ng Africa: Experts Push Contract Farming to Boost Africa Food Systems, Farmers' Income By allafrica.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 05:00:53 GMT [VOA] Nairobi -- As African farmers struggle with unpredictability caused by climate change, some are looking into contract farming, which involves growing a certain crop for a price set in advance. Full Article Africa Food and Agriculture Economy Business and Finance
ng Rwanda: Govt Committed to Vision 2050 Despite Challenges, Says Prime Minister By allafrica.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 17:13:08 GMT [New Times] Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente has affirmed the government's commitment to advancing toward the nation's Vision 2050 goals, emphasizing resilience in the face of challenges. Full Article Central Africa East Africa Governance Rwanda
ng South Sudan: UNMISS Calls for Tangible Evidence of Progress Toward Democratic Elections in South Sudan By allafrica.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 05:20:18 GMT [VOA] Juba, South Sudan -- The United Nations Mission in South Sudan has called for tangible evidence of progress toward democratic elections the country. Full Article East Africa External Relations Governance International Organizations and Africa Legal and Judicial Affairs South Sudan
ng Zimbabwe: After Declaring End to Cholera Outbreak, Zimbabwe Sees New Cases By allafrica.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 04:49:21 GMT [VOA] Harare, Zimbabwe -- Zimbabwe has recorded new cases of cholera several months after declaring the end of an outbreak that killed more than 700 people over an 18-month period. Full Article Governance Health and Medicine Southern Africa Zimbabwe
ng Niger: Niger Embraces Russia for Uranium Production Leaving France Out in the Cold By allafrica.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 04:57:51 GMT [RFI] Niger has called on Russian firms to directly invest in uranium and other natural resource production, following the collapse of relations with former colonial ruler France and the eviction of French nuclear giant Orano from the country Full Article Economy Business and Finance Europe and Africa External Relations Mining Niger West Africa
ng Senegal: EU Vessels to Stop Fishing in Senegal Waters After Accord Expires By allafrica.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 04:57:53 GMT [RFI] The EU says it will not renew a fishing agreement between Brussels and Dakar following "shortcomings" over illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. Full Article Economy Business and Finance Europe and Africa External Relations Governance Legal and Judicial Affairs Senegal West Africa
ng Somalia: Vote Counting Underway in Somaliland After Peaceful Election By allafrica.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 05:20:17 GMT [VOA] Washington -- Polls have closed across Somaliland after presidential elections, and it appears Wednesday's voting across the breakaway region has gone smoothly. Full Article Economy Business and Finance East Africa Governance Legal and Judicial Affairs Somalia
ng Adele makes shocking confession about her 'drinking' habit By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 18:32:00 +0500 Adele decided to take a big break after 'Las Vegas Residency'American singer, Adele, while conversing with the audience during one of her Las Vegas shows, revealed a few insights about her drinking habit. Hello singer admitted that she can drink 25 bottles of wine in a single night and remain... Full Article
ng Why Prince Harry is perfect sounding board for William's 'swaggery' By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 18:41:53 +0500 Royal author Tina Brown has suggested that Prince William would benefit from a stronger relationship with his brother, Prince Harry, who could help temper William's statements and actions when necessary. The brothers, who are currently not on speaking terms, have had a strained relationship... Full Article
ng Sean Diddy Combs's secret deals exposed by Singer Ray J By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 19:18:00 +0500 Singer Ray J exposes secret deals of Sean Diddy CombsSean Diddy Combs, American rapper and producer, is currently in deep water as his on-going controversial charges continue to get worse each day. The 55-year-old is now going through a difficult phase of his life being held at the Metropolitan... Full Article
ng Miranda Cosgrove drops exciting news for 'iCarly' fans By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 20:22:00 +0500 Miranda Cosgrove surprised 'iCarly' fans with a surprise updateMiranda Cosgrave revealed good news for the iCarly fans.In a conversation with Natalie Morales on The Talk, the Nickelodeon star teased a potential new project in the iCarly universe to give fans the closure they yearned for following... Full Article
ng Lili Reinhart reflects on 'shameful' journey of being a star By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 21:14:00 +0500 Lili Reinhart reflects on 'shameful' journey of being a starLili Reinhart, who rose to immense fame after her iconic character as Betty Cooper in mystery drama, has spilled the beans on her personal struggles of her career. The 28-year-old star recently revealed that she has been facing... Full Article
