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Pakistan Approves Export of 250,000 Tons of Sugar Ahead of Crushing Season

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Terrorists Threaten to Attack World Cup Matches in India

As the Cricket World Cup kicks off today, Indian authorities are maintaining a vigilant stance due to concerns over potential terrorism threats, causing apprehension not only among the hosts but also the fans.

Reports in Indian media have indicated threats of attacks during matches in the city, raising valid concerns regarding the safety of both players and spectators.

In response to these threats, security measures have been significantly ramped up in and around the Ahmedabad Stadium. To ensure the well-being of all attendees, a contingent of approximately 3,000 police officers will be strategically deployed at the venue.

To further fortify security, access to the road leading to the stadium will be restricted during matches, creating a foolproof security setup.

Additionally, stringent security protocols will be enforced within the Ahmedabad Stadium during matches. Spectators will be allowed to carry only mobile phones, with all other objects strictly prohibited.

Ahmedabad has the distinction of hosting five crucial matches, including the tournament’s opening encounter and the much-anticipated clash between Pakistan and India. The pinnacle of the competition, the grand final of the ICC World Cup, will also be held at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. As the cricketing world converges on this city, the emphasis on security underscores the commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Also, see:

World Bank unhappy with Pakistan

PKR defeats USD for 21 consecutive days

PKR defeats USD for 21 consecutive days

The Pakistani rupee’s impressive performance against the US Dollar continued its remarkable streak for the 21st consecutive day, demonstrating strength and resilience in the financial markets. The day began with the rupee opening at 289 against the US Dollar in the interbank market.

As the clock approached 11:30 AM, the rupee displayed its bullish tendencies, reaching a peak of 280.725 against the greenback, marking an impressive gain of approximately Rs. 9.

Subsequently, between 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM, the interbank rate witnessed a slight ease, settling around the 283 mark, where it remained steady for the rest of the day.

Over the course of the last 18 trading sessions, the Pakistani Rupee has made substantial gains of Rs. 23.43 against the US Dollar. Open market rates mirrored this positive trend, fluctuating within the 280-284 range throughout the day. Since September 4th, the open market rate has exhibited remarkable resilience, surging by an impressive Rs. 54 against the US Dollar.

When the trading day concluded, the Pakistani Rupee had appreciated by 0.37 percent, closing at 283.62, having gained Rs. 1.06 against the US Dollar during the day.

It’s noteworthy that the gap between interbank and open market rates has significantly shrunk, decreasing by nearly Rs. 52 in the past month, with an additional decrease of approximately Rs. 4 this week. Despite occasional spikes to 284, the rates have primarily hovered around the 280 mark.

In a broader context, the Pakistani Rupee has faced challenges, depreciating by nearly Rs. 64 since January 2023 and by over Rs. 111 against the US Dollar since April 2022. However, today’s exchange rate movements reflect a positive trend, with the PKR gaining more than Rs. 1 against the US Dollar.

Furthermore, the Pakistani Rupee displayed strength against other major currencies in the interbank market today, gaining 19 paisas against the Euro (EUR), 27 paisas against the Saudi Riyal (SAR), 28 paisas against the UAE Dirham (AED), and a remarkable Rs. 1.42 against the Canadian Dollar (CAD). This impressive performance reflects positively on Pakistan’s economic stability and resilience in the global financial landscape.

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Pakistan Government Unveils New Passport Issuance Policy

Frank Hoogerbeets’ Earthquake Predictions: Media Attention or Scientific Insight?

Dutch scientist Frank Hoogerbeets stirred a wave of concern when he once again made a prediction about a strong earthquake potentially hitting Pakistan within 48 hours. Working as a researcher at the Solar System Geometry Survey (SSGEOS), Hoogerbeets claimed that they had detected atmospheric fluctuations in and around Pakistan, suggesting a possible impending tremor.

This prediction quickly gained traction on the internet, sparking alarm among the general public. However, much to the relief of the citizens, Pakistan did not experience any seismic activity, let alone a strong earthquake as foretold by Hoogerbeets.

In a subsequent tweet, the Dutch scientist contradicted his earlier statement, emphasizing that discussing the possibility of an earthquake often led to unfounded rumors about an imminent “big earthquake.” He clarified that while there could be indicators, there was no certainty that such an event would occur.

