KARACHI: The Iranian rial (IRR) continues to draw notable attention in Pakistan’s informal currency market as of Wednesday, May 20, 2026, with steady buyer activity helping sustain the local premium. Currency dealers across Karachi, Quetta, and Lahore report that the standard bundle of 1 crore Iranian rials (10 million IRR) is trading between PKR 8,000 and PKR 10,000 in the cash segment. This level continues to stand three to four times above the earlier baseline near PKR 2,500, despite the rial’s ongoing weakness versus leading global currencies.Current Rates as of May 20, 2026 Rates vary by dealer, city, and deal volume — always verify with authorized exchange companies for real-time quotes. Open Market (Informal Cash Market in Pakistan – Premium Bundle Rate) (Approx. based on PKR 8,000–10,000 for 1 crore / 10 million IRR) 1 PKR buys approximately 1,000 Iranian rials 10 PKR buys approximately 10,000 Iranian rials 1,000 PKR buys approximately 1,000,000 Iranian rials (10 lakh rials) 1 crore IRR costs approximately PKR 8,000–10,000 Authentic / Mid-Market Rate (International benchmark / official conversion rate – no local premium) (Approx. 1 PKR ≈ 4,700–4,750 Iranian rials) 1 PKR buys approximately 4,720 Iranian rials 10 PKR buys approximately 47,200 Iranian rials 1,000 PKR buys approximately 4,720,000 Iranian rials (approx. 47.2 lakh rials) (Equivalent: 1 crore IRR ≈ PKR 2,110–2,130) Why people are still buying the Iranian rial in Pakistan Demand stays fueled by two primary drivers: Speculation and investment: Buyers and traders keep acquiring rials in anticipation of possible gains linked to US-Iran diplomatic developments, sanctions relief hopes, or other regional geopolitical changes that might bolster the currency going forward. It is widely seen as a quick-profit play amid current conditions. Cross-border trade needs: Ongoing requirement for physical rials persists in informal and semi-official trade with Iran, particularly for petroleum products, fuel, food items, and other merchandise via Balochistan border channels. Recent adjustments in transit and export policies have backed this flow, where cash settlements in rials are essential. Experts warn that although the domestic premium offers trading chances, the rial continues to show high volatility on the global stage. Small buyers should watch out for hazards like fake notes and abrupt shifts if trade patterns or political events evolve. This Pakistan-specific open-market premium — where Iranian rials fetch far more PKR than their worldwide worth — keeps fueling the sustained attention. If you intend to trade, stick to licensed exchange companies and track developments closely, since rates can shift quickly!

KARACHI: The Sindh Domestic Workers Welfare Bill, passed by the Sindh Assembly, has been sent to Governor Sindh Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi for approval.The bill introduces formal legal protections for domestic workers across the province and outlines regulations regarding their employment conditions, working hours, wages, and leave entitlements.Under the proposed law, a domestic worker is defined as a person engaged in household work. The bill also states that domestic employees will officially be referred to as “domestic workers” instead of “servants.”One of the key provisions of the legislation is a complete ban on employing children under the age of 16 as domestic workers.The bill further states that children between the ages of 16 and 18 may only perform “light work” that does not affect their health, education, or overall well-being.According to the legislation, full-time or live-in domestic workers cannot be required to work more than eight hours a day or more than six days a week. Employers must provide at least one weekly holiday, while employees required to work on the seventh day must be paid double wages.The bill also makes it mandatory for employers to grant paid leave on religious festivals, including Eid holidays with salary.Domestic workers will be entitled to 10 casual leaves and eight sick leaves with full pay annually. Female domestic workers will also receive six weeks of paid maternity leave.The bill further states that domestic workers must be paid at least the minimum wage set by the Sindh government.Once approved by the governor, the law will come into immediate effect across the province.

