dialed down the temperature in potential hotspots for military confrontation, including the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea Biden and Xi’s latest meeting in November confirmed that they intend to extend this approach through January 20 The
sembling Most of the senior officials nominated so far are known for their hawkish views on China and they advocate for more defense spending to counter Beijing as well as punitive tariffs, more export control restrictions, and support for Taiwan To make matters worse, most of Trump’s incoming senior officials are either completely unknown in China or haven’t been to the country in years spending time in Taiwan instead Similarly Xi s current team particularly his top lieutenants on the economy, are not well known in Washington Since 2022, Xi has surrounded himself with
unveiled on November 21 or Washington’s decision to supply the Ukrainian armed forces with land mines
Once the Biden-Trump interregnum is over the Kremlin should not expect Trump 2 0 will be an easy ride Ideas for ending the war aired by certain members of Trump’s national security team, including the incoming vice president JD Vance and Trump s special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg envisage a cease-fire along the present lines of contact in Ukraine and a prolonged moratorium on NATO membership for Kyiv in exchange for provisions to ensure Ukraine’s survival as an independent state (even if not within its 1991 borders) This may seem favorable to Moscow But nothing at this point suggests that Putin is ready to climb down from his original far more maximalist goals which, in his own words, are the demilitarization and de-Nazification of Ukraine,” and which ultimately means regime change in Kyiv and a permanent veto for Moscow over Ukraine s foreign policy The Kremlin would be happy to achieve these goals at the negotiating table but if it can t secure the most critical precondition the undoing of Western military support for Ukraine the Russian leader will keep fighting hoping that in a war of attrition time is on Russia’s side and that exhausted Western weapons stockpiles and reluctance to escalate will limit Trump s ability to
outgoing administration’s new set of export control measures targeting the Chinese chip-making sector unveiled on December 2 was immediately countered by Beijing with a ban on exports to the United States of several critical minerals including gallium, germanium, and antimony But these moves were prepared some time ago and didn’t come as a surprise For now, both sides have reason to maintain calm and exercise restraint Biden is dealing with the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East and China is in no mood to seek out unnecessary confrontation amid worsening economic conditions Yet while Putin has reasons to be optimistic about Trump, Xi has plenty to worry about During Trump’s first term he started a trade war with China targeted the Chinese tech giant Huawei with sanctions and a pressure campaign to uninstall its equipment from allies networks, beefed up U S military assets and partnerships in the IndoPacific, and unleashed a propaganda war over the COVID-19 pandemic To Xi the situation may look even worse this time around In 2016 the Chinese economy was on a much stronger growth trajectory than it is now, and the U S economy was anemic Today, the tables have turned, largely thanks to Xi’s own economic policies over the last decade Then there is the team of national security and trade professionals that Trump is as-
MAlik MuhAMMAd AshrAF
SYRIA GOVT LOSES CONTROL OF KEY CITY DARAA
MYRAH ZAFAR
SYMBOL OF STRATEGIC BRILLIANCE
Hangor Day observed annually on December 9th is a significant event in Pakistan s history that pays tribute to the remarkable achievements of the submarine PNS Hangor (S-131) during the 1971 Indo-Pak War This day serves as a reminder of an extraordinary chapter in naval warfare highlighting courage strategic brilliance, and the Pakistan Navy s steadfast commitment to protecting the nation’s maritime borders
The legacy of PNS Hangor is one of resilience tactical excellence and an enduring symbol of the Pakistan Navy s strength
The PNS Hangor was a French-built Daphne-class dieselelectric submarine that played a pivotal role during the conflict On December 9 1971 while patrolling the Arabian Sea near the Indian coastline the submarine achieved a historic milestone by sinking the Indian Navy frigate INS Khukri This victory was not just a significant strategic success but also a historic moment in global naval warfare It marked the first successful submarine kill since World War II a feat that placed PNS Hangor and its crew in the annals of military history
In addition to sinking INS Khukri, PNS Hangor also damaged another Indian Navy frigate INS Kirpan This double achievement dealt a severe blow to the enemy s morale and disrupted their maritime strategy The operation demonstrated the effectiveness of underwater warfare and showcased the growing maritime capabilities of the Pakistan Navy at a time when the region was engulfed in conflict PNS Hangor s success highlighted not only its advanced capabilities but also the exceptional skill and bravery of its crew
