ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has commenced the licensing of Virtual Private Network (VPN) service providers under the Class License for the Provision of Data Services in Pakistan. As part of this process, PTA has already granted Class Licenses to provide VPN services to three companies.“All VPN service providers operating without a license are advised to promptly obtain the required Class License to ensure compliance with the existing regulatory framework. Timely licensing will help prevent potential service disruptions and ensure uninterrupted access for their customers,” a press statement issued here read.Detailed information regarding the licensing process, eligibility, and application forms is available on the official PTA website: www.pta.gov.pk.Read more: PTA blames excessive VPN usage for internet slowdownThe use of VPNs is on the rise in Pakistan following the ban on X formerly known as Twitter.The PTA had revealed that the internet slowdown in Pakistan was primarily caused by excessive Virtual Private Network (VPN) usage.According to PTA, the increased use of VPNs has put additional pressure on the country’s bandwidth, resulting in slower internet speeds.The telecommunication authority has sent the report to Ministry of IT, highlighting the need to enhance bandwidth to meet the growing internet demand.

ISLAMABAD: Aleema Khanum, the sister of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan filed a contempt of court plea against authorities concerned for denying their meeting with the incarcerated former prime minister, ARY News reported.Aleema Khanum approached the Islamabad High Court (IHC) through her counsel through Advocate Ali Bukhari and maintained that the jail authorities are not allowing the visits, despite the court orders.Aleema Khanum requested the IHC to initiate contempt of court proceedings against the Punjab Home Secretary and Superintendent of Prisons for not following court orders.The petitioner argued that Imran Khan’s meeting with his lawyers and family members is his legal right. She said that a lists of lawyers, family members and friends who are willing to meet Imran Khan have also been compiled.Read More: PTI founder’s sisters barred from meeting at Adiala jailEarlier on Thursday, several PTI leaders including sisters of party founder Imran Khan were taken into custody near Adiala Jail after gathering to demand a meeting with the imprisoned former prime minister.The PTI leaders and three sisters of Imran Khan were present at the under-construction plaza on Adiala Road in Rawalpindi. Opposition Leader in National Assembly Omar Ayub, Niazullah Niazi, Ahmed Bachar, Zartaj Gul, Sunni Ittehad Council chief Sahibzada Hamid Raza, and other leaders were also taken into custody.The PTI leaders were taken into custody and transferred to a police van. They all were released after a brief detention.

Kuwait City/Karachi – April 18, 2025 – The Kuwaiti dinar (KWD) edged higher against the Pakistani rupee (PKR) in today's trading, exchanging at 915.11 PKR compared to 914.57 PKR the previous day.The marginal increase reflects ongoing fluctuations in currency markets influenced by global economic trends and domestic factors in both countries. How the Kuwaiti Dinar’s Value is Determined The Kuwaiti dinar, one of the world’s strongest currencies, is pegged to a weighted currency basket rather than the US dollar alone, giving it stability. Its value against the Pakistani rupee depends on: Pakistan’s economic health – Inflation, foreign reserves, and trade deficits weaken the PKR. Oil prices – As a major oil exporter, Kuwait benefits from high crude prices, strengthening the dinar. Remittance flows – Pakistani expatriates sending money home influence demand for the dinar. Impact on Pakistani Expats and Trade For the 300,000+ Pakistani workers in Kuwait, a stronger dinar means: ✔ Higher remittance value – Families in Pakistan get more rupees for each dinar sent. ✔ Increased purchasing power – Expats can save more when converting earnings to PKR.However, for Pakistani importers, a weaker rupee makes Kuwaiti goods (like oil and machinery) more expensive. Conversely, Pakistani exports to Kuwait become slightly cheaper, though the trade balance remains in Kuwait’s favor. DOLLAR AND OTHER CURRENCY RATES TODAY IN PAKISTANAbout the Currencies Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD): The highest-valued currency globally, backed by Kuwait’s oil wealth and strong economy. Pakistani Rupee (PKR): A freely floated currency influenced by inflation, political stability, and external debt pressures.