KARACHI: The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) on Wednesday carried out an anti-encroachment operation in Orangi Town, Karachi and recovered valuable land belonging to the Red Crescent Society after nearly four decades of illegal occupation.During the operation in Orangi Town No. 5, authorities demolished more than 100 illegally constructed shops built on the land, which had been allocated for the construction of a hospital.According to officials, the land had been under the control of an encroachment mafia for around 40 years, during which commercial activities were being carried out on the site.Chairman of the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Sindh Branch, had repeatedly approached Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, the Karachi commissioner, and SBCA officials, requesting action to recover the encroached property.Following these efforts, the SBCA launched an operation against the encroachers and cleared the commercial market established on the hospital land.Read More: SBCA introduces key building regulation amendmentsAuthorities also confiscated goods during the operation and issued warning notices to prevent the land from being illegally occupied again.Officials said the Red Crescent Society now plans to construct a hospital on the recovered land to provide free medical facilities to the public.[video mp4="https://arynews-1313565080.cos.ap-singapore.myqcloud.com/zip-archives/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/WhatsApp-Video-2026-05-20-at-1.32.14-PM.mp4"][/video][video mp4="https://arynews-1313565080.cos.ap-singapore.myqcloud.com/zip-archives/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/WhatsApp-Video-2026-05-20-at-1.32.13-PM.mp4"][/video]

ISLAMABAD: A sizzling hot weather continuing in the country as temperatures have reached to above 40 Celsius in several districts as mercury soared to 46 Celsius in Dadu district of Sindh.Maximum temperature in Nawabshah reached to 45 Celsius, while 44 Celsius recorded in Sibi and Sukkur, 43 C in Bahawalpur and Multan, 42 Celsius in Lahore and Faisalabad, 41 C in Islamabad and 38 Celsius in Peshawar.Maximum temperature in Karachi reached to 35 Celsius in Karachi.The Met Office has forecast rainfall with thunderstorm and strong winds in some areas of upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, Kashmir, Islamabad and adjacent areas, while hailstorm at some places.The NDMA has issued a heatwave alert about sizzling hot weather from May 19-26.These areas are likely to experience dangerously high temperatures from May 19 to 26, prompting authorities to activate emergency response measures to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the risk of heat related emergencies.Sindh is expected to face severe heat conditions in Hyderabad, Karachi, Jacobabad, Khairpur, Sukkur, Larkana, Dadu, Naushahro Feroze, Kashmore, Tharparkar, Shaheed Benazirabad, Matiari, Mirpurkhas, Umerkot, Badin and Qambar Shahdadkot districts.The alert also identified Balochistan’s Turbat, Sibi, Uthal, Jhal Magsi, Dera Murad Jamali, Nasirabad, Jaffarabad, Usta Muhammad, Kachhi, Lasbela and Panjgur districts, as vulnerable to extreme heat conditions.In Punjab, the districts likely to be affected included Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalnagar, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, Sargodha, Lodhran, Khanewal, Vehari and Lahore.NDMA has warned that prolonged exposure to severe heat could lead to heat exhaustion, dehydration and heatstroke, particularly among children, elderly citizens and outdoor workers.It added that rising humidity in lower Sindh and dry inland conditions in Punjab and Balochistan could further intensify thermal stress.District administrations have been directed to activate heatwave contingency plans, establish cooling camps and ensure uninterrupted water supply in vulnerable areas, while citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours and stay hydrated.

TEHRAN: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Wednesday landed in Iran on a mission of revival of Iran-US talks, ARY News reported, quoting well-placed sources.As per details, Mohsin Naqvi reached Iran with an 'important message' as negotiations continue between the US and Iran for a peace deal. It is to be noted that Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi recently completed a three-day visit to Tehran.During his visit, Naqvi held fresh meetings with senior Iranian officials and is expected to engage with more high-ranking leaders as discussions continue.Naqvi also met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni during his stay in Tehran.President Pezeshkian praised Pakistan’s role in promoting a ceasefire following the conflict imposed on Iran on February 28, according to Iran’s state media. Mohsin Naqvi, US Assistant Secretary of State discuss counter-terrorism cooperation He also acknowledged the contributions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, expressing hope that Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives could help advance regional peace and stability.Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s desire to maintain sincere and stable ties with neighbouring Islamic countries, stressing that stronger unity among Muslim nations could reduce foreign interference in regional affairs.He said coordination and solidarity among Islamic countries remain essential for achieving long-term peace and security in the Middle East.Pakistan has recently positioned itself as a mediator in efforts to reduce tensions between Iran and the United States, with diplomatic channels reportedly being used to facilitate indirect communication.

