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Pakistan Considers Importing Cheaper Oil and Gas From Iran to Ease Energy Costs

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OGDCL Begins Oil Production From Newly Discovered Bobi Deep-1 Well in Sindh

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Maize Prices Drop Nearly 20% Across Punjab as Demand Weakens and New Crop Boosts Supply

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Chinese Exchange Praises SECP Reforms, Signals Stronger Investment Interest in Pakistan

Khunjerab Pass to remain accessible throughout Year

Image: Profit by Pakistan Today

Chinese authorities have agreed to keep Khunjerab Pass open throughout the year for travel and trade activities. Amjad Hussain, a PPP leader from Gilgit-Baltistan told the media that China has also allowed import of different items from Pakistan on easy terms and conditions.

Hussain also added that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan have been demanding opening of the Khunjerab Pass for a long time now.

This latest development will not only be beneficial in promoting trade between both the counties but would play a great role in improving our economy.

Khunjerab Pass is the world’s highest paved road and currently it is open for trade from April-December only.

Mahnoor Baloch Dissatisfied With The Roles Offered to Her, Says 55 Year Old Men Can Be Heroes But Women This Age Are Chosen to Act As His Mother

Image: FunMag

Mahnoor Baloch is one of the finest actresses Pakistani entertainment industry have ever had. However, the actor is now rarely seen on screen. While appearing on an Eid special show, the actor finally spilled the bean about being missing in action.

Baloch said that it will take our media a lot of time to create interesting role for women belonging to different age groups and backgrounds.

She seemed disappointed with the roles offered to women her age. Baloch said, “It’s a pity that our industry is still developing in which a certain type of role is designed for women, in which the same roles are shown, for them its age limits are also set.” She added, “Unlike the international media industry, which produces stories on different subjects and people of various ages, the Pakistani media industry only focuses on love stories, portraying actors who are much older than their characters.“

Mahnoor Baloch also highlighted the double standards of our society and said that “Even though the hero is 55 years old, he won’t look old. But a woman her age would get roles as the hero’s mother. It seems that people’s thinking is changing, and they don’t accept it anymore.”

Indian Media’s Fake News on Pakistan Exposed Again

Image from ProPakistani

Credits to ProPakistani for covering the story, and massive shoutout to Mohammed Zubair for uncovering the truth

India’s mainstream media industry has once again been exposed for its inability to verify basic facts and its continuous propaganda against Pakistan. Several leading Indian media outlets, including NDTV, The Times of India, Zee News, and Asian News International (ANI), ran news for the past couple of days claiming that parents in Pakistan are “locking up” graves of their daughters due to rising cases of necrophilia.

This “Fake News” was covered widely by Indian media. A simple Google search reveals that hundreds of Indian news websites ran the news, with an equally large number of India-based Youtube channels following the same script.

However, leading Indian fact-checker and journalist Mohammed Zubair was the first to question the credibility of the news, stating that it had no credible source. Zubair did not stop at just questioning the veracity of the news. Alt News, a fact-checking website co-founded by him, dug out the details of the story and found that the grave in question is actually in Hyderabad, India.

Alt News sent a Hyderabad-based social worker to the spot in question, who shared photographic evidence that the grave being linked to Pakistan is actually in India. The local Imam confirmed that the grave is approximately 1.5 to 2 years old, and the grille was constructed with a view to preventing people from stamping on the grave, as it is located at the entrance of the cemetery.

This incident is not the first time that Indian media has been caught spreading fake news. Recently, the EU DisinfoLab published two investigations in 2019 and 2020, revealing how Indian news agency ANI quoted sources that do not exist. The investigations also revealed that ANI regularly quoted the defunct “EP Today” and “EU Chronicles,” two fake media outlets that were created to push anti-Pakistan/China narratives in India.

This incident highlights the need for media outlets to verify their sources and fact-check their stories before running them. The spread of fake news not only damages the reputation of media outlets but also has serious consequences for the individuals and communities involved. It is crucial to hold media accountable for their actions and ensure that they prioritize accuracy and ethics in their reporting.

The Dark Side of Tea Production: Labor Issues in the Industry

Tea is one of the most consumed beverages in the world and is known for its numerous health benefits. The tea industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry that employs millions of people around the world. However, behind the refreshing and soothing taste of tea, there lies a dark side of tea production that is often overlooked – the labor issues in the industry.

