While presiding over a meeting on Wednesday, she set a target of training and securing job placements for 100,000 youth and directed officials to develop a comprehensive plan for sending skilled professionals abroad.

Moreover, the Punjab chief minister announced new programmes to help young people gain skills and find jobs, including the creation of Plug and Play Call Centres.

In the first phase, 5,000 young individuals will receive training for call centre jobs through a partnership with IBEX. After completing a six-week training course, they could earn Rs100,000 per month.

There’s also a plan to introduce a ‘Skilled Card’ for those who complete their training. Moreover, 480 women would receive training in the garment industry at the Garment Training Institute in Quaid-e-Azam Business Park. They would get pick-and-drop services and a monthly stipend of Rs 20,000, along with help finding jobs in leading textile companies.

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To improve skill development efforts, the Punjab Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Department has combined three organisations—TEVT, PSDF, and PVTC—into one authority.

At least 4,000 young people have already earned international IT certifications, according to the provincial government.

This was effective by March 11, 2025.

The Wagon R, which was first introduced in Pakistan in 2014, gained popularity, especially among ride-hailing drivers, due to its spacious interior and fuel efficiency.

The prices of these variants at that time are as follows:

• VX: Rs899,000
• VXR: Rs1,049,000
• VXL: Rs1,089,000

However, a Pak Suzuki representative informed the vehicle focused news outlet that a new Suzuki Wagon R model “is not expected to be released in the near future, likely within the next 2 to 3 years.”

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The prime minister was on a visit to the National Telecommunication Corporation Headquarters in Islamabad to monitor the execution of the programme. He reviewed the live monitoring system.

On March 1, PM Shehbaz launched the financial assistance relief package that would cover four million households, approximately 20 million people. Under the plan, financial assistance of Rs5,000 is being provided per family via a digital wallet.

It was a major shift from Utility Stores Corporation-based assistance to the digital wallet, covering deserving families across all provinces, Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The government has set up the 8070 registration online platform. Users can have complete details about the project here.

Officials added that over 60 people were serving at the call centre. At least 522,000 complaints were addressed through an automated system of IVR and the rest 90,000, by the call agents – out of the 689,000 calls received so far, IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja said.

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Although the premier acknowledged the percentage of accounts, he was not satisfied with the withdrawal ratio. “There is a big gap between disbursement and withdrawal,l which shows a lack of awareness among the people,” he said and called for revisiting the awareness drive on the Rs20 billion relief package.

He went on to add that a validation system was a “main component of the programme,” providing immediate correction of any mistake.

PM Shehbaz also urged the people to call the programme helpline 9999 to get their financial support without any delay.

In the third phase, a target has been set to complete the provision of 2,000 super seeders before the sowing of wheat in October. “With the use of Super Seeder, the remains of the paddy crop are mixed into the soil,” the Associated Press of Pakistan reported.

A toll-free number 0800-17000 has also been established for further information and guidance of the farmers.

Here’s how you can apply for this scheme:

• Applicants must fill out the form available at the website.

• Applicants must submit complete applications, including an undertaking on Rs100 stamp paper, confirming they meet the eligibility criteria for the financial assistance.

• Applications will be received at the office of the Assistant Agricultural Engineer (Field) or Assistant Director Agricultural Engineering in the respective district, where a record of applicants will be maintained.

• Farmers also have the option to submit their applications at the tehsil level in the office of the Assistant Director Agriculture (Ext.).

Eligibility criteria

• Farmer owns a tractor with a minimum of 65 horsepower.

• Individual agrees to provide services to other farmers on a rental basis.

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• The person has not applied for machinery and equipment assistance under this scheme in any other district in Punjab.

• A farmer must obtain the machinery and implements from pre-qualified firms within 20 days of receiving the allotment letter; failure to do so will result in cancellation of the financial assistance, which cannot be contested in court, with the subsidy awarded to the next eligible farmer on the merit list.

• The allotment committee’s cannot be challenged in court once accepted.

The traffic is diverted to three main arterial routes, including GPO linked roads, Qasim Market connecting Octroi 22 towards main Kachehri Chowk and a diversion connecting the railway station road with the Mal Road.

Provisions have been made for pedestrians to reach their offices located on the main Mall Road, according to the city administration.

As many as 790 piles have been dug out of a total of 2,093 piles, Punjab Highway Department Superintending Engineer Tahir Rao said. The 1km long project is expected to give smooth traffic flow through the Mall Road while reducing congestion.

Around 230,000 vehicles pass through the Mall Road, which requires reduced hurdles on the way, he said and added that the project would redress congestion, traffic jams and irregular road cross-overs by the pedestrians after the completion.

Heavy machinery has been deployed along with the human resources on the project that would cost Rs4.30 billion. The site has been closed for all traffic and pedestrian movement.

Moreover, the provincial government has planned a central interchange connecting the city with the main GT Road, where a flyover would be constructed.

