Author: Mawadat Fatima

Islamabad, Oct 3: The Pakistan Business Council (PBC) has consistently pushed for a fair and stable fiscal policy that operates independently of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and is effectively enforced by it. The PBC argues that combining policy formulation with tax collection results in short-term revenue-driven strategies that hinder the long-term growth of the economy. In a recent tweet, the PBC stated that a higher tax-to-GDP ratio can be achieved through: A fiscal policy that fosters investment and business growth, thus increasing taxable revenue. Broadening the tax baseby incorporating untaxed and under-taxed sectors of the economy. Pending the…

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Islamabad, Oct 3: Pakistani leg-spinner Usman Qadir has announced his retirement from cricket at the age of 31. The son of the legendary cricketer Abdul Qadir shared this news with his fans via his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday. “Today, I am announcing my retirement from Pakistan cricket. As I reflect on this incredible journey, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude,” Usman Qadir wrote. He expressed immense pride in representing Pakistan on the international stage and thanked his teammates and coaches for their steadfast support throughout his career. “It has been an immense honor to represent my…

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Islamabad, Oct 3: PSX KSE-100 index crosses 82,000 mark amid market rally The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) maintained its upward momentum, with the benchmark KSE-100 index rising by 311 points to close at 82,278 on Thursday. This increase marks the restoration of the important 82,000-point threshold, indicating renewed investor confidence in the market. The positive trend was fueled by strong corporate earnings reports and optimism regarding ongoing economic reforms. Key sectors such as banking, cement, and energy significantly contributed to the rally, showcasing substantial gains. Analysts attribute the index’s rise to improved market sentiment, bolstered by stable macroeconomic indicators and…

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Islamabad, Oct 3: PMD Forecasts Above-Average Temperatures and Rainfall for October. This combination could contribute to increased smog levels in urban areas. According to the PMD, regions such as Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are expected to experience slightly less rainfall than usual. In contrast, temperatures are anticipated to rise, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan and western Balochistan. These warm and humid conditions may facilitate the growth of dengue larvae, raising public health concerns. Additionally, the PMD Forecasts highlights a significant risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in mountainous regions due to rising temperatures, posing threats to vulnerable areas.…

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Islamabad, Oct 3:PM Shehbaz Applauds Dr. Zakir Naik for projecting Islam’s true image During a meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister praised Dr. Naik’s lectures for their enlightening and impactful nature, stating that he personally follows them with great interest. Shehbaz Sharif commended Dr. Naik for promoting the peaceful message of Islam and serving the religion by spreading knowledge. PM Shehbaz also acknowledged the contributions of Dr. Zakir Naik’s son, noting that he, too, is following in his father’s footsteps by serving Islam. In response, Dr. Naik reiterated his mission to spread the message of Islam globally, emphasizing that Islam…

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Islamabad, Oct 3: The Punjab government has officially launched the ‘Apni Chhat Apna Ghar’ program, distributing cheques to eligible families to help them build their own homes. This initiative aims to assist low-income individuals in constructing houses, with a focus on both rural and urban areas. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz were the chief guests at the cheque distribution ceremony. Maryam Nawaz highlighted that the program Apni Chhat Apna Ghar fulfills Nawaz Sharif’s vision of enabling the underprivileged to own homes. She mentioned that around 500,000 applications were received for the program,…

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Islamabad, Oct 3:AI Classes to Start at 150 Islamabad Schools This initiative aims to equip students with essential technical skills and knowledge, preparing them for the challenges of an increasingly digital world. The program is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Federal Education and the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST). It ensures that the curriculum is both innovative and relevant, with qualified and trained computer fellows leading the classes. Developed in consultation with leading technology companies, the curriculum emphasizes foundational computer skills and artificial intelligence concepts, effectively engaging young learners. This initiative marks a significant step toward…

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Islamabad, Oct 3: Institute of Architects Pakistan Shines at 2024 CAA Symposium The Institute of Architects Pakistan (IAP) proudly announced the successful conclusion of the 2024 Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA) Symposium and General Assembly, held from August 21 to 23 in Kigali, Rwanda. Hosted by the Rwanda Institute of Architects, the event attracted over 300 global delegates to discuss the theme “Education, Policy, and Practice: Advancing the Declaration on Sustainable Urbanisation in the Commonwealth.” During the Gala Dinner, IAP celebrated the achievements of 16 Pakistani architecture students, with Waleed Ashfaque, Noman Awan, and Nihal Ahmed receiving regional awards, while…

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Islamabad, Oct 2: Pakistani rupee thrashes US dollar in interbank trade The value of the US dollar against the Pakistani rupee declined slightly on Wednesday, dropping by nine paisas to settle at Rs277.60 in interbank trading. Key Economic Developments: Dollar-Rupee Exchange Rate: The US dollar decreased by nine paisas, settling at Rs277.60 against the Pakistani rupee. IMF Optimism: International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva expressed optimism about Pakistan’s economic direction, citing the successful implementation of the $7 billion IMF loan program. Georgieva acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts in tax collection from the wealthy and providing support to the most vulnerable…

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Islamabad, Oct 2: After a period of decline, gold prices in Pakistan experienced a significant increase on Wednesday, reflecting trends in the international market. Key Highlights: Gold Price Increase: The price of 24-karat gold per tola rose by Rs600, bringing it to Rs275,500. The price for 10 grams of 24-karat gold increased by Rs515, settling at Rs236,197. International Market Trends: In the global market, gold rates also surged, with the price recorded at $2,653 per ounce, marking an increase of $6 for the day. Silver Prices: In contrast to gold, silver prices in the local market remained unchanged at Rs3,050…

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