Labor issues in the tea industry have been a concern for many years. Despite efforts to address these issues, they still persist in many parts of the world. The major labor issues in the tea industry include low wages, poor working conditions, child labor, and forced labor.

Low Wages

One of the most significant labor issues in the tea industry is low wages. Many tea plantation workers earn less than the minimum wage, which is often not enough to support themselves and their families. The low wages are due to the high competition in the tea industry, which forces plantation owners to keep wages low to remain competitive.

Poor Working Conditions

Tea plantation workers are often subjected to poor working conditions. The work is physically demanding, and workers are often exposed to harsh weather conditions. In addition, the workers are not provided with adequate protective gear, which exposes them to health risks such as pesticide exposure.

Child Labor

Another significant labor issue in the tea industry is child labor. Many tea plantation workers in developing countries rely on their children to supplement their income. Children as young as five are often forced to work long hours in the tea fields, depriving them of their childhood and education.

Forced Labor

Forced labor is another significant labor issue in the tea industry. Many tea plantation workers are forced to work against their will, often under the threat of violence or other forms of coercion. The workers are often trafficked from other countries and are forced to work in slave-like conditions.

Efforts to Address Labor Issues

Efforts to address labor issues in the tea industry have been ongoing for many years. Governments and non-governmental organizations have implemented various measures to address the labor issues in the industry. For example, some countries have established minimum wage laws to ensure that tea plantation workers are paid a fair wage. In addition, some organizations have implemented certification programs that ensure that tea is produced using fair labor practices.

Labor issues in the tea industry are a significant problem that needs to be addressed. Low wages, poor working conditions, child labor, and forced labor are some of the major labor issues in the industry. Efforts to address these issues have been ongoing, but more needs to be done to ensure that tea plantation workers are treated fairly and justly. As consumers, we can do our part by choosing tea products that are certified as being produced using fair labor practices.

Tea and Dental Health: The Hidden Dangers of Drinking Tea Too Often

Tea is a beloved beverage enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Not only does it offer a comforting and refreshing pick-me-up, but it also boasts numerous health benefits, from boosting immunity to reducing inflammation. However, while tea can be a healthy choice in moderation, drinking too much of it can have some surprising downsides – especially when it comes to your dental health. In this article, we explore the potential dangers of drinking tea too often and what you can do to protect your teeth.

The Staining Effect of Tea on Teeth

One of the most obvious risks of drinking tea too often is the staining effect it can have on your teeth. The compounds in tea, particularly black tea, can leave behind a dark residue on tooth enamel that is difficult to remove with brushing alone. Over time, this can lead to noticeable discoloration and yellowing of teeth, which can be unsightly and embarrassing.

The Erosive Effect of Tea on Teeth

In addition to staining, tea can also have an erosive effect on tooth enamel. This is because tea contains natural acids that can wear away at the protective outer layer of your teeth, leaving them vulnerable to cavities, sensitivity, and other forms of damage. If you drink tea frequently throughout the day or sip on it slowly over a long period of time, this can increase the exposure of your teeth to these acids and exacerbate the problem.

The Effect of Sugar and Milk in Tea

Another factor to consider when it comes to the dental health risks of tea is the additives that many people like to include in their cuppa. Adding sugar or milk to tea can increase the overall acidity of the drink, which can accelerate tooth erosion and decay. Additionally, sugary teas can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that thrive on the sugar and produce acid as a byproduct, leading to further damage.

Tips for Protecting Your Teeth While Enjoying Tea

Despite the potential risks of drinking tea for your dental health, there are some simple steps you can take to protect your teeth while still enjoying your favorite brew. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Limit your tea intake: Try to stick to no more than one or two cups of tea per day to reduce your exposure to tea’s staining and erosive effects.
  • Drink through a straw: If you do drink tea, consider using a straw to help minimize the contact between the tea and your teeth.
  • Rinse your mouth: After drinking tea, rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash to help neutralize any acidity and flush away any staining compounds.
  • Brush and floss regularly: Maintaining a consistent dental hygiene routine of brushing twice a day and flossing once a day is essential for keeping your teeth healthy and protected from the negative effects of tea and other foods and drinks.

Tea can be a wonderful addition to a healthy and balanced lifestyle, but it’s important to be mindful of the potential risks it can pose to your dental health. By limiting your tea intake, drinking through a straw, rinsing your mouth, and maintaining good oral hygiene habits, you can continue to enjoy your favorite tea without sacrificing your teeth in the process.