KARACHI: The investigation into the alleged narcotics network linked to Anmol aka Pinky has widened, with authorities preparing a list of police officers and personnel suspected of receiving bribes, ARY News reported on Wednesday, citing sources.Anmol alias Pinky was arrested earlier this month from her Garden apartment in a joint raid conducted by police and a civilian intelligence agency in connection with two cases pertaining to the possession of narcotics and an unlicenced weapon.According to investigative sources, at least 12 police officials allegedly received regular payments from Anmol Pinky network, including personnel associated with Karachi’s South Zone police.Sources, however, maintained that no evidence has so far surfaced implicating any officer or official from the Special Investigation Unit (SIU).Meanwhile, South Zone police are preparing to conduct a fresh round of questioning of a suspect identified as Sameer, who is believed to be associated with the network. Authorities are expected to approach the court soon to seek an extension of his remand. “Cocaine Queen” Anmol Pinky Latest News & Updates Investigators further claimed that Anmol Pinky allegedly used Sameer’s bank account, along with several benami accounts, for financial transactions linked to the operation. Officials stated that approximately Rs900,000 was withdrawn from Sameer’s account only a few days ago.The investigation team has also obtained details of 35 online riders allegedly connected to the supply network, including 10 individuals reportedly linked to Punjab.According to officials, 17 out of 25 suspected drug-supplying riders have already been arrested as the probe continues to expand.

ISLAMABAD: Former prime minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf speaking in the National Assembly session said that "it has been reported that Pinky, a woman arrested in the drug case, has taken my name"."However, the woman's lawyer has later clarified the position himself," Pervez Ashraf, a PPP MNA and former speaker of the lower house said."I have a clean record, but apprehending someone else becomes a victim of the conspiracy," Raja Pervaiz said.He urged for strict punitive action against those people involved in maligning others. He also highlighted the need of uprooting the fake news practice in the country."A person must not be disgraced or scandalized until allegations not being proved against him," he said."My party has taken an immediate notice of this matter," he said."I have passed a clean life and held the offices of the prime minister and speaker," he said in his clarification. “Cocaine Queen” Anmol Pinky Latest News & Updates Anmol alias Pinky was arrested earlier this month from her Garden apartment in a joint raid conducted by police and a civilian intelligence agency in connection with two cases pertaining to the possession of narcotics and an unlicenced weapon.The “Pinky Case” has quickly snowballed into an institutional scandal for the Sindh Police. The Inspector General (IG) of Sindh recently suspended three police officers after they were caught violating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) by giving the accused “VIP protocol.”

Sindh Public Service Commission has released the final results for various posts of Health and Education Department, in which a total of 45 candidates have been declared successful.According to the Commission, one candidate has been declared successful for the post of Director IT (BPS 19) in the Health Department. In contrast, 26 candidates have been recommended for the appointment of Dental Surgeon (BPS 17).On the other hand, the Lecturer/Instructor (BPS 17) Pakistan Studies Law 18 candidates have been declared successful in the Education Department.Applications were invited by SPSC through various advertisements for the said posts, and candidates with relevant educational qualifications were called for a written examination.Director IT written exam in January 2026, Dental Surgeon in February 2026, while Lecturer/Instructor Pakistan Studies exam held in April 2026. SPSC recruited over 6,000 across 31 govt depts in 2024: Report After scrutinizing the documents of the successful candidates in the written examinations, interviews were conducted during April and May of the current year, after which the final results were released.The SPSC has clarified that all constitutional and legal requirements applicable in Sindh, including urban and rural quotas, male and female quotas, have been fully followed in all stages of recruitment.According to the commission, the details of the successful candidates, roll numbers and marks obtained have been released on the website of the commission, while recommendations have also been made to the concerned department for appointment.

An alleged audio recording purportedly featuring two militant commanders based in Afghanistan and South Waziristan has surfaced online.The recording reportedly shows internal discussions among the individuals referred to as “Khawarij,” in which they allegedly describe PTI MPA Asif Mehsud as their associate and instruct that he should not be subjected to extortion.In the purported audio, one voice is said to claim that a militant identified as “Rakti” issued a demand note for extortion to PTI MPA Asif Mehsud and conducted a search of him.The recording further allegedly indicates another commander named Badshah, described as being based in Afghanistan, intervened and instructed that Asif Mehsud should not be abducted and should instead be allowed to leave.

