PAKISTAN TO SEND FIRST MANNED MISSION TO CHINA’S SPACE STATION SOON: PM
in an upcoming mission as per CSS planning The first national astronaut s mission at CSS will involve conducting cuttingedge scientific experiments in various fields including biological and medical sciences aerospace applied physics fluid mechanics space radiation ecology material sciences microgravity studies, and astronomy Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal termed the agreement a historic milestone underscoring its role in
accelerating technological innovation, capacity building and research He stated that the collaboration with China extends beyond astronaut training laying the groundwork for Pakistan s long-term growth in human spaceflight and exploration Director General of China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), Dr Lin Xinqiang expressed his enthusiasm for this partnership reaffirming China’s dedication to strengthening international cooperation in space exploration He highlighted that Pakistan s participation in the China Space Station program reflects the deep-rooted ties between the two countries and will contribute to mutual knowledge-sharing and the broader vision of peaceful space exploration for the benefit of humanity Chairman SUPPARCO Mohammad Yousaf Khan regarded the agreement as a landmark in Pakistan’s space journey, emphasizing perseverance, adaptability, and technological progress He invited youth professionals and academia to actively participate in Pakistan s astronaut program, encouraging them to contribute to the nation s space exploration efforts through research, innovation, and skill development
Ramazan moon not sighted, fasting to commence on Sunday
The Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee on Friday said that the Ramazan moon was not sighted in the country and that the first day of the holy month would fall on Sunday (March 2)
Central Ruet-i-Hilal Commit-
tee Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, while speaking to the media in Peshawar said that the different zonal committees across the country were set up to receive testimonies for the moon sighting
No testimony was received for sighting of the moon from any place in the country,” he said, adding that after reaching a consensus it was decided that the first day of the holy month will land on Sunday In a separate announcement following the committee’s decision, the federal government also announced that the Ramazan moon was not sighted according to a notification issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony
Ramazan 1 shall commence on Sunday (March 2), according to the notification
The 24-member committee had assembled and that the weather in Peshawar was overcast which lessened the possibility that the moon would be sighted
Zonal Ruet-i-Hilal Committees in Karachi Islamabad Lahore and other cities also gathered to sight the new moon according to media reports
The zonal committee in Quetta said that the moon had not been sighted anywhere in Balochistan
There was heavy rain in the coastal areas of Balochistan Haqqani said, adding that the central committee was updated about the situation “The central Ruet-i-Hilal committee will announce the final decision he added Meanwhile the zonal committee in Islamabad informed the central committee that the Ramazan moon had not been sighted in the capital Earlier this week the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) had forecasted that the holy month of Ramazan would begin on March 2 (Sunday), while Eidul Fitr would be observed on the 31st of the month However it emphasised that the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee would examine testimonies from across the country and formally announce the holy month s official start since the unaided observation of the crescent moon with the naked eye was a religious obligation for determining the month s beginning According to precise astro-
nomical models the new moon (conjunction) for Ramazan will occur on February 28, 2025, at 05:45 PST However, the visibility of the crescent depends on key factors such as the moon’s age its angular separation from the sun altitude at sunset and atmospheric conditions Suparco said in a press release
It added that the probability of the moon’s visibility on Feb 28 was “not visible even with optical aid and thus the likelihood of a moon sighting on the date in Pakistan is extremely low Consequently, Sha aban is expected to complete 30 days, and the first day of fasting will likely be observed on March 2 However the Pakistan Meteorological Department said on February 7 that the moon would not be sighted on February 28 According to astronomical parameters, there is no chance of sighting the new moon of Ramazan on the evening of 2802-2025 the department said in a statement
the son of assassinated cleric Maulana Samiul Haq served as vice chancellor of the Darul Uloom Haqqania and chairman of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Sami (JUI-S) political party He previously served as a member of the National
INDUS MOTOR REPORTS 179% PROFIT SURGE IN Q2 F Y25
the committee emphasized the need to build capacity within the ministry rather than relying on external consultants The body raised concerns over delays in project execution, inadequate funding for key initiatives, and the onground reality of completed projects
The committee stressed the importance of transparency in fund utilization for mega projects and prioritizing the completion of ongoing initiatives The issue of delayed fund authorizations was also discussed, with an urgent call for timely disbursements to prevent project stagnation
Discussions underscored the need for an exclusive review of Karachi s infrastructure development projects
