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Pakistan’s Inter-Provincial Games Make a Comeback in Islamabad Next Month

December Brings Inter-Provincial Games to Islamabad, Showcasing Pakistan’s Athletic Unity

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has announced the highly anticipated return of the Inter-Provincial Games, scheduled to be held in Islamabad beginning December 13. After a seven-year pause, these Games will once again unite over 3,000 athletes and officials from every province and territory of Pakistan, celebrating athletic skill and strengthening bonds among regions.

Comprehensive Preparations for a Seamless Experience

Extensive planning is underway to accommodate the athletes and officials, with the PSB investing in upgrading facilities, enhancing logistics, and collaborating with provincial teams. With competitions across a range of sports, the Games will provide athletes an ideal platform to represent their regions and make their mark on a national level.

Leadership and Vision for Pakistani Sports

Yasir Pirzada, Director General of PSB, highlighted the board’s commitment to bringing back this event, stating, “The Inter-Provincial Games are a testament to our dedication to fostering unity and nurturing talent. After seven years, we’re proud to offer athletes a renewed stage where they can demonstrate their skills and compete in the spirit of healthy sportsmanship.”

At a time when Pakistan’s athletes face limited opportunities for national and international exposure, the return of the Inter-Provincial Games represents a renewed focus on sports development within the country. This event is not only a celebration of talent but also a crucial step in reviving the nation’s sports ecosystem, encouraging athletic potential across the provinces. All eyes will be on Islamabad this December as it hosts an inspiring display of talent, sportsmanship, and provincial pride.

Suboohi by — November 6, 2024 in News
NADRA NICOP Fees for Pakistanis Living in Bahrain

Understanding NADRA’s NICOP Services for Overseas Pakistanis

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) in Pakistan is responsible for issuing the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) to Pakistanis living abroad, including those in Bahrain. NICOP is essential for Pakistani citizens who wish to travel back to Pakistan without the hassle of a visa and is particularly useful for individuals with dual nationality.

Zone-Based Fee Structure

NADRA has divided countries into two zones, Zone A and Zone B, to streamline the fee structure for NICOP. The country categorization impacts the cost of the NICOP application, with each zone having specific fees for standard, urgent, and executive categories. Canada, for instance, falls under Zone A, while Bahrain’s placement may impact the cost accordingly.

Fees for NICOP Services

For those in Bahrain, the standard NICOP fee is typically around $20 for a new Smart NICOP. Those who need the card urgently can opt for the urgent NICOP service at $30, while the executive NICOP service, ideal for quicker processing, costs $40.

Applying for NICOP

To apply for NICOP, Pakistani nationals must have a passport number, especially if applying for the first time. NADRA has made the application process user-friendly with options to apply through their official website or mobile app, allowing for a faster and more accessible experience.

NICOP Costs Within Pakistan

If applied for in Pakistan, the standard NICOP fee is Rs5,620 as of October 2024. An urgent application raises the fee to Rs8,440, and those opting for the executive service will pay Rs11,250 for faster processing.

Why NICOP Is Essential for Overseas Pakistanis

For Pakistanis in Bahrain and other countries, NICOP provides peace of mind and ease of travel to Pakistan without visa restrictions. It’s a vital document, particularly for those maintaining dual nationality, and offers a reliable form of identification for Pakistanis living abroad.

Suboohi by — October 26, 2024 in News
Pakistan’s Textile Exports Rise 5.37% in July-August 2024

Pakistan’s textile sector saw a 5.37% increase in exports during the first two months of the fiscal year 2024-25, according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). The textile export value stood at $2,915.453 million in July-August 2024, compared to $2,766.870 million during the same period last year.

Key contributors to this growth include cotton cloth, which saw a 7.23% increase in exports, amounting to $322.654 million. The knitwear segment surged by 7.15%, reaching $820.585 million. Additionally, bed wear exports increased by 7.61% to $504.753 million.