“Despite the registration of seven million deaths in union councils, their ID cards have not been canceled in NADRA’s records. Whereas canceling the ID cards of deceased individuals with NADRA is a legal requirement,” NADRA said in a statement.

A deceased person’s son, daughter, spouse, or parents can cancel their ID card at any NADRA center “free of charge.”

It added that NADRA has been sending SMS notifications to citizens using the available mobile numbers for awareness.

“Failure to cancel a deceased person’s ID card may cause difficulties for their son, daughter, spouse, or parents in processing their own identity documents with NADRA,” it said, “if the death registration is incorrect, get the record corrected by the relevant union council secretary.”

“Violent extremist groups continue to plot attacks in Pakistan,” the State Department’s agency said in a statement on Friday. “Terrorist attacks are frequent in Balochistan Province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province (KP), which include the former FATA.”

The advisory follows a renewed focus on illegal immigration initiatives that began shortly after President Donald Trump took office. The administration is reportedly preparing to reintroduce travel restrictions affecting several countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan.

A Reuters report earlier this week said that such restrictions could prevent individuals from the specified countries from entering the US, with the measures potentially taking effect as soon as next week.

In an executive order issued on January 20, President Trump mandated enhanced security screening for all foreigners seeking entry into the United States to identify any national security threats.

An executive order issued by the Trump administration has mandated several cabinet members to provide a list of countries by March 12, from which travel should be partially or fully restricted due to inadequate vetting and screening processes.

At a press briefing at the Foreign Office on Thursday, spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan was asked about the issue but refrained from commenting, stating he had not reviewed the relevant report.

In its advisory available on its website, the US State Department has advised citizens to avoid traveling to the areas close to the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control, citing risks related to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.

The department noted that violent extremist groups are actively planning attacks, with incidents being particularly common in Balochistan and KP.

The review highlighted the varying scales of terrorist activities in the region, stating that “terrorism and ongoing violence by extremist elements” have resulted in indiscriminate attacks on civilians as well as military and police targets.

“Terrorism and ongoing violence by extremist elements have led to indiscriminate attacks on civilian, as well as local military and police targets. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist attractions, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government facilities. Terrorists have targeted US diplomats and diplomatic facilities in the past.”

The State Department’s agency warned that being near a protest could draw “scrutiny from Pakistani security forces” and added that US citizens have been detained for participating in protests and for posting content on social media “perceived as critical of the Pakistani government, military, or officials.”

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According to the advisory, Pakistan’s security environment “remains fluid, sometimes changing with little or no notice.”

It added that special authorization was “a must” for US government personnel working in Pakistan intending to travel to most areas outside of Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. Moreover, such personnel are “prohibited” from attending most large gatherings.

“The US Embassy and Consulates have a limited ability to provide consular services to dual US-Pakistani citizens who have been arrested or detained. Pakistani law considers such individuals to be exclusively citizens of Pakistan.”

In a statement, the US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs said: “Terrorism and ongoing violence by extremist elements have led to indiscriminate attacks on civilian, as well as local military and police targets.”

The agency warned that terrorists might attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist attractions, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government facilities. “Terrorists have targeted US diplomats and diplomatic facilities in the past.”

Below are the guidelines for US citizens if they decide to travel to Pakistan:      

• Visit our website to travel to “high-risk areas.” 

• Check local media for breaking events. Be prepared to adjust your plans.

• Vary your travel routes and timing. 

• Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly around public markets, restaurants, police installations, places of worship, and government and military institutions.

• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.

• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on US government assistance.

• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.

• Get comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation. Visit the CDC Travelers Health Page.

• Review local laws and conditions before traveling.

• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones. This is so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States. Review this list of documents to prepare for your trip.

• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer or host organization. List how and when you’ll confirm you’re safe (text or call). Specify how often you will do this.

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive security alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

• Review the Country Security Report for Pakistan.

• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.

• Highly recommended that US nationals buy insurance before they travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage. 

At a press conference held at the National Press Club, they stated that they had submitted an application for a no objection certificate (NOC) to hold the march outside the National Press Club before Ramazan but had not received approval.

They mentioned that they wrote to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to address the issue, but have yet to receive a response.

It has always been the approach of administration, they said and added that the organisers have decided not to further pursue the process and hold the ‘march’ in front of the National Press Club with or without NOC since the orgainisers have to announce the venue and organise resources.

The press conference was held under the theme ‘Feminist Politics vs. Patriarchal State.’

Social activists, including Dr Farzana Bari, Huda Burghari, Nishat Maryam, Zainab Jamil and Jiya Jaggi, put forward certain demands, which are as follows:

• Aurat March Islamabad called for an “immediate halt to state silencing and the repeal of oppressive laws,” including the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act (PAPO) 2024, as well as amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), which “limit fundamental rights” such as freedom of speech, assembly, and association.