The puzzling aspect of this situation is the motivation behind making such bold predictions when it is widely recognized that accurately forecasting earthquakes is impossible. It appears that media attention plays a significant role in this pattern.

Hoogerbeets gained notoriety for his supposedly “accurate” earthquake prediction in Turkey, which thrust him into the media spotlight. Subsequently, he began making predictions about strong earthquakes worldwide, reveling in the attention.

This behavior is undeniably irresponsible, especially for someone who identifies as a scientist. Leading experts in the field have repeatedly emphasized the impossibility of precise earthquake prediction. Despite being consistently proven wrong, Hoogerbeets persists in spreading fear and anxiety among the public. Equally concerning is the role played by local media in amplifying these unfounded predictions, adding to the atmosphere of unwarranted alarm.

Xiaomi Announces Pakistan launch of 13T series

Lahore, Pakistan, October 4th – Xiaomi today revealed its latest Xiaomi 13T Series smartphones termed as “Masterpiece in Sight”, designed and engineered for customers worldwide who are ready to unleash their visual artistry. Equipped with advanced performance optimization architecture lasting battery life, and a crystal-clear display, the Xiaomi 13T Series ensures outstanding smartphone experiences whether shooting photos, watching videos, or in daily usage. Both Xiaomi 13T Pro and Xiaomi 13T offer a triple camera setup featuring Summicron lenses co-engineered with Leica, including a 50MP wide-angle camera with 24mm equivalent focal length and a 7P aspherical lens designed to capture more light supporting high dynamic range shooting. Additionally, it offers 100% DCI-P3 coverage3 with support for 68 billion colors, providing end-to-end HDR10+ compatibility. Both Xiaomi 13T Pro and Xiaomi 13T feature wide-ranging power efficiency enhancements and lasting battery life, enabling users to enjoy a faster and more efficient smartphone experience.

Xiaomi 13T is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 8200-Ultra, built for superb power efficiency using the latest TSMC 4nm process enabling improvements in CPU and GPU performance.

Xiaomi 13T Pro is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ chipset with a fast Octa-core CPU, delivering speeds of up to 3.35GHz. It also has a built-in Arm Immortalis-G715 GPU that improves image processing, making gaming experiences smooth and free from worries about battery life.

Market Availability

Xiaomi 13T is now available online at Mistore, Corecart, Daraz, and Xiaomi sale. It will also be available nationwide in all retail outlets. 13T Pro will be available soon.

Our Distributors are Tech Sirat, Airlink Communications, Smartlink Technologies, Core Tech, Phonezo Impex, Burque

Xiaomi 13T has 1 variant available.

Variant 12 GB + 256 GB. Price is 169,999

Xiaomi 13T Pro also has 1 variant available.

Variant 12 GB+ 512 GB. Price is 234,999

Device Specifications

Specifications13T13T Pro
Display144Hz Crystal Res AMOLED display3144Hz Crystal Res AMOLED display3  
Rear Camera    50MP wide-angle camera            50MP wide-angle camera  
Front Camera 20MP front camera          20MP front camera  
Battery5000mAh (typ)5000mAh (typ)
ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 8200-Ultra     MediaTek Dimensity 9200+  
ColorMeadow Green, Black, Alpine BlueMeadow Green, Black, Alpine Blue

About Xiaomi Corporation

The Xiaomi Corporation was founded in April 2010 and has been listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since July 9, 2018 (1810. HK). Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and innovative hardware connected by an IoT platform at its core.

Embracing our vision of “Make friends with users and be the coolest company in the users’ hearts”, Xiaomi continuously pursues innovations, high-quality user experience, and operational efficiency. The company relentlessly builds amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.

Xiaomi is one of the world’s leading smartphone companies. The company’s market share in terms of smartphone shipments ranked no. 3 globally in 2021. The company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, with more than 400 million smart devices connected to its platform as of September 30, 2021, excluding smartphones and laptops. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2021, the company made the Fortune Global 500 list for the third time, ranking 338th, up 84 places compared to 2020.

Xiaomi is a constituent of the Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng China Enterprises Index, Hang Seng TECH Index, and Hang Seng China 50 Index.

Pakistan Government Unveils New Passport Issuance Policy

NADRA Reveals Online Passport Renewal Facility – Check How to Apply

A new passport-issuing strategy recently unveiled by the Pakistani government aims to modernise and streamline the passport application procedure. This action will support the government’s goal to enhancing public services and make acquiring a passport for Pakistani nationals easier and more effective.

