KARACHI — The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has increased its benchmark interest rate by 100 basis points, raising it from 10.5% to 11.5%, following a meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).The central bank cited rising inflationary pressures and evolving macroeconomic conditions as key factors behind the decision to tighten monetary policy. The move…
ISLAMABAD — In a significant legal development, the Federal Constitutional Court has restored the provisions of the Passport and Immigration Rules that had previously been struck down by the Lahore High Court, effectively reinstating the government’s authority to block citizens’ passports and place their names on the Passport Control List (PCL).A two-member bench, headed by…
WANA / SOUTH WAZIRISTAN — Pakistan’s security forces successfully repelled an infiltration attempt by the proscribed Fitna al-Khawarij terrorist group in the Angoor Adda border area of South Waziristan, and launched a decisive retaliatory operation against Afghan Taliban positions after militants targeted Pakistani civilians, destroying several Afghan checkposts along the frontier.According to security sources, Fitna…
Musical biopic set to break records, expected to earn up to $100 million in opening weekLos Angeles (Special Correspondent) — Despite pre-release controversies and mixed critical reviews, the Michael Jackson biopic Michael is racing toward a historic box office debut. The Lionsgate-backed film is projected to earn between $90 million and $100 million in its…
US President admits “We made a mistake by removing Russia from G8”, Russian President accepts invitation, prospects of reconciliation Washington (Special Correspondent) — Russian President Vladimir Putin may attend the G20 Summit scheduled in Miami, USA this December. US President Donald Trump has stated that Putin’s presence would be “extremely beneficial” and that removing Russia…
By Dr Ansab AliLAHORE:The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has called for the immediate activation of a non-functional Gamma Camera at Mayo Hospital Lahore, expressing concern over prolonged delays that are affecting patient care.In a statement, PMA President Prof. Shahid Malik said the diagnostic imaging facility, installed around six years ago through a third-party arrangement, has…
By Muhammad ShahzadKHANEWAL:Local authorities in Khanewal have decided to launch a crackdown on encroachments across the city while relocating the weekly subsidized Friday Bazaar to improve traffic flow and public convenience.The decision was taken during a meeting between officials of Sahulat Bazaar, including Engineer Muhammad Abdul Rehman and Saqib Sarfraz, and SDO Para Force Qaswar…
By Farzana ChaudhryLAHORE:A well-attended ceremony aimed at promoting academic engagement and professional development was held at a local educational institution in Lahore, in collaboration with the Public Relations Practitioners Welfare Association, bringing together professionals, educators, and students.The event focused on fostering meaningful interaction between students and industry experts, with an emphasis on nurturing emerging talent…
By Dr Ansab AliLAHORE:At least 14 people were killed and 1,596 others injured in 1,354 road traffic crashes reported across Punjab during the past 24 hours, according to the Emergency Services Department Punjab.The accidents occurred in all 37 districts of the province, with rescue teams responding promptly to each incident. Of the injured, 733 people…
By Farzana ChaudhryLAHORE:The Pakistan Industrial and Traders Associations Front (PIAF) has voiced serious concern over a sharp decline in business confidence, warning that rising energy costs, inflation, and geopolitical tensions are pushing the private sector toward a period of deepening uncertainty and slowing economic activity.In a statement, PIAF Chairman and President of the Lahore Chamber…
