More than 86,000 Citizens Denied Treatment Under Sehat Sahulat Card Program in Punjab

More than 86,000 Citizens Denied Treatment Under Sehat Sahulat Card Program in Punjab

The Sehat Sahulat Card, also known as the Universal Health Insurance (UHI) Program, has encountered a grave crisis in Punjab. Recent revelations have unveiled a stark reality: in just 25 days, a staggering 86,217 patients out of a total of 104,846 were turned away from treatment at all district headquarters hospitals (DHQs). This distressing revelation raises profound concerns regarding the sustainability of the program and its profound impact on the healthcare landscape in the region.

Between July 1 and July 25, individuals who had placed their trust in the UHI Program for medical support found themselves devoid of the care they desperately needed. As per an official assessment report, the annual financial toll on hospitals is projected to exceed Rs. 3 billion, with an additional Rs. 9 billion in losses incurred by the Punjab government.

Healthcare experts have vehemently criticized the “blatant negligence” exhibited by higher health authorities and have underscored that a mere 18,629 patients out of the total number managed to access treatment at DHQ hospitals under the program.

The report has also brought to light specific instances of affected individuals, including 4,132 pregnant women in search of delivery services, 3,672 requiring C-sections, and numerous others in need of various surgeries, inpatient care, intensive care, and dialysis.

The financial ramifications are staggering, with DHQ hospitals missing out on a substantial Rs. 645 million in revenue earmarked for the treatment of eligible patients. Moreover, the government grapples with a significant financial setback, as a substantial 64 percent of the program’s revenue was slated for the national treasury.

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Yango hosts a thrilling Asia Cup 2023 Pakistan vs. India screening in Lahore

Yango hosts a thrilling Asia Cup 2023 Pakistan vs. India screening in Lahore

Yango hosts a thrilling Asia Cup 2023 Pakistan vs. India screening in Lahore
Credit: Yango Pakistan

Lahore, September 04th, 2023: Yango, the premium ride-hailing service, demonstrated its commitment to enhancing customer experiences by hosting an exhilarating screening of the Asia Cup 2023 Pakistan vs. India cricket match today at the Luxus Grand Hotel in Lahore. The event attracted an impressive lineup of prominent bloggers, influencers, and other important personalities who rallied behind their favourite teams in what has been hailed as the most thrilling game of the season.

Cricket enthusiasts and loyal fans showed up at the screening venue to witness the much-anticipated clash between Pakistan and India. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and camaraderie as attendees united in supporting their respective teams.

Yango’s dedication to delivering excellence extended beyond the event itself, with attendees choosing Yango’s reliable ride-hailing service to reach the venue. This seamless transportation option allowed attendees, including content creators from Islamabad, to experience the convenience and efficiency of Yango’s inter-city travel service that will be launched on the application soon.

Credit: Yango Pakistan

“The Asia Cup 2023 screening was a testament to our commitment to providing premium services and exceptional experiences,” said Faisal Iftekhar, Country Manager, Yango Pakistan. “We are proud to have facilitated attendees’ journeys and provided them with an entertaining event experience. Yango continues to be the preferred choice for those who seek convenience, reliability, and quality in ride-hailing.”

Prominent bloggers, influencers, and attendees took to social media to share their excitement and game insights, underscoring the significant role Yango plays in making travel between cities like Islamabad and Lahore accessible and enjoyable. The match was called off because of rain, but the attendees’ excitement and vigour for the game continued throughout the event.

Yango currently operates in Islamabad, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, and Lahore, offering various transportation services that cater to various travel needs. Stay tuned for more exciting events and initiatives from Yango that aim to elevate customer experiences.

About Yango

Yango is an international online service for ordering rides. It already operates in more than 20 countries across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. Unlike other ride-hailing services, Yango app uses its own mapping, routing, and navigation as well as smart order distribution.

To download the Yango App, please visit: https://ya.cc/t/nooH7Y2p4AvwLC

ACE Money Transfer and Bank Alfalah Encourage Overseas Pakistanis to Use ‘Legal’ Channels to Send Money Home

ACE Money Transfer

The leading global fintech platform, ACE Money Transfer has entered into a new partnership with Pakistan’s Bank Alfalah to create awareness among overseas Pakistanis about sending remittance back home safely.