KARACHI: A standard passport will now be given in 21 days, as opposed to the previous 10 days, according to new guidelines announced by the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) on Tuesday, according to Geo News.

The agency discovered unlawful passport use, which made it challenging to provide a passport on time, the directorate remarked without going into further detail.

Time Savings: Passport applications will be processed more quickly and with less paperwork, saving applicants significant time. This will make it simpler to get passports for travel and other purposes.

Additionally, the DGIP recommended citizens to go to the appropriate passport offices between 8am and 1pm. It also advised citizens to cooperate with the directorate, noting that they can use the Citizen Portal to report any problems they may have getting a passport.

Caretaker Minister advises couple to have 3-year gap between children

Caretaker Minister advises couple to have 3-year gap between children

Dr. Jamal Nasir, Punjab’s Caretaker Minister for Health and Population Welfare, has emphasized the importance of maintaining a three-year gap between children to ensure the well-being of both mothers and newborns.

During a seminar on population welfare, he addressed the audience and highlighted the prevalent health issues faced by women, particularly due to inadequate diets and anemia. Dr. Nasir expressed his commitment to setting an example for others in promoting smaller families through the Population Welfare Department.

In pursuit of this goal, he revealed his plans to implement a stringent policy within the department. If enacted, this policy would restrict employees from having more than three children. Dr. Nasir also shared updates on initiatives taken by the caretaker government to enhance maternal and child healthcare. Notably, 43,000 Lady Health Workers (LHWs) have been promoted from grade 5 to 8, while 1,700 Lady Health Supervisors (LHSs) have seen promotions from grade 8 to 11.

Furthermore, graduate LHSs have been elevated to grade 14 as part of these efforts to bolster healthcare services. These measures underscore the government’s commitment to addressing critical healthcare issues and promoting the well-being of women and children in Punjab.

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World Bank unhappy with Pakistan

World Bank unhappy with Pakistan

World Bank unhappy with Pakistan

The World Bank has raised significant concerns regarding Pakistan’s sales tax system, which currently allows for concessionary rates below the standard 18 percent for specific products and sectors. According to the latest report, the World Bank Pakistan Development Update (PDU), the sales tax system in Pakistan also permits certain domestic supplies to be zero-rated, further narrowing the tax base.

Why World Bank is not happy with Pakistan?

This complexity in Pakistan’s tax system is characterized by a narrow tax base and high tax rates. The system is laden with various special provisions, concessional rates, and exemptions, driven by the need to provide fiscal support to specific groups or industries while maintaining a minimum level of revenue collection. Unfortunately, this approach has led to a convoluted system with numerous vested interests, resulting in economic inefficiency and reduced revenue collection.

In the fiscal year 2023, Pakistan’s aggregate revenue accounted for 11.6 percent of GDP, with 92 percent collected at the federal level and the remainder at the provincial level. However, the tax-to-GDP ratio only reached 10.2 percent, falling short of the 15 percent threshold considered necessary for developing countries.

The decline in total revenue to 11.6 percent of GDP in FY23, down from 12.1 percent in FY22, was primarily attributed to reduced revenue from indirect taxes, including sales tax on goods and services, customs duties, and excise duties. This reduction was a consequence of decreased imports, which, in turn, impacted revenue from sales tax and customs duties on imported goods. These challenges underscore the need for comprehensive tax reform in Pakistan to enhance revenue collection and promote economic efficiency.

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Pakistani Rupee Continues Its Rally Against the US Dollar for the 18th Consecutive Day

Swat Girls Defy Odds, Shine in Kabal’s First-Ever Cricket Match

In a remarkable show of determination, Swat girls in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa displayed their unwavering passion for cricket by participating in the first-ever match held in Kabal tehsil. This inspiring event followed a recent setback in Charbagh tehsil when female cricketers were denied the opportunity to play, citing concerns about cultural norms and impropriety.

Local councilor Ihsanullah Kaki had previously cited security as the primary reason for restricting girls’ cricket in the region, mentioning the presence of armed individuals making threats and extorting money from locals. However, in Kabal and Mingora, a different scene unfolded as female cricketers took to the field at Government Girls Higher Secondary School, defying the odds.