The committee raised concerns over the fate and execution of PSDP projects under the Pakistan Public Works Department (Pak PWD) and resolved to take up the matter with rele-
vant ministries in the next meeting
Additionally, a sub-committee, to be chaired by MNA Syed Sami Ul Hassan Gillani and comprising representatives from major parties, was constituted to assess the progress and challenges of PWD projects to ensure greater accountability and efficient implementation
The meeting focused on key infrastructure projects, budgetary proposals, and implementation challenges within the PSDP As a follow-up to previous discussions the Chairman National Highway Authority (NHA) briefed the Committee on the status of major infrastructure projects
The Committee reviewed the classification of N-50 as a motorway and the urgent need for funding to continue the dualization project from Yarak to Kuchlak It was informed that the HyderabadSukkur Motorway (M-6) remains a top government priority, with financing discussions underway
The Committee also examined challenges in developing an alternative route between Karachi and Hyderabad Emphasis was placed on resolving contractor issues addressing law and order concerns and mitigating funding shortages to ensure timely project execution
The Committee reiterated the necessity of prioritizing the western route
of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to enhance trade connectivity between Gwadar and Xinjiang Concerns were raised about financial constraints affecting project execution and the need for increased PSDP allocations to ensure the completion of critical infrastructure projects A report was presented by the Sub-Committee led by Maj (R) Tahir Iqbal, on the project to provide free cancer medicines by Roche
The Ministry of Health briefed the Committee on budget allocations requested under the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) recurrent budget and other expenditure plans
The Committee emphasized the importance of improving healthcare service delivery in underserved regions and requested a detailed follow-up from the Ministry of Health in the next meeting
The meeting was attended by MNAs Syed Sami Ul Hassan Gillani, Maj (R) Tahir Iqbal, Dawar Khan Kundi, Farhan Chishti, Zulfiqar Sattar Bachani, Ms Akhtar Bibi, Ali Asghar Khan, Yousaf Khan Muhammad Usman Awaisi and Muhammad Ameer Sultan Muhammad Moazzam Ali Khan and Ms Naz Baloch participated virtually, senior officials from the Ministry of Planning, NHA, and the Ministry of Interior were also attended that meeting
ISLAMABAD A P P Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Friday highlighted the importance of making advancements in space technology, terming it a guarantee for economic growth, national security and environmental sustainability
“Space technology holds a significant place in the government s agenda for advancing technology under the
K-Electric has formally requested a reduction of Rs4 95 per unit in electricity rates for December under the monthly fuel adjustment mechanism The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has decided to reserve its ruling on the matter, pending a thorough review The final decision will be communicated at a later date During the
1997 following the corporatization of the state-run Oil and Gas Development Corporation, which was originally established in 1961 The company remains Pakistan’s largest E&P firm responsible for exploring developing and producing oil and gas resources across the country
MUZAFFARABAD i n P
A high-level national conference held in Muzaffarabad the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, reaffirmed Pakistan s unwavering commitment to regional peace, strategic stability, and the right to self-determination for the Kashmiri people Held to mark the sixth anniversary of Operation Swift Retort Pakistan s decisive response to Indian aggression on February 27, 2019 the conference also highlighting India s militaristic ambitions, cross-border provocations, and systematic oppression of minorities It underscored how the operation shattered India’s claims of conventional superiority reinforced Pakistan s deterrence posture and showcased the nation s resolve to counter any misadventure Speakers also criticised India’s use of misinformation to distort the Kashmir cause and called for proactive resistance against its hegemonic designs Titled 27th February: An Affirmation
of Pakistan’s Resolve on the Kashmir Conflict, Peace, and Stability,” the conference was organised by the Centre for International and Strategic Studies (CISS) at the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK) AJK s Acting President Chaudhry Latif Akbar was the chief guest The event attracted a diverse audience, including students, academics, policymakers, politicians, and bureaucrats
In his keynote address Acting President Akbar recalled the events of February 27 2019 and said that Pakistan s response had shattered India s claims of conventional military superiority He commended Pakistan’s steadfast support for the Kashmiri people noting that Kashmiris in turn stood unwaveringly with Pakistan “Ironically
the economic interests of global capitalism have overshadowed the suffering of Kashmiris and Palestinians ” Akbar regretted Highlighting the sequence of events leading to Operation Swift Retort Parliamentary Kashmir Committee Chairman Rana Qasim Noon reaffirmed Pakistan s unwavering commitment to defending its territorial integrity and supporting Kashmiris in their struggle for self-determination Addressing the conference Ramesh Singh Arora a Pakistani Sikh leader described India as the epicentre of cross-border terrorism and highlighted the systemic oppression of minorities in the country Reflecting on the events of February 27, 2019 he termed it a pivotal moment proving Pakistan’s military preparedness against Indian aggression Maj-Gen (R) Syed Shahab Shahid warned that India was actively developing pre-emptive military capabilities which threatened regional strategic balance Referring to Pakistan s response on February 27, he noted that the Quid Pro Quo Plus policy ensured the neutralization