Both the financial institutions announced their collaboration in the presence of Pakistan Cricket Team Captain Babar Azam, who is their new brand ambassador and is likely to influence a large number of overseas Pakistanis with his words.

This new partnership is aimed at encouraging expats to utilize legal channels for sending money back to Pakistan. This will not only keep overseas Pakistanis away from any trouble but will also contribute toward the economic growth of the country, while ensuring the money reaches to their loved ones safely.

ACE Money Transfer allows overseas Pakistanis to send money from more than 28 countries including North America, Australia and Europe. Their 375,000 pay-out locations in over 106 countries ensure safe transfer of remittances and over 1.4 million satisfied customers globally vouch for it.

In 2023, ACE Money Transfer hopes to transfer more than $1.25 billion remittances across the globe including $800 million to Pakistan alone.

ACE Money Transfer has been successfully flowing in money from different countries to Pakistan already and they enjoy a huge share in the sector. Meanwhile, Bank AlFalah, with its wide nationwide network of branches, aims to make these transactions seamless.

How to Find a Job, especially in Pakistan: The Best Solution is Here for You

How to Find a Job
Photo Credit:Antoni Shkraba

Like in any other country, finding a job in Pakistan might be difficult. However, you may dramatically improve your chances of finding a job that matches your abilities and career objectives by using the appropriate approach, tools, and techniques. We’ll look at the finest methods for locating employment in Pakistan in this article.

Web-based Job Boards

Using online job portals is one of the fastest and easiest ways to find a job in Pakistan. Websites like Rozee.pk, Mustakbil.com, and BrightSpyre.com offer comprehensive lists of job openings in Pakistan across a variety of sectors and locales. With the help of these platforms, you may narrow down job searches according to your skills, experience, and preferred location.

Networking

In Pakistan, networking is a major strategy for job searching. Making relationships in your area or industry can lead to undiscovered work chances. To network with people in your desired field, go to industry-related events, join professional organisations, and use websites like LinkedIn. In Pakistan, references and personal ties are frequently vital for landing a job.

Business websites


In Pakistan, a lot of businesses directly advertise job openings on their websites. Check the careers or jobs area of the company you wish to work for frequently for updates if you have a certain company in mind. With this strategy, you can direct your job search towards organisations in which you are actually interested.

Recruitment Firms


In Pakistan, headhunters and recruitment companies are useful resources for job searchers. These organisations specialize in connecting job seekers with appropriate openings, speeding up the recruitment process. To improve your chances of landing the ideal job, send your CV to reputed organisations that specialize in your field

Government Job Portals

For government job opportunities in Pakistan, you can explore websites like the Pakistan Testing Service (PTS) and the National Testing Service (NTS). These portals often list vacancies in government departments, offering a transparent application process.

Freelancing and Remote Work

With the rise of digitalization, freelancing and remote work opportunities have become increasingly accessible in Pakistan. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr allow individuals with various skills to find freelance gigs and remote jobs that match their expertise. These options provide flexibility and can be a great way to start or supplement your career.

Prepare a Strong Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume and cover letter are your first impression on potential employers. Tailor your resume to highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements relevant to the job you are applying for. Craft a compelling cover letter that demonstrates your enthusiasm for the position and the company.

Finding the right job in Pakistan may take time, so it’s essential to be persistent and patient. Rejections are a part of the job search process, but each one can be a learning opportunity. Stay motivated, continuously improve your skills, and keep applying to positions that align with your career goals.

The Last Consideration from My Side

The best way to find a job in Pakistan involves a combination of online resources, networking, and a strategic approach. Utilize online job portals, network within your industry, and consider recruitment agencies to increase your chances of finding the right job. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application, and stay persistent and patient throughout your job search journey. With determination and the right strategies, you can land a job that suits your skills and aspirations in Pakistan.

Impact of Mental Health on Daily Life

Impact of Mental Health on Daily Life

Our overall well-being depends on our mental health, which has a significant impact on how we live our daily lives. The state of our mental health affects our thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical health, even if it may not always be apparent. In this post, we shall examine how numerous parts of our daily lives are strongly impacted by mental health.