Karachi, April 18, 2025: The Australian Dollar (AUD) appreciated against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) in the interbank market today, trading at 179.32 PKR compared to 177.78 PKR the previous day.The rise indicates increased demand for the AUD or a potential weakening of the PKR due to economic factors. Valuation Process Currency exchange rates fluctuate based on supply and demand dynamics, influenced by factors such as: Interest Rates: Higher Australian interest rates can attract foreign investment, boosting AUD demand. Trade Balances: If Australia exports more to Pakistan, demand for AUD rises. Economic Data: Strong Australian economic performance strengthens the AUD, while Pakistan’s inflation or deficit pressures may weaken the PKR. Market Sentiment: Global risk appetite often favors stable currencies like the AUD over emerging market currencies like the PKR. Impact on Trade A stronger Australian Dollar makes Australian imports more expensive for Pakistani buyers, potentially increasing costs for machinery, education, and agricultural products. Conversely, Pakistani exports to Australia, such as textiles and rice, may become more competitive. However, overseas Pakistanis sending remittances from Australia could benefit from higher PKR conversions. About the Currencies Australian Dollar (AUD): The official currency of Australia, managed by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), is a globally traded commodity-linked currency. Pakistani Rupee (PKR): Pakistan’s currency, regulated by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), is sensitive to inflation, foreign reserves, and geopolitical stability. Analysts suggest monitoring central bank policies and global economic trends for further exchange rate shifts. DOLLAR RATE TODAY IN PAKISTAN- LIVE

Pakistan security forces killed four Khwarij during an intelligence based operation in Swat, ARY News reported on Friday, quoting Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).According to the ISPR, security forces and law enforcement agencies conducted a joint intelligence based operation in Swat district on reported presence of Khwarij.During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged khwarij location, resultantly four khwarij were killed, ISPR said.Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the killed khwarij, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area, the military's media wing noted.Sanitization operation is being conducted to eliminate any other Kharji found in the area, as the security forces in coordination with law enforcement agencies of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country, ISPR added.Earlier, 11 khawarij were killed during IBOs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.“On 26-27 March 2025, eleven Khwarij were killed by the security forces in four separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province”, the ISPR said.An intelligence based operation was conducted by the Security Forces in general area Mir Ali, North Waziristan District.During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged the khwarij location and resultantly, five khwarij were killed.Read more: 11 Khwarij killed in KP IBOs: ISPRIn a second operation conducted in same general area, three more khwarij were successfully neutralized by own troops.

DERA ISMAIL KHAN: A police head constable was killed as unknown miscreants ambushed a police party within limits of Chaudwan police station here on Friday.According to police, some unknown miscreants who had already taken positions opened indiscriminate fire on Chawadan police station’s personnel when they were passing by Musazai Adda.The police promptly retaliated the fire and exchange of fire took place between police and unknown miscreants.However, head constable Javed Alam was martyred from firing of the miscreants, who managed to escape.Police cordoned off the area and started an operation to arrest the culprits.Read More: Judge, lawyer, former Nazim Kohat killed in separate incidents in KPEarlier, in a tragic incident, Senior Civil Judge (Admin) Mardan, Hayat Khan, and Advocate Khalid Khan were shot dead near the Rashakai Interchange on the Motorway Road within the jurisdiction of Risalpur Police Station.According to initial reports, unknown assailants opened fire on a car travelling towards Peshawar.As a result, Judge Hayat Khan, son of Pir Gul, a resident of Mohallah Bulandabad, Tehsil Kalam, District Swat, and Advocate Khalid Khan, son of Amresh Khan, a resident of Rustam, Mardan, died on the spot.Sources suggest that the motive behind the attack may be linked to an old enmity. Police have launched an investigation into the incident.