ng Eve Hewson reacts to fans recreating viral dance moves By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 21:41:00 +0500 Eve Hewson expressed she is hesitant to reprise her role for a potential new season. Eve Hewson, Irish actress, has finally voiced her opinion on the famous dance montage from the hit Netflix show The Perfect Couple. In her Byrdie cover story, the 33-year-old revealed that the cast was... Full Article
ng My Chemical Romance announce 2025 tour 'Long Live the Black Parade' By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 22:04:00 +0500 My Chemical Romance fans are in for a nostalgic thrill next summer.The rock band announced they’ll perform their iconic 2006 album The Black Parade in its entirety on a North American stadium tour starting July 11, 2025, in Seattle. The tour spans 10 cities, including major stops in Los... Full Article
ng Robbie Williams vows to take 'decisive' action following Liam Payne's death By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 22:15:00 +0500 Robbie Williams reflects on Liam Payne's deathRobbie Williams is reflecting on Liam Payne's death almost a month after the singer tragically passed away.The former One Direction singer plunged to death from the third-floor balcony of his hotel in Buenos Aires on October 16.The Argentinian... Full Article
ng King Charles receives heartbreaking news about key aide By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 22:27:00 +0500 King Charles receives heartbreaking news about key aideKing Charles III, who's strengthening his reign with his bold decision while battling cancer, has received a bad news about his close aide.The 75-year-old monarch's private secretary Clive Alderton is reportedly considering... Full Article
ng Lupita Nyong'o to add more star power to Christopher Nolan's mystery movie By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 22:50:00 +0500 Lupita Nyong’o makes major move into Christopher Nolan’s star-packed untitled mystery film Lupita Nyong’o is the latest actor to join the star-studded ensemble of Christopher Nolan’s next highly anticipated film.Following the casting announcements of Anne... Full Article
ng Kristin Chenoweth expresses feelings of being a wife of 14 years younger husband By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 22:57:00 +0500 Kristin Chenoweth expresses feelings of being a wife of 14 years younger husbandKristin Chenoweth, the Emmy-winning actress and singer, spoke from the heart revealing how it feels to be older than her husband, Josh Bryant.Despite the 14 years of age difference between them, the couple have been... Full Article
ng Sydney Sweeney calls out Hollywood for being 'fake' By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 23:36:00 +0500 Sydney Sweeney calls out Hollywood for being 'fake'Sydney Sweeney, American actress who rose to fame with her iconic character in drama series Euphoria, gave a peek behind curtains and revealed a harsh reality of Hollywood. The 27-year-old actress shared her frustration with how the industry... Full Article
ng Prince Andrew is 'barely leaving home' amid financial struggles By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 23:59:00 +0500 King Charles recently axed the Duke of York's £1million-a-year allowancePrincess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice are reportedly deeply concerned about their father, Prince Andrew, as his mental and emotional well-being continues to decline.Sources close to the family have revealed that the... Full Article
ng Zendaya fires back at rumours she's holding up 'Euphoria' season 3 By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 00:02:00 +0500 The actress assured fans that Season 3 is still on track to begin filming in January 2025Zendaya is setting the record straight after claims surfaced suggesting she was behind the long delays for Euphoria’s highly anticipated third season. In a November 13th interview with Vanity Fair, the... Full Article
ng John Krasinski being named Sexiest Man Alive sparks surprising fan theory By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 00:09:00 +0500 John Krasinski reportedly could not believe being named the Sexiest Man AliveJohn Krasinski as 2024’s Sexiest Man Alive invoked a mixed reaction from social media, pleasing some fans while leaving the others disappointed. Meanwhile some social media users have found an interesting link... Full Article
ng Zendaya opens up on 'working' with boyfriend Tom Holland By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 01:21:00 +0500 Zendaya got candid on how she feels working with her beau Tom Holland.While joining the star-studded lineup on the cover of Vanity Fair’s 31st Annual Hollywood Issue, the actress shared about the “chemistry” she has with Holland when the couple is working together.When asked if... Full Article