How emotions affect this:

Our emotions are one of the most obvious ways that mental health has an impact on day-to-day life. Persistent feelings of sadness, fear, or rage can be caused by mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or stress. These feelings can interfere with our ability to take pleasure in life’s joys, uphold healthy relationships, and find fulfillment in our everyday tasks.

Workplace productivity can be strongly impacted by mental health. Reduced concentration, diminished motivation, and poorer overall performance might be caused by ailments such as chronic stress, anxiety, or burnout. It may be difficult for workers who are dealing with mental health issues to finish projects on time, meet deadlines, and follow a regular work schedule.

Relationships matter for mental health:

Effective communication, empathy, and trust are the foundations of healthy partnerships. These foundations may be weakened by mental health issues. It may be difficult for people who are struggling with mental disorders or substance abuse to connect with others, which can cause disputes and misunderstandings in relationships with family, friends, or romantic partners.

Mental health and physical health are closely interconnected. Prolonged stress or anxiety can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and digestive problems. Moreover, conditions like depression have been linked to a higher risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.

Sleep habits might be disturbed by mental health problems. Disorders including anxiety and depression frequently exhibit signs of insomnia and sleep disruptions. A vicious loop that negatively affects daily living by lowering energy levels, hindering cognitive function, and diminishing general well-being is created when poor sleep is coupled with mental illness.

Daily Habits play a role in your work too

Daily routines and behaviors can be influenced by mental health. People who are depressed could find it difficult to keep up with self-care tasks like eating a balanced diet or exercising frequently. On the other hand, some people may employ unhealthy coping strategies to deal with their emotional challenges, such as binge eating or substance misuse.

In the end, a person’s level of total life happiness can be greatly impacted by their mental health. People are more likely to feel happiness, contentment, and a sense of purpose when their mental health is stable and positive. On the other hand, ongoing mental health issues might result in a lower quality of life and less fulfillment from daily activities.

Good to Know

Our daily lives are impacted by our mental health, which has an impact on our emotions, relationships, physical health, habits, and decision-making. Understanding how important mental health is to day-to-day functioning highlights the significance of setting priorities and getting help when necessary. Self-care, professional assistance when needed, and the creation of a supportive atmosphere can all work to make people’s daily lives healthier and more enjoyable.

The Advantages of Operating Business in Dubai

Why do People prefer doing business in Dubai including Pakistan?

Introduction

Dubai, a city renowned for its distinctive skyline, opulent lifestyle, and quick development, has recently become a major center for international trade. Entrepreneurs and investors from all over the world have been drawn to it by its advantageous location, business-friendly legislation, and cutting-edge infrastructure. We shall examine some of the main advantages of conducting business in Dubai in this article.

Strategic Place
The strategic geographic location of Dubai is one of its biggest benefits. It is a natural entry point for companies seeking to access markets in Europe, Asia, and Africa because of its location at the intersection of these continents. Dubai has become a popular location for international trade and commerce thanks to this strategic advantage.

Zero Tax Environment
Businesses can operate in a tax-friendly climate in Dubai. While there are no business or individual income taxes, the majority of goods and services are likewise exempt from import and export taxes. This advantageous tax structure enables enterprises to keep more of their profits and reinvest them in their operations.

Free Zone

Each of Dubai’s free trade zones is designed to serve a particular industry, such as technology, finance, healthcare, or logistics. These free zones provide a number of benefits, such as customs duty exemption, full repatriation of profits and capital, and 100% foreign ownership. Businesses that operate in these zones benefit from simpler procedures and less red tape.

Facilities and connectivity
The infrastructure of Dubai is extremely advanced. Modern ports, airports, and transport systems in the city make it easier to conduct business and travel internationally. One of the busiest airports in the world, Dubai International Airport makes it simple for companies to connect with international markets. In order to maintain its position as a major international economic centre, Dubai also makes ongoing investments in its infrastructure.