KARACHI: The Commissioner of Karachi has reduced the prices for Naan and Chapati roti in the Karachi Division, effective immediately, ARY News reported on Friday.Hassan Naqvi, the Commissioner, stated that the price of a 100-gram chapati has been set at Rs10 per piece.According to the new notification, the rates for tandoori naan have been fixed as follows - Rs15 for a 120-gram naan, Rs17 for a 140-150 gram naan and Rs22 for a 180-gram naan.The notification, issued under the authority of the Sindh Essential Commodities Price Control and Prevention of Profiteering and Hoarding Act, 2005 (Amended in 2008), reads: “In exercise of the powers vested under section 7 of the said Act, I, Syed Hassan Naqvi, Commissioner Karachi Division/Controller General of Prices & Supplies, Karachi, hereby notify the price of Naan & Chapati in the local limits of Karachi Division.”The Commissioner has warned that strict action will be taken against any violators of the newly fixed prices. He also directed tandoor owners to prominently display the updated price list at their business place.Read More: Wheat flour prices reduced in KarachiEarlier, the Karachi administration on Thursday announced new prices of wheat flour (Atta) in the city, reducing per kilogram rates by Rs 17, ARY News reported.According to a notification issued by Commissioner Karachi, the wholesale market price of fine wheat flour has been fixed at Rs 78 per kilogram (kg) while it will be available at Rs 90 per kg in the retail market.Similarly, the price of chakki flour is fixed at Rs 90 per kilogram after a reduction of Rs 10.Meanwhile, the retail price of regular wheat flour (2½ No. Atta) has been fixed at Rs 70 per kg while its wholesale rate is set at Rs 66 per kg.

KARACHI/DUBAI: As of April 18, 2025, the UAE Dirham (AED) to Pakistani Rupee (PKR) exchange rate remains steady at 76.40 PKR in the open market.This stability reflects ongoing fluctuations in the forex market, driven by domestic economic conditions and global trade trends, providing favorable rates for Pakistani expatriates sending remittances from the UAE. 1 UAE DIRHAM = 76.40 PAKISTANI RUPEES. The AED-PKR rate is shaped by multiple factors. The UAE Dirham, pegged to the US Dollar at approximately 3.67 AED per USD, benefits from the UAE’s robust oil-based economy and strong fiscal management.This peg ensures the Dirham’s value aligns with the US Dollar’s global performance. On the other hand, the Pakistani Rupee operates under a managed float system, with its value influenced by market demand, State Bank of Pakistan interventions, remittance inflows, trade deficits, and domestic inflation. The current rate of 76.40 PKR per AED suggests a stronger Dirham, likely due to rising remittances or improved economic conditions in Pakistan.Experts highlight the UAE’s significant economic ties with Pakistan, as millions of Pakistani workers there send substantial remittances home—around $3.1 billion in February 2025, per State Bank data. These inflows boost demand for the Dirham in Pakistan, impacting its exchange rate.The UAE Dirham, introduced in 1973 to replace the Qatar and Dubai Riyal, is the official currency of the UAE (including Dubai and Abu Dhabi) and is denoted as AED.The Pakistani Rupee, abbreviated as PKR or "Rs," has been Pakistan’s currency since 1947. While the Dirham’s strength stems from the UAE’s thriving economy, the Rupee’s value mirrors Pakistan’s broader economic prospects and challenges. The interplay between these currencies underscores the deep economic relationship between the two nations. DOLLAR RATE TODAY IN PAKISTAN

RAWALPINDI: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has submitted a report to the Lahore High Court regarding the nationality of viral Arshad Khan, aka "Chaiwala,", ARY News reported.As per details, Arshad Chaiwala has challenged the blocking of his national identity card (CNIC) and passport in Rawalpindi bench of Lahore High Court.According to NADRA, Arshad Khan’s father, Zar Muhammad, was born in Sargodha, while Khan himself was born in Islamabad. However, discrepancies were noted in the name of his mother.NADRA’s report, citing findings from agencies, claimed that Arshad Khan is an Afghan national. In response, a show-cause notice was issued based on the agencies’ reports.Khan’s counsel requested additional time to submit further evidence, at this Justice Jawad Hassan adjourned the hearing until April 22.Arshad Khan’s rise to fame began when a photographer’s candid shot of him serving tea in Islamabad gained global attention.The viral moment led to modeling opportunities and, eventually, the creation of his own tea brand—now a multi-million-rupee success story.Earlier this year, Arshad Khan, famously known as Pakistan’s ‘chaiwala’ after his viral photo in 2016, took another step in his entrepreneurial journey by opening a new branch of Café Chaiwala Arshad Khan in South London.

