How to Become a Filer: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Become a Filer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking for a complete guide on ‘how to become a filer’ in Pakistan? Then you are at the right place. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on the topic and by the end, you will be able to know about all the steps in detail required to become a filer.

Alongside filing your taxes, it must be remembered that it comes with many benefits and legal obligations. Let’s begin and check out the process:

How to become a filer in Pakistan?

The steps to becoming a filer in Pakistan includes:

Get an NTN Number:

An NTN number is mandatory and the core step while looking to become a filer. If you do not have an NTN number, you can visit the website to get yourself registered by clicking on registered for an unregistered person. You will be required to fill in a simple form following the procedure to log into the IRIS system. Notably, you can find the form in the draft folder. After completing the form, you are likely to get your NTN number within an hour.

Once you get an NTN number, submit your tax return for tax year 2023 to become a filer.

How to Register for an Unregistered Person?

In order to register yourself if you are an unregistered person, click on ‘registered for unregistered person’ at the bottom as shown in the photo above. If you are a first-time user, then you can find it at ‘https://iris.fbr.gov.pk/public/txplogin.xhtml‘.

After providing the information required, you will be asked for confirmation input to validate your account. For this purpose, check your phone SMS, or Email. Then, you will be sent a password to log in. Remember that this process may take up to 24 hours for scrutiny purposes.

You will be again redirected to the login page for the IRIS system. Enter your credentials to continue with the further process. It is pertinent to mention again that you can register ‘for an unregistered person’ if you have not registered before.

Fill out the Form

Once you are done with step 2, you will be given a form. A dialogue box will open asking for details like name, email, and service provided. Fill them out and submit them. After that, you will be required to confirm your email and phone number. Check your email and SMS for separate/codes. Insert the code in verify dialogue box, or if it is a link in the email, click to verify and proceed.

Now, you can log into your account using CNIC and the password sent to your email sent before. Remember to save any PIN Code, received during any process. You may require it over and over again.

How to Enroll for Registered Person?

If you look at the right bottom corner, you will see a clickable link, enrolment for registered person. Click there. It is for people who already have an NTN number but no IRIS username or password.

After submitting the required details, you will be prompted to verify your email address and phone number. Separate verification codes will be sent to both your email and mobile number.

Once you have submitted the verification codes and successfully verified your email and mobile, you will receive a text message containing your registration number. This registration number will be the same as your ID card number, without any dashes or spaces. Additionally, the text message will provide you with a password and a pin code.

To access your Iris account, simply log in using your registration number (CNIC number) and the provided password.

Prepare Your Wealth Statement

Now, you have to provide your wealth statement and income tax returns for becoming a filer. After registering and logging into your account, you can now file your wealth statement. If you are a salaried person, you will be required to fill out wealth statements and income tax returns. If you are not aware of how to fill out a wealth statement, click here:  https://e.fbr.gov.pk/SOP/SideLinks/iris_help.pdf.

Points to Remember:

  • Only individuals can register through the e-filing system. Associations of persons and companies have a slightly lengthier process.
  • E-filing is applicable for income tax returns but not for sales tax returns.
  • A cell phone with a SIM registered against your own CNIC is needed.
  • A personal email address that belongs to you is needed.

Scanned PDF files of the following documents:

  • Certificate of maintenance of a personal bank account in your own name.
  • Evidence of tenancy or ownership of business premises (if you own a business).
  • A paid utility bill of the business premises, not older than 3 months (if you own a business).

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Shell willing to leave Pakistan

Utility Stores Corporation Reduces Oil and Ghee Prices

Utility Stores Corporation Massively Reduces Oil and Ghee Prices

The Utility Stores Corporation (USC) has taken a commendable step to provide relief to citizens by announcing a substantial decrease in the prices of branded ghee and cooking oil at its stores nationwide. This decision comes as a response to the escalating costs of essential food items, which have been weighing heavily on household budgets.

In a notification obtained by ProPakistani, the USC revealed that the price of branded ghee has been reduced by an impressive Rs. 60 per kilogram. This move aims to make this vital cooking ingredient more affordable for the general public, ensuring that they can continue using it without straining their finances.

