2026

MULTAN — The Punjab government has launched a 60% subsidy for farmers purchasing Super Seeders and Pak Seeders, as a part of the Chief Minister’s Punjab Clean Air Program. Eligible Districts for Subsidy The subsidy program is designed for farmers in select districts. The eligible districts include: Multan Lahore Faisalabad Rawalpindi Bahawalpur Dera Ghazi Khan How to Apply Application forms are provided free of charge from tehsil-level Agriculture Officer (Extension) offices and agricultural service centers. Farmers can also download forms from the official website, www.agripunjab.gov.pk. Completed forms must be submitted to the designated Agriculture Officer (Extension) or the Assistant Director of Agriculture (Extension) in their respective districts by June 30, 2026. Support and Assistance For further support, farmers are encouraged to contact the Punjab Agriculture Helpline at 0800-17000. The helpline operates from 8 am to 8 pm, Monday through Saturday.

LAHORE — The Punjab government has launched a new initiative permitting adolescents aged 16 to 18 to legally ride motorcycles. Juvenile Motorcycle Permit Initiative This initiative aligns with Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision to increase freedoms for the province’s youth. The program is designed to empower young individuals, allowing them to gain independence and mobility at an earlier age. New Legal Age Requirement The minimum legal age for obtaining a motorcycle riding license has been reduced from 18 to 16. This change grants younger individuals the opportunity to acquire licenses, offering them mobility freedoms previously unavailable. Broader Youth Empowerment Efforts This permit is part of broader efforts to engage and empower Punjab’s youth. The program promotes responsible driving and adherence to traffic laws, aiming to enhance road safety through legal and regulated measures.

ISLAMABAD — Grand Asian University Sialkot (GAUS) and Bahria University Islamabad have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize their academic collaboration. This initiative aims to bolster professional development and educational advancement in Pakistan. Objectives of the MoU This agreement seeks to promote cooperation in mutually beneficial areas. The primary focus will be on academic research and development, yielding significant advantages for both universities. Key Areas of Cooperation This strategic partnership will enable several initiatives: Knowledge exchange between faculty and students Faculty development programs Joint research projects Commitment to Educational Excellence The collaboration underscores the universities’ commitment to improving educational standards. It demonstrates their dedication to achieving academic and professional excellence throughout Pakistan.

ISLAMABAD — President Asif Ali Zardari has called on key societal figures to unite against hate speech in Pakistan. He addressed religious scholars, educators, media professionals, and civil society, urging an active promotion of respect and empathy. Promoting Constructive Engagement President Zardari stressed the importance of constructive engagement to counter divisive narratives. He noted that academic institutions and the youth have a crucial role in fostering tolerance and understanding within communities. The Role of Academic Institutions and Youth In his address, President Zardari encouraged collaboration among various societal groups to shape positive discourse. This collective effort is essential for combating hate-based narratives. Call for Unity and Coexistence The president’s appeal addresses the growing concern over hate-fueled narratives. By leveraging the influence of educational and societal stakeholders, he seeks to promote unity and peaceful coexistence throughout Pakistan.

ISLAMABAD — Gold prices in the Islamabad market saw a modest increase on Wednesday. The cost for 24 karat gold rose by Rs. 100, reaching Rs. 455,236 per tola. This update was provided by the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association. Gold Price Trends The 10 grams weight of 24 karat gold also followed an upward trend. Although the association did not disclose exact figures, the rise mirrored the per tola pricing pattern. Commodity Market Fluctuations The increase in gold prices reflects ongoing fluctuations in the commodity markets. The All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association closely monitors these changes as part of their regular reporting.