Other notable performers were towels, up by 6.87% to $170.766 million, and ready-made garments, which saw a significant rise of 17.85%, bringing in $658.499 million.

Decline in Cotton Yarn Exports

However, despite the overall increase, some segments faced challenges. Cotton yarn exports dropped sharply by 45.21%, declining from $201.837 million to $110.588 million. Meanwhile, raw cotton exports experienced a complete halt, going from 3.073 million to zero.

On a year-on-year basis, textile exports in August 2024 increased by 12.99%, reaching $1,644.317 million, compared to $1,455.219 million in August 2023. The month-on-month comparison also shows positive growth, with a 29.36% increase from $1,271.136 million in July 2024.

The increase in textile exports underscores Pakistan’s resilience in the global textile market, despite the challenges faced by specific commodities.

Suboohi by — September 17, 2024 in Business
Vietnam’s Strategic Pivot: Visa-Free Entry to Drive Tourism Growth

Vietnam is making a bold move to revitalize its tourism industry by significantly relaxing visa restrictions for international visitors. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s directive to expedite visa waiver processes for multiple countries signals a proactive approach to attracting global travelers.

While the country has seen a resurgence in tourism following the pandemic, it still lags behind its Southeast Asian neighbors in terms of visa-friendly policies. By expanding visa-free entry, Vietnam aims to level the playing field and position itself as a more accessible and attractive destination.

The government’s decision is underpinned by the recognition that tourism is a key driver of economic growth. By simplifying travel procedures, Vietnam hopes to stimulate increased visitor arrivals, boosting revenue for the hospitality industry and creating jobs.

As the details of the visa waiver program unfold, the world watches with anticipation. The potential economic impact of this policy change is substantial, and it could reshape Vietnam’s tourism landscape for years to come.

Suboohi by — July 23, 2024 in News
UAE Poised to Launch Space Tourism in 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is making strides toward establishing itself as a front-runner in the burgeoning space tourism industry, with the much-anticipated launch scheduled for the third quarter of 2025. This groundbreaking initiative will see space tourism flights offered starting at a price of approximately Rs45.5 million (UAE Dh600,000), spearheaded by the European space firm EOS-X Space. The inaugural flights will be launched from two key locations: Abu Dhabi and Spain.

Kemel Kharbachi, the visionary founder and CEO of EOS-X Space, has announced that the development of their cutting-edge Spaceship One manned capsules is nearing its final stages. These pressurized capsules, which can accommodate up to eight passengers including a pilot, are set to offer an unprecedented experience. The capsules will be launched using eco-friendly helium balloons, ascending to the edge of the stratosphere at an altitude of 40,000 meters. This elevation will provide tourists with stunning views of space, the blue halo surrounding Earth, and the curvature of our planet during a memorable five-hour journey. This is in stark contrast to the shorter, 11-minute rocket flights offered by other space tourism companies like Blue Origin.

EOS-X Space distinguishes itself from competitors by offering a more accessible and less physically demanding space experience. Unlike other space tourism companies that require extensive pre-flight training and physical conditioning, EOS-X Space will provide its passengers with a tailored week-long program. This program will blend cultural experiences, gourmet dining, regenerative medicine, and wellness activities, enhancing the overall space tourism experience. Prices for these exclusive packages will range between €150,000 (Dh600,000) and €200,000 (Dh800,000), depending on the chosen experience.

The company has ambitious plans for its facilities. In Abu Dhabi, they will establish what they describe as the world’s most ambitious space tourism complex, including not only the spaceport and shuttle launch area but also a luxurious hotel complex on Yas Island. Additionally, a new facility is set to be developed in Tulum, Mexico, with operations expected to commence by 2026.

“Our current offerings are tailored for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, targeting a market of around 20 million potential clients globally. These affluent individuals are seeking unique experiences and are willing to invest between €150,000 and €200,000 for a once-in-a-lifetime journey,” Kharbachi explained.