Furthermore, the notification also highlights a noteworthy price reduction of Rs. 37 to 59 on cooking oil. This adjustment will undoubtedly bring relief to consumers who heavily rely on cooking oil for their daily culinary needs.

Utility Stores’ Welcome Initiative: Affordable Prices for Essential Cooking Commodities

The USC’s decision to lower the prices of these essential kitchen commodities is a welcome move for citizens, particularly those facing financial constraints. By making these items more accessible and affordable, the reduced prices at utility stores will help alleviate the burden of rising food costs. It ensures that households across the country can continue to access high-quality cooking essentials without compromising their financial stability.

This initiative by the USC demonstrates their commitment to the well-being of the public, striving to ease the economic strain and ensure that essential food items remain within reach for all.

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Shell willing to leave Pakistan

Shell willing to leave Pakistan

Shell willing to leave Pakistan

In a major development, Shell Petroleum Company Limited (SPCo) has announced its intention to sell its stake in Shell Pakistan Limited (PSX: SHEL), according to a recent stock filing at the Pakistan Stock Exchange. The decision was communicated to the Board of Directors of SPL during a meeting held on June 14, 2023.

The filing clarified that any potential sale would be subjected to a targeted sales process, completion of binding documentation, and obtaining necessary regulatory approvals. Despite this announcement, SPL emphasized that its current business operations would remain unaffected and would continue as usual. The company reaffirmed its commitment to providing safe and reliable operations for its customers and partners.

As of the filing, SHEL’s stock price stood at Rs. 89.17, experiencing a significant surge of 7.5 percent or Rs. 6.22, with a noteworthy turnover of 4,287,500 shares on Wednesday.

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17 People Have Been Arrested for Visiting Karachi Beaches When Cyclone Biparjoy is Just 300 km Away

At least 17 people have been arrested for visiting the coastal areas of Karachi where Section 144 is imposed due to the cyclone Biparjoy.

Earlier this week, Pakistan Meteorological Department issued a warning, asking people not to visit the beaches amid threats of a tropical cyclone named Biparjoy.

According to the police, cases have been registered against all these people who ignored the warning and section 144.

Authorities have also vacated around 36 buildings in the north region which might get affected due to the cyclone. The shops and restaurants in these areas have also been sealed and shelter houses have been set up for these people in different areas of Karachi including Saddar, Aram Bagh, Lyari and Civil Line sub-divisions.

An emergency plan has also been made to deal with the situation. According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) authorities, Cyclone Biparjoy is just 300 km away from Keti Bandar and is moving in a northward trajectory.

The areas that are likely to be affected by Biparjoy include Karachi, Thatta, Badin, Sajawal, Mirpurkhas, Hyderabad, Ormara, Tharparkar, Umerkot, Tando Mohammad Khan and Tando Allah Yar.

Remittances Hit Three-month Low in May, Reaching $2.10 Billion As Informal Channels Become Popular

Image: File

The remittances sent by overseas Pakistanis hit a three-month low in May as they reach $2.10 billion. A report by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) mentioned that this is 10.4% less than the remittances received during the same period last year, which was $2.35 billion.

One of the major reasons for this decline in remittances is the popularity of other “Informal” channels offering lucrative rupee-dollar exchange rate.

According to SBP, the remittances received in May are 4.4% less than the previous month. The decline has further widened the gap between the demand and supply of foreign currency in the local market, posing threat to the country’s foreign debt repayments.

Tahir Abbas, Head of Research at Arif Habib Limited, while talking to the media said, “Whenever the gap widens between the two markets, overseas Pakistanis switch to informal channels, where illegal operators offer significantly higher exchange rates compared to the official rates.”

Who is Donald Trump and Why he is Arrested Today in the US?

Who is Donald Trump and Why he is arrested?

Who is Donald Trump and Why he is Arrested Today in the US?

Donald Trump is the former president of the United States, who served from 2017 to 2021. He is also a businessman, a television personality, and a political leader. He is currently running for president again in the 2024 election.