• The collective urged an end to the “enforced disappearances of human rights activists and journalists from Baloch, Pashtun, and Sindhi communities.”

• The organisers “strongly condemned the forced deportation of Afghan refugees,” warning that such actions could result in human rights violations.

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• They emphasised the need to tackle the “environmental crisis” and called for the cessation of “environmentally damaging projects like ‘Green Pakistan’.”

• They demanded an “end to the persecution of minorities.”

• Aurat March organisers called for the elimination of child marriages, stringent enforcement of laws against violence, and complete implementation of the Transgender Rights Protection Act.

The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission predicted that Eid in Pakistan could fall on March 31.

Public holidays for the festival usually span three days.

But it could lead to nine consecutive days off, including the weekends, if the government declares official holidays from March 29 (Saturday) to April 2 (Wednesday), and grants extra leave on April 3 and 4 (Thursday and Friday).

An official announcement of the moon sighting would determine the final holiday schedule.

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The Shawwal moon is expected to be visible on March 30, suggesting that March 31 would likely be the date for Eid, according to the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

Ramazan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time dedicated to fasting, prayer, and charitable acts.

Scheduled for March 8, in conjunction with International Women’s Day, the march requires an NOC to take place at the Islamabad Press Club, a public venue.

In an open letter shared on Instagram, the organisers expressed their frustration over being denied the “safety and right” to protest despite six years of efforts to secure the necessary permit.

They highlighted past instances of “violence faced from religious fundamentalist groups, police, and local authorities,” which they believe sends a “negative message internationally” regarding the status of women’s rights in Pakistan.

The organisers emphasised that International Women’s Day symbolises the “ongoing struggle for gender equality, the protection of women’s rights, and the fight against patriarchal oppression.”

They urged PM Shehbaz to exercise his leadership to ensure that their march could occur without unnecessary hindrances.

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The Lahore branch of Aurat March faced similar challenges, filing a contempt of court case against local officials for not approving their request for a demonstration.

Eligibility criteria have been set for the ‘Punjab CM Free Solar Panel Scheme’ to ensure targeted support.

The eligibility criteria are as follows:

• Verification will be conducted using the reference number and CNIC number on the consumer’s monthly bill.

• Domestic consumers having monthly consumption of up to 200 units under the following categories are eligible:

1. Up to - 50 Units (Lifeline consumer)
2. 51-100 Units (Lifeline consumer)
3. 0-100 Units (Protected)
4. 0-100 Units (Non-protected)
5. 101-200 Units (Protected)
6. 101-200 Units (Non-protected)

• Eligibility of domestic consumers will be based on bills for the month of June 2024.

• Consumer having a sanction load up to 2KW will be eligible.

The following people will be excluded from this scheme:

• Those involved in electricity theft.
• Consumers with defective metres shall not be eligible.
• People who have multiple meters at a single residence shall not be eligible.
• Domestic consumers involved in payment default (more than three late payments in 12 months).

Individuals can apply for this scheme in two ways, which are through online portal and messaging.

Under the scheme, the physical verification of applicants will be conducted, and installation will begin by the end of March.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said that a total of 861,000 consumers have applied for the initiative.

To prevent theft, the solar panels and inverters will be linked to the consumer’s computerised identity card.

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According to officials, installing 100,000 solar systems in Punjab could lead to a reduction of 57,000 tonnes in carbon emissions while also alleviating the financial burden of subsidies on the federal government.

Individuals can apply for this scheme in two ways:

• The official portal: cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk.

1. You need to register on the portal.
2. You can add details.
3. There is a need to check eligibility criteria.
4. If you are eligible for the scheme, then digital balloting will take place for registered consumers.
5. Physical verification of consumers will happen to ensure the authenticity of consumers.

• SMS registration by sending bill reference number and CNIC to 8800.

Phase 1 of the scheme will be completed by the end of July.

A digital balloting was held on Monday for the scheme.

Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz conducted an automatic digital balloting by giving different numbers and congratulated the lucky users who succeeded in the scheme.

The installation of the solar panels will start by the end of March.

She said that a total of 861,000 consumers have applied for the initiative.

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To assist applicants, a dedicated helpline has been set up, she added. The provincial government has set an eligibility criteria for the programme.

Moreover, to prevent theft, the solar panels and inverters will be linked to the consumers’ computerised national identity cards.

To apply for the 8070 registration online, you must first complete the Punjab Social & Economic Registry (PSER) survey. Here’s how to do it:

• Visit the official website at pser.punjab.gov.pk.
• Create an account using your CNIC, mobile number, and email address.
• Log in with your username and password.
• Complete the survey form by providing the following information about the family head, family members, property and asset and agricultural land information.
• Review your entries and submit the form.