The global space tourism market is valued at over $9 billion, reflecting the immense potential and investment opportunities it presents. Kharbachi envisions a future where space tourism becomes as commonplace as aviation, driven by human curiosity and technological advancements.

EOS-X Space’s financial projections are equally ambitious. The company estimates that its combined revenues from operations in Spain and Abu Dhabi could reach $353 million in the first year, with a gross profit margin of 19 percent. By 2029, the company aims to achieve a turnover of $1.127 billion and a gross profit of $324 million, representing a significant profit growth of 23.3 percent from the previous year. The planned investment in the Abu Dhabi and Seville complexes is expected to exceed $230 million in engineering and development costs.

Suboohi by — July 18, 2024 in News
Punjab Govt Implements Significant Pay and Pension Increases

The Punjab government has taken a bold step to enhance the financial well-being of its employees and pensioners by announcing substantial salary and pension increases. According to a notification issued by the Finance Department on Friday, these increments will take effect from July 1, 2024.

Employees in grades BS-1 to BS-16 will benefit from a 25% increase in their running basic pay. For those in grades BS-17 to BS-22, a 20% salary increase has been approved. This ad hoc relief is designed to mitigate the financial pressures on government workers and ensure they can better cope with rising living costs.

Additionally, the Finance Department has confirmed a 15% increase in net pensions for all civil pensioners in Punjab, starting from July 1, 2024. This increase aims to provide much-needed financial support to retirees who have contributed years of service to the province.

This provincial adjustment mirrors recent announcements by the federal Ministry of Finance, which declared similar increases for federal government employees. Federal employees in grades 1 to 16 will see a 25% salary hike, while those in grades 17 to 22 will receive a 20% increase, both effective from July 1, 2024.

Federal pensioners, including both civil and armed forces retirees, will also receive a 15% pension increase. This adjustment will apply to those retiring on or after July 1, 2024, ensuring comprehensive coverage for all federal pensioners.

The synchronized effort between the provincial and federal governments to increase salaries and pensions highlights a coordinated approach to addressing the financial needs of public sector employees and retirees. This initiative is expected to significantly improve the financial stability of thousands of families across Punjab and the country.

The announcement has been met with widespread approval among government employees and pensioners. Many have expressed relief, noting that the increases will help them manage the rising cost of living, including inflationary pressures on essential goods and services.

For the Punjab government, this increment is part of a broader strategy to improve the welfare of its employees. By offering competitive compensation, the government aims to attract and retain skilled professionals in the public sector, ensuring effective and efficient service delivery.

Furthermore, this salary and pension increase is likely to have a positive impact on the local economy. Higher disposable incomes for government employees and pensioners mean increased spending power, which can stimulate economic activity and growth in various sectors.

This move also aligns with the Punjab government’s commitment to social justice and equitable resource distribution. By ensuring that employees and retirees receive adequate financial support, the government is working towards reducing economic disparities and promoting inclusive growth.

The Punjab government’s decision to notify a significant increase in salaries and pensions marks a crucial step towards improving the financial well-being of its employees and retirees. Effective from July 1, 2024, this increment will provide much-needed relief and support, enhancing the quality of life for thousands of individuals and their families. As both provincial and federal governments continue to address economic challenges, such measures are vital in ensuring the sustainability and prosperity of public servants and pensioners across the region.

Suboohi by — July 16, 2024 in News
PPP Prepares for Presidential Race

The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) is gearing up for the upcoming presidential election. They’ve established a four-person committee dedicated to reaching out to other political parties to secure support for their candidate, Asif Ali Zardari.

This committee includes PPP heavyweights: Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, Raja Parvez Sharaf, Syed Khursheed Shah, and Syed Naveed Qamar. Their mission is to build alliances and gain the necessary votes for Zardari’s victory.

This move comes after a recent agreement between the PPP and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). In a joint announcement, the two parties declared Asif Ali Zardari as their official presidential candidate.

In a press conference, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed confidence in forming a coalition government with the PML-N. He also confirmed that Shehbaz Sharif, president of the PML-N, will take on the role of prime minister.