K-Electric reports significant loss

K-Electric loss

K-Electric (KE), one of Pakistan’s leading power distribution companies, has reported a significant net loss of Rs. 39.4 billion in the first nine months of the current fiscal year (FY23). This is a sharp decline compared to the same period last year when the company recorded a net profit of Rs. 1.49 billion.

Several factors contributed to KE’s poor financial performance, including the devaluation of the Pak Rupee, surging inflation, policy rate hikes, and a reduction in economic activity. These conditions have persisted throughout the current fiscal year, leading to a trickle-down effect on multiple sectors, including KE. The company’s operations and profitability have been significantly impacted by these challenges.

During the July to March 2022 period, KE observed a reduction in units sent out by 5.8%, mainly due to reduced economic activity, exchange rate losses, and an increase in impairment loss against doubtful debts. High inflation, government-mandated increases in consumer tariffs, and the prevailing economic conditions have collectively impacted customers’ propensity to pay.

KE is also facing a surging finance cost, mainly on account of an increase in the effective rate of borrowing and higher levels of borrowing. KE operates under a regulated tariff, and as per the current Multi-Year Tariff, no adjustment is provided to the company in the tariff for changes in sent-out and policy rates.

The company has emphasized the importance of regular bill payments to ensure an uninterrupted power supply. KE is taking initiatives to improve recoveries by introducing an easy installment payment solution for its customers under the scheme, “Humqadam – Recovery Plan.”

Despite the challenging economic conditions, KE is making quick progress on its KKI Grid, the first 500 kV facility in KE’s network that strengthens the connection with the National Grid. The company is also working on other projects to enhance system reliability, such as the new 220 kV Dhabeji Interconnection.

Watch: Umpires Make Shocking Mid-Game Change During Cricket Match”

During the second One Day International (ODI) cricket match between Pakistan and New Zealand held at the Pindi Cricket Stadium, an incident occurred which caused a stir on social media. The on-field umpires, Aleem Dar and Rashid Riaz, requested the match-day staff to alter the dimensions of the 30-yard circle while the game was still in progress.

The issue arose when Aleem Dar, who was officiating as the on-field umpire, noticed that the 30-yard circle had been incorrectly measured. The on-field umpires immediately requested the match-day staff to rectify the issue.

The incident was captured on video and quickly became popular on social media, leading to questions about whether such modifications could be made during the game. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) rules allow the umpires to request such modifications if they feel that there has been an error in measurement.

The on-field umpires rectified the issue immediately after the completion of the first over, during which the visiting team had scored four runs without losing any wickets. It took approximately six minutes of match time to rectify the circle measurement, after which the match continued without any further interruptions.

It is worth noting that the on-field umpires have the authority to make decisions during a cricket match to ensure that the game is played fairly and within the rules. In this case, the umpires detected an error in measurement and took the necessary steps to rectify it promptly.

Punjab Implements Electronic Deed Registration System to Simplify Property Registration

Punjab Registration System

The Board of Revenue (BoR) in Punjab has announced the implementation of e-registration, also known as the Electronic Deed Registration System, in a meeting presided over by Nabeel Javed, the Senior Member Board of Revenue (SMBoR) of the province. The system aims to simplify property registration and provide convenience to residents.

To kickstart the implementation, officers’ e-registration training will commence in Lahore on 28 April and continue until 15 May in all divisional headquarters across Punjab. The training will be attended by relevant officers from the districts, and the e-registration and transfer of property deeds will start in Sahiwal on 1 May.

The introduction of e-registration will bring various benefits to residents, including the ability to apply for property registration online from the comfort of their own homes and receive an online copy of their record. Additionally, the openness of the system will minimize the need for residents to visit multiple offices. However, those who wish to buy or sell property through e-registration will still need to appear in front of a sub-registrar of the corresponding district or tehsil to record their remarks.

The IT system will monitor individuals who obstruct citizens, ensuring transparency in the process. BoR officers, commissioners, and deputy commissioners will also monitor sub-registrars on a daily basis via the e-registration site.

The use of e-registration is expected to simplify the property registration process and provide residents with convenience and ease. It is a significant step towards digitizing government services and making them accessible to citizens online.

