Business

ISLAMABAD — At the bustling weekly bazaar located at Peshawar Mor in Islamabad’s H-9 sector, a young girl participated in a sketching activity. This vibrant marketplace attracts many residents with its diverse goods and cultural events. Market Activities at Islamabad Bazaar The bazaar boasts various art activities and a wide array of product stalls. Vendors meticulously organize goods such as dry fruits, including dates, raisins, and nuts, for shoppers. This market is a significant economic and cultural hub for the residents of Islamabad, providing them with multifaceted shopping and educational experiences. Infrastructure Developments in Islamabad Beyond the bazaar, the city of Islamabad sees ongoing infrastructure advancements. Construction machinery is currently active on the Park Road underpass project, showcasing enhancements in the federal capital’s infrastructure.

ISLAMABAD — The lively weekly bazaar at Peshawar Mor, H-9, highlights a vendor’s diverse selection of dry fruits, including dates, raisins, and nuts. This event attracts local shoppers eager to discover a range of products. Vibrant Market Atmosphere Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, the market features numerous vendors offering a wide spectrum of items. Products range from fresh foodstuffs to unique artisanal crafts, appealing to a broad audience. Diverse Selection of Dry Fruits The dry fruit vendor is one of many traders enticing customers with quality offerings at competitive prices. This stall provides a variety of dry fruits that cater to a health-conscious clientele. Activities for Families Besides the dry fruits stall, the bazaar includes attractions like drawing guides for children. These activities provide educational entertainment, making the market a popular weekly destination for families.

SIALKOT — Business leaders Sheikh Riazuddin and Syed Ehtesham Mazhar Gilani guided the Health Walk 2026 in Sialkot. This event focused on promoting health and fitness within the community, attracting participants from various sectors. Promoting Healthy Living The Health Walk is a significant annual event that raises awareness about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the benefits of regular exercise. Local business figures and community members collaborated to support this initiative, enhancing overall community well-being. Leadership and Community Impact Sheikh Riazuddin and Syed Ehtesham Mazhar Gilani emphasized the crucial role of the business community in bolstering public health awareness. Their leadership underlines a dedication to promoting healthy lifestyles among Sialkot’s citizens.

Massive Afforestation Effort During the fiscal year 2025-26, Pakistan has successfully planted, regenerated, or distributed approximately 2.3 billion saplings under the Green Pakistan Programme. This initiative is one of the country’s most extensive efforts to increase afforestation. It aims to combat climate change by restoring ecosystems and enhancing environmental sustainability. Commitment to Climate Change Pakistan’s large-scale programme underscores its dedication to addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to expand the nation’s green cover and support biodiversity. Positive Environmental Impact The afforestation programme is expected to significantly improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it will offer new wildlife habitats across various regions nationwide, contributing to ecosystem restoration.

ISLAMABAD — On Sunday, the National Assembly hosted an in-depth debate on the national budget. Lawmakers from various political parties discussed fiscal priorities, economic challenges, and potential measures for public relief. Emphasizing Economic Strategies The session highlighted the need for equitable economic strategies and sustained development, especially given the current financial constraints. Lawmakers stressed that addressing these pressing economic issues is essential for public welfare. Demand for Immediate Public Relief Participants urged measures to provide immediate relief to citizens while ensuring long-term economic stability. They stressed the importance of supporting ongoing government efforts to manage challenging fiscal and security environments. Acknowledging Government Reforms Lawmakers acknowledged the government’s initiatives but emphasized the necessity of continued reforms. These reforms are critical to fostering economic growth and stability amid difficult economic conditions. The discussions showcased a collective commitment to balancing public relief with effective financial management.

ISLAMABAD — DigiSkills, Pakistan’s leading digital skills initiative, successfully conducted 5.14 million training sessions from July to March in the fiscal year 2025-26, according to official data. This program significantly boosts the nation’s digital workforce and supports growth in freelancing, IT services, and online entrepreneurship. Government’s Commitment to Digital Competency This extensive training initiative highlights the government’s commitment to enhancing digital competencies. It aims to provide employment opportunities in the rapidly growing tech sector. DigiSkills focuses on equipping individuals with the necessary skills to succeed in the global digital economy. Empowering Pakistan’s Workforce By providing essential digital skills to millions, DigiSkills plays a crucial role in positioning Pakistan as a competitive player in the global freelance and IT industry. The program contributes significantly to the country’s economic development through technology-driven education.

PESHAWAR — Nasir Ali, a government employee from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, struggles with yearly rent hikes, while his salary fails to keep pace with rising living costs. The recent federal budget seeks to address these challenges, making housing more accessible for families across the nation. Substantial Budget for Affordable Housing The new budget dedicates significant resources to affordable housing development. This funding offers hope to individuals like Ali, who aspire to own a home but are hampered by increasing expenses. This initiative forms a crucial part of the government’s strategy to alleviate financial pressure on citizens. Positive Impact on Families The program is expected to assist thousands of families in transitioning from renting to home ownership. By providing these opportunities, the government aims to address housing shortages and reduce the financial burden on households dealing with stagnant incomes and escalating rents.

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar announced on Sunday that the government’s economic reforms and stabilization measures have generated the fiscal flexibility required to provide relief in the Federal Budget 2026-27. These measures are designed to support various sectors including the salaried class, exporters, retailers, and the housing industry. Economic Reforms and Fiscal Flexibility Tarar stressed the significance of these reforms during the budget debate, highlighting their role in enabling a relief-oriented budget. The budget is structured to address the needs of different segments of society. He underscored the government’s commitment to promoting economic stability to enhance fiscal capacity. Focus on Key Sectors The minister detailed that the primary objective of the budget is to provide direct benefits to crucial sectors. This approach is anticipated to positively influence the broader economy. The resources allocated in the budget are aimed to: Stimulate economic growth Enhance socio-economic welfare Address the needs of multiple societal segments

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, has called for fact-based budget discussions. He emphasized the importance of this approach during the National Assembly’s debate on the federal budget for 2026-27. Response to Misrepresentation Allegations Ahsan Iqbal responded to allegations of misrepresentation by former National Assembly speaker, Asad Qaiser. Iqbal accused Qaiser of distorting facts during the budget discussions. The minister underscored the vital role that accuracy plays in fiscal matters. Importance of Honesty in Budget Talks Iqbal stressed the importance of honesty in budget talks. He highlighted that policy decisions must be rooted in reliable information. According to Iqbal, misrepresentations could hinder effective economic planning and development.

Support for Digital Banking Initiatives Traders and economic experts in Dera Ismail Khan have expressed strong support for the federal government’s push towards digital banking and a cashless economy. These initiatives form a key part of the broader Digital Pakistan campaign. The aim is to enhance business efficiency and improve access to formal banking services. Positive Feedback from Business Owners The digital banking initiative received positive feedback during a session led by Federal Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb. Business owners emphasized that transitioning to a cashless system will help in promoting greater financial inclusion. Advantages of Digital Transactions The move towards digital transactions is designed to streamline economic operations in Dera Ismail Khan. Traders can simplify financial dealings. Enjoy a broader range of banking services.