Donald Trump was arrested on June 13, 2023, after he was indicted by federal prosecutors for mishandling classified documents, obstructing justice, and making false statements. He pleaded not guilty to all charges and was released on bail.

According to the indictment, Trump retained more than 100 classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, where they were discovered by FBI agents in August 2022. The documents contained sensitive information about national security, foreign policy, and military operations. Trump allegedly failed to return the documents to the government after he left office, as required by law.

The indictment also accused Trump of obstructing justice by trying to prevent the FBI from accessing the documents and interviewing witnesses. He allegedly instructed his staff to lie to the agents and destroy evidence. He also made false statements to the public and the media about the investigation.

Trump has denied any wrongdoing and has called the case a political witch hunt. He claims that he is being persecuted for his policies and his popularity among his supporters. He has vowed to fight the charges and clear his name.

Cyclone Biparjoy: Awareness Post

Cyclone Biparjoy: Awareness Post
Image: Weather.com

Unprecedented Duration and Impact

Cyclone Biparjoy has made its presence felt in the Arabian Sea for nearly ten days, emerging as one of the most impactful cyclones to hit India in recent decades. As it gathers moisture over time, the cyclone poses an increased risk of devastating floods and destructive winds upon landfall.

Swift Formation and Unexpected Intensification

Biparjoy’s transformation from a mere circulation to a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm within 48 hours has caught forecasters off guard. Its rapid intensification has surpassed that of previous cyclones, including Cyclone Mocha in May. The storm has further developed into an Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm, displaying its unpredictable nature.

Factors Fueling the Cyclone Biparjoy’s Intensity

The exceptionally warm Arabian Sea, with temperatures exceeding 30°C, has played a crucial role in fueling Biparjoy’s rapid intensification. Additionally, favorable Madden-Julian Oscillation conditions in the Indian Ocean and the presence of Equatorial Rossby Waves in the Arabian Sea have contributed to the storm’s growth.

Uncertainty in Movement Projections

Initial forecasts for Biparjoy’s trajectory presented conflicting information. While NOAA’s GFS suggested a course towards Oman, the ECMWF hinted at movement towards Pakistan and the north Gujarat coasts. The India Meteorological Department’s GFS indicated an approach towards the Iran-Pakistan coasts. Ultimately, the cyclone has deviated from these projections, heading towards the northern Gujarat coast.

Current Location and Impending Landfall

According to the IMD, the Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm Biparjoy is currently positioned in the east-central Arabian Sea, approximately 300 km away from the Gujarat coast. It is expected to move slightly eastward and make landfall near Jakhau Port in Gujarat by Thursday. With peak intensity recorded on Monday, featuring winds of 165-175 kmph, gusting to 195 kmph.

Anticipated Impact and Precautionary Measures

As Biparjoy approaches, heavy rainfall (64.5 mm – 115.5 mm) is forecasted for Saurashtra and Kutch regions in the coming days. Upon landfall in Gujarat, the cyclone may generate storm surges of 2-3 meters, leading to damage of houses, roads, crops, and disruption of transportation, power, and communication systems. It is crucial to take precautionary measures to ensure your safety and the well-being of your community.

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Biparjoy cyclone only 600km away from Karachi

Abdullah Shah Ghazi and Biparjoy Cyclon – How they are interrelated?

Abdullah Shah Ghazi, a revered figure among the people of Karachi, is believed to protect the city from natural disasters, particularly those associated with the sea. As the approaching cyclone Biparjoy threatens the region with heavy rains and high winds, it is crucial for residents to prioritize safety over leisurely activities by the beach.

AWhile the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has labeled Biparjoy as a “very severe cyclonic storm (VSCS),” with winds reaching approximately 170 km/hr, authorities have attempted to enforce Section 144 on beaches to prevent potential loss of life. Unfortunately, past experiences suggest that many individuals may defy these restrictions and venture towards the shoreline.