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has taken a major step towards sustainable agricultural development by initiating the formulation of a dedicated “Mountain Agriculture Policy”.The move follows the approval of Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to establish a distinct framework addressing the unique ecological, topographical, and livelihood dynamics of the province’s mountainous regions.According to a letter issued by the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, the Agriculture Department has been directed to use the enclosed concept paper titled “Mountain Agriculture in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa”as a foundational document.The paper outlines the key rationale, strategic areas, and challenges, and is intended to serve as the basis for the formal policy.The department has been instructed to conduct stakeholder consultations, engage with public and private sector experts, and incorporate legal and operational planning for the proposed policy.The upcoming Khyber policy aims to introduce climate-specific land, soil, and water adaptations to ensure that farming practices in mountainous areas align with their unique environmental conditions.The policy also emphasizes the development of horticulture and livestock systems tailored to mountain conditions.To boost economic opportunities, the policy will work on enhancing value-chain development and access to markets.Investment in technology, research, and extension services in remote areas is another key priority. The policy aims to bridge the knowledge gap and provide mountain farmers with innovative tools and practices through local research and training programs.The final draft of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mountain Agriculture Policy is to be submitted within 45 days, along with a summary for final approval by the competent authority.This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in improving livelihoods, enhancing food security, and promoting climate resilience in the province’s high-altitude regions.

KARACHI: The strike of goods transporters on Friday entered its third day at Karachi ports against Sindh government’s crackdown on vehicles lacking fitness certificates, ARY News reported.Transporters have parked their vehicles at warehouses and truck stands across Karachi, disrupting the entire supply chain of imported goods.According to the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), thousands of containers remain stuck at the port, including those carrying essential food items.Asif Sakhi, a representative of the transporters, stated that the piling up of containers will result in the payment of detention charges amounting to millions of dollars.Read more: Karachi accidents: Front, back cameras declared mandatory for dumpersImport and export activities have come to a near halt, with 90% of trade operations reportedly suspended, said Amaan Paracha, another industry representative.He added that due to a lack of space, ships waiting offshore will not be able to dock.Paracha urged the Sindh government to take immediate steps to resolve the crisis and called for allowing transporters additional time to comply with vehicle fitness requirements.He also appealed to the FPCCI to play its role in initiating dialogue between the government and transporters to end the deadlock.It is to be noted that Sindh government has launched a crackdown on unfit vehicles across the province including Karachi after a number of road accidents involving heavy traffic.According to reports, over 260 people have lost their lives in road accidents in Karachi in 2025 so far.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Bangladesh convened the Sixth Round of Foreign Secretary-Level Bilateral Consultations in Dhaka, following a hiatus of 15 years.The talks, led by Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch (Pakistan) and Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin (Bangladesh), were held in a cordial atmosphere and reflected a shared resolve to revitalize bilateral engagement, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office Spokesperson on Friday.The two sides held a comprehensive exchange on political, economic, cultural, educational, and strategic cooperation, underpinned by shared history, cultural affinities, and the common aspirations of their peoples. Satisfaction was expressed at recent high-level contacts in New York, Cairo, Samoa, and Jeddah, which have helped reenergize the bilateral relationship.Both sides emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum through regular institutional dialogue, early finalization of pending agreements, and enhanced cooperation in trade, agriculture, education, and connectivity.Pakistan offered academic opportunities in its agricultural universities, while Bangladesh offered technical training in fisheries and maritime studies.The Bangladeshi side also acknowledged scholarship offers from private universities in Pakistan and underscored the need for deeper cooperation in the education sector.Recognizing connectivity as a priority, the two sides welcomed the launch of direct shipping between Karachi and Chittagong and emphasized the importance of resuming direct air links. They also expressed satisfaction over the progress made in easing travel and visa facilitation.The Bangladeshi side appreciated recent performances by renowned Pakistani artists in Dhaka, while the Pakistani side encouraged reciprocal cultural exchanges. Prospects for broader cooperation in sports, media, and cultural institutions were discussed, including the finalization of various MoUs in these areas.On multilateral issues, both sides reaffirmed the need to revitalize SAARC in line with its founding principles. The foreign secretary appreciated the vision of the Bangladeshi leadership and expressed hope that the SAARC process would remain insulated from bilateral political considerations.The foreign secretary also briefed the Bangladeshi side on the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), emphasizing the need for an early resolution of the dispute in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.While reviewing the Middle East situation, the two sides strongly condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression and grave human rights violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, particularly in Gaza.The foreign secretary held separate meetings with Hon’ble Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Hon’ble Foreign Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain. Discussions focused on regional integration, economic linkages, and the importance of insulating bilateral ties from external pressures.A shared commitment to a forward-looking partnership emerged. The Foreign Adviser looked forward to the forthcoming visit of Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan.While thanking the Chief Adviser for the warm hospitality, Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch conveyed best wishes to him from Pakistan’s leadership.The next round of Consultations will be held in Islamabad in 2026.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has imposed a comprehensive ban on providing accommodation, employment, renting properties for business purposes, and hotel stays to Afghan nationals residing illegally in the country, ARY News reported on Friday.Speaking at a media briefing in Islamabad, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry warned that strict action would be taken against individuals or entities found assisting undocumented Afghan immigrants.“There will be no extension of stay for Afghan immigrants without a valid passport and visa,” he asserted. “There is now zero tolerance for undocumented Afghan nationals.”Sharing deportation figures, Chaudhry revealed that since April 1, 2025, a total of 84,869 Afghan citizens have been deported. Among them, 25,320 Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC) holders, while the remaining 59,549 had no official documentation.He added that since the beginning of the one-document policy, a total of 907,351 Afghan nationals have been repatriated.The minister noted that Afghan immigrants awaiting repatriation are being housed at transit points where they are provided with medical care, shelter, transport, and security.The minister reiterated that legal action will be taken against those renting out property—whether residential, commercial, or hotel accommodation—to undocumented Afghan immigrants. He further emphasized that providing jobs or any form of movable or immovable property to illegal Afghan immigrants is strictly prohibited.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3axXVrhZuURead More: Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to visit KabulMeanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar said that he will visit Kabul in the coming days.“Preparatory meetings have been ongoing and hopefully, within days, I will be visiting Kabul for a day to break this logjam which is there for the last few years,” said Mohammad Ishaq Dar, the foreign minister.Meanwhile, Afghan Acting Minister for Commerce and Industries Haji Nooruddin Azizin called on Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar in Islamabad and discussed matters of mutual interest and bilateral ties.Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in trade, transit, and regional connectivity.They also underlined the importance of maintaining high-level political engagement between the two neighbouring countries.