Sattar
cantly
COMMENT
Cabinet expansion
APM usually expands his Cabinet a year into his term for any number of reasons One is the need to prevent a backbench rebellion, by providing an outlet for ambition Something of this can be seen by the fact that a few of the full ministers are promotions from the ranks of the ministers of state The new ministers of state thus have the implied promise that if they perform well they could be elevated Former Cabinet members are few and far between Sardar Yaqub Nasir having served in previous Nawaz cabinets and Tariq Fazl Chaudhry having been a minister of state Another reason is that the PM may feel the team he has is not large enough Mr Shehbaz Sharif started off with a team of 19, but has now got a team of 46 The everexpanding Cabinets are often because the PM is not good at dropping people which means he doesn’t like sacking people There may be a firm reason as where a minister from an ally in a coalition is not performing, and it is symptomatic that this expansion has not been accompanied by anyone being dropped Coalition pressures are not visible in this expansion, and the absence of any PPP men means that Mr Sharif has given up on the hope of converting its present support from outside into participation in the government That is significant for it means that PPP parliamentarians can only hope for office if the PPP takes office, That increases the pressure for a midterm change, but only marginally Midterm changes have happened before, occurring in each Parliament elected since 2008 Mr Sharif has accommodated Pervez Khattak the head of the PTI Parliamentarians as well as his former Principal Secretary Tauqir Shah as PM’s Advisers which gives them federal minister ’s status He has also elevated Muhammad Ali to the status of adviser, after having him as a special assistant, with the rank of minister of state The ultimate purpose of any Cabinet expansion is to strengthen the ministry It does not seem as if the government has much else
Dedicated to the legac y of late Hameed
M A Niazi Editor Pakistan Today Babar Nizami Editor Profit
Voting in Multiple Bar Associations
tributes to the legal community in different bar asso-
ciations they should have a say in the
This restriction creates several unjust consequences: 1 Disenfranchisement of Active Lawyers: Lawyers who practice in multiple jurisdictions have as much at stake in each bar as their peers who practise in only one Denying them the right to vote in multiple bars effectively excludes them from shaping policies in associations where they are active members
2 Unbalanced Representation: Bar elections determine the leadership and direction of legal advocacy in Pakistan When a significant portion of practising lawyers is excluded from voting the elected representatives do not truly reflect the
ciations are not passive participants they are actively engaged in legal proceedings, bar events, and client representation in those regions Their voices matter and they deserve to be heard in each bar where they practise
a matter of fairness but also of democratic representation and professional recognition
Legal practice in Pakistan has transformed significantly
tively
Hin many seminars and this one I will remember for a long time ” After the public session, I had a chance to sit with Mr Munawar and talk about the roadmap of the country The conversation that I had with Mr Munawar has been penned down in this article Before I open up on what was discussed around the growth of Pakistan, first let me add some jewels that I picked up from the public session
TAKEAWAYS FROM THE SESSION
“The sane of today is a saint ” said Mr Munawar He further added that none of us is normal and that we are all programmed Isn t it true that we are like one customer avatar that are similar in behaviours be it laughing or crying? We all have similar tastes, similar goals and similar dreams There is no one normal today, the normal of today would be a saint Delving more into what Munawar
WEST Soft skills sometimes overlooked by technical talents, are key to freelancing Mr Munawar shed light on understanding Western clients cultural nuances Not only is programming, SEO or running Facebook ads important, but so is communication respecting time differences and keeping commitments International clients expect discipline and timeliness as professional standards
The sort of content they laugh at we don t laugh at, and vice versa added Mr Munawar Therefore, bridging the gap between East and West is important in successful freelancing Reading their books reading psychology sales and sociology book along with watching their movies may get us better insights on how they operate I could relate to all this as after four years of freelancing, I ve learned that soft skills are crucial, especially when working with international clients It’s not simply about your technical expertise or project turnaround time, understanding your clients’ tiny details is equally important Being early for meetings or replying quickly to emails can show clients your professionalism Respecting their time zones public holidays, and business practices is key No degree in cultural studies is needed, but a little research may improve relationships and increase repeat business Making your clients feel comfortable and respected is key Who doesn’t want to work with someone who understands?