The Deputy Commissioner expressed unwavering support for these determined young athletes, emphasizing their significance as the pride of Swat. Despite challenges, the girls continue to shine, with their skills on full display in an exhilarating match.

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Pakistani Rupee Continues Its Rally Against the US Dollar for the 18th Consecutive Day

Ehsaas Survey Program 2023: Online Registration Made Easy

Ehsaas Survey Program Online Registration 2023

In 2023, the Ehsaas Survey Program—a key government project designed to guarantee financial inclusion and social protection for society’s most vulnerable groups—made tremendous progress. The programme has improved in accessibility, effectiveness, and inclusivity with the introduction of an online registration system, making it easier for people and families to apply for government aid.

The Ehsaas Survey Programme enrollment process has been made simpler for citizens with the launch of an online registration gateway. This is how it goes:

Registrations for the NSER Survey are currently being accepted online: Online Results Access for Your NSER Survey Registration

It will be quick and easy to complete your application through CNIC 8171 if you have previously signed up for this service. If you’re eligible for the programme, you’ll learn right away. The BISP check by SMS for people has been improved by the government.

Note: People Those who have already signed up for the Ehsaas programme and are wondering if they still qualify. Then, for more details, visit the Ehsaas website.

The link is attached: https://8171passgovpk.online/ehsaas-survey-program-online-registration-2023/

PMD rejects reports forecasting earthquake during Oct 1-3

Amid a wave of speculations circulating on social media, suggesting an imminent and potent earthquake striking Pakistan within the next 48 hours, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has categorically refuted these claims, asserting the inherent unpredictability of seismic events.

Social media users have been referencing the Solar System Geometry Survey (SSGEOS) and the insights of Dutch scientist Frank Hoogerbeets. These sources have purportedly identified a substantial increase in electrical activity along the fault lines in Balochistan’s Chaman region, raising concerns of a formidable earthquake looming over Pakistan.

However, the PMD emphasizes that the scientific consensus maintains that precise earthquake prediction remains beyond current capabilities. The public is encouraged to rely on official channels for accurate information and preparedness measures, rather than speculative claims on social platforms. Safety and vigilance remain paramount in earthquake-prone regions like Pakistan.

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Pakistani Rupee Continues Its Rally Against the US Dollar for the 18th Consecutive Day

Pakistani Rupee Continues Its Rally Against the US Dollar for the 18th Consecutive Day

Pakistani Rupee Continues Its Rally Against the US Dollar for the 18th Consecutive Day

In a remarkable streak, the Pakistani rupee (PKR) continued its ascent against the US Dollar for the 18th consecutive day, displaying a strong performance in the financial markets. The day began with the PKR opening trade at 290 in the interbank market, and it steadily gained ground throughout the trading day.

By 11:30 AM, the rupee had surged to a bullish high of 282 against the greenback, marking an impressive gain of approximately Rs. 8. Subsequently, the interbank rate saw a slight dip to 288 between 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM before stabilizing around 286 for the rest of the day.

Over the past 15 sessions, the PKR has gained a substantial Rs. 20.3 against the US Dollar, reflecting a strengthening trend. The open market rates also followed suit, remaining in the range of 282-288, making a remarkable recovery of about Rs. 52 since September 4.

Closing the day, the PKR appreciated by 0.34 percent, settling at 286.76 after gaining 98 paisas against the US Dollar. Traders attribute this persistent rally to positive market sentiments in the first two weeks of October.

The gap between interbank and open market rates has significantly narrowed, now standing at roughly Rs. 52 since last month. However, it’s worth noting that the rupee has experienced a decline of nearly Rs. 67 since January 2023 and over Rs. 114 since April 2022 against the greenback.

Furthermore, the PKR showed strength against other major currencies, gaining against the Saudi Riyal, UAE Dirham, British Pound, and Canadian Dollar in the interbank market. This ongoing rally suggests a positive outlook for the Pakistani rupee in the financial landscape.

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Economic Challenges Persist: More Companies Announce Temporary Shutdowns in Pakistan

Economic Challenges Persist: More Companies Announce Temporary Shutdowns in Pakistan

The economy of Pakistan is now experiencing turbulence, with a number of businesses across all industries declaring temporary closures. These closures are a reaction to a number of issues that have been affecting the business climate in the nation, underscoring the urgent need for economic stabilisation measures.