ng Jude Law breaks silence on becoming 'Alfie' flop from once an Oscar nominee By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 03:30:00 +0500 Jude Law on signing up for 'Alfie', 'bad move' Jude Law regretted making that one “bad move” that pulled him down from a “strong position” in Hollywood.In an interview with GQ Magazine UK, Law revealed that taking on the lead role in 2004’s Alfie was a “bad... Full Article
ng Zendaya spills tea on 'Challengers' cast 'group chat' By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 05:19:00 +0500 Zendaya revealed that the Challengers cast still stays in touch with a “group chat”.In a conversation besides the star-studded lineup for the cover of Vanity Fair’s 31st Annual Hollywood Issue, the actress revealed what role she plays amongst the members of the... Full Article
ng Whoopi Goldberg faces criticism for 'work for a living' statement By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 08:31:00 +0500 Whoopi Goldberg faces backlash over 'working' class statement Whoopi Goldberg has “got to be one of the most tone deaf celebrities”, according to her fans-turned-critics.The View co-host is facing criticism for describing herself the same as the working and middle-class Americans,... Full Article
ng King Charles issues message after solo appearance at 'Gladiator II' premiere By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 09:31:00 +0500 King Charles issues message after solo appearance at ‘Gladiator II’ premiereKing Charles appeared in high spirits as he stepped out on the red carpet for Gladiator II world premiere in London on Wednesday.The monarch, who is a patron of The Film and TV Charity, attended the 72nd Royal... Full Article
ng Kim Kardashian talks solo parenting struggles amid Kanye West absence By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 10:23:06 +0500 Kim Kardashian has recently reflected on navigating parenthood in the absence of her former husband Kanye West for 57 days.Speaking on November 12 episode of iHeart What The Winkler? Podcast, the SKIMS founder opened up about parenting alone these days without ex-husband Kanye, who is in Japan... Full Article
ng Buckingham Palace sets Changing of Guard ceremony to 'Gladiator' theme By www.thenews.com.pk Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 10:30:00 +0500 Buckingham Palace sets Changing of Guard ceremony to ‘Gladiator’ themeAhead of the Wednesday world premiere of Gladiator II at the Odeon Luxe in London’s Leicester Square, the Buckingham Palace had a special theme set for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.A special recital of... Full Article
ng CEO of Saudi Arabia's megacity project The Line steps down amid project challenges By www.jpost.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 19:28:07 GMT Nadhmi Al-Nasr’s successor, Aiman al-Mudaifer, currently head of PIF's Local Real Estate Division, will serve as Neom’s acting CEO. Full Article Saudi Arabia city Middle East urban planning megacity The Media Line
ng No major change in T-bill rates By www.dawn.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 07:26:26 +0500 KARACHI: The government on Wednesday raised Rs778 billion against the treasury bills (T-bills) auction target of Rs800bn, with minor changes in the cut-off yields for different tenors. The State Bank of Pakistan reported that massive bids of Rs1.844 trillion reflected ample liquidity in the banking sector. The government slashed the rate for three-month tenor by 20 basis points to 13.69 per cent while the yield on benchmark six-month T-bills was kept unchanged at 13.5pc. However, the yield on 12-month papers increased by 10bps to 13.19pc. Compared to the secondary market, the cut-off yields for three-, six- and 12-month T-bills were higher by 47bps, 36bps and 17bps, respectively. The government is borrowing less than the investors’ expectations mainly because of the higher liquidity available in its accounts. Published in Dawn, November 14th, 2024 Full Article Business
ng 6,000 guns looted during Bangladesh uprising recovered By www.dawn.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 10:43:35 +0500 DHAKA: Bangladesh’s army said on Wednesday it had arrested 2,500 people and recovered 6,000 guns as it seeks to bolster security since the revolution that ousted ex-leader Sheikh Hasina in August. Thousands of weapons were looted in the deadly violence during the student-led revolution that toppled Hasina and the immediate chaos after she escaped mass protests and fled to India by helicopter. More than 3,700 weapons were handed in during an amnesty that ended in early September, with the security forces then launching a weapons sweep to collect the guns. Colonel Intekhab Haider Khan told reporters that a total of 6,000 illegally held firearms had been collected, along with 200,000 rounds of ammunition. “Our operation is still ongoing,” Khan said. The interim government that took over after Hasina granted the armed forces judicial power, allowing them to engage in day-to-day enforcement activities like the police. “There has been no directive from the government regarding the army’s withdrawal,” Khan said. The army rejected reports four people had died in military custody since August, insisting troops were “strictly adhering” to rules. “Should any complaints arise, we will take necessary action,” he said. Published in Dawn, November 14th, 2024 Full Article World
