Author name: NEN News

QUETTA — The Balochistan health department has issued final warning notices to 168 employees citing persistent absenteeism. These employees must address the issue within seven days or face permanent dismissal. Categories of Warned Employees Employees warned belong to different categories within the provincial health department. Notices have been sent to: Technical staff Lower technical staff Non-technical staff These employees must submit written explanations for their unauthorized absences. As per officials, the warnings follow numerous unheeded reminders. The department is taking action to address those repeatedly neglecting their duties. Disciplinary Rules and Consequences The Balochistan Government Employees Performance and Discipline Rules stipulate that habitual absenteeism can lead to permanent dismissal. The department emphasizes accountability to ensure effective public service delivery. An official from the health department stated, “The department is committed to maintaining order within government institutions, ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services for the public.” Initiative to Enhance Healthcare Services This enforcement is part of a wider initiative to enforce attendance discipline in Balochistan’s health sector. The aim is to enhance public health service delivery across the province. Employees have a strict seven-day deadline to regularize their attendance; failing to comply will result in permanent dismissal from government service. This action highlights the provincial government’s commitment to accountability within Pakistan’s public sector, showcasing the Balochistan health department’s dedication to upholding high standards in healthcare delivery throughout the province.

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, has initiated a robust crackdown on the illegal wheat trade in Pakistan. This effort targets bogus seed companies that are involved in unauthorized wheat seed movement and trade across the nation. Zero Tolerance for Fraudulent Operations At the National Wheat Oversight Committee (NWOC) meeting, Minister Hussain reinforced a zero-tolerance stance against fraudulent operators disrupting the agricultural supply chain. Authorities are assigned to closely monitor seed movements and verify company credentials to prevent agricultural losses nationwide. Ensuring National Food Security Minister Rana Tanveer has declared that there will be no leniency for entities engaged in illicit wheat trade activities. Distributing substandard seeds presents a critical threat to crop yields. Federal officials warn that uncertified wheat seeds could severely impact national food security. As a result, efforts concentrate on shutting down companies lacking proper licenses or quality certifications. Provincial Collaboration for Effective Enforcement The government has pinpointed several bogus seed firms operating nationwide, distributing seeds below federal quality standards. Federal authorities will work collaboratively with provincial departments to enforce regulations. The National Wheat Oversight Committee will oversee these operations, aiming to protect farmers and ensure consistent agricultural productivity throughout the country.

RAWALPINDI — Rana Sajid Safdar, Managing Director of the Suthra Punjab Agency (SPA), has directed officials to maximize asset utilization for enhancing Rawalpindi’s sanitation services. Efficient Resource Deployment During a recent review meeting on sanitation operations, Safdar emphasized efficient resource use to benefit city residents. The initiative seeks to boost the efficiency of sanitation services in Rawalpindi. Officials are instructed to optimize machinery, vehicles, and manpower, fully utilizing existing resources to improve waste management without increasing costs. Operations Assessment and Improvement The review focused on current sanitation operations, identifying measures to enhance service efficiency city-wide. Strategies for the effective deployment of equipment and personnel were analyzed. Key Focus Areas Optimizing machinery and vehicle use Enhancing the utilization of assigned manpower Improving coordination among sanitation teams Strengthening inter-departmental communication systems Boosting Team Coordination The SPA stressed the need for better coordination among sanitation teams to ensure quality services for Rawalpindi residents. Departments are encouraged to collaborate effectively to swiftly address sanitation challenges. This initiative is part of the Punjab government’s strategy to improve municipal services in major cities while maintaining steady operational costs.

KOHAT — On Thursday, the Kohat police initiated a major operation, arresting several suspects wanted for murder and seizing illegal weapons and ammunition. District Police Officer Dr. Shahbaz Elahi led this operation, focusing on proclaimed offenders and criminal elements in various areas. Targeting Criminal Networks The operation’s primary goal was to dismantle known criminal networks, crucial for maintaining law and order. Committed to public safety, police conducted simultaneous raids at multiple locations. Objectives of the Crackdown The Kohat police targeted three main objectives: Enhancing public safety throughout the district Reducing the circulation of illegal arms Apprehending criminals involved in serious offenses Sustained Law Enforcement Efforts These operations are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement in the region. Police officials confirm that such actions will continue to ensure security. Regular crackdowns aim to protect citizens, particularly focusing on eliminating illegal weapons possession. The seized weapons and ammunition are currently held for further investigation.

The National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) achieved a milestone by training over 100,000 students in vocational and technical skills during fiscal year 2025, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26. This initiative reflects the government’s dedication to workforce development, essential for economic growth in Pakistan, as it tackles skill shortages in the labor market. Major Programs for Skills Development NAVTTC provided training through a broad network of public and private institutes across the nation. Several flagship programs played a significant role in this success. Key Training Initiatives Prime Minister’s Youth Skills Development Programme (2023-27) Industry Led Training with Industrial Associations Huawei High-Tech Skills Initiative These initiatives cover both traditional trades and emerging tech sectors, equipping students with industry-aligned skills and immediate job opportunities. Strategic Workforce Readiness Initiatives The federal government is advancing workforce readiness among Pakistani youth through strategic programs. Training is available at government and private institutions in all provinces. This coordinated effort effectively addresses skills gaps in Pakistan’s labor market. NAVTTC partners with industry associations and global tech firms to ensure training meets current market needs, keeping vocational education relevant. Impact on Economic Growth and Employment This effort fosters economic growth by preparing youth for vital industry roles. Enhanced workforce development strengthens Pakistan’s position in global and regional markets. Training over 100,000 students helps NAVTTC reduce unemployment. Focusing on human capital development is crucial for Pakistan’s long-term economic strategies. A skilled workforce boosts industrial competitiveness and supports sustainable national development.