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The Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) has launched a groundbreaking initiative to provide laptops to students through an interest-free loan policy, making higher education tools more accessible for young learners across Pakistan.Under this scheme, students enrolled in universities and higher education institutions can now acquire laptops without the burden of financial constraints. The policy aims to empower youth by enhancing their digital access, ensuring they remain competitive in today’s fast-paced educational and professional environments.Officials stated that this move reflects the government’s vision to promote digital literacy and support students in bridging the technology gap. By enabling students to access laptops through interest-free loans, the initiative will strengthen educational opportunities and skill development.The policy has been widely welcomed by students and academic institutions, recognizing it as a step toward building a knowledge-based economy and empowering the country’s youth with modern tools of learning.

ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP):Pakistani embassies and consulates worldwide marked the nation’s 78th Independence Day with traditional zeal, hosting flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural performances, and community gatherings to honour the country’s historic journey and achievements.—Saudi Arabia (Jeddah)At the under-construction Chancery building of the Consulate General of Pakistan in Jeddah, Consul General Khalid Majid led a dignified ceremony attended by legendary cricketer Javed Miandad and a large number of community members. Messages from Pakistan’s leadership were read out, while students delivered patriotic speeches.Khalid Majid paid tribute to Pakistan’s founding fathers, highlighted recent national successes such as Marka-e-Haq, and thanked Saudi Arabia for its diplomatic support. The event concluded with cake-cutting, gift distribution for children, and special prayers for Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Kashmir, and Palestine.—Egypt (Cairo)Ambassador Aamir Shouket hoisted the national flag at the Chancery in Cairo, followed by the recitation of the Holy Quran and official messages. He lauded Pakistan’s unity during Operation Bunyan-Al-Marsoos and reaffirmed support for the Kashmiri and Palestinian peoples. He also praised the Pakistani community in Egypt for strengthening bilateral relations.—United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi)Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi led the celebrations in Abu Dhabi, emphasizing unity, faith, and discipline as keys to Pakistan’s progress. He highlighted the diaspora’s $7.9 billion remittances and announced an online passport/NICOP tracking system. The UAE’s grand Independence Day event at Dubai Expo City, attended by 60,000 people, was described as the largest gathering of its kind.—DubaiAt the Consulate General in Dubai, Consul General Hussain Muhammad underscored Pakistan’s resilience in Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos. He thanked the UAE for supporting large-scale celebrations and commended the community’s contributions to both countries’ development.—SingaporeAt Pakistan House, Charge d’Affaires Salman Mahmood hoisted the national flag and paid homage to Pakistan Movement leaders and the Armed Forces. He urged the diaspora to contribute actively to Pakistan’s economy and reaffirmed solidarity with Kashmir.—Across all missions, the celebrations reflected a strong sense of national pride, unity, and commitment to Pakistan’s continued progress, while reaffirming moral and political support for oppressed peoples worldwide.

RAWALPINDI, Aug 14 (APP): Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff; General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M), Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee; Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI (M), Chief of the Naval Staff; and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, NI (M), Chief of the Air Staff, on behalf of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, have extended heartfelt felicitations to the nation on the auspicious occasion of Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day. In a statement issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Armed Forces highlighted that the day marks the triumph of unity, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to a shared vision for a prosperous future. “As we pay homage to our founding fathers, we honor their indomitable spirit, resolute determination, and unparalleled sacrifices under the visionary leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah — sacrifices that paved the way for independence. Their courage, foresight, and unshakeable faith in the cause of freedom remain an enduring beacon of guidance,” the statement read. The Armed Forces paid solemn tribute to the visionaries, statesmen, and soldiers who laid the foundation of the nation, pledging to cherish their legacy with deep reverence and gratitude. Reaffirming their unwavering resolve, the Armed Forces reiterated their commitment to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, uphold the Constitution, and protect the values that define national identity. “The unbreakable bond between the Armed Forces and the people is the cornerstone of our collective strength. On this Independence Day, let us renew our resolve to strive for peace, progress, and unity, upholding the ideals of Faith, Unity, and Discipline to realize the dream of a resilient, prosperous, and progressive Pakistan,” the statement concluded. Pakistan Armed Forces Zindabad!Pakistan Paindabad!

ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday hoisted the national flag at the Pakistan Monument to mark the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan. The ceremony symbolized national unity and strength, drawing participation from political leaders, dignitaries, and young students. The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, federal ministers, and dozens of students dressed in traditional cultural attire. Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Shehbaz was greeted by children who presented him with flowers. Wearing a black sherwani over white shalwar kameez, the premier hoisted the national flag as the national anthem played and the crowd stood in respect. The ceremony also featured national songs, evoking a spirit of patriotism. Later, the prime minister laid a wreath at the monument, offering prayers for Pakistan’s progress, development, and prosperity. The day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in all provincial capitals, marking the nation’s 78 years of independence.

Islamabad – August 8, 2025:Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled Pakistan’s much-anticipated Economic Recovery Plan 2025 in a televised address today, aiming to steer the nation toward financial stability and sustainable growth. The plan, which comes amid rising inflation and a depreciating rupee, introduces a strategic mix of tax reforms, investment-friendly policies, and digital payment incentives to restore economic confidence and attract both local and international investors. “This plan is a roadmap to rebuild our economy on a solid foundation of fairness, technology, and transparency,” said Shehbaz Sharif during his address. 🔍 Key Highlights of the Economic Recovery Plan 2025 Tax Reform Package: Simplification of tax filing for SMEs Reduction in sales tax for digital businesses Introduction of AI-powered audit systems to curb corruption Export Boosting Measures: Subsidies for textile, agriculture, and IT exports Fast-track loan approvals for export-oriented industries Establishment of new trade offices in the Gulf, China, and Central Asia Digital Economy Promotion: Waiving transaction charges for small-scale digital payments Expansion of Raast digital payment network to rural areas Incentives for fintech startups and online freelancers 📉 Current Challenges Addressed The Prime Minister acknowledged Pakistan’s current economic challenges, including: Soaring inflation (currently above 20%) Low foreign exchange reserves Decline in foreign direct investment (FDI) He assured the nation that this multi-phase plan would gradually stabilize prices, strengthen the rupee, and create over 2 million new jobs by the end of 2026. 🏦 International Response Initial responses from international organizations like the IMF and World Bank have been cautiously optimistic. A spokesperson from the IMF called it a “positive and necessary step,” especially if backed by strong implementation and transparency. 📢 Public and Political Reaction While government allies praised the plan as “visionary,” the opposition questioned its feasibility and criticized the lack of clear funding sources. PTI’s spokesperson Fawad Chaudhry said, “It’s another empty promise unless backed by action and accountability.” 🧮 What’s Next? The government plans to introduce a mini-budget in the National Assembly next week to formalize several aspects of the recovery plan. Talks with the IMF for a fresh loan extension are also expected to resume in the coming days. 📌 Final Thoughts The Shehbaz Sharif Economic Recovery Plan 2025 could be a turning point for Pakistan’s struggling economy—if executed with sincerity, cross-party cooperation, and effective governance.