ng Lahore’s dangerous smog: where disease and death stalk By www.dawn.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 11:20:53 +0500 “It’s been horrible; I’ve been sick on and off for the last 10 days,” said 29-year-old Natasha Sohail, who teaches A-Level students at three private schools in Lahore. She is asthmatic, and last week, her condition worsened with a vertigo attack and fever. “It’s criminal what is happening here,” said an incensed Sohail, referring to the “band-aid measures” taken by the Punjab government. Lahore also has the distinction of being the world leader in the poor air quality index (AQI), with some neighbourhoods touching over 1,200 on the AQI this month. The AQI measures the level of fine particles (PM2.5), larger particles (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) in the air. An AQI of 151 to 200 is classified as “unhealthy”, 201 to 300 “very unhealthy” and more than 300 as “hazardous”. For the past eight years, since Sohail was in college and since smog became an annual phenomenon, Sohail has relied on anti-wheezing drugs and inhalers. At home, there are four air purifiers to help her breathe cleaner air. She’s not alone. These two photos were taken at the same place; the clear blue sky was taken in September 2023 and the sepia skies in November 2024. Courtesy: Zaeema Naeem “The hospitals are crowded with tens of thousands of patients suffering from respiratory and heart diseases being treated at hospitals and clinics over the last few weeks,” said Dr Ashraf Nizami, president of the Pakistan Medical Association’s Lahore chapter. “The psychological toll the poor air is taking on people remains under the radar.” Punjab’s senior minister, Marriyum Aurangzeb, revealing the government’s anti-smog action plan, informed journalists that Lahore endured 275 days of unhealthy AQI levels over the past year, with temperatures rising by 2.3 degrees. After Lahore’s AQI exceeded 1,000 last week, authorities closed all primary and secondary schools. Punjab’s Secretary for Environment, Raja Jahangir Anwar, warned the closure could continue if air quality doesn’t improve. “Young children are vulnerable, and we want to avoid an emergency,” he said, adding that online learning, like during the COVID pandemic, can be adopted again. Source: Analysis by CREA. Data source for Lahore AQI is Airnow Source: Analysis by CREA. Data source for Lahore AQI is Airnow Source: Analysis by CREA. Data source for Lahore AQI is Airnow Living in a world of air purifiers Aliya Khan, 37, a mother of two boys — aged five and one, with the older one suffering from asthma — had installed four imported air purifiers in her home four years ago, each costing Rs31,000. They bought a fifth this year at Rs60,000. “It cost us a fortune, but that’s not all; the filters must be replaced every year, which costs Rs10,000 per machine,” she said. The private school her five-year-old attends lacks air purifiers in classrooms, leaving parents with no choice but to pool together and buy one for their child’s classroom. Khan, a development consultant, says air purifiers work best if the home is packed tightly to keep the air from outside entering. “Our windows and doors are poorly insulated and with elderly parents, domestic help and two kids — the air purifiers struggle to maintain their effectiveness.” Smog brings business for some Business picks up for 37-year-old Hassan Zaidi as soon as Lahore is covered in smog. He’s currently fulfilling an order for “hundreds of air purifiers” for a foreign school in Lahore. A computer engineer with a passion for product design, Zaidi started building air purifiers in 2019 for his family after his baby daughter developed a cough. He purchased an imported air purifier, took it apart, and quickly realised that with the right materials, it was no “rocket science” to build one himself. He claimed his “work better, look better, and cost just Rs25,000.” These air purifiers restart automatically after power outages, are nearly silent, and are easy to repair. The filter costs Rs2,400 and needs replacing each season. Each unit is good for a 500 square feet room if fully sealed. Authorities take action Stubble burning in India and Pakistan. The blue line is the border between the two countries. Pakistan (left) and India (on the right). Anwar said the government has introduced several measures to reduce emissions and improve air quality, adopting a whole-of-government approach with all departments working together for the first time. Authorities have already banned barbecuing food without filters and use of motorised rickshaws. The government distributed 1,000 subsidised super-seeders to farmers as an alternative to burning rice stubble and took legal action against over 400 farmers who violated the burning ban. “This carrot and stick approach will be very effective,” endorsed Dr Abid Qaiyum Suleri, the executive director of the Islamabad-based think tank, Sustainable Development Policy