Bilawal emphasized the parties’ commitment to tackling Pakistan’s challenges and expressed hope for a brighter future shaped by their joint leadership.

Suboohi by — February 28, 2024 in News
Chinese Vice Premier to Reach Pakistan Tomorrow to Mark 10th Anniversary of CPEC

Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will arrive in Pakistan tomorrow to mark the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Liu will be the highest-ranking Chinese official to visit Pakistan since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. His visit is seen as a sign of the importance that China attaches to CPEC, which is a major part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

During his visit, Liu is expected to meet with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other top officials. He is also expected to attend a ceremony to mark the 10th anniversary of CPEC.

CPEC is a multi-billion dollar project that aims to connect China’s Xinjiang province with the Arabian Sea through Pakistan. The project includes a number of infrastructure projects, such as roads, railways, and power plants.

CPEC has been a major driver of economic growth in Pakistan. The project has created jobs, boosted exports, and improved connectivity.

Liu’s visit is a sign of China’s commitment to CPEC and its continued support for Pakistan. The visit is also seen as an opportunity to strengthen the bilateral relationship between China and Pakistan.

Here are some of the key achievements of CPEC in the past 10 years:

  • The construction of the Gwadar port, which is now a major trade hub between China and the Middle East.
  • The construction of the Karakoram Highway, which has improved connectivity between Pakistan and China.
  • The construction of several power plants, which have helped to reduce Pakistan’s reliance on imported energy.
  • The creation of thousands of jobs in Pakistan.

CPEC is expected to continue to play a major role in the economic development of Pakistan in the years to come. The project has the potential to transform Pakistan into a regional economic hub.

Suboohi by — July 29, 2023 in News
Why football is not growing in Pakistan?

Football is a popular sport in many countries around the world, but not so much in Pakistan. Why is that? What are the factors that prevent football from becoming more popular and successful in Pakistan? In this blog post, I will try to answer these questions and explore some of the challenges and opportunities for football in Pakistan.

One of the main reasons why football is not growing in Pakistan is the lack of infrastructure and facilities. There are not enough stadiums, pitches, coaches, referees, equipment, and training programs for football players and fans. Most of the existing facilities are in poor condition and do not meet international standards. This makes it hard for players to develop their skills and for fans to enjoy the game.

Another reason why football is not growing in Pakistan is the lack of support and investment from the government and the private sector. Football is not seen as a priority or a profitable venture by the authorities and the sponsors. There is no clear vision or strategy for developing football in Pakistan. There is also a lack of coordination and cooperation among the different stakeholders involved in football, such as the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), the provincial associations, the clubs, the schools, and the media.

A third reason why football is not growing in Pakistan is the lack of exposure and awareness. Football is not widely covered by the mainstream media or taught in schools. There are few opportunities for young players to showcase their talent and for fans to watch local or international matches. There is also a lack of role models and idols for aspiring footballers and enthusiasts. There are no Pakistani players playing in top leagues or clubs abroad, and no Pakistani teams participating in major tournaments or competitions.

These are some of the reasons why football is not growing in Pakistan. However, this does not mean that there is no hope or potential for football in Pakistan. There are many passionate and talented players and fans who love football and want to see it grow and flourish in Pakistan. There are also some initiatives and efforts being made by various individuals and organizations to promote and develop football in Pakistan. For example, there are some grassroots programs that aim to provide opportunities and access to football for underprivileged children and youth. There are also some private leagues and tournaments that attract sponsors and media attention. There are also some international collaborations and exchanges that expose Pakistani players and coaches to foreign expertise and experience.

These are some of the challenges and opportunities for football in Pakistan. I hope that this blog post has given you some insight into why football is not growing in Pakistan and what can be done to change that. I also hope that you will join me in supporting and cheering for football in Pakistan. Together, we can make football grow and thrive in Pakistan.

Suboohi by — July 4, 2023 in Blogs