THE VISION FOR E-ROZGAAR CENTERS
When asked about how freelancing can further strengthen Pakistan’s IT exports, Mr Munawar shared the story of e-Rozgaar centres Playing a pivotal role in giving the vision e-Rozgaar centres with the efforts of many others he added today there are 36 centres These centres teach freelancers various freelancing technical skills This government program equips 10,000 people to succeed in worldwide marketplaces According to The News “Over 11,000 Punjabi youngsters graduated from the e-Rozgaar Training Programme in 2023 earning Rs130 million ”
THE VISION OF EXCELLENCE CENTERS
To take the idea even further, Mr Munawar shared the term Excellence Centers These Excellence Centres would teach technical skills like eRozgar but would also teach basic English and soft skills That is where the freelancers of Pakistan are lacking today They understand the algorithm but they do not understand the psychology of the client Such Excellence Centers can either be started independently or inside universities, Mr Munawar added Imagine a place where university students don’t just learn but also apply their knowledge to create digital products Here students can experiment innovate and turn their ideas into digital products that address both local and global challenges Mr Munawar added that
“while studying students can create digital products and by the time they graduate they can enter the market and compete practically First, they create the product for free with the support of Excellence Centers but later they can start an entire company with a product that has passed the initial test of time ” This isn’t just about academic growth but fostering a breed of entrepreneurs and innovators who can enhance Pakistan s presence on the international stage The focus is on creating a dynamic ecosystem where students learn to transform theoretical knowledge into market-ready solutions, driving forward Pakistan’s digital and economic ambitions Now imagine 220+ universities in Pakistan starting Excellence Centers on their campuses This will create a mass effect in growing the country By improving both hard and soft skills at the same time, these centres would create a complete space where students can not only learn but also make digital products that are ready for the market Here is a breakdown of what Mr Munawar Abadullah’s Excellence Centers envision:
n Soft skills enhancement to ensure students can navigate any professional environment
n Deep dives into Western psychology to better understand international clients expectations
n Encouraging innovation through access to the latest tools and technologies Fostering entrepreneurship by guiding students from ideation to execution
n Real-world projects that allow students to apply their learning in meaningful ways Collaboration with industries to solve real-time problems and offer internships
n Providing resources mentorship and funding to help turn innovative ideas into successful businesses THE GROWING INTERNET PENETRATION IN PAKISTAN
We also discussed the potential entry of Starlink which could give internet access to the entire Pakistan According to the Global Digital Insights Report
Fair fasting
Buried rights
Web gag
A roadmap from Munawar Abadullah on establishing excellence centers
America First , Allies Last
foreign policy cold, calculated, and ruthlessly transactional Gone are the days of diplomacy based on shared values or long-term alliances Under Trump s leadership the USA has reduced its global commitments to a series of profit-driven deals where allies must either pay up or be discarded
consistently berated for what he calls free-riding on U S security guarantees Trump’s frequent complaints that European nations are “not paying their fair share” in defence spending culminated in his open threat to withdraw the USA from NATO altogether His demands for increased military contributions though long debated within NATO, were delivered with an unprecedented bluntness that rattled allies Germany and France, long regarded as pillars of European security found themselves at the receiving end of Trump’s ire with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz cautioning that a US retreat would be tantamount to handing Europe over to Russia Meanwhile, Trump s administration imposed 25 percent tariffs on European steel and aluminum, citing vague “national security concerns”, triggering a fullblown trade war The European Union retaliated with counter-tariffs deepening a transatlantic rift unseen since World War II Nowhere has Trump s transactional ap-
proach been more explicit than in his dealings with Ukraine His administration s reluctance to provide military assistance unless Kyiv “paid in return” shattered long-held norms of US strategic commitments Trump’s rhetoric took an even more disturbing turn when he suggested that Ukraine should give up minerals in exchange for continued US military aid effectively turning a war-torn nation s suffering into a bargaining chip In contrast to past US presidents who framed Ukraine s defence against Russian aggression as a matter of democratic principle Trump approached it as a financial ledger His mocking of Volodymyr Zelensky s repeated pleas for U S support coupled with his demand that Ukraine should start thinking about how to return the $500 billion we’ve given them,” painted a grim picture of a superpower wielding its influence not as a global leader but as a debt collector Adding insult to injury Trump dismissed Zelensky as a mere comedian and even labeled him a dictator in disguise casting doubt on the legitimacy of Ukraine s leadership while Russia continued its onslaught A similarly profit-driven mindset dictated Trump’s Middle East policy particularly regarding Gaza and Israel The decision to move the US Embassy to Jerusalem in 2018 was framed as a diplomatic victory but it was also a move that alienated Palestine and much of the Arab world, solidifying the perception that the USA had abandoned even the pretence of neutrality The so-called “Deal of the Century” a peace plan dictated largely by Israeli interests offered Palestine little more than an ultimatum to accept territorial losses without significant political concessions Trump s crowning diplomatic achievement in the region, the Abraham Accords, which normalized ties