Institute. Anwar said super seeders will convert residue into mulch, improving production and speeding sowing. Penalising a few farmers will deter others from breaking the law. “But the government’s own figures show agriculture contributes less than 4 per cent to smog,” pointed out Hassan Khan, a farmer in Punjab, and added, “Why waste so much time and expense on it; why not focus on the bigger polluters like the transport industry?” Another measure the government took involved demolishing over 600 of the 11,000 smoke-emitting brick kilns that hadn’t switched to zigzag technology, including 200 in and around Lahore. Terming brick kilns the “low hanging fruit,” Dr Parvez Hassan, senior advocate of the Supreme Court of Pakistan and president of the Pakistan Environmental Law Association, who, in 2003 and again in 2018, was appointed the chairperson of the Lahore Clean Air Commission and the Smog Commission by the Lahore High Court to come up with the smog policy, did not approve the “arbitrary decision of dismantling” the kilns. In his view, supporting the kiln owners with “available concessional financing for conversion to zizag technology” would be a more effective way. He added that it was well known that the transport (oil), cement and textile sectors were the bigger polluters, but they were very influential. “Power in Pakistan has always meant being above the law,” he said, adding that the “general lack of political will and effective capability to monitor compliance” also acted as roadblocks. “No country in the world has succeeded in good environmental policies unless it has first built a capacity to implement! The journey must begin with capacity building!” However, Anwar said, action has been taken with visits to 15,000 industrial units, sealing 64 mills, and demolishing 152 factories. With 43pc of air pollution in the province caused by unfit vehicles, Anwar also held the transporters responsible for the smog. He shared that Lahore has 1.3 million cars and 4.5 million two-wheelers, with 1,800 motorcycles added daily. He also mentioned that the traffic police had been ordered to impound vehicles without fitness certificates. Last month, a fine of Rs16.09 million was imposed on over 24,000 substandard vehicles across the province. “Getting a vehicle fitness certificate in Pakistan is as easy as a blind person getting a license to drive!” said a petroleum expert who requested anonymity. “We need to clean the fuel, scrap old vehicles, and make vehicle emissions testing mandatory,” he added. Imran Khalid, a climate governance expert, emphasised that improving fuel quality alone wasn’t enough; vehicles and engines also need upgrades to fully benefit from better fuel. He noted that while Euro 5 fuel is available in Pakistan, it’s not widely accessible, and Euro 6 is the standard in India. “I haven’t seen any survey on how many cars in Pakistan have Euro 5 compliant engines,” he added. “I think it would be far more effective to invest in mass transit, but there is no talk of this issue; we keep making more motorways, widening roads, and bringing in more vehicles on roads in the cities instead of investing in railways and commuter rails,” said farmer Khan. The petroleum expert urged the government to approve the refinery upgrade policy, which has been delayed for two years, adding that upgrades will take up to five years. Despite various actions, people in Lahore remain unconvinced, calling them too little, too late. “The measures announced by the government should have been operationalised at least six months before the smog season and the 24/7 enforcement of these priorities should be rigorously monitored by a dedicated team with support of the public through awareness campaigns,” pointed out advocate Hassan. Nizami called for year-round efforts against air pollution, questioning why no one is held accountable for cutting millions of trees for unplanned housing while the focus remains on controlling stubble burning. The Pakistan Air Quality Experts (PAQx) group, a coalition of 27 professionals from public health, environmental science, law, and economics, has written to the prime minister, suggesting the establishment of a “comprehensive, nationwide real-time air quality monitoring network” for informed decision-making and responsive policymaking. Anwar defended the smog plan, stating it’d been in progress since April and required public cooperation, including staying indoors and wearing masks. Punjab’s senior minister, Marriyum Aurangzeb, warned that failure to wear masks could lead to a complete city lockdown. “I don’t see the plan working as the air quality is getting from bad to worse,” said Sohail. Nizami criticised the government for making a lot of noise but taking little action. “It’s shameful how they’ve shifted health responsibilities to the private sector,” he said. Sohail suggested cloud seeding for artificial rain, noting its positive impact last year. Nizami also supported using artificial rain to clear the haze. Anwar explained that cloud seeding required the right clouds and humidity. “But we are quite ready and as soon as the timing is right, we will do