To facilitate the smooth distribution of funds, the government has implemented several disbursement channels:

• Bank transfers: Funds will be directly deposited into accounts with HBL, UBL, and Bank Alfalah.
• Mobile wallets: Beneficiaries can access their funds via Easypaisa and JazzCash.
• Ehsaas Program Centres: Individuals without bank accounts can collect their assistance from designated Ehsaas Centres.
• Union Council Offices: Local government offices will provide final verification and fund collection.

The 8070 Ramadan Relief Package includes two main components:

• Cash assistance: Eligible families will receive Rs10,000 in direct financial support to assist with household expenses during Ramadan.
• Ration subsidy: Discounts will be offered on essential food items such as flour, sugar, pulses, ghee, and rice.

Eligibility criteria

• Should come from a low-income family.
• Must possess a valid CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card).
• Required to complete the PSER survey online.

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Starting at 11am local time on Wednesday, the registration process will continue until all available slots for the ritual are filled. Permits will be issued through the authority’s official online platform, adhering to specific conditions and criteria.

A religious practice, Aitekaf observed during the last 10 days of Ramazan, involves Muslims secluding themselves in a mosque for dedicated worship and prayer. This year, it will commence on March 20 and continue until the end of holy month.

The ritual offers an opportunity for worshippers to strengthen their connection with Allah, free from daily distractions.

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Ramazan began in Saudi Arabia on March 1, and thousands of worshippers are expected to participate in Aitekaf at the two holy mosques.

Very few people know that there are many ways to treat illness, and one of them is naturopathy. Many people who have followed this procedure have recommended it to others, but they have not ruled out allopathy because of its prompt treatment.

To know more about this, naturopath Dr Umme Raheel was on Aaj News’s special Ramazan transmission Baran-e-Rehmat.

In the Sehri transmission, she highlighted several significant medical issues and their natural treatments and elucidated the principles of naturopathy and how this alternative healing method functions.

“Naturopathy—also called naturopathic medicine—is a medical system that has evolved from a combination of traditional practices and health care approaches popular in Europe during the 19th century,” according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

The treatment emphasises restoring health and treating diseases through natural means rather than conventional medications, Dr Umme Raheel said. “This approach includes dietary changes, herbal remedies, physical exercise, yoga, meditation, and various other natural treatments.”

The primary goal of naturopathy is to strengthen the body’s natural systems and address diseases at their root “instead of merely alleviating symptoms.”

She went on to add that naturopathy employs techniques such as dietary modifications, the use of herbs and plants, exposure to sunlight and fresh air, yoga, meditation, hydrotherapy, massage, physical therapy, and colour therapy. The treatment focuses on a holistic balance of physical, mental, and spiritual health.

How naturopathy works

“The principles of naturopathy aim to enhance the body’s natural healing processes, both physically and internally,” she said and added that it is believed that maintaining the body’s internal balance can lead to the natural resolution of diseases.

Dr Umme Raheel clarified that naturopathy does not rely on chemical or artificial medications; instead, it “promotes health through natural sources like herbs, nutrition, and physical activity.”

She stated that many ailments can be overcome by aligning lifestyle and diet with natural principles. “The cure for every disease in the world exists in naturopathy. If a person maintains a balanced and natural diet, they can lead a healthy life.”

In response to a question from host Shehryar Asim, she noted that while there was no definitive cure for conditions like autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder can be managed through lifestyle changes.

“These diseases cannot be cured by a specific medication; rather, lifestyle changes are essential,” she said.

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She pointed out that Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is “increasingly” common among women, characterised by small cysts on the ovaries and elevated androgen hormone levels, which can lead to infertility, weight gain, and other complications.

“Give us just three months; if you don’t feel better, then you can certainly consider surgery,” Dr Umme Raheel stated.

“Whether it concerns autism, ADHD, or PCOS, natural solutions may prove to be more effective than conventional medications. True healing lies in natural foods.”

If you feel that good clothes or colorful clothes make you feel better, then don’t be mistaken to have a tendency of mood swings; such habits do affect health.

“Positive colours help to enhance happiness and energy, while darker colors can induce sadness or anxiety,” naturopath Dr Umme Raheel said while appearing on Aaj News’s Ramazan transmission Baran-e-Rehmat on Monday.

She joined the show for the Sehri transmission.

“Colors play a significant role in our lives. People who are hyperactive should avoid red as it increases blood circulation,” the naturopath said.

Dr Umme Raheel added that people who suffer from anemia and have cancer are encouraged to incorporate red into their lives.

The naturopath also stated that “individuals who suffer from anger should embrace white and green, which has a balancing effect, instead of red.”

She said: “We [people] often choose darker shades in winter and lighter shades in summer, reflecting our emotions. Our colour choices vary based on circumstances, with different colours representing happiness or sadness, indicating that colors affect our feelings.”

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She advised that, particularly in summer, people should choose lighter colours to minimize heat absorption.

“In summer, wearing black is discouraged due to its heat-absorbing properties, which can cause discomfort regardless of the fabric.”