Manufacturer of auto parts Agriauto Industries Limited said on Monday that company would conduct a temporary shutdown in October.

Agriauto Stamping Company Pvt. Limited, the company’s sole subsidiary, will likewise experience a partial shutdown in October 2023, it was noted, for the same justifications.

Pakistan has long-standing inflation, which has raised production prices and diminished consumers’ purchasing power. Lower demand and rising input costs are causing problems for businesses.

Tax and regulatory issues: Businesses have found it challenging to negotiate the tax system and meet regulatory standards, which has a negative impact on their profitability.

These brief closures have had a considerable impact on jobs in addition to affecting enterprises. The number of employees let go or put on unpaid leave has increased, worsening the nation’s unemployment situation.

The Pakistani government has started a number of economic reform initiatives and is cognizant of the difficulties faced by enterprises. However, it will take extensive and ongoing efforts to overcome these problems and promote economic stability.

FIA Arrests 16 Beggars Travelling to Saudi Arabia from Multan

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has taken action against a group of sixteen individuals who were arrested at Multan airport for attempting to enter Saudi Arabia under the guise of Umrah pilgrims but with the intention of begging. This group included 11 women, 4 men, and a child.

During the immigration process, these passengers admitted to FIA officials that their purpose for traveling to Saudi Arabia was to engage in begging activities. They also disclosed that they were expected to share half of their earnings from begging with the agents who had arranged their travel. Once their visas expired, they were supposed to return to Pakistan.

In light of this growing issue, the FIA Multan Circle has apprehended these passengers for legal proceedings. It’s worth noting that a recent meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis highlighted the rising trend of beggars from Pakistan seeking opportunities abroad.

Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Secretary Zulfikar Haider revealed that a significant number of beggars arrested in foreign countries were of Pakistani origin, and some exploited pilgrim visas to travel to Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Iraq. This development underscores the need for greater vigilance and regulation in the process of overseas travel.

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India is behind 12th Rabiul Awwal attacks in Balochistan, says Interim Interior Minister of Pakistan

India is behind 12th Rabiul Awwal attacks in Balochistan, says Interim Interior Minister of Pakistan

India is behind 12th Rabiul Awwal attacks in Balochistan, says Interim Interior Minister of Pakistan
A boy injured in the explosion receives treatment at a hospital in Mastung near Quetta, Pakistan [District Police Office via AP]

Interim Interior Minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti has alleged that India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), its foreign intelligence agency, was behind recent terror attacks in Balochistan. Bugti made these claims without providing any evidence during a media briefing in Quetta. He stated that those involved in facilitating such attacks, regardless of their affiliation, were all linked to RAW.

This statement follows a suicide blast in Mastung, Balochistan, targeting a 12th Rabiul Awwal procession, resulting in 55 casualties. No group has claimed responsibility, although the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) denied involvement. A separate bombing occurred in Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, killing five people and injuring 12.

Bugti pledged to pursue terrorists relentlessly and emphasized that appeasement policies would no longer be tolerated. He expressed frustration with the state’s history of switching to appeasement policies after gaining strength against terrorists. Bugti also mentioned the recent investigation into attacks, which may have involved different organizations claiming responsibility.

While condemning the recent violence, he promised to take action against those responsible and address the issue of suspending district commissioners and superintendents of police. He noted that this was the first attack of its kind during the 12th Rabiul Awwal occasion in Balochistan, highlighting the previous targeting of the Hazara community and Muharram processions.

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Pakistani Government Takes a Stand Against Surrogate Betting Sponsors in PCB and PSL

Israel and Saudi Arabia considering friendly relations

Israel and Saudi Arabia considering friendly relations
Image via BBC

Israel and Saudi Arabia are taking significant strides toward potentially establishing amicable relations, marking a notable shift after years of tension, as confirmed by the White House. This development aligns with President Biden’s vision for transforming the Middle East landscape and potentially bolstering his re-election prospects. Biden’s objective includes securing Saudi Arabia, the guardian of Islam’s most sacred sites, to officially acknowledge Israel, a nation historically criticized for its treatment of Palestinians.

John Kirby, the spokesperson for the US’s National Security Council, acknowledged the existence of a preliminary framework for this burgeoning relationship. He emphasized that, as with any major agreement, compromises from all involved parties would be necessary.