it,” he promised. Climate diplomacy While 70pc of smog in Lahore is locally generated, nearly 30pc comes from India. Manoj Kumar, a scientist with the Finnish Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, noted that the Indo-Gangetic Plain formed an “interconnected airshed,” affecting air quality, but local sources played a major role in Lahore’s pollution levels. The chief minister is keen to start talks with her Indian counterpart. “Maryam Nawaz will soon send a letter to the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab, expressing her willingness to visit India and invite him to Pakistan,” said Anwar. Kumar praised the Punjab chief minister’s initiative, emphasising that long-term, coordinated efforts between both countries could lead to improved air quality through a unified approach. But the efforts should not stop at the Punjab regions alone, as the airshed is shared and goes beyond India. Anwar said Pakistan is considering hosting a “regional climate conference in Lahore soon.” Header image: Smog near the Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) in Faisalabad, a city about 120km from Lahore and the third most populous city after Karachi and Lahore. Credits: Khalid Mahmood/Wiki & handout. This article was originally published in Inter Press Service and has been reproduced here with permission. Full Article Pakistan
ng Govt facilitating girls to excel in education, sports: CM By www.dawn.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 11:20:28 +0500 PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur on Wednesday said his government is committed to providing maximum opportunities to girls to excel in education and sports. He said that perseverance was key to success in life and that striving forward with determination and high spirits ultimately led to success. He was speaking at the concluding ceremony of All Pakistan Inter-Boards Girls Cricket and Tennis Championship held at the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Peshawar, according to a statement issued from the chief minister’s secretariat on Wednesday. The competitions commenced on Nov 9, featuring teams from KP and various other educational boards from across the country. Mr Gandapur welcomed the participants from other provinces and emphasised the importance of organising sports alongside academic activities. “The purpose of holding such events is to polish the skills of our youth, and get them prepared for practical life ahead,” the statement quoted Mr Gandapur as saying. “Challenges are part of the journey to success and should be faced head-on,” he added. “A person becomes great when he dreams big,” he said while quoting PTI founder Imran Khan, adding that one must set ambitious goals and move forward with courage. The chief minister congratulated the Lahore Board’s cricket team on its victory, and affirmed the importance of investing in youth. Mr Gandapur also announced cash prizes of Rs50,000 for each participating team. He also distributed trophies and shields among the players. In tennis, the Lahore Board secured the first position followed by Mardan, while Peshawar Board and Punjab Board of Technical Education, Lahore, shared the third position. Similarly, the Lahore Board clinched the first position in the cricket tournament, while Peshawar remained the runner-up. The chief minister also inaugurated a newly-constructed gymnasium at the Peshawar BISE, which has been established at a cost of Rs160 million. The facility includes boxing, karate, taekwondo, wrestling rings, a table tennis court and a fitness gym. Published in Dawn, November 14th, 2024 Full Article Pakistan
ng ‘BLA ringleader’ among 16 killed in operations across KP, Balochistan By www.dawn.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 09:50:32 +0500 PESHAWAR / QUETTA: An important ‘commander’ of a banned organisation was among 16 terrorists killed and six others injured in gun battles, retaliatory attacks and operations carried out in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it was officially announced on Wednesday. Security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation (IBO) on the reported presence of khwarij (the military’s terminology for the proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan) in the Miramshah area of North Waziristan district between Nov 12 and 13, said a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The security forces effectively engaged the terrorist locations during the operation. Eight terrorists were killed and six others injured during the exchange of fire. In the Kech area of Balochistan, four terrorists, including an important ‘commander’, were killed in a gun battle during an operation, the ISPR said. Majeed Brigade man was responsible for choosing suicide bombers, says ISPR In a statement, the military’s media wing said that on the night between Nov 12 and 13, security forces conducted IBOs in the general area Balgatar of Kech district on the reported presence of terrorists. After an intense exchange of fire between the troops and the terrorists, a high-value target, terrorists’ ringleader Sana alias Baru was killed along with three other terrorists. The ISPR said that Sana was the focal recruitment agent, especially for suicide bombers, for the so-called Majeed Brigade wing of the banned Balochistan Liberation Army in Kech district and was highly wanted by the law enforcement agencies. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the killed terrorists. Sanitisation operations were being conducted in Miramshah and Kech to eliminate any other terrorists found in the areas, the ISPR said, adding that security forces were determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country and thwart attempts to sabotage peace, stability and progress of Balochistan. Earlier in the day, four terrorists were killed in two encounters conducted by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) personnel in Malakand, officials said. Arms and ammunitions were seized after the gun battles, they added. In the first encounter, three terrorists were killed when the CTD personnel retaliated against attackers in the Sher Khana Palai area. The dead militants were identified as Rizwan alias Bodagay, Salman, and Abdur Rehman alias Shadmani. Rizwan was wanted by the police and security forces for his involvement in various terrorism-related cases, and was also involved in the firing incident at the historic Churchill Packet, they said. Deputy Inspector General CTD Hassan Raza told a press conference in Batkhela that his department had received information on Oct 23 that some terrorists had sneaked into the country from Afghanistan and they were planning to carry out subversive activities in different districts of Malakand Division, including Bajaur, Malakand and Swat. He said that terrorists attacked a CTD team, which had placed barricades on a road at the Sher Khana Palai area to check their movement. In a retaliatory action, the CTD personnel killed three terrorists. The CTD personnel recovered three Kalashnikovs, hand grenades, pistols and live rounds from the dead militants. During the other encounter, security forces killed a terrorist, identified as Abdullah. DIG Raza, flanked by SP Malakand Amjad Ali Khan, stated that the killed terrorists, who belonged to the Sher Khana Palai area, were wanted by the police and security forces for their involvement in several terrorism-related cases. He said a search operation continued in the area. Gohar Ali Gohar in Malakand also contributed to this report Published in Dawn, November 14th, 2024 Full Article Pakistan
ng Sara Sharif’s father admits beating her to death with a cricket bat By www.dawn.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 07:50:01 +0500 LONDON: In a dramatic turn of events at the Old Bailey, Urfan Sharif confessed to the murder of his 10-year-old daughter, Sara Sharif, admitting in court that he “takes full responsibility” for her tragic death. Sharif detailed the brutal treatment he inflicted upon the girl, acknowledging he beat her with a cricket bat and metal pole, leading to her death on Aug 8, 2023, days before her body was discovered in their Surrey home. The confession came during cross-examination by Caroline Carberry KC, who asked him bluntly if he had killed her by beating. “Yes, she died because of me,” Sharif responded. He revealed that he had struck Sara “severely” over several weeks, reportedly because he was angered by her frequent episodes of soiling herself and vomiting. Sharif, 42, his wife, Beinash Batool, 30 and his brother Faisal Malik, 29, all facing charges related to what prosecutors have described as a “campaign of abuse” against Sara. The trio fled to Pakistan shortly after Sara’s death, with Sharif later calling the British police to confess he had “beat her up too much”. A handwritten note, found near Sara’s fully clothed body, further documented Sharif’s admission, stating: “I swear to God that my intention was not to kill her. But I lost it.” Medical examination reports presented to the court were harrowing. Sara’s postmortem revealed 71 external injuries, including fractures, burns, and bite marks. When confronted with images of Sara’s injuries, Sharif appeared unable to look, repeatedly saying, “I accept everything,” as Carberry questioned him on the details of his alleged actions. The prosecution presented a disturbing video clip from Aug 6, showing Sara dancing just two days before her death. Despite this glimpse of her lively spirit, Sharif admitted to brutally beating her that same evening. The defence team for Sharif later sought a private consultation with him in court, delaying further proceedings. The trial, however, continues, with Sharif and co-defendants maintaining not guilty pleas to the charges of murder and causing or allowing the child’s death. Cross-examination During the hearing, Carberry asked: “Do you accept that you had been beating Sara severely over a number of weeks?” He replied: “Yes, ma’am.” He went on to accept attacking Sara with a cricket bat repeatedly and causing 25 fractures to her body. Carberry continued: “I want to ask you about the occasions when you assaulted her with a cricket bat. What had she done to deserve such beatings in your mind?” Sharif