The operation’s success was the result of meticulous planning and precise execution Commander Ahmed Tasnim who later rose to the rank of Vice Admiral led the submarine s crew with ex-
ceptional courage and tactical expertise The crew s ability to navigate the challenging environment and evade the aggressive counterattacks by the Indian Navy was a testament to their training and resilience Following the sinking of INS Khukri and the damage inflicted on INS Kirpan the Indian Navy launched an extensive antisubmarine campaign involving ships and aircraft Despite these intense efforts to locate and destroy PNS Hangor, the submarine successfully evaded detection and returned safely to Karachi This feat further solidified its legendary status in naval history
The success of PNS Hangor in the face of overwhelming odds highlighted the strategic importance of submarines in modern naval warfare It also showcased the Pakistan Navy s ability to outmanoeuvre and outsmart a superior force The psychological impact of this operation on the enemy was profound, demonstrating that even a single well-commanded submarine could challenge and disrupt a larger naval force The bravery and skill of PNS Hangor s crew became a source of pride for Pakistan and an inspiration for future generations of naval officers Hangor Day is more than a celebration of a military victory; it is a testament to the courage and dedication of the Pakistan Navy
Each year the day is marked by ceremonies, documentaries, and public events that recount the significance of the operation These commemorations honour the sacrifices made by the crew of PNS Hangor and remind the nation of the strategic importance of its naval forces The day serves as a powerful reminder of Pakistan s ability to defend its sovereignty and maintain its maritime security in the face of external threats
After its decommissioning PNS Hangor was preserved as a museum submarine in Karachi where it continues to inspire visitors and naval officers alike The
submarine stands as a monument to naval excellence a tangible reminder of the heroics displayed during the 1971 war Its preservation ensures that future generations can learn about the bravery, resilience, and tactical acumen that defined the crew of PNS Hangor
The submarine s legacy is a source of national pride and a symbol of the strategic importance of underwater warfare
The significance of Hangor Day extends beyond the confines of history and tradition It underscores the evolving role of naval forces in modern warfare and the importance of maintaining a robust maritime defense strategy PNS Hangor s achievements demonstrated that technological superiority, when combined with strategic brilliance and skilled personnel can turn the tide of battle
This lesson remains relevant in today s geopolitical landscape where maritime security continues to be a critical aspect of national defence
As the world evolves so too does the nature of warfare The achievements of PNS Hangor highlight the need for innovation and adaptability in military strategy The submarine s success during the 1971 war demonstrated that even in the most challenging circumstances a well-prepared and determined force can achieve greatness Hangor Day is a celebration of this principle a day to honour the past while looking toward the future with renewed determination
The story of PNS Hangor is one of resilience and triumph against overwhelming odds It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Pakistan Navy and the enduring spirit of its personnel Hangor Day celebrates this spirit, ensuring that the legacy of PNS Hangor lives on in the hearts and minds of the nation It serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations reminding them of the importance of courage determination, and strategic thinking in the face of adversity
Modi’s BJP says US State Depar tment targeting India
DELHI
C I E S Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the State Department and “deep state” elements in the US of trying to destabilise India in conjunction with a group of investigative journalists and opposition leader Rahul Gandhi The accusation comes as a surprise as New Delhi and Washington have forged a strong relationship in the last two decades and both have vowed to further strengthen ties despite some differences and irritants Gandhi’s Congress party used
the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) s articles that singularly focused on the Adani Group and its alleged closeness to the government to undermine Modi the ruling party said on Thursday Group chair Gautam Adani and seven others were indicted last month in the US for being part of a $265 billion scheme to bribe Indian officials allegations the group has termed “baseless” OCCRP’s articles have also accused state-sponsored hackers in India of using Israeli-made Pegasus spyware to target government critics The government has previously denied both allegations