She emphasised that many people struggle with anger, especially during Ramazan, when teachings about self-control and patience come into play.

According to the Ramazan calendar for 2025, the Sehri and Iftar timings for Fiqh Hanafi and Fiqh Jafria are provided as follows.

Sehri and Iftar Timings for Ramadan 2025 (Hanafi)

Sehri and Iftar Timings for Ramadan 2025 (Jafri)

Ramazan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time dedicated to fasting, prayer, and charitable acts.

Many Muslims around the world extend heartfelt wishes to their families and loved ones for a blessed and peaceful month when it was announced that the holy month would begin on March 1 in many parts of the world.

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According to the provincial education minister, students enrolled in public sector educational institutions for BS programmes would receive 13th generation Core i7 laptops.

An official link for online applications has already been published, and relevant information is available on the Punjab Higher Education website.

Laptop distribution is the flagship project of the PML-N government. It was Shehbaz Sharif, the incumbent prime minister, who started the initiative when he was the chief minister of the province.

Below is your guide to registering for the portal

• Visit Punjab Higher Education website

• Click on CM Laptop Program

• Click on ‘Apply Now’

• A portal for register will open, asking intended students to fill the details to create the account

Note: Note: CNIC must belong to the applicant.

Mandatory details required for having an account

• Name
• Email
• Phone
• CNIC
• Password
• Set password
• Confirm password
• Enter captcha
• Sign up

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Eligibility criteria

• Must have a domicile from any district of Punjab.

• Must be enrolled in: 1st or 2nd semester of BS in any Public university/college

• Public medical & dental college/university (1st professional - academic session 2024)

• For public sector universities/colleges (minimum of 65% marks in intermediate)

• For public sector medical & dental colleges/university (minimum of 80% marks in intermediate)

• Student must not be a recipient of any laptop scheme

Not words in a typical teen’s vocabulary, but all come easily to Pakistani prodigy Bilal Asher, world under-14 Scrabble champion.

Despite a musty reputation, the word-spelling game has a cult youth following in Pakistan, a legacy of the English language imposed by Britain’s empire but which the country has adapted into its own dialect since independence.

In the eccentric field of competitive Scrabble, Pakistan’s youngsters reign supreme — the current youth world champions and past victors more times than any other nation since the tournament debuted in 2006.

“It requires a lot of hard work and determination,” said 13-year-old Asher after vanquishing a grey-bearded opponent.

“You have to trust the process for a very long time, and then gradually it will show the results.”

Karachi, a megacity shrugging off its old definition as a den of violent crime, is Pakistan’s incubator for talent in Scrabble — where players spell words linked like a crossword with random lettered tiles.

Schools in the southern port metropolis organise tutorials with professional Scrabble coaches and grant scholarships to top players, while parents push their kids to become virtuosos.

“They inculcate you in this game,” says Asher, one of around 100 players thronging a hotel function room for a Pakistan Scrabble Association (PSA) event as most of the city dozed through a Sunday morning.

Daunters (meaning intimidating people), imarets (inns for pilgrims) and trienes (chemical compounds containing three double bonds) are spelled out by ranks of seated opponents.

Some are so young their feet don’t touch the ground, as they use chess clocks to time their turns.

“They’re so interested because the parents are interested,” said 16-year-old Affan Salman, who became the world youth Scrabble champion in Sri Lanka last year.

“They want their children to do productive things — Scrabble is a productive game.”

English was foisted on the Indian subcontinent by Britain’s colonialism and an 1835 order from London started to systematize it as the main language of education.

The plan’s architect, Thomas Macaulay, said the aim was to produce “a class of persons, Indian in blood and color, but English in taste, in opinions, in morals and in intellect.”

It was instrumental in creating a colonial civil service to rule for Britain according to Kaleem Raza Khan, who teaches English at Karachi’s Salim Habib University.

“They started teaching English because they wanted to create a class of people, Indian people, who would be in the middle of the people and the rulers,” said Khan, whose wife and daughter are Scrabble devotees.

British rule ended in the bloody partition of 1947 creating India and Pakistan.

Today, there are upwards of 70 languages spoken in Pakistan, but English remains an official state language alongside the lingua franca Urdu, and they mingle in daily usage. Schools often still teach English with verbose colonial-era textbooks.

“The adaptation of English as the main language is definitely a relation to the colonial era,” PSA youth program director Tariq Pervez. “That is our main link.”

Loquacious lingo

The English of Pakistani officialdom remains steeped in anachronistic words. The prime minister describes militant attacks as “dastardly,” state media dubs protesters “miscreants” and the military denounces its “nefarious” adversaries.

Becoming fluent in the loquacious lingo of Pakistani English remains aspirational because of its association to the upper echelons.

In Pakistan more than a third of children between the ages of five and 16 are out of school — a total of nearly 26 million, according to the 2023 census.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared an “education emergency” last year to address the stark figures.

