Author: WebDesk

Non-filers received unwelcome news as the government deducted Rs10 billion in withholding tax from their withdrawals during the first 10 months of the current fiscal year. Citing sources within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) that if a non-filer withdraws Rs50,000 from a bank, Rs300 will be deducted from the withdrawal as withholding tax. Similarly, if the same amount is withdrawn through an ATM or a credit card, Rs300 will be deducted. The report indicated that the Rs10 billion was collected from banks headquartered in Karachi. Under section 231 of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, advance tax is imposed on…

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As the nation grapples with extreme heat, meteorologist Owais Hyder has predicted that Karachi could encounter its “most intense week of heat” in the upcoming week. Hyder pointed out the likelihood of a significant temperature spike in the metropolis, stating, “There’s a chance of heightened heat levels in the city next week.” Temperatures are anticipated to range from 40 to 42 degrees Celsius between Tuesday and Thursday. Amidst the heatwave, the public is advised to stay indoors and ensure proper hydration to avoid heat-related illnesses. The city’s blistering temperatures often coincide with power outages, leading to extended periods of load…

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Richard Sherman, the renowned songwriter behind beloved Disney classics like “Mary Poppins” and “The Jungle Book,” passed away at the age of 95 in Beverly Hills due to age-related illness, as confirmed by Disney. Sherman, alongside his late brother Robert, served as staff composers for Disney from 1960 to 1973, crafting over 200 songs for 27 films and numerous television productions. Their timeless melodies, described as emblematic of a bygone Hollywood era, earned them accolades including an Oscar for Best Song for “Chim Chim Cher-ee” from “Mary Poppins.” In a statement, Disney hailed Richard as a “key member” of Walt…

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The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) is cautioning citizens against investing in unauthorized housing societies and advises them to visit the RDA website, www.rda.gop.pk, to verify the status of these societies. In response to directives from the Divisional Intelligence Committee, the RDA has intensified its operation against illegal housing schemes. The Task Force, mandated to take stringent action against violators, has conducted operations against four illegal housing schemes: Capital Valley, New Airport Town, Banni Mehbob, and Gulshan-e-Bahar, located in Mouzas Katrian, Thalian, and Pilo, Rawalpindi. Site offices have been sealed, and infrastructure such as main gates, boundary walls, and billboards of…

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According to the Meteorological Department, dry and hot conditions are expected across most districts of KP. The southern areas may experience particularly severe heat, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 5°C above normal. Additionally, strong dusty winds are anticipated in various districts, including Kohat, Charsadda, and Peshawar. Some relief may come in the form of rain accompanied by thunder in Upper Dir, Swat, Mansehra, and Kohistan. Rainfall has already been recorded in several areas, with varying amounts reported. In terms of temperature, Dera Ismail Khan saw the highest temperature at 44 degrees Celsius, while other areas experienced temperatures ranging from…

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As per directives from the Punjab government, the Rawalpindi district administration has established heat stroke camps and is actively educating citizens on preventive measures. A spokesperson for the district administration stated that they have launched a heat wave combat initiative aimed at raising awareness about heatstroke. The administration is taking all necessary steps to safeguard citizens from heat stroke, including providing covered areas and water coolers along Murree Road, other main roads, and bus stands. They are also disseminating information to the public regarding preventive measures against heat waves. The recent rise in temperatures has prompted immediate action from the…

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The United Nations Committee on Information (COI) has concluded its 46th session, approving two resolutions aimed at bolstering assistance to developing nations in constructing communication infrastructures and reaffirming the vital role of the UN Department of Global Communication (DGC) in combatting misinformation amidst the era of artificial intelligence. Presided over by Ambassador Usman Jadoon, deputy permanent representative of Pakistan to the UN, the COI addresses public information issues and guides the policies, programs, and activities of the DGC to align with the objectives of the 193-member Assembly. One resolution, titled “Information in the service of humanity,” calls for reducing disparities…

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Esteemed actor Talat Hussain, renowned for his contributions to television and stage, passed away in Karachi at the age of 83. Born on September 18, 1940, Hussain had been battling illness for some time, as confirmed by the state broadcaster PTV and Ahmed Shah, President of the Arts Council of Pakistan (ACP) Karachi. Shah emphasized Hussain’s profound connection with the ACP, noting his membership in its governing body. He highlighted Hussain’s accolades, including the Sitara-i-Imtiaz award, praising his unique acting style. Hussain’s illustrious career spanned decades, marked by notable performances in dramas such as “Bandish,” “Karwaan,” “Hawain,” and “Parchaiyan,” as…

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Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) delegation met with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad to address mutual concerns. The delegation comprised former Prime Minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Syed Naveed Qamar, Chief Minister of Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, and Sherry Rehman. Discussions during the meeting revolved around the nation’s political landscape, as well as deliberations on the upcoming 2024-25 budget. Joining the deliberations were Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, Advisor to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah, and Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarrar.

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Ambassador Khazar Farhadov emphasized the flourishing relationship between Pakistan and Azerbaijan across various sectors. He highlighted the significant impact of direct flights between the two countries, operated by PIA since 2022 and by AZAL since 2023, which have facilitated the movement of over 50,000 Pakistani tourists to Azerbaijan in 2023. Furthermore, he noted Pakistan’s inclusion in Azerbaijan’s online ASAN visa system, simplifying the visa process and fostering closer ties between the citizens of both nations. Speaking on the occasion of Azerbaijan’s 106th Independence Day anniversary, Ambassador Farhadov underscored the historic significance of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, established in 1918 as…

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