The BJP has previously accused Gandhi the OCCRP and 92year-old billionaire financier-philanthropist George Soros of attacking Modi On Thursday it cited a French media report that said that OCCRP was funded by the US Agency for International Development and other deep state figures like Soros The Deep State had a clear objective to destabilise India by targeting Prime Minister Modi,” the BJP said in a series of messages on X It has always been the US State Department
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs reviews per fromance of key maritime organisation
Chief, informed the audience about ESU international activities and programs initiated by ESU Pakistan Researchers and exper ts from world-wide to gather at LUMS for dialogue on Governance and Inclusion
LAHORE S TA F F R E P O R T
The Pathways to Development Conference is returning for its third year and will be hosted at LUMS from December 16–18 The flagship 3-day event promises to feature in-depth dialogue with scholars, policymakers, and practitioners from across the world on critical challenges faced by developing economies This annual event is jointly organised by the Chaudhry Nazar Muhammad Department of Economics and the Mahbub ul Haq Research Centre (MHRC) at LUMS as well as the Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan (CERP) Institute for Development and Economic Alternatives (IDEAS), Institute of Development Studies at University of Sussex (IDS), Consortium for Development Policy Research (CDPR), and International Growth Centre (IGC) Speaking about the conference s unique contribution to development discourse in Pakistan Dr Sanval Nasim Assistant Professor at Colby College said: Pathways to Development brings together some of the top researchers across the globe working on Pakistan and development issues in South Asia, creating a vital
Sheikh to assess the progress of key maritime organizations These included the Port Qasim Authority (PQA), Karachi Port Trust (KPT), and Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC)
The meeting provided a comprehensive overview of the monthly performance metrics tackling challenges and pinpointing areas ripe for improvement Strategic discussions centered on ampli-
fying efficiency, productivity, and overall service delivery within the maritime sector The meeting concluded with a commitment to put into action the proposed recommendations and strategies designed to drive growth and progress in the maritime sector
After the Performance Review meeting, Minister for Maritime Affairs Mr Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh chaired a Khuli Kachehri session providing an open platform for employees of maritime organizations and industry stakeholders to voice their concerns, suggestions, and ideas
LAHORE
S TA F F R E P O R T
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has said that utilising official resources of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for its personal publicity and photo sessions is shameful for PTI asserting that more than Rs2 billion from the KP s exchequer had been spent on the third aborted coup of November 26 In a statement, Azma Bokhari questioned that in what capacity Bushra Bibi distributed cheques to people Bushra Bibi claimed that she did not run away and stood alone, although she holds a world
soom Plaza Azma Bokhari underscored that they should also tell the nation where Bushra Bibi had fled, who had brought an army of millions from KPK and went away The KP government spent Rs810 on launching attack on the Federation on October 5 The Information Minister said that Bushra Bibi is living a luxurious lifestyle on government property and when she is summoned by the court them she falls sick Bushra Bibi failed to appear in court proceedings for the last 10 hearings due to fear of being apprehended PTI
record in running away The whole nation saw Bushra Bibi fleding away from D-Chowk at 10:30pm on November 26 , she added The Information Minister said that the entire media was a witness that D-Chowk was cleared by 11:15pm Her own workers had pelted stones and sticks on Bushra Bibi s car when she ran away The workers punctured tyres of her vehicle so that she would not run away There is a CCTV footage in which Bushra Bibi changed her car and fled away Bushra Bibi had hidden herself in the street while fleeing and changed her car Bushra Bibi herself did not go beyond Kul-
Tasnim Hangor ventured into the Arabian Sea where Indian naval dominance loomed large Despite operating in hostile waters teeming with enemy vessels, the crew of the French-made Daphne-class submarine executed a mission of surgical precision resulting in the sinking of INS Khukri In a matter of minutes the frigate carrying 18 officers and 176 sailors was consigned to the depths This was not merely a tactical victory but a psychological blow to India and a moraleboosting triumph for Pakistan at a critical juncture in the war The operation underscored how strategic ingenuity and technological acumen could outmatch numerical superiority The success of PNS Hangor was no accident It was the product of meticulous planning effective leadership and unyielding professionalism The Captain’s ability to maintain composure and inspire his crew under intense pressure became a defining element of the mission