“People are interested in Scrabble because they can get opportunities for scholarships in universities or for jobs because it provides the vocab,” said Asher’s sister Manaal.

But the 14-year-old reigning female number one in Pakistan warned: “You’ve got to be resilient otherwise Scrabble isn’t right for you.”

In the Karachi hotel, Scrabble — invented in the 1930s during America’s Great Depression by an unemployed architect — is an informal training programme for success in later life.

“The main language of learning is English,” said Pervez.

“This game has a great pull,” he added. “The demand is so big. So many kids want to play, we don’t have enough resources to accommodate all of them.”

At the youngest level, the vocabulary of the players is more rudimentary: toy, tiger, jar, oink.

But professional Scrabble coach Waseem Khatri earns Rs250,000 ($880) a month — nearly seven times the minimum wage — coaching some 6,000 students across Karachi’s school system to up their game.

In Pakistani English parlance, “they try to express things in a more beautiful way — in a long way to express their feelings,” said 36-year-old Khatri.

“We try to utilize those words also in Scrabble.”

But when Asher wins he is overwhelmed with joy, and those long words don’t come so easily.

“I cannot describe the feeling,” he says.

The qawwali performance by Ali Zaman and Zaki Taji captivated the viewers.

Hosted by Syed Asim Shehryar, the transmission began with a recitation by Qari Bilal, marking the start of the first sehri programme. Renowned Naat Khawan Rahat Gaba also presented his tribute of Naat.

The first sehri transmission featured Islamic scholar Mufti Mohsinul Zaman, who engaged in an discussion about the virtues of Ramazan and its initial days.

Dr Abdul Bari, the founder of Indus Hospital, was the special guest and shared insights regarding the hospital’s initiatives.

Digital content creator Hira Nazeer discussed the role of media in society while qawwals Ali Zaman and Zaki Taji mesmerised viewers with their performance.

Chef Zainab Kermani also contributed by sharing a recipe for chicken handi during the sehri transmission.

It is expected that Ramazan would begin on Saturday (today). The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will convene on Friday (today) for moon sighting.

Under the initiative, every eligible individual was supposed to be given Rs10,000. The amount was transferred into their accounts.

Citizens were able to register through the online portal or by visiting their local Union Council or municipal offices for assistance by February 15, 2025.

How to fill out the application

1. Online registration

• Visit the PSER website
• Create an account by entering your CNIC number, mobile number, and set up a password for future logins.
• Fill in the registration form by entering business information, monthly income, number of vehicles, household members, and assets like livestock.
• Once you have completed the form, carefully review all the information provided.
• After submitting the form, you will receive a confirmation message.

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2. Offline registration

• Go to your nearest union council office
• Fill out the registration form
• Submit the form

Eligibility criteria

1. You must be a resident of Punjab.
2. A valid CNIC is required as proof of identity.
3. Your mobile number should be registered under your CNIC for program communication.
4. Eligibility requires a monthly family income of less than Rs300,000.
5. If enrolled in the Benazir Income Support Program or Benazir Kafalat Program, you likely qualify for the Nigehbaan Program.
6. A proxy mean test (PMT) score below 34 makes you eligible for the PSER survey and the program.

The bazaars will be located in various tehsils, offering essential items at wholesale rates during the holy month.

The designated locations include:

• Allama Iqbal Park and Haideri Chowk
• Chohar Model Bazaar
• Ramadan Facilitation Bazaar in Chak Beli Khan, Saddar Tehsil
• Service Road, Hayatsar Road in Gujar Khan Tehsil
• Deen Plaza, Main GT Road, Taxila in Taxila Tehsil
• Sabzi Mandi, Main Bazaar Kahuta, in front of the Assistant Commissioner Office in Kahuta Tehsil
• Near Mureed Chowk, Kallar Syedan in Kallar Syedan Tehsil

All necessary facilities will be provided at the bazaars.

Moreover, the Islamabad district administration has also decided to set up fair price shops at 17 key locations across the federal capital.

One of the most staple items in the bazaar, sugar, would be available at Rs130kg, according to the price set by the government.

Ramazan is expected to begin on March 1 in Pakistan, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon, reports said. If the moon is not visible on February 28, the start date may shift to March 2 this year.

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The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will convene on Friday (today) for Ramazan moon sighting.

The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has stated that the first fast of Ramazan in Pakistan is expected to be observed on March 2, 2025.

Ramazan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time dedicated to fasting, prayer, and charitable acts. Healthy adult Muslims are required to abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset.

The decision comes as Ramazan is set to begin next month. It is expected that the holy month would begin on Saturday (today). The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will convene on Friday (today) for moon sighting.

Moreover, the Punjab government has also introduced the Nigehban Ramzan Package to support millions of underprivileged families. It has set an amount of Rs10,000 for each deserving individual.

The district administration has released a list of locations where fair price shops will be established.