between Israel and several Gulf nations was less about regional peace and more about lucrative arms deals Countries like the UAE secured $23 billion in US fighter jets and drones as a reward for aligning with Washington’s strategic realignment In a more alarming development Trump proposed a plan to take over Gaza suggesting the permanent displacement of its 2 2 million Palestinian residents and repurposing the territory, a move widely condemned as a blueprint for ethnic cleansing This proposal not only violated international law but also threatened to destabilize the region further as neighbouring Arab nations like Jordan and Egypt rejected any attempts to resettle Palestinians within their borders Such actions exemplify how Trump s transactional approach prioritized short-term gains and alliances over long-standing commitments to human rights and regional stability
Trump s trade wars were not limited to adversaries but extended even to the USA s closest neighbours His imposition of tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium under the guise of national security strained relations with Ottawa, provoking retaliatory measures Meanwhile his administration forced Mexico into a renegotiated NAFTA now the USMCA under the threat of trade restrictions exemplifying his willingness to strong-arm even allied nations Further straining relations, Trump made a controversial remark suggesting Canada should consider becoming a US state, a statement that sparked outrage in Ottawa and reinforced his dismissive attitude toward allied sovereignty
His perception of foreign policy as a series of real estate transactions was also evident in his bizarre proposal to buy Greenland from Denmark Despite the Danish government rejecting the idea outright, Trump re-
acted petulantly, cancelling a planned visit to Copenhagen and calling Denmark an ungrateful ally Similarly, his suggestion that the USA should reclaim the Panama Canal decades after its transfer to Panama stirred unnecessary diplomatic tensions reflecting a neo-colonial mindset that alienated Latin American nations These incidents underscored the sheer unpredictability of Trump s foreign policy, where even historic treaties and longstanding agreements were subject to his transactional whims Despite the spectacle of camaraderie between Donald Trump and Narendra Modi the US-India relationship under Trump quickly soured, exposing the transactional nature of his foreign policy In 2019, he revoked India’s preferential trade status under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) stripping $5 6 billion worth of Indian exports of duty-free access to the US market
He repeatedly branded India the tariff king and an abuser of trade relations, despite India holding a $45 6 billion trade surplus with the USA His administration’s relentless focus on trade deficits led to the imposition of retaliatory tariffs on India just hours before a scheduled diplomatic meeting a move that reinforced his belief in aggressive economic nationalism over stable alliances Beyond trade, Trump s hardline immigration policies extended to India as well In a span of just two weeks, his administration deported over 330 Indian nationals with many subjected to a grueling 40-hour journey in shackles The timing of these deportations occurring right before Modi s visit to Washington, was particularly humiliating
The central question now is whether the USA can sustain its global leadership under such a mercenar y approach While the Trump administration justifies its actions as „America First‰, the reality is that this philosophy has weakened US influence , alienated key allies, and emboldened adversaries who see Washington as an unreliable par tner As the world recalibrates its alliances, one thing is cer tain: the era of unconditional US suppor t is over, and those who once relied on US leadership must now brace for an era of unpredictability and hard bargains
Tto impose its will on those it deems lesser Far from serving global justice the Court operates as a political weapon, prosecuting those who challenge Western geopolitical interests while shielding those aligned with them Its selective enforcement, impotence against real global power and deep entanglement with Western influence make one conclusion unavoidable: The ICC is beyond reform It must be abolished
THE ICC WAS NEVER ABOUT JUSTICE: The ICC was created to ensure justice for humanity s worst crimes But from its inception, it was built not as a neutral arbiter but as a Western instrument of control The idea that the ICC was ever intended to serve the good of all the people of the world is naive at best and willfully deceptive at worst From its early years the Court fixated on African nations, disproportionately prosecuting leaders from the continent while conveniently ignoring the crimes of Western-aligned governments The charges of neocolonialism are not just accusations – they are the undeniable reality of the ICC’s record
One need only look at the fact that the world s leading superpowers – China Russia and the United States – have wisely refused to subject themselves to the ICC s authority Their absence is not an accident; it is a recognition that the ICC does not operate as a neutral, lawful institution but rather as a selectively enforced cudgel of the West
AN ENFORCER OF WESTERN GEOPOLITICAL
INTERESTS: The ICC s defenders argue that the Court s disproportionate focus on African leaders is just a reflection of where crimes happen to be committed
This is a flimsy excuse, especially when juxtaposed with the Court’s glaring omission of any serious action against Western nations The US for instance has waged wars committed war crimes and propped up brutal regimes across the globe Yet no American leader or general has ever been brought before the ICC Why? Because the ICC does not exist
to the whims of Washington and Brussels Even when the ICC issued arrest warrants for Israeli officials in 2024 – a rare instance of it challenging a Western-aligned state – the reaction from the US was revealing Washington immediately condemned the Court, with threats of sanctions against its officials The message was clear: The ICC may exist but it may not act against those protected by the West