The United States, leveraging its influence, has been encouraging Israel and Saudi Arabia, its two Middle Eastern allies, to formalize their relations. This initiative follows Israel’s previous agreements with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, and Morocco. Both Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have hinted at an impending closer alliance.

However, Saudi Arabia seeks assurances regarding its security, potentially through a treaty with the United States, as a condition for endorsing ties with Israel. Simultaneously, the Palestinian perspective remains crucial, with their insistence on the consideration of their interests, highlighting the belief that lasting Middle East peace can only be achieved through a two-state solution.

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Pakistani Government Takes a Stand Against Surrogate Betting Sponsors in PCB and PSL

HPE Opens Doors to Fresh Talent: Apply Now for Exciting Tech Internships

Photo: hpe

The dynamic team at Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), a leader in global technology solutions and services, is looking for new talent. HPE has started an intriguing internship program for a variety of tech professions as part of its commitment to promoting innovation and developing the next generation of tech professionals. This chance could be your ticket to success if you’re a tech enthusiast looking to launch your career in a vibrant and forward-thinking workplace.

Internship opportunities are available at HPE in a variety of tech fields, including but not limited to:

  • Software Development
  • Data Science and Analytics
  • Cybersecurity
  • Cloud Computing
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Network Engineering
  • IT Operations

You will join HPE’s EMEA Graduate Programme as an intern, which is designed to give you a focused path for training and professional development. This course will help you develop your abilities, increase your knowledge, and prepare for a rewarding future in the tech sector.

While pursuing their academic goals or during the summer between semesters, interns will have the chance to work at HPE in a technical internship capacity. You can bridge the knowledge gap between academic study and practical application with the aid of this practical experience.

Candidates for the HPE Internship Drive should be in their third year of college, often specializing in a technical degree, and have obtained their high school diploma. Regardless of your preference for software or software engineering, HPE

How to apply:

Visit official website: https://www.hpe.com/us/en/about/jobs/students.html

Fuel Price Surge and Tariff Adjustments to Heighten Inflation, Says Ministry of Finance

The Ministry of Finance has raised concerns about the looming inflationary challenges that Pakistan is set to face in the near future. These concerns stem from a combination of factors, including the recent surge in fuel prices in September and the upward revision of energy tariffs.

According to the Monthly Update & Outlook for September 2023, released by the Economic Adviser’s Wing of the Finance Division, there has been a positive development in international food prices. The report highlights that global food prices have been on a decline since August 2023.

Factors Driving Inflationary Pressures in Pakistan According to Ministry of Finance

The Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) price index, which monitors the prices of the most widely traded food commodities worldwide, registered an average of 121.4 points in August 2023, compared to 124.0 in the previous month.

This decline is significant, marking the lowest level since March 2021 and reflecting a 24 percent drop from the all-time high in March 2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Although most food commodities have experienced decreases, the report notes that these reductions have been offset by increases in the prices of rice and sugar.

On the domestic front, the government’s stringent actions against illegal foreign exchange dealers and commodity hoarders have contributed to stabilizing the exchange rate. This has provided some relief from imported inflation and has helped alleviate the pressures on commodity prices.

The State Bank of Pakistan has also maintained its policy rate at the previous level, aiming to anchor inflationary expectations. While the double-digit base effect has had a mitigating impact on September’s inflation figures, the significant rise in fuel prices during September 2023 is expected to partially offset these effects.

Moreover, the recent upward adjustments in energy tariffs are anticipated to exacerbate inflationary pressures in the coming months. These tariff revisions are projected to result in increased transportation costs, affecting essential goods and services. Consequently, inflation is predicted to remain elevated in the coming month, with an expected range of 29 to 31 percent for September 2023.

These economic factors collectively emphasize the need for prudent financial management and measures to mitigate the impact of inflation on consumers and businesses in Pakistan.

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Pakistani Government Takes a Stand Against Surrogate Betting Sponsors in PCB and PSL

Pakistani Government Takes a Stand Against Surrogate Betting Sponsors in PCB and PSL

Pakistani Government Takes a Stand Against Surrogate Betting Sponsors in PCB and PSL

The Pakistani government has issued a stringent directive to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises, instructing them to cease all sponsorships from surrogate betting companies.