Pakistan Railways to revive Shalimar Express

Pakistan Railways to revive Shalimar Express
Image via Dawn

Pakistan Railways (PR) is all set to re-introduce the high-speed Shalimar Express passenger train, which was suspended last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As per recent media reports, the train will resume its service from May 1st, and will operate between Lahore and Karachi via Sahiwal, instead of Faisalabad, which was the previous route.

According to sources, PR has renovated 19 high-speed bogies of the train at Mughalpura Workshop, and all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for passengers. The train will cover a distance of 1,286 km and complete the journey in approximately 16 hours.

To celebrate the revival of the Shalimar Express, PR has announced discounts for passengers who book their tickets during the first month of its operation. Passengers who travel between May 1st and 15th can avail a discount of up to 20% on all classes, and those who travel between May 15th and 30th can avail a discount of 10%. Moreover, PR has also reduced the advance and current booking fares for the Shalimar Express, making it more affordable for passengers to travel between Lahore and Karachi.

The decision to restart the high-speed train was made during a meeting held on April 8th at the Lahore headquarters, chaired by Federal Railways Minister Khawaja Safique Rafique. The minister expressed his confidence that the Shalimar Express would be a popular choice for travelers, given its past record of providing a comfortable and reliable journey. He further emphasized the government’s commitment to reviving Pakistan’s railway infrastructure and promoting tourism through better connectivity.

The revival of the Shalimar Express is expected to boost the country’s tourism sector and facilitate economic growth. With its modern amenities and faster travel time, the train is expected to attract a large number of passengers who prefer a safe and comfortable mode of transportation. It is also expected to create employment opportunities for locals, who can contribute to the maintenance and upkeep of the train and its facilities.

World’s Oldest Newspaper to Start Publishing Online

Austria’s Wiener Zeitung is considered to be one of the world’s oldest newspapers still in print. Now the newspaper intend to start publishing online after a decision given by the Austrian Parliament.

The decision was long pending due to a dispute between the newspaper and the government authorities about the future of the newspaper.

Now as per the decision from July 1st, the newspaper will primarily publish content online while limiting the print publication to 10 prints per year only.

The newspaper was founded in 1703 under the name Wiennerisches Diarium, however, in 1780, it was later renamed as Wiener Zeitung. The newspaper was nationalised in 1857 by Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria.

“It is adopted with a majority,” Norbert Hofer, the president of parliament said of while announcing.

The Wiener Zeitung was ranked as one of the oldest newspapers in circulation in 2004 .

20 Countries Including Pakistan at Risk of ‘Excessive Rainfall’ This Year

Image: Geo.TV

Pakistan is one of the 20 countries which are likely to get excessive rainfall this year, as predicted by the United Nations’ Globally Information and Early Warning System (GIEWS) of the food and agricultural organization (FAO).

The report also suggests that while 20 countries will receive more rain than usual 42 countries are also facing a threat of the El Nino effects. The countries where rainfall can be excessive include: 🔸Afghanistan

🔸Armenia

🔸 Argentina

🔸 Azerbaijan

🔸 Bhutan

🔸 Bhu­tan

🔸Iraq

🔸 Kenya

🔸 Kyrgyzstan

🔸 Pakistan

🔸Mexico

🔸Syria

🔸 Paraguay

🔸Tajikistan

🔸United States

🔸 Uzbekistan

The report also highlighted the countries where dry weather conditions caused by El Nino can impact the production of cereals, initiating food insecurity.

The latest Hunger Hotspots report has already predicted that in 2022, more Thay 222 million people in 53 countries will face acute good insecurity. The report further says that this is going to be the third consecutive La Nina event, which is a very rare event and has happened only twice since 1950.

La Nina events are associated with more than usual wet conditions in Australia and drier than usual weather condos in the US, South America

Federal Govt Announces 3 Consecutive Holidays

The federal government of Pakistan has announced that May 1, which falls on Monday, will be a gazetted holiday to celebrate World Labour Day. This means that all government and semi-government offices, as well as educational institutes, will remain closed in the federal capital on May 1.

The declaration will lead to a three-day consecutive holiday starting from Saturday and ending on Monday. World Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is celebrated annually on May 1 to honor the contribution of working people and commemorate the struggle of the labor force for better working conditions, working hours, and pay.

The day also serves as a reminder of the continuing efforts to safeguard the right of workers and promote equitable labor practices around the world. In Pakistan and many other countries, workers’ rights organizations and trade unions often hold rallies and events to raise awareness of labor issues and advocate for better working conditions and wages.