THE SUPERPOWERS’ REJECTION OF THE ICC PROVES ITS ILLEGITIMACY: One of the most glaring flaws of the ICC is its complete lack of jurisdiction over the world’s most powerful nations The US has gone so far as to enact laws, such as the American Service-Members’ Protection Act which allows military intervention to free any US personnel detained by the ICC This is not the action of a country that respects the rule of law – it is the action of a country that understands the ICC s true nature and refuses to be subject to its farcical authority Russia, likewise, withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2016 after the ICC classified its actions in Crimea as an “occupation ” Moscow was right to do so Why should Russia – or any other major power – submit to an institution that is fundamentally biased politically motivated, and powerless against real global influence? China, for its part, has never even considered joining the ICC It understands that the Court does not exist to prosecute criminals impartially, but rather to serve the interests of those who created it
THE ICC S POWER IS AN ILLUSION: Even if one were to believe in the ICC s mission it is an indisputable fact that the Court lacks any real enforcement power Without the backing of major global powers, it relies on cooperation from nations that have little incentive to comply Arrest warrants issued by the ICC are more often than not ignored by those with the strength to resist them The Court can issue as many rulings as it likes but without the muscle to enforce them, they are little more than symbolic gestures
ABOLISH THE ICC – IT WILL NEVER BE WHAT IT PRETENDS TO BE: The ICC is not broken in the sense that it has failed to live up to its ideals It is broken because those ideals were never real to begin with The Court was not designed to be a fair unbiased institution and every action it has taken has proven that fact It is a tool of the West, wielded selectively against those who oppose its interests while shielding those who align with them For those who still believe in the fantasy
IF we persuade ourselves to believe the official count of devotees during the 45-day long Maha Kumbh then we are obliged to infer its political fall-out: the post-Narendra Modi succession question stands resolved Yogi Adityanath stands taller than the presumptive successor, honourable Amit Shah
If the figure of 66 crore devotees who took the holy dip in the revered Ganga is correct then it means that probably two out of three adult Hindus roughly speaking came face to face with the Yogi Sultanate during this once-in-a-144-years event
The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister saw to it that the devotees saw the spiritual expo as a Yogi Show The head-monk of the Gorakhnath sect has obviously learnt more than a trick or two in image-projection from the grand master Prime Minister Narendra Modi Yogi Adityanath s handlers would not be wrong in concluding that their man has found a traction in the imagination of the majority of Hindus mostly from the Hindi-speaking belt, because he was there almost every day during these six weeks
THE PROJECTION OF ‘YOGI JI KA RAJ’ : Whereas Shah dominated the news-screen for fifteen minutes when he took the holy dip; and Modi lingered on the screen a little longer than the Delhi voters at the polling-booths, but it was the UP chief minister who played the host and loomed large throughout the 45 days The millions and millions who thronged the Prayagraj ghats had a taste of the “prashashan” (administration) And that simply meant “Yogi ji ka raj (Yogi s rule)
The combined publicity machines of the Union government the UP government and the BJP and the RSS ensured a narrative of a grand successful celebration of aastha (faith) (read Hindu aastha ) In any case, a Kumbh is an occasion for the convergence of all the psychological variables – beliefs motivation expectation needs rituals – to produce a collective empowerment for each participant
Thanks to the Yogi administration s exertions the RSS s agenda of insisting on a new, all-embracing category of sanatanis inched forward a bit The same rite of immersion, performed by the millions and millions, cannot be without producing an infectious solidarity
The devotee has already been seduced by the pull of the Kumbh crowd even before the dip; men and women lost all revulsion against being touched as they made the journey to Prayagraj in jam packed trains and buses The news of stampedes was taken in stride; any experience of the polluted and infected river water was dismissed as inconsequential Net-net Yogi Adityanath has made an entrée into the mind-space of the “Hindu samaj ” Unlike Shah who has earned the rather dubious reputation of being the instigator of the Hindutva-energised mobs Yogi has po-
sitioned himself as a competent facilitator of a positive gathering of the Hindu faithful And, unlike the other exuberant
Majid Nabi burfat
TRUMP STANDS FIRM ON UKRAINE, DISMISSES STARMER’S WARNING ON PUTIN
US President Donald Trump has called for the recovery of billions of dollars’ worth of US military equipment left
Unlock ing prosperit y
OMAY AIMEN
The untapped wealth of Pakistan’s natural resources has long been a subject of both opportunity and controversy For decades Balochistan s vast mineral and energy reserves have remained underutilized, leaving the province’s economic potential unrealized However as the world moves toward industrial diversification and resource security global players are increasingly recognizing the strategic importance of Pakistan s mineral-rich landscape Foreign investments in mining and energy projects particularly in Balochistan present a transformative opportunity to reshape the economic fabric of the region It is in this evolving geopolitical and economic context that large-scale projects like Reko Diq and energy infrastructure developments are taking center stage promising unprecedented growth and stability
Saudi Arabia s investment in Pakistan s Reko Diq mining project marks a transformative shift in the economic landscape of Balochistan unlocking immense potential for sustainable development This strategic move not only strengthens Pakistan s economic resilience but also underscores Saudi Arabia s interest in global mining and industrial diversification The infusion of $540 million in foreign investment is a testament to the region s untapped potential as it paves the way for infrastructure enhancements job creation, and industrial expansion