Pakistan and China are preparing to sign agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) worth more than $5 billion during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming visit to Beijing, ARY News reported on Wednesday, citing sources According to officials, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to undertake a high-level visit to China from 24 to 26 May, during which over 100 agreements and MoUs are expected to be signed between the two countries.Sources stated that preparations for new business-to-business (B2B) investments between Pakistan and China have entered the final stages. Nearly 90 per cent of the agreements are expected to be B2B in nature, while the remaining 10 per cent will involve government-to-business cooperation.During the visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is also expected to hold meetings with the Chinese President and Premier. Discussions will reportedly include the prevailing regional security situation and broader bilateral cooperation.The agreements are likely to cover a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, poultry, dairy farming, and fruit and vegetable processing. Additional MoUs are expected in the fields of animal vaccines, fisheries, cold chain logistics, fertilisers, seed production, and agricultural chemicals, the sources added. Pakistan, China health ministers discuss joint vaccine production programme Sources further revealed that several agreements related to information technology, fintech, e-commerce, cloud computing, and telecommunications are also expected to be signed during the visit.The two sides are additionally considering joint industrial production initiatives, including the manufacturing of mobile phones and laptop batteries.MoUs concerning the production of electric vehicle (EV) parts and EV charging and storage infrastructure are also expected to form part of the visit’s agenda.Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has constituted a high-level committee under the chairmanship of Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar Khan to oversee progress on the proposed agreements.The committee will conduct weekly reviews regarding the implementation and progress of all MoUs signed with China. All relevant ministries and divisions have reportedly been directed to keep the high-powered committee informed about developments and any issues related to implementation.

KARACHI: A local court has ordered the Town Municipal Corporation (TMC) Orangi Town to pay Rs15 million in compensation to the legal heirs of a man who died after falling into an open nullah during heavy rains, holding the civic body responsible for negligence.The case was heard by the Senior Civil Judge West, who ruled that TMC Orangi Town was liable for the fatal incident, while clearing the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) from responsibility.The victim’s family had filed a compensation claim through Advocate Usman Farooq under the Fatal Accidents Act, 1855, against both TMC Orangi Town and the KMC.According to the petition, the deceased, identified as Arif, was returning home during heavy rainfall on July 26, 2020, when he fell into an uncovered nullah due to poor maintenance and lack of safety measures by the authorities. He sustained severe injuries and died on the spot.The court observed that the deceased was young, unmarried, and in good health. The judge remarked that TMC Orangi Town’s negligence and failure to take preventive measures, including covering dangerous nullahs and manholes, resulted in the loss of a valuable human life.“The sudden death occurred due to the negligent and careless conduct of the TMC,” the court noted in its ruling.During the proceedings, TMC Orangi Town denied the allegations and argued that all necessary safety arrangements had been made during the rains. However, after hearing arguments from both sides, the court directed the civic body to pay compensation exceeding Rs15 million to the victim’s family.

K-Electric has issued safety guidelines for citizens ahead of Eid al Adha, urging the public to take precautionary measures to avoid accidents during sacrificial activities.According to the utility company, citizens are advised not to tie sacrificial animals to electricity poles or place them near transformers and other electrical installations.K-Electric has also appealed to residents to avoid using water near electrical infrastructure during Eid al Adha, as it may pose serious safety risks.In its advisory, the power utility further instructed the public not to install decorative items on electricity poles or overhead wires, and to maintain a safe distance from all electrical infrastructure during the sacrifice process.The company also warned against illegal electricity connections, stating that such practices can create severe hazards and endanger lives. Motorway Police declare Combined Transport of Passengers and Livestock a Legal Offense Ahead of Eid A spokesperson added that safety standards should be strictly followed in cattle markets, particularly in areas where electrical installations are present.Citizens have been urged to immediately report any dangerous or suspicious electrical situations by calling 118.K-Electric further stated that special response teams have been placed on high alert to deal with any emergency situations during the Eid al Adha period.

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court's (SHC) constitutional bench on Wednesday summoned reply from the NADRA and the foreign ministry over a petition with regard to objection over an NIC application.Petitioner, Sara Riaz, in her plea said that the NADRA has objected over her national identity card request while she had been earlier issued NIC and the passport three times.Her lawyer said that Sara Riaz had arrived from Africa in 80s after marrying a Pakistani citizen. "She was issued the NIC and the passport three times on the basis of her Pakistani citizenship," lawyer said. "Now the NADRA is objecting over her request for renewal of her identity card"."Her identity card has been blocked for last six years, which has made her life miserable," lawyer argued. "She is facing problems over payment of water, electricity and other dues owing to a dysfunctional bank account", lawyer further said."The foreign ministry has advised to contact with the Consulate of Uganda". According to the report of the court's bailiff a factory being run over the address provided for the location of the Consulate," petitioner said.The bench issued notices to concerned federal departments through the Deputy Attorney General and summoned their reply.