Australia to Require Driving Tests for Pakistani Visa Holders

Beginning on 1 July, foreign nationals holding temporary visas from India, Pakistan, China, and Nepal who have been living continuously in the New South Wales (NSW) region for at least six months will face stricter regulations when it comes to obtaining a driving license. The NSW government has mandated that these drivers must now take the same knowledge and practical driving tests as local residents.

This new regulation aims to address a loophole in the transportation system that allowed some drivers to retain their licenses despite receiving 13 demerit points or being convicted of a serious traffic offense. Under the new law, offenders will have to apply for an NSW driver’s license in order to drive again in NSW.

It is important to note that foreign nationals from Japan, Singapore, and Germany will also be required to convert their licenses but they will not be required to take the driving exam. The Transport for NSW representative clarified that this change only affects those who have been living in NSW continuously for at least six months.

For foreign nationals affected by this new regulation, the process of obtaining an NSW driver’s license may involve a bit of time and effort. They will need to study for and pass both the knowledge and practical driving tests. However, once they have successfully obtained their NSW driver’s license, they will be able to drive legally in the state.

This new regulation highlights the NSW government’s commitment to ensuring road safety for all drivers on its roads, regardless of their nationality or origin. While it may pose an inconvenience for some foreign nationals, it is a necessary step towards making NSW’s roads safer and closing any loopholes in the transportation system.

WHO Identifies Contaminated Cough Syrup Made by Indian Company

Cough Syrup

Image: Prevention.com

The World Health Organization (WHO) identified the presence of a contaminated cough syrup in Marshall Islands and Micronesia. The syrup is said to be made by an Indian manufacturer. Up on carefully analyzing the contents of the syrup, the Therapeutic Goods Administration concluded that the syrup has “unacceptable” amounts of diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol. According to a statement by WHO, “The substandard product referenced in this Alert is unsafe, and its use, especially in children, may result in serious injury or death”

Other side effects of consuming this syrup could be abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, the inability to pass urine, headache, an altered mental state and acute kidney injury which may lead to death.

The cough syrup is made by India’s QP Pharmachem Ltd., and marketed by Trillium Pharma.

Underutilized Hajj Quota; Govt May Surrender Remaining Quota to Riyadh

Image: Al Jazeera

A local media outlet on Wednesday reported that for the first time in the history of Pakistan, the government received less Hajj applications against the quota allocated by the Saudi Government.

The Express Tribune also reported that the government is thinking to surrendering the used quota to the Saudi Government. However, the federal government will make the final decision.

According to informed sources at religious affairs ministry, this year, 9,000 fewer Hajj applications were received for the government Hajj scheme. The major reason for the shortfall is said to be the Increased Hajj prices.

More than 72,869 people have applied for Hajj under the regular scheme while 28,679 additional applications were received for the additional quota of 44,190.

Pakistan Reports First Case of Monkeypox in Traveler from Abroad

Pakistan Reports First Case of Monkeypox in Traveler from Abroad

Pakistan has recently recorded its first case of monkeypox in an individual who had recently traveled from another country. The Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination announced the case on Tuesday, revealing that the infected person arrived in Pakistan on April 17th after being deported from Saudi Arabia. Health officials confirmed that the person exhibited symptoms of the disease, prompting further investigation.

The National Institute of Health in Islamabad has confirmed the presence of the virus in the infected person. In response, relatives of the infected individual are being screened and quarantined to prevent the spread of the virus. Contact tracing has also been initiated, and airports across the country have been placed on high alert.

Monkeypox is a viral disease that is transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, contaminated materials, or an infected person. Symptoms of the disease include skin rash, mucosal lesions, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.

Treatment for monkeypox is primarily supportive care. In some cases, vaccines and therapeutics developed for smallpox can be used. Monkeypox is a rare disease, and the current global outbreak that began in May 2022 has affected over 78,000 people worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been monitoring the situation closely and providing guidance to affected countries.

The emergence of monkeypox in Pakistan highlights the importance of continued vigilance and preparedness for the spread of infectious diseases. Efforts to prevent the spread of the virus through quarantine, contact tracing, and airport screening are critical to mitigating the risk of a broader outbreak. The public is urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from the disease.