This bold move comes as the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has taken decisive action against the covert betting entities that have infiltrated Pakistan’s cricketing landscape. In an official communique, the ministry has exposed the surrogate companies established by foreign betting corporations to gain access to Pakistan’s cricket ecosystem. Among the revealed entities are 1Xbat, MelBat, Dafa News, and 111 Wolf News, which served as primary sponsors for PSL franchises in the previous edition of the league.

The gravity of the situation lies in the fact that these surrogate companies are linked to casinos, betting firms, and gambling establishments. Their operations not only pose a moral hazard but also inflict financial harm on Pakistan. They clandestinely channel untaxed funds out of the country, thereby undermining the nation’s economy under the pretext of sponsoring PSL franchises and other cricketing events.

In response to these revelations, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has officially prohibited the PCB, PSL franchises, local teams, and tournaments from entering into any future agreements with such surrogate companies associated with banned entities. Furthermore, the franchises have been mandated to terminate any existing contracts with these entities.

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90% of beggars in foreign countries detected as ‘Pakistanis’

Relief from K-Electric: Karachi income tax filers will pay lower electricity bills

K-Electric, the well-known power utility business servicing Karachi, has announced a new programme in an effort to relieve taxpayers and encourage financial transparency. This programme attempts to encourage a culture of fiscal discipline while rewarding income tax payers with lower electricity rates, which will benefit both utility providers and consumers.

A K-Electric representative emphasised the company’s unwavering dedication to addressing the worries of locals concerned about rising electricity prices. It’s vital to remember that K-Electric does not have the jurisdiction to determine electricity tariffs or taxes; instead, regulatory agencies are responsible for making these determinations.

Electricity rates are set by the Ministry of Energy and the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), which consumers should be informed of. Companies that distribute electricity, like K-Electric, have little control over how taxes are applied to electricity bills. Customers are asked to pay their electricity bills on time in order to guarantee an ongoing power supply. Income tax filers in Karachi must show K-Electric proof of their tax filing status in order to receive the discounted electricity rates. They will be qualified for a reduced tariff rate on their monthly electricity consumption once their eligibility has been confirmed.

In addition to saving consumers money on utility bills, this programme helps Pakistan’s government advance open and honest financial practises. This effort has the ability to promote a culture of tax filing and fiscal discipline that benefits both taxpayers and the country’s economy as more people and businesses join up.

90% of beggars in foreign countries detected as ‘Pakistanis’

During a recent session of the Senate’s Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis, concerns about skilled and unskilled labor leaving the country were brought to light. Startling revelations indicated that a substantial number of Pakistanis heading abroad are actually local beggars.

Chaired by Rana Mahmood-ul-Hassan Kakar, the committee disclosed that a staggering 90% of beggars arrested in foreign countries are of Pakistani origin. This raised alarming questions about the circumstances that drive these individuals to leave their homeland.

Zeeshan Khanzada, Secretary (Overseas Pakistanis), shed light on the issue, revealing that a significant portion of beggars is using religious pilgrimage visas to travel to countries like Iraq and Saudi Arabia, only to misuse them by engaging in begging activities. The problem extends to pickpocketing incidents, with a considerable number of those apprehended in Makkah’s Grand Mosque being Pakistanis.

Iraq and Saudi Arabia have expressed concerns about their prisons becoming overcrowded due to the influx of these unofficial immigrants from Pakistan. This alarming situation has prompted Khanzada to label it as an emerging human trafficking issue, demanding immediate attention.

Additionally, Kakar emphasized the missed opportunities for employment in countries like Japan. Despite Japan’s need for 340,000 skilled workers, only 200 came from Pakistan. In stark contrast, India and Nepal sent 150,000 and 91,000 workers, respectively. Despite Pakistan signing a linguistic agreement with Japan in 2019, the response has been underwhelming.

To address Saudi Arabia’s demand for skilled labor, Pakistan had previously made proposals that were declined. Kakar proposed sending 50,000 trained individuals to meet the labor demands in the region.

Furthermore, Khanzada highlighted that Pakistan lags behind India and Bangladesh in global labor markets. Senator Rehman pointed out that Nepal even sends mountain sherpas to Pakistan due to a skills gap within the local population, underscoring the urgent need for measures to enhance skill development and job opportunities for Pakistanis both at home and abroad.

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Pakistan Decides to Repatriate Afghan Refugees Amid Rising Tensions