Safety and Stability

    Dubai is known for its political stability, low crime rate, and safe environment. Such stability is crucial for businesses looking to establish themselves in a new market. Entrepreneurs and investors can have confidence in the safety and security of their investments and operations.

    Access to Capital

      Dubai has a well-developed financial sector, including numerous banks, investment firms, and venture capital entities. Access to capital is readily available for businesses of all sizes, making it easier to secure funding for expansion or new ventures.

      Quality of Life

      Dubai offers a high quality of life, attracting professionals and entrepreneurs seeking a vibrant and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Its world-class healthcare, education, and leisure facilities make it an attractive destination for both business and personal reasons.

      Conclusion

      Dubai’s rise as a global business destination can be attributed to a combination of factors, including its strategic location, favorable tax policies, excellent infrastructure, and a multicultural workforce. For entrepreneurs and businesses looking to expand internationally or establish a presence in the Middle East, Dubai offers a compelling proposition with its business-friendly environment and numerous benefits.

      Social Media Sensation Mahek Bukhari and Mother Sentenced to Life in Double Murder Case

      In a shocking turn of events, social media sensation Mahek Bukhari and her mother, Ansreen Bukhari, have been handed life sentences for their roles in a gruesome double murder case. The victims, Saqib Hussain and Hashim Ijazuddin, both 21 years old, met a tragic end in a devastating car crash during a high-speed chase through Leicestershire.

      The heart-wrenching story behind this tragedy revolves around a love triangle gone horribly wrong. Saqib Hussain had threatened to expose his past affair with Ansreen, who was 46 years old at the time.

      The Bukharis orchestrated a meeting with Saqib in a Tesco car park, promising to reimburse the £3,000 he had spent on Ansreen during their relationship. Their sinister plan was to snatch Saqib’s phone, believing it contained explicit images of Ansreen that he intended to reveal.

      However, the situation took a violent and deadly turn when Saqib and his friend Hashim were ambushed by a group of masked individuals, hired by the Bukharis. This led to a harrowing high-speed chase along the A46, with speeds reaching up to 90mph. Tragically, the pursuit ended in a horrific crash, as the victims’ vehicle careened out of control and struck a tree. The ensuing fire claimed their lives.

      Presiding over the case, Judge Timothy Spencer KC labeled it a “tale of love, obsession, and extortion” and did not mince words in describing it as “cold-blooded murder.” The court also delved into Mahek Bukhari’s social media presence, where she had garnered tens of thousands of followers by sharing beauty and fashion tips.

      Judge Spencer addressed Mahek directly, emphasizing her “self-centeredness” and “distorted values,” highlighting her apparent disregard for the consequences of her actions on others. As Mahek began her life sentence, she shared a farewell kiss with her father, present in the courtroom.

      The judge also noted how Ansreen had been drawn into the allure of her daughter’s social media career, a stark contrast to her role as a mother and homemaker.

      The trial featured emotional statements from the families of the victims, underscoring the profound impact of the incident on their lives. Sikandar Hayat, Mr. Ijazuddin’s father, expressed his shock at the defendants’ failure to call emergency services after the fatal crash.

      In addition to Mahek and Ansreen Bukhari, their associates, Rekan Karwan and Raees Jamal, also faced sentencing for their involvement in this tragic double murder. Notably, Raees Jamal was already serving a sentence for a separate rape case.

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      India Emerges Victorious as Pakistan Suffers Defeat in Asian Hockey 5s Final

      India Emerges Victorious as Pakistan Suffers Defeat in Asian Hockey 5s Final

      In a heart-pounding showdown of hockey titans, Pakistan’s valiant efforts fell just short as they clashed with their arch-rivals, India, in the final of the Asian Hockey 5s tournament. Despite an impressive unbeaten streak leading up to the final, Pakistan faced a formidable Indian squad that proved to be a tough nut to crack, ultimately resulting in a 6-4 defeat.

      Hope Amidst the Heartbreak

      Despite the heartbreak of this loss, Pakistani hockey enthusiasts have reasons to rejoice. The Men in Green, with their outstanding performance throughout the Asian Hockey 5s competition, clinched a coveted spot in the upcoming Hockey 5s World Cup, slated to grace the grounds of Oman in 2024.