The psychological concept of the fight or flight response, an automatic physiological reaction to perceived threats, is observed in both humans and animals. However, Pakistanis seemingly exhibit a unique trait of self-harm, disregarding the potential consequences. This national tendency towards self-neglect becomes evident during times of storm threats when beaches are filled with spectators, including children, who risk mass drowning if the cyclone strikes.

Remarkably, amidst the perilous conditions, vendors take advantage of the large crowds and prosper financially. Media reports have captured this phenomenon of national self-harm, showing families standing in waist-deep water, expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of security and government protection. However, one must consider the absence of common sense in following imposed regulations, such as Section 144, and the responsibility of citizens to refrain from endangering themselves and the lives of rescuers and law enforcement personnel.

The belief in Abdullah Shah Ghazi’s protection from natural disasters persists among Karachiites. Ghazi Sahab, a Muslim mystic and Sufi, is revered, and his shrine in Clifton is a symbol of hope. Locals often refer to him as Ghazi Sahab and trust in his safeguarding of the city from calamities, particularly those related to the sea.

As Biparjoy approaches, Karachi must prepare for adverse weather conditions and avoid unnecessary outings to the beach. It is essential to prioritize safety and remain vigilant during this time. Let us stay safe, avoid the allure of Biparjoy, and ensure the well-being of ourselves and our community.

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Biparjoy cyclone only 600km away from Karachi

Bykea hacked by Indian hackers

Bykea hacked by Indian hackers

Bykea, a popular ride-hailing app, experienced a brief attack from hackers believed to be of Indian origin. Users across Pakistan reported receiving notifications containing derogatory language about their country. The app’s website, however, remained unaffected, and the hack only resulted in the display of a message without disrupting any functionality.

Although there is no official confirmation regarding the identity of the hackers, the wording used in the messages strongly suggests their origin. Analysts speculate that the attack specifically targeted Bykea’s marketing communication tools, which are responsible for sending push notifications to users. These tools are typically outsourced to third-party providers.

Bykea hacked by Indians, shows slang notifications

Bykea issued an apology and confirmed that the inappropriate messages were sent through a compromised third-party communication tool. The company’s team promptly resolved the issue, ensuring the app’s full functionality and safety for users. Bykea encouraged users to reach out to their helpline if they encountered any difficulties while using the app.

Further updates regarding the incident are expected to be provided by Bykea in due course.

Here is How PIA Pilots Made a World Record for the Fastest Flight from London to Karachi

When Boeing 720-B landed at Jinnah International Airport, Karachi on January 2, 1962, it already made a new world record for the fastest flight from London to Karachi.

The plane kept on flying as it was being delivered to Karachi from the Boeing factory in Seattle. In doing so, it had already made a new flying record from Seattle to London.

The Chief Pilot of PIA, Captain Abdullah Baig, and Managing Director, Air Commodore Nur Khan, received a lot of appreciation when they came out of the airplane. Captain Abdullah Baig told the media that they were able to make this record because of the efforts of the whole crew onboard. He also labelled it the best team he has ever had while flying.

The turbofan jet airplane covered the distance between London and Karachi in six hours, 45 minuets and 33 seconds. Costing around $6 million, the aircraft was able to maintain a speed of 583.3 miles/hour.

Mark Zuckerberg Is Not a Good Boss, Say 70% Meta Employees

Image: Fortune

An internal survey at Meta revealed that only 26% employees are satisfied with Mark Zuckerberg being their boss and showed confidence in his leadership skills.

The number of employees happy with Zuckerberg’s leadership has declined compared to a previous survey conducted in October 2022.

The recent survey was conducted before the company laid off employees in May and showed that more than 70% employees think that Mark Zuckerberg is not a good boss.

Pak Suzuki Faces Production Suspension and Potential Price Increase Amid Economic Crisis

Pak Suzuki Faces Production Suspension and Potential Price Increase Amid Economic Crisis

In the face of an ongoing economic crisis, Pak Suzuki Motor Company (PSMC) finds itself in another challenging situation. Due to a lack of inventory, the company has made the decision to suspend motorcycle assembly for five days.