replied: “Nothing.” She asked: “Why were you beating her so forcefully?” He replied: “I was wrong.” She continued: “Were you angry with her because in the summer of last year, she had started soiling herself?” He replied: “Yes ma’am.” She added: “And she had started vomiting, hadn’t she?” to which Sharif replied: “Yes, ma’am.” Carberry asked: “And when she was sick you would get angry? And when she soiled herself you would get angry?” He replied: “Yes ma’am.” He accepted causing injuries to Sara’s face and head by beating her with the bat and metal pole on 6 Aug. Carberry continued: “You have pleaded not guilty to the offence of murder. Would you like that charge to be put to you again?” He replied: “Yes ma’am.” Published in Dawn, November 14th, 2024 Full Article Pakistan
ng Republicans win 218 U.S. House seats, giving Donald Trump and the party control of government By www.denverpost.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 03:29:29 +0000 “Republicans in the House and Senate have a mandate,” Johnson said earlier this week. “The American people want us to implement and deliver that ‘America First’ agenda.” Full Article Latest Headlines National News News Politics National Politics
ng Shrinking Recap: Self-Pity Garbage By www.vulture.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 15:00:06 GMT This week’s episode tidies up a lot of the season’s conflicts: Sean and his dad, Gaby and her sister, Alice and her guy-who-killed-my-mom. Full Article tv tv recaps overnights recaps shrinking apple tv+
ng The MFL Just Enjoyed Its First Scoring Surge By www.vulture.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 15:30:00 GMT This week’s Gotham Award nominations offered bunches of points — and an early indication of how awards season may go. Full Article movies fantasy league movies vulture sports remove interruptions awards season oscar futures paywall exclude oscars 2025 gold rush oscars
ng The Diplomat Is Testing the Limits of My Feminism Again By www.vulture.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 18:30:53 GMT Season two ends in a catfight cliffhanger and a Margaret Thatcher namedrop. Bleak. Full Article tv streaming tv netflix the diplomat keri russell allison janney endings finales vulture homepage lede vulture section lede
ng Are We Talking About the Same Show? By www.vulture.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 19:51:42 GMT Jason Sudeikis thinks Ted Lasso’s season-three critics lack imagination because they did not engage with the show like “live theater.” Full Article ted lasso jason sudeikis live theater tv sitcoms active participation comedy
ng Euphoria Season 3 Is Finally Happening By www.vulture.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 21:11:00 GMT And both Sydney Sweeney and Zendaya will be there, even if they don’t seem thrilled. Full Article news euphoria tv (not) coming soon sam levinson zendaya euphoria season 3
ng Sting Won’t Make the Sphere His Hive By www.vulture.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 21:23:06 GMT Unlike his peers, the musician doesn’t see the appeal of the world’s hottest venue: “I don’t want to be overpowered by visuals.” Full Article music the sphere sting the police tours an englishman in las vegas
ng Dick Van Dyke Cool With Being Dead for Trump Presidency By www.vulture.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 23:22:32 GMT “Fortunately, I won’t be around to experience the four years.” Full Article election 2024 dick van dyke movies tv comedy yikes donald trump
ng Who Are the Thirsty Celebrities on The Masked Singer? By www.vulture.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT Our best guesses for season 12. Full Article tv the masked singer reality tv the masked singer season 12 vulture investigates spoilers
ng The Challenge 40: Battle of the Eras Recap: Who Let the Dogs Out? By www.vulture.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 02:30:10 GMT Bananas takes his feud with Michele past the point of no return. Full Article tv tv recaps overnights recaps the challenge mtv reality tv
ng Denzel Washington Says His Gay Kiss Was Cut From Gladiator II By www.vulture.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 03:03:35 GMT “I think they got chicken.” Full Article they aren't ready denzel washington kissing gladiator ii gladiator 2 movies hi gay
ng I’m Done With Texting. Let Me Just Use Sega’s ‘Emojam’ Emoji-Only Pagers By gizmodo.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 16:34:22 +0000 Sega's Emojam emoji pagers can can send up to 10 emojis at a time to friends over WiFi. Full Article Gadgets Sega
ng Everyone Needs This: The Dell Docking Station Is 56% Off on Amazon in an Early Black Friday Deal By gizmodo.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 17:11:33 +0000 Save over $200 on a Dell docking station with 130W Power Delivery and dual DisplayPorts. Full Article Deals
ng Elon Musk Says He’ll Gameify Fighting Government Waste Through DOGE By gizmodo.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 17:55:21 +0000 Are you not entertained? Full Article Tech News DOGE Donald Trump Elon Musk government waste