      A Remarkable Journey to Glory

      Pakistan’s journey to the final showcased their exceptional skills and unwavering resilience on the field. This achievement earned them a well-deserved ticket to the global stage of hockey. With their sights firmly set on the World Cup, the Pakistani team is poised to harness this experience as a driving force, motivating them to reach new heights of excellence and strive to bring glory to their nation in the upcoming tournament.

      The Road to Oman: A Grand Challenge

      The road to Oman in 2024 promises to be an exhilarating chapter for Pakistan’s hockey team. They eagerly anticipate the chance to compete against the world’s finest teams and vie for international supremacy on the grandest stage of all. As they embark on this exciting journey, the Men in Green are determined to make their mark and seize the opportunity to shine brightly on the global hockey scene.

      Pakistani Students Can Apply for Scholarships from Switzerland

      The Swiss Government and the Higher Education Commission have introduced the “Excellence Scholarship for Pakistani Students” for the upcoming academic year 2024–2025 in an effort to promote international academic cooperation and research partnerships.

      The Swiss Confederation awards Excellence Scholarships every year, inviting academics and researchers from more than 180 nations to pursue studies and research in Switzerland.

      These fellowships are open to postgraduate researchers in a variety of subjects, and the eligibility requirement is at least a master’s degree. Everyone interested in doctorate or postdoctoral research or advanced study in Switzerland is welcome to apply to the program.

      Applying for scholarships whose requirements match your unique profile is the greatest approach to win one. But where do you look for such hard-to-discover scholarships? By perusing the list of resources for foreign students that we have put together for you below!

      Aspiring candidates have a variety of options, including one-year Post-Doctorate programs, a three-year Ph.D. after a master’s, and one-year Research after a Masters. Anyone interested can contact us via email to learn more about our policies and conditions for applying.

      The official website has more information, and the application deadline for embassy submission is September 30. This programme demonstrates Switzerland’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and international research cooperation.

      Pakistan’s Inflation Sees Slight Dip in August 2023 Amidst Economic Challenges

      In August 2023, Pakistan’s Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation experienced a slight decline, coming in at 27.4 percent year-on-year, compared to the previous month’s 28.3 percent and August 2022’s 27.3 percent, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).

      On a month-on-month basis, inflation decreased to 1.7 percent in August 2023, a significant drop from the 3.5 percent recorded in the previous month and the 2.4 percent in August 2022.

      Despite this marginal decrease, concerns linger about the potential for further inflationary pressure in the coming months. The government’s recent substantial hike in petroleum prices has contributed to the uncertainty. However, it’s not just petroleum prices; the rapid depreciation of the Pakistani rupee against the US dollar in the past two weeks may further exacerbate inflationary woes.

      Moreover, protests have erupted across the country in response to inflated electricity bills, while the interim government grapples with limited options due to its commitments to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

      Breaking down the figures, CPI inflation in urban areas registered at 25.0 percent year-on-year in August 2023, showing a slight decline from the previous month’s 26.3 percent and August 2022’s 26.2 percent. Rural CPI inflation reached 30.9 percent year-on-year in August 2023, down from 31.3 percent the previous month and up from 28.8 percent in August 2022.

      Additionally, the Sensitive Price Index (SPI) inflation decreased to 27.9 percent year-on-year in August 2023, compared to the previous month’s 29.3 percent and August 2022’s 34.0 percent. The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation stood at 24.3 percent year-on-year in August 2023, up from the previous month’s 23.1 percent and down from August 2022’s 41.2 percent. On a month-on-month basis, both SPI and WPI inflation witnessed increases in August 2023.

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      Asia Cup 2023: PCB reveals playing XI for Indo-Pak clash

      Asia Cup 2023: PCB reveals playing XI for Indo-Pak clash

      Cricket enthusiasts around the globe are bracing themselves for the electrifying showdown between cricketing titans Pakistan and India, as the Asia Cup ignites the age-old rivalry. In a bold move, Pakistan’s team management has decided to stick with the same playing XI that brought them a convincing victory against Nepal in their opening match, signaling unwavering confidence in their current lineup.