Weapons left by the United States (US) in Afghanistan were 'sold' to militant groups by Afghan Taliban, claimed BBC in its report.According to details shared in a report compiled by BBC, about half a million weapons obtained by the Taliban in Afghanistan have been lost, sold or smuggled to militant groups - with the UN believing that some have fallen into the hands of Al-Qaeda affiliates."The Taliban took control of around one million weapons and pieces of military equipment - which had mostly been funded by the US - when it regained control of Afghanistan in 2021," according to a former Afghan official who spoke to the BBC anonymously.The cache included American-made firearms, such as M4 and M16 rifles, as well as other older weapons in Afghan possession that had been left behind from decades of conflict.BBC report further claimed that at the closed-door UN Security Council's Sanctions Committee in Doha late last year, the Taliban admitted that at least half of this equipment is now "unaccounted" for.Read more: US-made weapons used in Jaffar Express attack: Washington PostOn Monday, The Washington Post in one of its report said that the US-made weapons were used in Jaffar Express attack.The attack took place on March 11, when the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express — carrying 440 passengers — was ambushed. Several hostages were taken during the assault, prompting a two-day security operation to neutralize the threat and rescue the captives.Weapons were left behind by United States forces following their 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan. Among the weapons recovered from the scene was an M4A1 carbine rifle manufactured by Colt, an American arms maker.