Torrential Rains Expected in Karachi from April 28

Image: The News International

A fresh spell of torrential rain is expected to start from 28th April in Sindh. The Pakistan Metrological Department (PMD) has also predicted flooding in different areas of Balochistan.

The Met Office, on Wednesday, issued a warning that the westerly system is causing depression in the Arabian Sea and Gwadar and Karachi have already started receiving its effects. The weather system is also likely to increase the temperature in Karachi and Mercury may touch 38 degrees on 27th April.

The torrential rains are expected to start from April 28 in Sindh and Balochistan with occasional gaps.

The Met Office has aldo warned that heavy rains could cause urban flooding in different parts of Sindh including Karachi and this system maybe more powerful than the one we saw in 2009.

Twitter’s Blue Checkmark Chaos Continues, More Fake, Scam and Deceased Accounts Get Verified

Image: CNN

In order to give more users an access to Twitter’s paid services, Elon Musk introduced paid Twitter Blue Verification. However, the new service has been creating more chaos as scam, fake and deceased accounts are getting verified.

Twitter gave a deadline of 29th April to it’s verified users to start opting for the Twitter Blue Subscription. Now that the deadline is passed, Twitter has removed the blue checkmark from the accounts that did not pay for the Blue Subscription. As a result, a number of high profile accounts including celebrities, influencers and others has lost the Verified badge.

To add more fuel to the chaos, random accounts who did not even pay for the Twitter Blue are getting Verified. Moreover, a Gold Checkmark has been assigned to a fake Disney Account which is spreading hatred on social media. In addition to this, celebrities who died long ago like Chadwick Boseman, Kobe Bryant and Anthony Bourdain, are also getting the Blue Tick. These accounts are displaying the message,

“This account is verified because they are subscribed to Twitter Blue and verified their phone number.”

Dacoits Steal Rs. 50 Million Worth of Cash and Gold from a Jewelry Shop in Lahore

A daring heist took place at a jewelry shop in the Sundar area of Lahore as a group of dacoits robbed the store of Rs. 50 million worth of cash and gold. During the robbery, the robbers held the employees and customers at gunpoint before making off with the loot.

Of the stolen items, Rs. 3.2 million was in cash, while the remaining Rs. 47.8 million worth of gold was taken from the shop. The dacoits fled the scene after the robbery, and a case was registered against them immediately. The police have launched an investigation into the incident and are currently searching for the culprits.

Police officials have condemned the robbery and reassured the public of their efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice. They have urged anyone with information related to the case to come forward and assist with the investigation.

This incident is the latest in a series of robberies in Lahore, raising concerns about the city’s security situation. The police have been criticized for their inability to control such incidents and maintain law and order in the city.

Deadline Extended for Hajj Pilgrims’ Passport Submission

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has recently announced an extension in the deadline for the submission of passports by Hajj pilgrims in respective bank branches until April 28th. In addition, the Ministry has advised pilgrims to use the “Saudi Visa Bio” smartphone app for biometric verification while staying at their homes, thereby ensuring a smooth and hassle-free verification process.

For any issues or concerns, the Ministry has directed Hajj pilgrims to visit the nearest Gerry’s Visa Centre between 2 PM to 6 PM for assistance. The Ministry’s efforts to facilitate the pilgrimage process have been welcomed by intending pilgrims, who can now prepare for their journey without any additional stress or inconvenience.

Earlier this month, the Finance Ministry announced that all intending pilgrims who had submitted applications for Hajj this year would perform the pilgrimage without balloting. This announcement has brought much relief to those who had been waiting anxiously for the ballot results.

Furthermore, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the federal cabinet, chaired by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, approved $163 million for Hajj arrangements this year. This allocation of funds will ensure that the Religious Ministry has the necessary resources to send more Hajj pilgrims than the fixed quota under the regular scheme.

According to the Ministry’s statement, all 72,869 Hajj applicants will perform Hajj without balloting this year. This decision is commendable as it ensures that every intending pilgrim has the opportunity to perform the holy ritual without any obstacles.

Ministry of Religious Affairs’ efforts to facilitate the Hajj pilgrimage process are commendable, and the extension of the passport submission deadline and the introduction of the “Saudi Visa Bio” smartphone app will undoubtedly make the verification process smoother and more efficient. We hope that the Hajj pilgrimage this year is successful and brings blessings to all those who participate in this holy ritual.