      The decision not to tinker with the winning combination underscores Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining their winning momentum. They understand the importance of consistency and cohesion in the quest for cricketing glory.

      Pakistan’s strategy for the impending battle revolves around their formidable pace attack, consisting of the likes of Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah. These young firebrands are poised to unleash their fury on the Indian batting lineup, aiming to keep a tight grip on the game. On the batting front, Pakistan’s top-order batsmen, including Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, and skipper Babar Azam, are determined to set a challenging target or chase down any total India may set.

      The playing XI Pakistan has chosen for this high-stakes encounter against their arch-rivals are as follows:

      1. Imam-ul-Haq
      2. Fakhar Zaman
      3. Babar Azam (c)
      4. Mohammad Rizwan
      5. Iftikhar Ahmed
      6. Salman Ali Agha
      7. Shadab Khan
      8. Mohammad Nawaz
      9. Shaheen Afridi
      10. Haris Rauf
      11. Naseem Shah

      The anticipation surrounding this clash between Pakistan and India is nothing short of electric. Cricket aficionados worldwide are eagerly counting down the hours to the match, scheduled for Saturday at 2:30 pm in Pallekele, Sri Lanka.

      However, there’s a slight dampener in the form of uncertain weather. There are chances of rain tonight and even tomorrow in the Sri Lankan city. Nonetheless, fervent fans remain hopeful that Mother Nature will relent, allowing them to witness an action-packed day of cricketing brilliance. Rain or shine, the clash between these two cricketing giants promises to be a spectacle for the ages.

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      Asia Cup 2023: Rain most likely to abandon India vs Pakistan

      Now You Can Face Rs. 80,000 Fine for Hanging Clothes on Balconies

      Photo: Age of stock

      In an attempt to maintain the beauty of buildings and minimize visual pollution, the local Saudi government has decided to impose a fine of SR 200 to SR 1,000 (up to RS 80,000). The fines are introduced to bar citizens from hanging of objectionable clothes on balconies.

      According to the details, residents cannot hang hangers and other things that look unappealing and visually damage the outlook of a building.

      The objective of this regulation is to maintain the aesthetic appeal of the city while maintaining the infrastructure of its buildings.

      Karachi Airport Runway Closure for Repairs

      The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has taken a proactive step in ensuring the safety and reliability of Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport by temporarily closing two runways. This move has been prompted by the discovery of cracks in runways 25-L and 7-R, raising concerns about flight operations and passenger safety.

      As the regulatory body responsible for overseeing Pakistan’s air travel, the CAA has prioritized safety and maintenance in the aviation industry. They have officially issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) outlining a comprehensive repair schedule to address the runway cracks. Both runways will undergo daily closures over the next five months to facilitate the necessary repairs, ultimately enhancing the long-term safety and integrity of the airport’s infrastructure.

      To mitigate disruptions to air travel, the CAA has collaborated closely with airlines, keeping them well-informed about the impending closures. During the repair period, alternative runways will be utilized to ensure minimal interruptions to passenger and cargo services.

      This proactive approach aligns with international aviation standards, which emphasize the importance of regular maintenance and safety checks in preserving the integrity of aviation infrastructure. The CAA’s commitment to safety reaffirms its dedication to providing secure and efficient air travel services for all passengers and stakeholders.

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      Kashmir’s Top 5 Travel Attractions

      Asia Cup 2023: Rain most likely to abandon India vs Pakistan

      Asia Cup 2023: Rain most likely to abandon India vs Pakistan

      The much-anticipated clash, India vs Pakistan at the Asia Cup 2023 is teetering on the brink of disruption, thanks to an impending thunderstorm set to hit Kandy on Saturday.

      Weather Threat Looms Over India vs Pakistan Asia Cup Showdown

      According to the latest updates from BBC Weather, there’s a daunting 70 percent probability of rain on September 2 in Kandy, accompanied by thick cloud cover blanketing the sky throughout the day. The forecast for Kandy appears persistently cloudy with intermittent light to moderate rain spells, extending well into September 8.

      The gloomy outlook doesn’t end there. Heavy rain is also anticipated on Friday night and into the wee hours of Saturday morning. This downpour may very well result in a delayed start to the much-anticipated encounter between the neighboring cricket powerhouses.