The fair price shops will be operational in the following areas:

• G-9 Markaz

• I-8

• F-8

• E-11

• F-10

• F-11

• G-6

• G-7

• Lethrar Road

• I-11/4

• G-13

• Bara Kahu

Residents in areas like Bari Imam, Bhara Kahu, Pakistan Town, F-7, and F-6 are expected to benefit from the initiative.

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The district administration has assigned responsibilities to all assistant commissioners to oversee the smooth operation of such shops. Their role would include monitoring the availability of goods, ensuring fair pricing, and addressing any issues that may arise.

The fair price shops will offer a range of essential items, including staples like flour, sugar, rice, and cooking oil.

This comes in response to the annual surge in demand for groceries during Ramazan.

The first style, which is common among people is by saying, “Ramazan Mubarak,” however, it can be said in English with a twist, “Have a blessed Ramazan.”

“Ramazan Kareem” is also said in many different countries around the world, which means wishing the person Ramazan full of reflection, growth, and family time.

“Wishing you all the blessings of this holy month” or “May Allah bring you peace and happiness this Ramazan,” are considered to wish someone in English.

• Arabic: رمضان مبارك (Ramadan Mubarak)

• Urdu: رمضان مبارک (Ramazan Mubarak)

• Turkish: Ramazan Bayramınız Mübarek Olsun

• Persian (Farsi): رمضان مبارک (Ramazan Mubarak)

• Malay/Indonesian: Selamat Ramadan

• Bosnian: Ramadan Mubarek

• Kurdish: Ramazanê Pîroz be

• Somali: Ramadaan wanaagsan

• Russian: Рамадан мубарак (Ramadan mubarak)

• Hindi: रमजान मुबारक (Ramazan Mubarak)

Other wishes include:

• “May Allah’s blessings shine upon you this Ramazan and always.”
• “As we enter this blessed month of Ramazan, may your heart be filled with compassion, your soul be filled with devotion, and your life be enriched with opportunities.”
• “This Ramazan, may you be granted the wisdom to reflect on your blessings and the courage to share them with others. May your home be filled with laughter and warmth, and may your faith continue to guide you on your journey. Ramazan Kareem!”
• “Wishing you a Ramazan filled with moments of reflection and gratitude. May you embrace the spirit of giving and compassion, and may your fasts bring you closer to the divine.”

Such wishes can be wished through messages as well to loved ones living far away.

If the moon is not visible on February 28, the start date may shift to March 2 this year.

Ramazan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time dedicated to fasting, prayer, and charitable acts. Healthy adult Muslims are required to abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset.

Eidul Fitr, a joyous festival is celebrated with communal prayers, festive meals, and the giving of alms to those in need.

Here are some points through which you can fill your form effectively:

Step 1: Access the website

• Go to the official BISP website: bisp.gov.pk.
• Look for the section related to the application process. This may be labelled “Apply Now” or “Application Form.”

Step 2: Register or log in

• If you are a new applicant, you may need to register by providing basic information such as your name, CNIC number, and contact details.
• If you already have an account, log in using your credentials.

Step 3: Fill out the application form

1. Personal information:

• Enter your name, father’s name, and date of birth.
• Provide your CNIC number and address.

2. Contact details:

• Include your phone number and email address for communication.

3. Income information:

• Disclose your monthly household income.
• Mention any other sources of income or financial assistance (if you have it).

4. Family details:

• List all family members living with you, including their ages and relationship to you.

5. Bank details (if applicable):

• If you’re required to provide bank information, ensure it’s accurate. This is important for the disbursement of funds.

Step 4: Review your application

• Carefully review all the information you’ve entered.

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Step 5: Submit your application

• Click the “Submit” button.

Step 6: Track your application

• After submitting, you can track the status of your application through the BISP website.

His book Seat 1C: A Survivor’s Tale of Hope, Resilience of Renewal was written in collaboration with Syeda Amna Hasan, which was launched at the Lahore Literary Festival on Saturday.

Mahsud stated that people thought his survival was linked to his seat location on the plane during the crash, but he disagreed, believing it was “God’s will for him to survive.”

He also noted that the publisher believed the seat number would boost sales, which is why they titled it ‘Seat 1C’.

“I wanted to share my post-crash learnings – to tell people what it feels like when you come so close to death, how your life changes, and what your life priorities should be,” he said.

“I just hope and pray that nobody goes through the experiences that I went through but since I had gone through it I owed it to the people to share those with them in whatever way that would help them improve their life.”

Masud added that in late 2021, he was invited to write an article for a newspaper about his experiences after the crash. He felt his reflections were unique and important to share.

“I have tried to avoid drama and made an attempt to make it more matter-of-fact but the fact is that the whole crash was so emotional and so sad that there are certain parts of it which could trigger some emotions in the victims’ families for which I apologise [to them].”

He emphasised that Hasan should be recognised for her role in the book, as he wanted the account to be literary and relatable to readers.