destruction, reflects the finest traditions of naval warfare The sinking of INS Khukri was more than a victory for Pakistan; it was a turning point in the evolution of naval warfare in the region It highlighted the growing importance of submarines as a tool for dominance in maritime conflicts Hangor ’s
M V O W S T O W O R K
D AY A N D N I G H T ’
O A L L E V I AT E P U B L I C H A R D S H I P S
On the invitation of International Development Department of the ruling
Gandapur says no decision on civil disobedience as talks with govt yet to star t
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has clarified that no decision has been made regarding civil disobedience movement as we negotiations with the government are yet to start
Speaking to the media in Dera Ismail Khan Gandapur stated that discussions with the government are yet to be held, and the decision to initiate civil disobedience has not yet been taken
We are currently engaged in talks for the sake of the country If the government refuses to engage in dialogue, our movement will continue regardless, Gandapur said, dismissing any rumours about an imminent civil disobedience campaign
Referring to his participation in the D-Chowk protest Gandapur
confirmed that he stood by Bushra Bibi throughout the protest but emphasized that her comments about being left alone were not reflective of the collective stance
On the topic of madarassah, Gandapur expressed a desire to see them thrive not only in religious education but also in worldly knowledge He noted that madarassah should comply with registration processes which would make them eligible for government funding and scholarships
The KP CM also raised concerns over the issue of missing persons, stating that thousands of party workers have been arrested and over a hundred injured He further criticised political parties that label themselves as democratic yet advocate for restrictions on others
A b b a s i c r i t i c i ze s P M L- N g ov t
Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi expressed
try
protect its position questioning the moral integrity of a leadership that turns to force rather than dialogue Abbasi emphasized that the political situation in Pakistan has reached a critical point, with the government standing at a dead end He argued that the real solution lies not in midterm elections, but in adhering strictly to the constitution and law
He expressed disappointment over the failure of the PML-N s narrative of give respect to the vote claiming that it has been effectively abandoned in the
face of ongoing political turmoil
He also criticized opposition leader Imran Khan stating that as a politician Khan has no right to refuse dialogue with the government and only engage with the military establishment Abbasi stressed that Pakistan s political, military, and judicial leaders must unite to resolve the crisis He voiced hope that these institutions would work together to bring stability to the country, as the public continues to bear the brunt of the dispute between the state and Imran Khan He reminded that the ongoing conflict is taking a toll on the country and that the people should not be blamed for the political elite s failure to find common ground
Turning to the economic situation, Abbasi argued that any improvements are unrelated to government policies, pointing out that declining global oil prices have temporarily eased inflation However, he stressed that political chaos is the primary reason for the country’s economic woes suggesting that until stability is restored Pakistan will continue to struggle financially Abbasi also reflected on the broader implications for Pakistan s global image, asking what impression the world would have of a country in which its government resorts to violence He drew a comparison to South Korea where despite political divisions leaders prioritize the nation’s interests over personal or party agendas without resorting to violent tactics
Finally Abbasi criticized the delay in prosecuting Imran Khan s case, warning that the prolonged legal process would result in unreliable testimony He called for transparency and swift justice, urging the government to focus on addressing the real issues facing the country including unemployment the lack of foreign investment and the growing divisions within the political landscape
ing KEL consumers from the winter package would not only negatively impact sales growth a factor considered by the federal government when introducing the package, but would also result in discriminatory treatment of KE consumers Therefore, the authority recognized that KEL consumers should not be deprived of the winter package benefits provided by the federal government In light of this the authority decided that KEL will be compensated in the same manner as other DISCOs for the duration of this winter package when determining/adjusting the consumer end tariff As such, KEL is obligated to extend the same relief to its consumers as part of the winter package Meanwhile NEPRA has approved a reduction of 1 14 rupees per