      India and Pakistan only cross paths in ACC or ICC events, and the stage is set at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium for this monumental showdown. The last time these two cricketing giants clashed was in the T20 World Cup 2022, where Rohit Sharma’s side triumphed in a thrilling battle at the MCG.

      In the Asia Cup 2022, India emerged victorious in the opening encounter, while Pakistan had the upper hand in the Super Fours game. Pakistan progressed to the final showdown against Sri Lanka but narrowly missed clinching the coveted trophy.

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      Another mishandling by Pakistan: IMF likely to be furious

      IMC Takes a Bold Decision to Launch Corolla Cross Hybrid Amid Diminishing Car Demand and Increasing Fuel Prices

      Photo: Reuters

      The Indus Motor Company (IMC), assembler of Toyota vehicles in Pakistan, takes a bold step to counter increasing fuel prices in the country by planning to launch Corolla Cross Hybrid vehicles by end of December or start of January next year.

      This launch is considered to be a strategic move by the company to bounce back amid diminishing car demand and increasing fuel prices.

      Ali Asghar Jamali, CEO IMC, said in a press briefing that the new Corolla Cross is likely to consume 50% less fuel than its conventional counterparts running on diesel and petrol.

      He further said that the hybrid technology will significantly cut the import bill and help save around $37 million on 30,000 hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) units.

      Jamali said, “This move towards HEVs is a sustainable solution to Pakistan’s economic challenges, addressing macroeconomic objectives, bolstering employment, increasing exports, and trimming imports.”

      Toyota Corolla Cross is going to be Pakistan’s first ever locally assembled HEV SUV vehicle. The company has already invested $100 million in introducing HEV cars in the country.

      In addition to fuel consumption, the HEV vehicles are also ideal in reducing carbon footprints.

      Jamali added, “Pakistan is acutely affected by climate change, necessitating comprehensive measures across all sectors.”

      Jamali is looking at the sale of around 6,000 units per month initially, however, he is hopeful that the demand will further increase with time as the economy stabilizes.

      Apple to Unveil iPhone 15 Series in a ‘Wonderlust’ event on 12 September

      Photo: Apple

      It is that time of the year when tech enthusiasts wait for the Apple event where they launch iPhone series and other gadgets. This year around, Apple is going to unveil iPhone 15 series on 12 September in an event named “Wonderlust”

      The expectations are high and anticipation is soaring too with each passing day as Apple fans gear up for their favourite gadgets including iPhone 15 series, Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 9.

      The tech geeks are still unable to get product details, hence waiting impatiently for the launch.

      So, mark your calendar for “Wonderlust” and tune into apple.com or Apple TV app to watch the event live at 10 AM PT (10 PM PST) on 12 September.

      The event is expected to launch iPhone 15 series, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro max and iPhone 15 Plus. The rumour has it that there will be a number of colour options available for the new series along with a shift to USB Type C charger. Smartwatch fans are also waiting for the wait Apple Watch Series 9, which will. E available in aluminum and stainless steel, sporting a number of attractive colours.

      Pollution in South Asia Increased by 10% in 10 Years, Bringing Down Life Expectancy by 5 Years

      Image: The Guardian

      A report by Annual Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) has revealed that Pakistan is one of the six countries that are bearing the brunt of pollution. The report was published by the Energy Policy Institute (EPIC) of Chicago University.

      The other five countries included in this list besides Pakistan are India, Bangladesh Indonesia, Nigeria and China.

      The report further elaborated that despite China’s great efforts, pollution still poses the biggest external threat to human health, warning that Asian and African countries are the most effected due to increasing pollution.

      World Health organisation (WHO) has recommended a certain level of PM2.5 (a hazardous airborne particle) in the air, if we are able to maintain this level of pollution, the average life expectancy will increase by 2.3 years globally, adding 17.8 billion life years altogether.

      According to the AQLI report, the average global pollution levels have come down in the last decade, and the major contribution has come from China. China’s “war on pollution” has successfully decreased the PM2.5 levels by 40% in the past 10 years.

