Business

SIALKOT — Business leaders Sheikh Riazuddin and Syed Ehtesham Mazhar Gilani led the Health Walk 2026 in Sialkot, focusing on community health and fitness. The event drew participants from diverse sectors, highlighting the commitment to public well-being. Promoting Healthy Living The Health Walk is a prominent annual event that highlights the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and the advantages of consistent exercise. This initiative is supported by local business figures and community members, contributing to the overall well-being of the community. Leadership and Community Impact Sheikh Riazuddin and Syed Ehtesham Mazhar Gilani stressed the vital role of the business community in enhancing public health awareness. Their leadership showcases a strong dedication to encouraging healthy lifestyles among the citizens of Sialkot.

Massive Afforestation Effort In the fiscal year 2025-26, Pakistan successfully planted, regenerated, or distributed about 2.3 billion saplings through the Green Pakistan Programme. This initiative marks one of the country’s largest efforts to boost afforestation. The programme aims to combat climate change by restoring ecosystems and enhancing environmental sustainability. Commitment to Climate Change Pakistan’s large-scale afforestation programme highlights its commitment to tackling the urgent challenges of climate change. As part of a broader strategy, it seeks to expand the nation’s green cover and support biodiversity. Positive Environmental Impact The afforestation initiative is anticipated to greatly improve air quality and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it will create new wildlife habitats across various regions, contributing significantly to ecosystem restoration.

ISLAMABAD — Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, the Federal Minister for Law and Justice, announced on Sunday that federal ministers are required to pay their own utility bills. This declaration counters allegations that the government covers these expenses. Ministers’ Personal Expenses Addressing the National Assembly, Tarar emphasized that ministers are responsible for financing their electricity, gas, and other utilities. This reflects a transparency initiative aimed at clarifying government officials’ expenses. Reduction in Fuel Allocations Tarar highlighted a significant reduction in fuel allocations as part of the federal austerity measures. Previously, ministers were entitled to 400 litres of petrol, now reduced to 200 litres, he explained. This step illustrates the government’s commitment to economic prudence. Limited Benefits for Ministers No additional benefits are extended to ministers beyond the adjusted fuel allowances. Tarar urged assembly members to discuss any concerns about these allowances in the appropriate settings, promoting transparency within parliament.

ISLAMABAD — On Sunday, the National Assembly conducted an in-depth debate concerning the national budget. Lawmakers from various political parties addressed fiscal priorities, economic challenges, and potential public relief measures. Need for Equitable Economic Strategies The discussion underscored the need for equitable economic strategies and sustained development, particularly in light of current financial constraints. Lawmakers highlighted the urgency of tackling these pressing economic issues to enhance public welfare. Call for Immediate Public Relief Participants called for measures to provide immediate relief to citizens while ensuring long-term economic stability. They emphasized supporting ongoing government efforts to navigate the challenging fiscal and security environments. Recognizing Government Reforms Lawmakers acknowledged the government’s reform initiatives but stressed the necessity for continued efforts. These reforms are deemed crucial for fostering economic growth and stability amidst difficult conditions. The debate demonstrated a collective commitment to balancing public relief with effective financial management.

ISLAMABAD — DigiSkills, a prominent digital skills initiative in Pakistan, has successfully completed 5.14 million training sessions between July and March in fiscal year 2025-26, as per official data. This program substantially boosts the nation’s digital workforce and supports growth in freelancing, IT services, and online entrepreneurship. Commitment to Enhancing Digital Competency This comprehensive training initiative underscores the government’s commitment to improving digital competencies nationwide. It provides employment opportunities within the rapidly expanding tech sector. DigiSkills is dedicated to equipping individuals with the skills necessary to thrive in the global digital economy. Strengthening Pakistan’s Workforce By delivering essential digital skills to millions, DigiSkills plays a vital role in enhancing Pakistan’s position as a competitive force in the global freelance and IT industry. The program significantly contributes to the nation’s economic development by advancing technology-driven education.

PESHAWAR — Nasir Ali, a government employee in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, faces rising rent hikes while his salary lags behind the increasing living costs. The latest federal budget aims to tackle these challenges by making housing more accessible for families nationwide. Significant Investment in Affordable Housing The new budget allocates substantial resources to affordable housing development, providing hope for individuals like Ali who dream of home ownership amidst rising expenses. This initiative is a critical element of the government’s strategy to ease financial burdens on citizens. Transformative Effects on Families This program is anticipated to help thousands of families transition from renting to owning homes. By offering these opportunities, the government strives to address housing shortages and lessen the financial strain on households facing 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 created the fiscal flexibility needed to offer relief in the Federal Budget 2026-27. These reforms are intended to support various sectors, including the salaried class, exporters, retailers, and the housing industry. Economic Reforms and Fiscal Flexibility During the budget debate, Tarar emphasized the importance of these reforms in enabling a relief-focused budget. The budget is designed to meet the needs of various segments of society. He highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering economic stability and enhancing fiscal capacity. Focus on Key Sectors The minister stated that the primary goal of the budget is to provide direct benefits to essential sectors. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the broader economy. The budget’s allocated resources aim 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 emphasized the need for fact-based budget discussions. He made this call during the National Assembly’s debate on the federal budget for 2026-27. Response to Misrepresentation Allegations Minister Ahsan Iqbal addressed accusations from former National Assembly speaker, Asad Qaiser, regarding misrepresentation. Iqbal accused Qaiser of fact distortion during the budget discussions. He highlighted the crucial role that accuracy plays in fiscal matters. Importance of Honesty in Budget Talks Iqbal underscored the importance of honesty in budget talks, noting that policy decisions require reliable information. He stated that any misrepresentations could impede effective economic planning and development.

Government Push for Digital Banking In Dera Ismail Khan, traders and economic experts have voiced robust support for the federal government’s digital banking initiatives. These efforts are a crucial part of the larger Digital Pakistan campaign, aimed at fostering a cashless economy. The goals include enhancing business efficiency and expanding access to formal banking services across the region. Feedback from the Business Community During a session led by Federal Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, the digital banking initiative gained substantial positive feedback from business owners. They highlighted that moving to a cashless system could significantly promote financial inclusion. Benefits of Digital Transactions The shift towards digital transactions is expected to streamline economic activities in Dera Ismail Khan. It offers multiple advantages for traders: Simplification of financial dealings Access to a wider array of banking services

ISLAMABAD — Dream Land Handicraft, situated on College Road in Rawalpindi, transcends its role as a mere retail store for pottery and decorative items. Managed by Syed Muhammad Naeem, this establishment acts as a unique educational platform, enhancing engagement between Pakistan and China. Strengthening Pak-China Business Opportunities Syed Muhammad Naeem has devoted years to bolstering business opportunities between Pakistan and China. His shop not only focuses on retail but also provides the local community with practical lessons on how to negotiate economic ties with China, a key trading partner. Enhancing Grassroots Economic Cooperation This innovative approach highlights the power of grassroots efforts in promoting bilateral economic cooperation. It opens up new channels for learning and collaboration, which helps to solidify Pak-China economic relations.