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan government has officially notified a three-day holiday period on the occasion of Eid al Adha 2026.According to the notification issued by the Cabinet Division, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved public holidays on 26, 27, and 28 May.Following the Prime Minister’s approval, the formal notification confirms that all government offices will remain closed on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.Earlier, Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee officially announced the sighting of the Zilhaj moon, confirming that Eid al Adha will be observed across the country on Wednesday, May 27.Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, made the announcement following the committee’s meeting held in Karachi.Addressing a press conference after the session, he said that multiple testimonies of moon sighting were received from different parts of the country, after which the committee unanimously confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon of Zilhaj. Saudi Arabia makes Eid Al Adha 2026 announcement The Zilhaj moon had been sighted in Pakistan, and Eid al Adha would be observed on Wednesday, May 27, Khabeer said said.The central meeting was held at the Meteorological Department office in Karachi, while zonal Ruet-e-Hilal committee meetings were simultaneously conducted in Lahore, Islamabad, Quetta, and Peshawar to collect and verify moon sighting reports.With the official confirmation, Muslims across Pakistan will observe 10th Zilhaj and Eid al Adha on May 27, marking one of the most significant Islamic festivals, celebrated with special prayers and the ritual of animal sacrifice.

The Pakistan cricket team has suffered an early setback ahead of its upcoming One-Day International (ODI) series against Australia, scheduled to begin on 30 May, with Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub ruled out of selection due to injuries.According to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), both players are currently undergoing rehabilitation and recovery under the close supervision of the board’s medical staff.The PCB extended its best wishes to the two cricketers for a swift recovery, adding that an updated assessment regarding player fitness and the squad composition will be released in due course.The development comes as Pakistan finalises preparations for the highly anticipated ODI series against Australia. Pakistan-Australia ODI series tickets sale date revealed The ODI series will commence on Saturday, 30 May, with the first ODI taking place at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, while the second and third ODIs will be played on 2 and 4 June, respectively, at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.For the unversed, it will be Australia’s first bilateral ODI series in Pakistan since March-April 2022. The series is a continuation of Australia’s tour of Pakistan for a three-match T20I series in January and February, where Pakistan completed a 3-0 clean sweep over them.Pakistan-Australia Series schedule30 May – First ODI, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium 2 June – Second ODI, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore 4 June – Third ODI, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

KARACHI: Investigations into the case of alleged drug dealer Anmol alias Pinky have revealed that at least 70 drug peddlers are actively involved in online narcotics supply across Karachi, according to law enforcement sources.A report obtained by ARY News stated that the network includes both male and female suspects engaged in the online sale and distribution of drugs, including ice (crystalline methamphetamine) and weed, particularly to students in schools, colleges, and universities.The report named Anmol alias Pinky among the suspects, alleging that she operated a large-scale online drug business in the jurisdiction of Darakhshan police station.Authorities also identified several other female suspects allegedly involved in the narcotics trade. In the Saddar police station area, a woman identified as Sumaira alias Baby is accused of running a major online drug network.In the SITE-A police station limits, two women, Lal Jan and Mehr-un-Nisa alias Bebo, were also named in connection with drug dealing activities.According to the report, District South has the highest number of online drug dealers, with 45 suspects said to be active in the area.Three dealers were identified in District City, while two suspects were reported in Malir, five in District West, and four in District East. Additionally, four online drug dealers were reported in Keamari and seven in District Central.Earlier, a local court permitted the production of accused Anmol alias Pinky at the Judicial Complex in connection with multiple cases registered against her. “Cocaine Queen” Anmol Pinky Latest News & Updates The order was issued during proceedings related to her appearance before the City Court. The court directed that Anmol be presented before the judicial magistrate at the Judicial Complex.Investigating officers had approached the court of the District and Sessions Judge South, seeking permission to produce the accused at the jail complex instead of the City Court.Police informed the court that Anmol Pinky was required to be produced for obtaining physical remand, adding that her appearance at the City Court could pose serious security risks.