The phased transaction $330 million for an initial 10% share followed by an additional $210 million for 5% solidifies Saudi Arabia s commitment to fostering economic growth in Pakistan
With Reko Diq s vast reserves of 5 9 billion tonnes of ore containing 41 5 million ounces of gold, the project is positioned to be a gamechanger for Pakistan’s mining sector driving foreign direct investment and elevating the country s global standing in the resource extraction industry
The economic benefits stemming from Reko Diq’s development are profound particularly for Balochistan which has long suffered from economic marginalization The project s estimated cost of $9 billion, with $4 5 billion required for its first phase, is a crucial investment in Pakistan’s economic sustainability By 2028, production is expected to commence yielding an annual output
of 200 000 tonnes of copper with a planned expansion to double production necessitating an additional $3 5 billion Over its projected lifespan of 37 years, Reko Diq is expected to generate an astounding $74 billion in free cash flow
This revenue stream will not only boost Pakistan’s economy but will also provide Balochistan with significant fiscal gains enabling infrastructural advancements public welfare initiatives, and socioeconomic stability The mining industry will benefit from knowledge transfer skill enhancement and increased local employment ensuring that the region s workforce is well-equipped to participate in this economic revival Saudi Arabia s involvement in this initiative through Manara Minerals further strengthens bilateral cooperation and establishes Pakistan as an attractive destination for future foreign investments in resource-rich industries
Beyond mining, Saudi Aramco s proposed $10 billion investment in an oil refinery in Balochistan further amplifies Pakistan’s industrial potential With a processing capacity of 300 000 barrels per day this refinery is poised to reduce Pakistan s dependency on imported refined petroleum products, significantly enhancing the nation’s energy security While initially proposed for Gwadar Hub near Karachi is also under consideration as a potential site ensuring logistical efficiency and integration with existing industrial zones This initiative aligns with Pakistan’s broader economic diversification strategy fostering local employment boosting industrial development and strengthening the Saudi-Pakistan economic partnership
The refinery’s impact extends beyond energy production, as it catalyzes regional infrastructure development including storage facilities and transportation networks which further integrate Balochistan into Pakistan s national economic framework The infusion of Saudi capital into Pakistan’s energy sector showcases mutual economic trust and serves as a precedent for future collaborations in energy technology and industrial expansion
However, these monumental investments have not been immune to hostile propaganda aimed at destabilizing Pakistan’s economic progress Indian intelligence agency RAW and other
adversarial entities have continuously sought to disrupt Saudi-Pakistani relations by disseminating false narratives about these projects Anti-Pakistan elements propagate misinformation, falsely claiming that Balochistan’s resources are being exploited while deliberately ignoring the province s 25% ownership stake in Reko Diq
Fear-mongering tactics such as exaggerated claims of environmental degradation and forced displacement, are designed to incite opposition against these crucial economic ventures Social media disinformation campaigns and international lobbying efforts aim to dissuade stakeholders from investing in Pakistan, creating an illusion of instability to isolate the country diplomatically and economically These deceptive narratives are engineered to suppress Balochistan s development keeping the province underdeveloped and its population economically disenfranchised By undermining confidence in Pakistan’s governance and discouraging foreign investments hostile forces seek to impede the nation s trajectory towards self-reliance and economic stability
Despite these challenges, the strategic cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia remains steadfast reinforcing long-term economic stability and mutual prosperity These investments not only unlock Pakistan s immense resource wealth but also position Balochistan as a vital player in the global mining and energy sectors The benefits of these projects extend beyond economic gains encompassing regional connectivity technological advancements and workforce empowerment By countering misinformation with transparency and effective governance, Pakistan can safeguard these investments and ensure their success The resilience of this economic alliance will determine Pakistan s ability to overcome adversarial efforts, paving the way for sustained growth and regional influence Saudi Arabia’s confidence in Pakistan’s economic potential serves as a powerful endorsement of the country s investment climate setting the stage for further foreign investments that will shape Pakistan s economic landscape for decades to come
The author is an independent researcher She can be reached at omayaimen333@gmail com
Sindh will take control of Green Line and Orange Line BRT from March 10
CM MARYAM TRANSFORMING TECHNICAL EDUCATION INTO CREDIBLE OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH
Moin Khan joins Kashmir Premier League to be played in May-June
Preparations for the first edition of the Kashmir Supreme League are going on in full swing, the event will be played in Muzaffarabad, Faisalabad and Rawalpindi in May-June this year Former captain Moin Khan also joined the Kashmir Premier League He joined the league as the Executive Director of Cricket Operations the contract signing ceremony was held at a local hotel in Karachi, which was attended by former cricketers and KSL Chairman Masood Ahmed Khan among others On this occasion, Moin Khan said that Kashmir will make Super League a big brandThe league will be successful when the players get money the
KE’s Financial Best Practices Upheld in Federal Tax Ombudsman’s Decision