LAHORE: The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) held a public hearing on Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited’s (SNGPL) request for a gas price hike, ARY News reported.As per details, SNGPL has proposed an increase of Rs735 per MMBTU to meet its operational costs.The company also suggested immediately opening RLNG connections for domestic users to boost revenue, citing losses due to the suspension of gas connections.SNGPL officials stated that rising costs necessitate the price hike, as revenue shortages are impacting operations.However, consumers expressed concerns, noting that gas price increases are already burdening the public. Several commercial users, including hotels and textile industries, have opposed the proposed hike, with many having disconnected their gas connections due to high costs.OGRA Chairman Masroor Khan presided over the public hearing at SNGPL’s head office in Lahore.Earlier, Gas consumers in Lahore received inflated bills from the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), ARY News reported citing sources.According to sources, the power distributing company sent on average Rs 15,000 to Rs 90,000 bills to gas consumers and Rs 2000 was added to the bill in terms of fixed charges.The SNGPL sources said that gas is expensive across the world and Pakistan also added the gas tariff and other taxes.

Karachi, April 18, 2025: The Canadian dollar (CAD) has seen a slight increase against the Pakistani rupee (PKR), trading at 202.72 PKR compared to the previous rate of 202.20 PKR. The upward movement reflects shifts in global currency markets and economic factors influencing both nations. 1 Canadian Dollar= 202.72 Pakistani Rupee Valuation Process Currency valuations are determined by supply and demand dynamics in the foreign exchange market. The Canadian dollar's rise can be attributed to multiple factors, including stronger crude oil prices (as Canada is a major oil exporter), positive economic data from Canada, or a slight dip in the Pakistani rupee due to domestic inflation or trade deficits. Meanwhile, Pakistan's foreign exchange reserves, remittance inflows, and import-export balance also play a crucial role in determining the PKR's strength. Impact on Overseas Pakistanis For Pakistani expatriates in Canada sending remittances back home, this appreciation means slightly better returns for their money. A stronger CAD translates to more rupees per dollar, benefiting families relying on foreign funds. However, for students or travelers from Pakistan heading to Canada, the cost of education and living may inch higher as they need more PKR to buy Canadian dollars. About the Currencies Canadian Dollar (CAD): The official currency of Canada, issued by the Bank of Canada. It is one of the world's most traded currencies, heavily influenced by commodity prices, particularly oil, given Canada's status as a major energy exporter. Pakistani Rupee (PKR): The national currency of Pakistan, regulated by the State Bank of Pakistan. Its value is sensitive to political stability, economic policies, and external debt pressures. The slight uptick in CAD/PKR highlights the interconnected nature of global economies, where shifts in one nation’s currency can have ripple effects across borders. Analysts will continue monitoring trends to assess long-term implications for trade and remittance flows.

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif on Friday appreciated Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for announcing a special package, approving Rs. 15 billion Wheat Support Fund to benefit 550,000 wheat farmers directly.The prime minister, in a statement, said that the waiver of Abiana (water charges) and fixed taxes for wheat farmers in Punjab was a relief for the farmers.Besides, he said that the initiative to provide farmers with free wheat storage facilities for four months would help protect the commodity from seasonal impacts and farmers from market pressures.The prime minister assured the federal government’s full support to the Punjab government in the export of wheat and wheat-based products.He said that welfare initiatives by Punjab chief minister would not only benefit the farmers but also the national economy.“Pakistan’s prosperity is directly linked to the prosperity of its farmers. It is Pakistan Muslim League-N’s manifesto that farmers receive full compensation for their hard work,” Prime Minister Shehbaz said, and congratulated the Punjab chief minister and her team for announcing the package.Earlier, Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced a historic relief package for wheat growers.In a statement in Lahore today, she said that under this package, a fund of fifteen billion rupees approved to provide direct financial assistance to five hundred fifty thousand wheat farmers and this assistance will be disbursed directly through the Kisan Card.The Chief Minister further announced a complete waiver of abiana and fixed agricultural taxes for wheat growers this year.She said that a four-month free storage facility for wheat will be provided to protect farmers from impacts of climate change.The Chief Minister further said that the Government of Punjab will bear the markup on loans up to hundred billion rupees for flour mills and grain license holders for wheat procurement.