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He noted that the book required research and aimed to be engaging, and he credited Amna for achieving that. He mentioned that the language used in the book was her contribution.

Hassan explained that they began the project by discussing Zafar’s memories of the crash. She helped fill in gaps, like what happened after he lost consciousness during the crash. She talked to Zubair, the other survivor, whose vivid memories were crucial. Additionally, she gathered accounts from eyewitnesses, residents of Model Colony, and paramedics, which brought the story to life.

She mentioned that writing about the rescue scenes was challenging because of the chaos and the complex relationship between those memories and trauma.

In Germany, the holy month is expected to start around Friday and end around March 30. This year, there could be long fasting hours, lasting 17 to 18 hours, making iftar a much-anticipated event.

Cities like Frankfurt and Cologne hold traditions like street iftars and community gatherings at mosques. The Sehitlik Mosque and the Berlin Mosque are popular places for Taraweeh prayers.

But Morocco takes a “stricter approach,” requiring a clear sighting of the crescent moon with the naked eye.

Experts stated that the crescent moon is unlikely to be visible in Morocco on February 28, which means the country is expected to start fasting on March 2.

In the UK, various communities may observe different start dates for Ramazan because of their differing interpretations of moonsighting criteria.

Many Western cities have released their Ramazan 2025 timetable, expecting it to start on March 1, in line with Saudi Arabia’s predictions.

The holy month in the United States is expected to start at sundown on Friday, February 28.

International Astronomical Centre in Abu Dhabi Chairman Mohammad Odeh stated that the crescent moon would be visible on February 28 using telescopes in West Asia, much of Africa, and southern Europe. Many areas in the Americas might also see it with the naked eye.

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The holy month, last year took place on March 23, 2024, in the country.

Ramazan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time dedicated to fasting, prayer, and charitable acts. Healthy adult Muslims are required to abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset.

Eidul Fitr, a joyous festival is celebrated with communal prayers, festive meals, and the giving of alms to those in need.

The deadline to apply for these positions is March 9, according to the NADRA website.

The role is for assistant director (business analyst) and assistant director (technical writer) on a contractual basis.

For both positions, the applicant must have three years of related experience.

The eligibility criteria for both positions are as follows:

For AD (business analyst)

• Bachelor’s degree (four years) in business analytics, business Administration, or a related field.

• Degrees must be accredited and verified by HEC.

Skills required

• Gather, analyse, and interpret data to uncover trends, insights, and opportunities for improvement.

• Gather requirements and develop project proposals.

• Evaluate programme effectiveness based on key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Create reports and presentations for stakeholders, offering recommendations based on analysis.

• Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.

For AD (technical writer)

• Bachelor’s degree (4 years) in computer science or a related field.

• Degrees must be accredited and verified by HEC.

• Skilled in MS Office.

• Create business requirement documents, technical manuals, use cases, standard operating procedures, user manuals, FAQs, reports, and other documentation.

• Collaborate closely with various departments during the development, testing, and implementation phases of the system.

• Help define protocols for biometric data collection and data storage solutions.

• Familiarity with international best practices in biometric technologies is a plus.

Terms and conditions

• The selected candidate will be initially hired on a contract for five years, with the possibility of extension if necessary.

• Management reserves the right to accept or reject any application without providing a reason.

• Only candidates who are shortlisted will be invited for the test or interview.

• Candidates will be disqualified if they provide false information.

• An age relaxation of five years is already factored into the specified age limit.

• The selected candidate must present medical fitness and character certificates.

• No travel allowances or daily allowances will be provided.

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• Attested degrees from the Higher Education Commission (HEC) must be submitted at the time of the interview.

• Applications from females, minorities, transgender individuals, and differently-abled candidates are encouraged.

• Electronic devices, including mobile phones and smartwatches, are not permitted during the test or interview.

The Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BEOE) has issued a circular confirming that the embassy suggested registering workers to help facilitate their employment in Uzbekistan.

The BEOE has instructed all Protectorate of Emigrants Offices to register workers for this purpose, ensuring the protection of the interests of those intending to emigrate.

The decision is made in anticipation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s two-day visit to Uzbekistan in the last week of February.

Pakistani citizens intending to work in Uzbekistan must obtain visa protection from the appropriate department to safeguard their rights in the host country.

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Fee structure for emigrants seeking direct employment:

• Life insurance fee: Rs2,500 (covers life risk for up to Rs1 million for five years)
• OPF welfare fund fee: Rs4,000
• Registration fee: Rs2,500
• OEC fee: Rs200
• Total fee: Rs9,200

Fee structure for emigrants through overseas employment promoters:

• Life insurance fee: Rs2,500
• OEP service charges: Rs15,000 (additional Rs6,000 for processing cases)
• Registration fee: Rs500
• OEC fee: Rs200
• Welfare fund (OPF): Rs4000
• Total fee: Rs22,200