      AQLI’s Director, Christa Hasenkopf says, “While China has had remarkable success in its war against air pollution, the trend in other parts of the world is going in the opposite direction.”

      PM2.5 levels have increased by 10% in South Asia since 2013, bringing down the average life expectancy by 5 years. Also, the Southeast Asia is considered to have “unsafe levels of pollution”, cutting life expectancy by 2-3 years.

      Hasenkopf added, “We haven’t turned the corner on air pollution yet, though China’s example shows us that the issue is a tractable one.”

      Imported Wheat Sets Sail for Karachi Amid Flour Shortage

      The voyage of the inaugural vessel, loaded with an impressive cargo of 55,000 tons of wheat, has commenced its journey from Russia. All indications point to its arrival at Karachi Port, Pakistan, on September 8th, swiftly followed by a second vessel scheduled to make port in Pakistan on September 14th.

      Navigating the Wheat Importation Challenge Amid Flour Shortages

      In the backdrop of this maritime activity, importers have confirmed their procurement of a substantial 400,000 tons of wheat. The private sector, in an effort to remedy the pressing wheat scarcity primarily affecting Karachi, is gearing up for the import of a substantial 0.9 million tons. This proactive measure comes as a relief to local flour mills grappling with the challenge of securing sufficient wheat supplies. Expectations loom large that local wheat prices will continue their ascent in the imminent days and weeks.

      It’s worth noting a peculiar development on the news front. Local media had previously disseminated reports regarding the arrival of a Russian vessel laden with privately imported wheat. However, a closer examination reveals these reports to be somewhat inaccurate. Insights from conversations with members of the trading community suggest that this misinformation was strategically propagated to stabilize market prices. Despite these efforts, as previously reported by ProPakistani, the strategy proved largely ineffective.

      Importantly, this latest influx of imported wheat is unlikely to exert significant influence on wheat flour prices, which have surged by a staggering 130 percent year-on-year. The substantial deficit in flour mill stocks far surpasses the quantity of wheat slated for government importation.

      A shadow of suspicion hangs over several flour mills, implicating them in wheat speculation, and they have resorted to concerted efforts to undermine private wheat imports. However, these efforts have failed to bear fruit. The interim federal government has displayed unwavering resolve, steadfastly resisting all forms of pressure and ill-advised counsel. Its commitment remains resolute in ensuring food security for the nation’s citizens.

      In a concurrent development, law enforcement agencies have initiated the compilation of a fresh roster of flour mill owners and hoarders from Rahim Yar Khan and Bahawalnagar, known to be involved in illicit wheat trafficking. This action represents a decisive step towards addressing the grave issue of illegal wheat manipulation and maintaining a fair and equitable wheat supply chain.

      Also, see:

      Pakistan’s ODI Asia Cup 2023 Squad Gets a Boost

      Huge setback for India ahead of Asia Cup 2023

      In a setback for the Indian cricket team, KL Rahul is set to miss the first two matches of the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 due to a lingering fitness concern. Rahul Dravid, the head coach, officially confirmed this news during a recent press conference, revealing that the right-handed batsman won’t be available for the opening clashes against Pakistan and Nepal.

      The 31-year-old opener had been sidelined from competitive cricket since May due to a thigh injury but had made a successful recovery and was included in the Asia Cup squad. However, while undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, he encountered an unrelated fitness issue, delaying his return to the field.

      “KL Rahul has had a productive week with us, showing promising progress. However, he’ll be unavailable for the initial part of our journey in Kandy,” remarked Dravid, who also expressed optimism about Rahul’s swift recovery and return to action.

      In Rahul’s absence, Ishan Kishan is expected to take on wicket-keeping responsibilities during the group-stage matches, scheduled for September 2nd and 4th in Sri Lanka. Additionally, India has a contingency plan with the inclusion of Sanju Samson, who will accompany the team as a reserve player for this prestigious tournament, providing a reliable backup option behind the stumps.

      Also, see:

      Pakistan’s ODI Asia Cup 2023 Squad Gets a Boost

      Here Are Three Ways You Can Redefine Your Flipboard Experience

      Image: TechCrunch

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