According to an official notification, the motorcycle assembly will be halted from June 12 to June 16. The fluctuating dollar rate has further compounded the issue, potentially leading Suzuki to consider increasing bike prices once production resumes.

The situation is causing concern for parts makers as well. The recently announced 2023-24 fiscal budget for the car industry offers little relief. The government has imposed a substantial 35% customs duty (CD) on the import of various car components, regardless of their complexity.

This high CD rate on basic components is expected to hinder car price control or reduction. Parts importers are likely to face significant challenges due to these taxes, posing further obstacles to the industry’s stability.

Overall, the combination of production suspensions and increased import duties presents a worrisome scenario for Pak Suzuki and the wider automotive sector in Pakistan.

Biparjoy cyclone only 600km away from Karachi

Biparjoy cyclone

On Monday, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) announced that Cyclone Biparjoy had moved within a range of approximately 600 kilometers of Karachi. The Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm (ESCS) Biparjoy was reported to be over the east-central Arabian Sea, located near Latitude 19.5°N & Longitude 67.7°E. The alert issued by the PMD emphasized that the storm had maximum sustained surface winds ranging from 160-180km/h, with gusts of up to 200km/h around its center. Sea conditions were described as phenomenal, with wave heights reaching 35-40 feet.

The PMD further explained that favorable environmental conditions, including high sea surface temperatures, low vertical wind shear, and upper-level divergence, were contributing to the system’s sustained intensity. The cyclone was projected to move northward until the morning of June 14, following which it would recurve northeastward. On June 15 afternoon, the storm was expected to cross between Keti Bandar in Southeast Sindh and the Indian Gujarat coast as a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm (VSCS).

In response to the impending cyclone, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) urged citizens to remain vigilant, highlighting that the evolving situation and impact of the storm would become clearer with further development of the weather system. The NDMA cautioned people to stay away from shorelines and advised fisherfolk to avoid venturing into the open sea until June 17 due to the expected rough sea conditions and high tides along the coast.

The Sindh government initiated evacuations in coastal areas as a precautionary measure. Thousands of people residing in villages near the coast, particularly in districts such as Badin, Sujawal, and Thatta, were relocated to safer locations. The district administration, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, set up camps to accommodate displaced families. Residents expressed concerns about the approaching cyclone and the potential damage it could cause to their homes and livelihoods.

Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah conducted an aerial inspection of the coastline and instructed district administrations to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of residents. The chief minister highlighted the risk to weak structures, particularly mud houses, due to the high-speed winds associated with the cyclone. Evacuation efforts were intensified, with plans to relocate over 60,000 people residing in villages near Shah Bandar, Jati, and Keti Bandar.

Authorities emphasized the need for preparedness, directing health departments, the PDMA, and local administrations to ensure the availability of emergency facilities. The situation is being closely monitored, and further updates and actions will be provided by the relevant authorities as the cyclone progresses towards the coast.

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Be aware of this fake loan app looting Pakistanis

This Beggar Woman Turns Out to be a Millionaire

A woman beggar turned out to be a millionaire after her death in Egypt, surprising the whole community.

An elderly woman named Khairiya Ali Abduljalil was considered to be a poor woman as she was begging on the streets for years. According to reliable sources, the woman was found dead in her modest home located in Qena Governorate of Southern Egypt.

Her relatives rushed to her home up on hearing the news of her demise and contributed toward her burial expenses.

After 10 days of Khairiya’s burial, her relatives started finding a number of plastic containers with money in it while cleaning the house.

When counted, the amount turned out to be 1 Million Egyptian Pounds which was later distributed amongst Khairiya’s siblings including her three sisters and a brother.

Be aware of this fake loan app looting Pakistanis

In the midst of an economic crisis, numerous individuals are turning to online loan apps like Barwaqt Loan App, found on Google Play Store and social media platforms, to secure instant loans. However, these apps are proving to be nothing but traps for borrowers.

The social media space is inundated with these deceptive apps that claim to offer small loans online, preying on the vulnerable public. The hidden fees and unfavorable conditions associated with these loans are especially burdensome for individuals in dire financial straits, seeking urgent assistance.