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan government managed to spend only Rs399 billion from the allocated Rs1,100 billion development budget during the first nine months of FY2024-25, ARY News reported on Friday, citing an official document. https://youtu.be/TiW1y4ZkLuwAccording to data, the Pakistan government managed to spent only Rs399 bln out of the allocated Rs1,100 billion budget during (July to March 2024-25).According to the data, federal ministries utilised Rs293 billion, while state-owned corporations spent Rs105 billion during the same period.The National Highway Authority (NHA) emerged as one of the top spenders, with Rs 54.29 billion utilised.The Power Division and the Ministry of Water Resources each spent Rs51 billion on development projects.The Ministry of Railways utilised Rs20 billion, while the Ministry of National Health Services spent Rs7.65 billion.Meanwhile, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) utilised Rs20.22 billion for development schemes.Development spending in provinces and special areas amounted to Rs98 billion. Additionally, the Cabinet Division utilised Rs34.96 billion from its allocated development funds.Read more: IMF ‘proposes’ Rs 15tr tax target for Pakistan in next budgetEarlier it was reported via sources that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) proposed a tax target of over Rs 15 trillion for Pakistan in the next budget.According to sources, the IMF and Pakistan held virtual talks, with 85% of the discussions completed successfully in March.The talks were focused on finalizing the details of the next budget, which is expected to be presented in the National Assembly soon.The new budget is expected to increase the tax-to-GDP ratio to 13% and collect Rs 2,745 billion in non-tax revenue.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has vowed to inflict a crushing defeat on terrorists so that they never dare cast an evil eye on Pakistan again.Chairing a meeting on law and order situation in Islamabad, he said our struggle will continue to completely eradicate terrorism from the country.The Prime Minister said Pakistan's enemies are scared of our economic achievements.He commended all the institutions and provincial governments for their robust measures against terrorism. He said the brave officers and soldiers of security forces are confronting terrorists day and night, laying down their lives for the country.PM Shehbaz Sharif said the federal government will extend full cooperation to enhance the capacity of all provinces to ensure the complete elimination of terrorism and extremism. He mentioned that federal government and the provinces are working together on the narrative against terrorism, which is encouraging.He urged the need to set aside all mutual differences and work together to eradicate the menace.Read more: ‘Not even ten generations of terrorists can destablise Balochistan’, vows COAS MunirThe premier directed that all institutions intensify efforts against smuggling.He also directed that the noose around human trafficking networks be tightened further, and smugglers be brought to justice.Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need to complete Safe City projects in major cities at the earliest.The meeting was informed that National and Provincial Intelligence Fusion and Threat Assessment Center has been established at NACTA.It was informed that a forensic science agency has been established in Islamabad, while the Forensic Science Agency in Punjab is further being improved.

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has set a target to increase the tax-to-GDP ratio to 11.2% for the upcoming fiscal year, ARY News reported citing sources.According to sources, virtual discussions are held between Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as preparations for the budget are underway.The FBR’s target will be determined based on the estimated GDP size for the next fiscal year. For the current fiscal year, a tax-to-GDP ratio of 10.6% is expected to be achieved, with the ratio already reaching approximately 10.8%, sources added.Sources revealed that an agreement has been reached to raise the tax-to-GDP ratio by more than 0.5% for the next fiscal year. For the fiscal year 2025-26, the FBR’s target will also be set based on the projected GDP size.Under the loan program, the tax-to-GDP ratio is planned to reach 13% over the next two years, with a gradual annual increase, FBR sources stated.Also read: Govt to digitize national economyVirtual meetings with the IMF are focusing on budget targets, and the second installment of the loan program will be approved by the IMF Executive Board once budget proposals are finalized. However, concerns remain about a potential shortfall in the revised tax collection target of Rs12,300 billion for the current fiscal year, sources added.It is worth mentioning here that a Pakistani delegation, led by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, will arrive in Washington on April 20 to participate in the meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.As per details, the delegation, which includes the Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan and other senior officials, will engage in discussions with IMF and World Bank representatives during the meetings, scheduled from April 21 to 26.According to diplomatic sources, the finance minister will hold meetings with officials from the U.S. State Department, members of Congress, and potential investors. Arrangements have also been made for off-the-record discussions with US media.