Pakistan

ISLAMABAD — Khalid Mahmood Khokhar, President of Pakistan Kissan Ittehad, announced plans for a nationwide protest set for Sunday. The protest aims to compel the government to revise its budgetary and agriculture-related policies. Farmers’ Concerns Khokhar stressed that farmers have no choice but to protest. Current government policies adversely affect the agriculture sector, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among farmers. Need for Immediate Relief Immediate relief measures are crucial to support farmers. The planned protest aims to highlight the agricultural community’s urgent needs if policy changes are postponed. Government Action Essential Pakistan Kissan Ittehad urges the government to quickly address these pressing issues. Swift action can avert potential unrest among farmers. Importance of Supportive Policies The association argues that proactive and supportive policies are essential for the sustainability and growth of Pakistan’s agricultural sector.

ISLAMABAD — Female school attendance in Pakistan has increased to 57%, marking a significant advancement in educational opportunities for girls. Official documents reveal that the proportion of females aged 10 and above attending school rose from 50% in 2018-19 to 57% in 2024-25. Provincial Improvements Various provinces have shown notable improvements in female school attendance: Punjab: Attendance climbed from 59% to 65%. Sindh: Saw an increase from 45% to 49%. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Attendance jumped from 38% to 47%. Balochistan: Improved from 24% to 34%. These figures reflect enhanced educational access for girls across the nation. Rural and National Trends Rural regions have also experienced significant progress, with school attendance rising from 53% to 59%. Additionally, the percentage of females aged 10 and above completing at least primary education increased from 42% to 48%. Literacy Rates The literacy rate for females aged 10 and above reached 54% by 2024-25. Expanding educational access for girls continues to positively impact Pakistan’s education sector. National Impact The national rate of out-of-school children declined from 38% in 2023 to 28% in 2025. Furthermore, the national literacy rate for individuals aged 10 and above increased from 61% to 63%.

KARACHI — Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed profound sorrow over the death of Naeem Ahmed Kharal, a respected leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party and a Member of the Sindh Assembly. Chief Minister’s Statement Chief Minister Shah issued a statement on Wednesday sharing his deep sadness at Naeem Ahmed Kharal’s passing. He described Kharal as a dedicated and active leader focused on public service, earning him widespread respect throughout his career. Legacy and Contributions The Chief Minister emphasized the significant loss felt by the Pakistan Peoples Party due to Kharal’s passing. Shah acknowledged Naeem Kharal as a valued colleague, recognized for his unwavering commitment to public welfare. Kharal’s impact on society and politics was considerable, and the Government of Sindh, along with the party, promised to honor his legacy.

KARACHI — Sindh Governor Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi and Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah honored fathers at a special Father’s Day event on Sunday. Celebrating Fathers Both leaders highlighted fathers as blessings from Almighty Allah. They praised their love, sacrifice, and guidance. The Governor reflected on the significant impact a father’s love and nurturing can have on children’s development. Fathers: Pillars of Society The Governor described fathers as guiding lights in their children’s lives. He stressed their pivotal role in forging a robust and successful society. He called on everyone to respect, serve, and honor fathers consistently. Prayers for National Progress Governor Hashmi and Chief Minister Shah offered prayers dedicated to national progress. They also prayed for the health, safety, and well-being of fathers throughout Pakistan.

The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) recently completed a series of successful raids in Multan. These efforts resulted in the confiscation and destruction of 370 kilograms of substandard spices and other materials. The operations are part of ongoing efforts to combat food adulteration and improve sanitary practices. Extensive Inspections in Multan The PFA targeted several local manufacturing sites during the raids. Inspections were conducted at: Papad manufacturing units Drink preparation corners Soda water plants Significant quantities of non-compliant and unhygienic food items were seized across these locations. These actions are critical in maintaining public health safety. Ensuring Food Quality Committed to reinforcing food quality controls, the PFA aims to prevent the circulation of adulterated products. The initiative is crucial in upholding strict food safety standards to ensure consumer protection.

ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formed a committee to review the Telecommunication Reorganization (Amendment) Bill. Led by Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazir Tarar, the committee aims to address specific concerns regarding the bill’s provisions. Key Committee Members The committee includes several notable members, such as: Senator Sherry Rehman Federal Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema Attorney General Mansoor Awan Experts from law and IT sectors Main Focus Areas The right-of-way framework detailed in Sections 2(qb), 2(ma), 27A, and 27B is the committee’s primary focus. These sections are vital for setting up telecommunication facilities and managing operations on private property. Directive from the Prime Minister Prime Minister Sharif has emphasized the importance of swift action, urging the committee to expedite their review and promptly submit their proposals. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the legislative framework affecting Pakistan’s telecommunication sector.

ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir are engaged in crucial talks in Burgenstock, Switzerland on June 21. These discussions are linked to the recent signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Prime Minister’s Delegation Departure Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led a high-level delegation from Islamabad to participate in these significant talks. The primary goal is to advance objectives outlined in the newly signed memorandum. Significance of the Islamabad Memorandum The Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding represents a critical step forward for Pakistan in enhancing international partnerships. The ongoing technical talks focus on improving implementation strategies and detailing further aspects of the agreement.

GUJRANWALA — On Saturday, esteemed religious scholars and spiritual leaders from various sects gathered to reaffirm their commitment to the Paigham-e-Pakistan Code of Conduct. They pledged full cooperation with the National Paigham-e-Aman Committee (NPAC) to maintain peace and order during Muharram-ul-Haram across Pakistan. Unified Support for Paigham-e-Pakistan Religious leaders from diverse denominations have voiced unanimous support for the principles outlined in the Paigham-e-Pakistan document. This initiative promotes harmony and understanding among different religious groups. Their reaffirmation is vital as the nation prepares for Muharram, a sacred month in the Islamic calendar. Commitment to Peaceful Observance The Paigham-e-Pakistan initiative is endorsed by both religious and state institutions. It aims to foster peace through a cohesive strategy that discourages sectarian violence. This commitment by religious figures highlights efforts to unite the nation and ensure a respectful and peaceful Muharram.

ISLAMABAD — Senator Sherry Rehman, Vice President of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), honored Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto on her 73rd birth anniversary. She emphasized Bhutto’s significant legacy as Pakistan’s first female Prime Minister. Benazir Bhutto: A Global Symbol As the first female Prime Minister of Pakistan, Bhutto’s leadership remains a global symbol of democracy and women’s empowerment. Her tenure continues to inspire female leaders worldwide, reflecting her enduring influence. Impact on Pakistan’s Political Landscape Rehman highlighted Bhutto’s profound impact on the political landscape of Pakistan. Known for her dedication to democratic ideals, Bhutto’s trailblazing achievements have strengthened the country’s policies and governance. Challenges and Resilience Benazir Bhutto is fondly remembered for her resilience in overcoming challenges. Her pivotal role in shaping democratic policies is recognized both domestically and internationally. Her unwavering efforts in championing rights and equality continue to inspire current and future leaders in the region.

ISLAMABAD — The Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA) has commenced an eco-friendly transformation of Sectors F-14 and F-15. This initiative focuses on developing modern and environmentally sustainable residential areas in Pakistan. Leadership and Objectives Under the guidance of Captain (Retd.) Muhammad Mahmood, Secretary of the Ministry of Housing & Works, and the Director General of FGEHA, the project aims to merge advanced infrastructure with environmental goals. The leadership prioritizes creating a sustainable living environment within these sectors. Sustainability Standards in Action FGEHA is committed to implementing multiple strategies to meet high sustainability standards. This aligns with Islamabad’s increasing dedication to eco-conscious urban development. The transformation of these sectors into eco-friendly spaces represents a major step forward for the capital city.