Promoted extensively on social media platforms, these apps entice the masses with promises of instant loan approvals. But once a loan application is submitted, a vicious cycle of blackmail ensues.

Several victims of this online loan app scam, speaking on ARY News’ program Sar-e-Aam, shared their harrowing experiences. One citizen from Peshawar, named Wasim Khan, recounted his ordeal with the Barwaqt Loan App. Despite borrowing Rs50,000 from the app on April 18, 2021, only Rs2,800 was transferred to his account. Astonishingly, he has already paid Rs340,000, yet the management of Barwaqt Loan is demanding more.

These online loan apps grant a 90-day loan period, but they aggressively demand repayment within a week, resorting to tactics such as making distressing calls to the borrower’s loved ones and even leaking personal family photos and records.

Nomi, a well-known magician, has been actively raising awareness about this scam on social media. Despite lodging complaints with various institutions, no action has been taken against these fraudulent apps.

Alarming statistics reveal that approximately 25 million people have fallen victim to the online loan app scam, evident from the high download rates of these apps.

The affected citizens are now pleading with the authorities to swiftly intervene and liberate them from the clutches of these deceitful online loan app scams.

India fail to clinch another ICC trophy since 2013

In a major setback for the Indian Cricket Team’s pursuit of an ICC trophy, they were defeated by Australia in the ICC World Test Championship 2023 final. This loss further solidified Australia’s position as the sole holder of all major ICC titles in men’s cricket.

Australia made history by becoming the first men’s team to conquer all major ICC tournaments, including multiple ODI World Cup victories and back-to-back wins in the ICC Champions Trophy. They also ended their drought in the T20 World Cup by claiming the title in 2021.

India could not manage to win ICC trophy this time as well

Meanwhile, India faced their fourth defeat in an ICC final since their last title win in 2013. Despite consistently reaching the final stages of various tournaments, they fell short on each occasion, including the T20 World Cup, Champions Trophy, and the previous edition of the World Test Championship.

The final match saw Australia assert their dominance from the start, amassing a formidable first innings total of 469 runs. Although India’s Siraj stood out with four wickets, the rest of the bowling attack struggled to contain Australia’s batting prowess. India’s batting response was insufficient, with Rahane and Thakur offering some resistance but eventually succumbing to the Australian bowlers.

Australia extended their lead in the third innings and set a challenging target of 444 runs for India. Despite notable contributions from Kohli and Rahane, India could only manage 234 runs. Lyon’s spin brilliance and Boland’s stunning catch played pivotal roles in Australia’s victory.

With this defeat, India’s hopes of securing an ICC trophy have been shattered once again, while Australia’s dominance in international cricket has been further solidified as they hold all major ICC trophies.

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Watch: Stunning view of Pakistan from space

2143 Couples Set World Record for Mass Wedding in India

2143 Couples Set World Record for Mass Wedding in India

In an unprecedented feat, 2143 couples in Baran, Rajasthan, seized the spotlight as they embarked on a remarkable journey of love and commitment. The grand event, organized by Shri Mahaveer Goshala Kalyan Sansthan, etched its name in history by shattering two world records for the most weddings within a 12-hour span and in a single day.

Previously held by 963 Yemeni couples, these records now stand as a testament to the Indian couples’ determination to make their wedding day extraordinary.

2143 couples get wed at once

The driving force behind this extraordinary endeavor was the trust’s noble objective of providing a helping hand to underprivileged couples in starting their married lives. In the presence of government officials and revered religious leaders, the couples exchanged vows, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with love and togetherness.

As a token of support and blessings, the trust showered the newlyweds with an array of thoughtful gifts, ranging from exquisite jewelry to essential household items.

The Baran wedding extravaganza captivated hearts worldwide, highlighting the power of unity and compassion. It not only showcased the boundless love between couples but also inspired a sense of hope and joy among all those fortunate enough to witness this historic celebration.

As the sun set on this monumental occasion, memories were created, records were broken, and the spirit of love prevailed, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone involved.