K-Electric (KE) welcomes the Federal Tax Ombudsman’s (FTO) recent decision affirming the company s full compliance with prescribed laws on sales tax implementation This underscores KE s adherence to best financial and business practices in line with regulatory requirements The decision also highlights KE as the power distribution company in Pakistan that had proactively implemented the correct tax treatment charging and depositing the sales tax and income tax on gross electricity supply as per the prescribed laws This comes at a time when strengthening national revenue collection remains a priority Earlier this week, the FTO raised issue of different treatment by K-Electric and XWDISCOS regarding charging of the taxes on net metering customers resulting in revenue loss to the Govt of Pakistan Following an inquiry the FTO directed all 11 state-owned DISCOs to align their taxation practices with KE s approach, ensuring compliance with the regulatory framework Chief Financial Officer K-Electric, Muhammad Aamir Ghaziani, commented: “This decision reinforces KE’s commitment to upholding the highest financial and governance standards in all areas of our operations
Fertilizer
PAKISTAN DESIROUS OF FURTHER STRENGTHEN TIES WITH RUSSIA: PM
Mustafa Amir appeared in cour t hours before his death
The murder of Mustafa Amir, who was killed by his acquaintances, took a turn with the revelation that he had appeared in court just hours before his death
According to reports the AntiNarcotics Court had removed Mustafa Amir s name from a drugrelated case prior to his death Investigating officers confirmed that Amir passed away following his court appearance on January 6 2024 Amir who had been arrested on January 31 2024 had been granted bail on March 20, 2024, along with co-accused Noman Yaqoob
However, arrest warrants had been issued for him until February 22 2024 due to his involvement in the case
The court proceedings have also shed light on two associates of Amir Mian Ammar Hamid and Faisal Yaqoob who are currently wanted in connection with the case
Earlier An anti-terrorism court (ATC) has extended the remand of the accused in the Mustafa Amir kidnapping and murder case for five more days
The accused Armughan and Shiraz were presented before the ATC inside the Central Jail following the completion of their initial remand on Thursday
The prosecution informed the judge that further steps including the 164 statement and the identification parade for employees of Armughan, were yet to be conducted
The defence lawyer Advocate Abid Zaman raised a concern re-
questing that his client Armughan be allowed to sign a power of attorney
Armughan’s mother also sought permission to meet her son but the judge clarified that meetings could only take place within the courtroom, not outside
When the judge asked the accused whom he wanted as his legal representation, Armughan expressed his wish to be represented by both Abid Zaman and Tahir Ur Rehman
The judge however directed him to file a power of attorney for only one lawyer at a time Armughan ultimately chose Abid Zaman as his counsel Advocate Zaman also filed a request for a medical examination of his client arguing that Armughan is in poor health and requires treatment
Armughan claimed that he had been denied food and bathroom access for days in police custody He alleged that police officers had
mocked him, laughing at his situation and telling him that his physical remand had been extended The defence lawyer explained that the accused was disturbed and ill which led him to make these statements
The court took note of these claims and ordered a medical examination for Armughan It was also revealed that the girl who had allegedly been tortured by Armughan had been located and DNA testing would be conducted
Police informed the court that they had yet to receive notice from the defence for the 164 statements of the witnesses, but the investigation was ongoing Armughan himself protested against his remand alleging he was being harassed by police However the investigating officer (IO) stated that the accused had refused to cooperate when he was initially produced before the judicial magistrate
The main suspect in the assault on two citizens in Karachi’s Boat Basin area on February 19 been identification as Nawabzada Shahzain Marri the son of an influential feudal lord from Balochistan
In response to the attack, Karachi’s South Zone Police conducted overnight raids at two different locations in Karachi’s Defence area During these operations the police arrested seven security guards and recovered modern weapons
According to Deputy Inspector General (DIG) South, Syed Asad Raza investigations are ongoing to determine whether the seized weapons are licensed
While the police successfully apprehended the attackers security guards, the primary suspect, Shahzain Marri, managed to flee to
Quetta following the assault
He further stated that among the arrested security guards are Ghaus Bakhsh, Jalad Khan, Ali Zain Hassan and others The arrested security guards are personal bodyguards of Shahzain Marri
The police have contacted the Balochistan government for assistance in capturing Marri, and efforts to arrest other individuals involved in the assault are ongoing
The incident which was captured on video saw armed men attacking a civilian car passenger after reversing their vehicle into the victim s automobile
According to the victim s complaint, six to seven armed men were involved in the assault
The asailants were also accused of being under the influence of drugs
The victims of the attack included Barkat Soomro, the Deputy Secretary Information of PPP Youth Organisation Karachi Divi-
sion, and his friend Waqas
Soomro recounted that after parking their vehicle near Boat Basin Food Street, the two were followed by an approaching car After yielding the way to the vehicle the car reversed and stopped next to theirs
Several armed men then emerged from the car and began assaulting Soomro and his friend
Soomro stated that when he questioned the attackers he received no explanation and one of them allegedly threatened to shoot him in the eye
Soomro later expressed concerns over the rising culture of impunity in Karachi, particularly in affluent areas
Sindh government spokesperson Sadia Javed has vowed that action will be taken against those possessing illegal firearms in Karachi, reinforcing the government’s commitment to curbing violent incidents in the province