KUWAIT CITY: Senior military officials from Kuwait and Pakistan discussed ways to strengthen bilateral defense cooperation, Kuwait Times reported on Wednesday.Chief of the General Staff of the Kuwaiti Army, Lieutenant General Khaled Al-Shuraian, held talks with Pakistan Army Director General Military Operations (DGMO) Brigadier Naveed Abbas on enhancing joint military and defense cooperation in support of mutual interests.According to a statement issued by the General Staff of the Kuwaiti Army, the discussions took place during Lieutenant General Al-Shuraian’s meeting with Brigadier Abbas and his accompanying delegation during their visit to Kuwait.Read More: Kuwait rolls out new service for work permit renewalEarlier, the Public Authority for Manpower of Kuwait introduced a new digital service that allows partners in Kuwait to renew their work permits online via the “Ashal Services” portal.The Manpower Authority of Kuwait has said that the new feature enables workers classified as partners to complete the renewal process independently, without intermediaries or lengthy administrative procedures.According to the authority, the service has been designed to enhance efficiency and save time by providing a secure, fast, and user-friendly digital interface.The move forms part of broader efforts of Kuwait to expand e-government services and improve access to public services online.

The Pakistan People's Party (PPP) has constituted a committee to hold negotiations with the government regarding the budget 2026-27, ARY News reported on Wednesday, citing sources.According to sources, the PPP has formed a four-member committee comprising Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Naveed Qamar, Sherry Rehman, and Saleem Mandviwalla.The committee will prepare a draft of recommendations related to the budget, which will subsequently be presented to the government. The government has sought proposals from the PPP concerning the federal budget, while the party has requested additional time to finalise its recommendations.Sources further stated that the Pakistan People's Party has formally sought more time from the government for the submission of its budget proposals. The government has assured the party that it will remain involved throughout the budget-making process. IMF ‘urges’ provinces to raise additional Rs400 billion in budget 2026-27The government has also assured the PPP that its recommendations will be incorporated into the federal budget.According to sources, the PPP’s economic team has already commenced work on the proposed recommendations. It is pertinent to note that the PPP had earlier conveyed its reservations regarding the budget to the government.The government had assured the PPP that its concerns would be addressed.Earlier, it was reported that Pakistan’s Federal Budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27 was likely to be presented on June 5, 2026, sources said on Tuesday.Preparations were underway to present the National Economic Survey on June 04, according to sources.

KARACHI: In a major administrative shake-up, as many as 11 Station House Officers (SHOs) have been removed from their posts due to ongoing internal inquiries, ARY News reported.Karachi Police have taken decisive administrative action against officers facing disciplinary probes, resulting in the denotification of 11 SHOs across various police stations.An official notification has also been issued regarding their removal.Out of the removed officers, seven SHOs have been strictly barred from holding any precinct command until the inquiries against them are fully completed.The major restructuring has hit prominent areas across the city. The SHOs of Artillery Maidan, Bilal Colony, North Nazimabad, and Defence police stations are among those who have been stripped of their posts.Read More: ‘Respond or We Will Shoot’: Extortionists Regroup in Karachi with Bold Threats to TradersAdditionally, the heads of the Gadap, Gulshan-e-Maymar, SITE Area (A), and Garden police stations have also been denotified.A female SHO, who was commanding a dedicated women's police station, is also among the removed officers.

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, chaired the 12th high-level meeting of the National Wheat Oversight Committee to review the current wheat procurement status, carry-forward stocks, demand and supply situation, and overall food security outlook in the country.The meeting was attended by senior officials of the Ministry, provincial agriculture secretaries, representatives of PASSCO, and other relevant stakeholders.During the meeting, a detailed review was presented regarding wheat stocks held by public sector agencies, ongoing procurement operations in various provinces, and inter-provincial movement to ensure smooth supply across the country.The committee also assessed domestic consumption requirements, strategic reserves, and market trends.The Minister was briefed that sufficient wheat stocks are currently available in national reserves and ongoing procurement targets are expected to further strengthen the buffer stock position in the coming weeks.It was also noted that coordinated efforts between federal and provincial authorities are ensuring stability in wheat availability and price management.The Minister stated that currently there is no wheat shortage in the country, and sufficient reserves are available to meet national requirements.He further clarified that reports suggesting any shortfall are baseless and not supported by official data.He emphasized that the government remains fully committed to ensuring food security, price stability, and uninterrupted supply of wheat across all provinces.The Minister directed relevant departments to maintain close monitoring of procurement operations, improve transparency in stock reporting, and ensure timely decision-making to avoid any artificial price fluctuations in the market.The Committee reaffirmed that the government will continue to take all necessary measures to protect both farmers’ interests and consumer needs through a balanced procurement and distribution strategy.