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India Invites Pakistani Football Team to Participate in SAFF Championship

Watch: Stunning view of Pakistan from space

Watch stunning view of Pakistan from space

Sultan al Neyadi, the renowned UAE astronaut has lately been busy capturing different places from space and has recently revealed stunning view of Pakistan. This time, his lens’s core focus was arch-rivals countries India and Pakistan, and the photos revolving on social media are breathtaking.

Although his focus has always been capturing Arab countries from space, he went on a break last month to share shots of two South Asian countries, neighbours to each other.

On 10th May, he captured Lahore, Pakistan from space. Five days later, he was once again in action and revealed an exceptional view of Lucknow, India.

Watch: Stunning view of Pakistan from space

Here is how Lahore looks from space:

Here is how Lucknow looks from space:

Al Neyadi’s ISSF journey began on March 3rd, which made him the first Arab astronaut to adhere to a long-duration mission in space. He has also made headlines for being the first Arab astronaut to venture outside the station for a spacewalk.

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Highlights of Pakistan’s Budget 2023-24 presented by Ishaq Dar

Lahore police register eight rape cases within 48 hours

Lahore police register eight rape cases within 48 hours

In a shocking state of events, Lahore police have registered eight rape cases within a short span of two days. This includes sexual assault against different suspects some of which used forcefulness on their maids, nurse, and even targeted females with a promise of well-paid jobs.

According to survivors, these people have been forcing them to withdraw complaints and pressuring them with various threats. Already, Punjab has been a difficult province for women to work independently without sexual harassment, and the rising rape cases further alert the situation.

Rape cases in 48 hours in Lahore

In one case, a man used coercion on a nurse at a private hospital blackmailing her for money. The nurse was taken to a house and was told to take care of a patient but was raped there instead.

A married housemaid was also forced for money into it. Whereas, in another case, a teenage girl was trapped in a case where the victim made her video and threatened to viral them.

One of the women was gang-raped in South Cantonment police limits while the other was allegedly assaulted in Green Town area by a suspect. One of the cases also involves kidnapping of a 14-year-old girl in the Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Area.

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Highlights of Pakistan’s Budget 2023-24 presented by Ishaq Dar

Highlights of Pakistan’s Budget 2023-24 presented by Ishaq Dar

Pakistan's Budget 2023-24

Pakistan’s Finance Minister Ishaq Dar presented the budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 (FY24) on Friday, June 9, 2023, in the National Assembly. The total outlay of the budget is Rs14.46 trillion, according to the minister. The budget is being keenly watched as the government is caught between a painful fiscal adjustment reforms agenda set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and to make room for any relief to the people ahead of a national election scheduled in early November.

Some of the highlights of Pakistan’s Budget 2023-24 are:

– The government has set a non-tax revenue target of Rs2.7 trillion and the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) tax collection target at Rs9.2 trillion.

– A sum of Rs1.8 trillion has been proposed for defense.

– The government has proposed to provide Rs5.27 trillion to the provinces in the federal budget.

– The government has targeted a GDP growth rate of 3.5% for FY24, which is higher than the projected growth rate of 0.29% for FY23.

– The government has announced a 66 percent hike in the discretionary budget of parliamentarians, a decision that might push the cash-strapped country towards a looming default due to shrinking foreign reserves.

– The government has also announced various relief measures for the public, such as increasing the minimum wage, reducing the sales tax on some items, and providing subsidies on electricity and gas bills.

The budget is expected to sail through in the absence of opposing voices, as the opposition parties have boycotted the session. However, the budget faces many challenges, such as getting the IMF on board, which is critical for Pakistan to unlock other bilateral and multilateral financing to avert a debt default.

The country missed almost all of its economic targets set in the last budget, most notably its growth target, which was initially set at 5pc, and revised down to 2pc earlier this year. Foreign exchange reserves have dipped below $4bn, according to State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) data. Inflation posted at 38% in May is the highest in Asia.

The government has no fiscal space to introduce popular measures that will win its votes or a stimulus to spur flagging economic activity, with limited avenues for raising revenue in the short term and domestic and international debt obligations continuing to mount.