ISLAMABAD: The process of filing income tax returns for overseas Pakistanis has been made easier, allowing expatriates to submit their returns online through the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) portal.The Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment has launched a special awareness campaign to educate overseas Pakistanis about the importance of filing income tax returns and the procedure involved.According to an official statement, overseas Pakistanis earning income in Pakistan are required to file income tax returns. This includes income generated through rental properties, investments, agricultural land, and business activities.Officials said that filing tax returns offers several benefits to overseas Pakistanis, including lower withholding tax rates, ease in banking transactions, and incentives on property purchases.[gallery ids="831317"]The statement added that the tax return filing process has now been made faster and more user-friendly, enabling overseas Pakistanis to conveniently submit returns online through the FBR’s “IRIS” portal.The Bureau of Emigration stated that the government is facilitating overseas Pakistanis in fulfilling their legal and financial obligations while encouraging them to continue contributing to the country’s economy.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Saudi Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud, where both leaders discussed bilateral relations, internal security cooperation, and the latest regional situation.During the meeting, the two ministers exchanged Eid al Adha greetings and conveyed their best wishes. Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud also congratulated Mohsin Naqvi on performing Hajj and appreciated Pakistan’s positive role in efforts aimed at reducing tensions in the region.The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the field of internal security. It was agreed that 200 personnel from the FC Special Diplomatic Protection Unit will receive professional training in Saudi Arabia.The meeting also decided that a high-level delegation from the Saudi Ministry of Interior will soon visit Pakistan to further enhance bilateral cooperation. Saudi Arabia backs Pakistan's mediation in regional conflict Mohsin Naqvi praised the Saudi government for its excellent arrangements and facilities provided to pilgrims during Hajj.Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding Pakistan-Saudi relations and promoting closer coordination on matters of mutual interest.

Pakistan’s top military leadership on Thursday conveyed warm greetings to the nation on the 28th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer.In a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff, and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, congratulated the people of Pakistan on the occasion.The military leadership said Youm-e-Takbeer commemorates the historic achievement of May 28, 1998, when Pakistan emerged as a nuclear power and restored the strategic balance in South Asia.“The defining milestone symbolises the nation’s unity, resilience and unwavering commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national honour,” the statement said.The sentinels of the country described the achievement as a testament to the visionary leadership of the country, the remarkable contributions of scientists and engineers, and the sacrifices rendered by the armed forces and the people of Pakistan.The military's media wing further said Pakistan’s strategic capability remains a “sacred national trust” and serves as a guarantor of peace, stability, territorial integrity and credible deterrence in the region.The armed forces vowed to continue ensuring the security, stability and prosperity of the country, doubling down on their commitment to national defence.“On this momentous occasion, bowing in humility to the Almighty, the Pakistani nation renews its pledge of unity, vigilance, resilience and dedication for a stronger and prosperous Pakistan,” the ISPR statement added.On May 28, 1998, Pakistan conducted its nuclear tests in Chagai, Balochistan, in response to India’s nuclear explosions earlier that month. The tests marked Pakistan’s emergence as a declared nuclear power and are seen as having restored strategic balance in South Asia.

"Youm-e-Takbeer" is being observed today in remembrance of nuclear tests conducted by Pakistan on May 28, 1998, which made the defence of the country invincible.On this day, Pakistan became the seventh nuclear nation of the world and the first Muslim state having the nuclear arsenal in its defence stockpile.The team of Pakistan's scientists led by founder of Pakistan's nuclear programme, Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, and Dr Samar Mubarakmand carried out nuclear tests in the RasKoh Hills in the Chaghai District of Balochistan.These tests not only demonstrated the resolve of the Pakistani nation to safeguard Pakistan's territorial integrity, independence and sovereignty, but also the desire to preserve strategic balance in South Asia. Youm-e-Takbeer: A Nation's Roar to Secure Its Home By resisting the mounting external pressures, the then Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Nawaz Sharif went for taking the bold decision to test the Pakistani nukes in response to Indian nuclear tests and thus balancing the strategic slanting power in the region.Pakistan is committed to the promotion of environment of peace and stability in South Asia, while preserving its capability to thwart aggression or adventurism in any form.Today, years later, Yom-e-Takbeer continues to stir something profound within the Pakistani spirit. It is a potent reminder of the immense courage that fateful decision entailed, of the global gales Pakistan weathered, and of the unbreakable spirit that defines the nation.

KARACHI: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Pakistan chief Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman on Wednesday criticised the ruling Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) over what he termed its failure to resolve Karachi’s longstanding water crisis despite being in power in Sindh for 18 years.Speaking to the media on Eid al-Adha, Hafiz Naeem extended Eid greetings to the nation, stating that citizens of Karachi continued to perform the religious obligation of sacrifice with enthusiasm despite facing severe civic problems.He said collective sacrifice arrangements (Ijtimai qurbani) has been made at more than 150 locations across Karachi, adding that Jamaat-e-Islami had continued its tradition of organising the process in a disciplined manner, which strengthened the party’s connection with the public.Criticising the Sindh government, Hafiz Naeem said Karachi’s residents were suffering from an acute water shortage even during Eid, while the authorities had failed to provide basic facilities.“PPP has ruled Sindh for 18 years but has failed to solve Karachi’s water problem,” he said.He also criticised the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board, alleging that despite having a budget of Rs43 billion, it had failed to fulfil its responsibilities regarding cleanliness and disposal of animal waste during Eid.“This is nothing but corruption,” he alleged, adding that the government had also failed to introduce an effective sanitation system in the province.The JI chief further criticised Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab’s remarks denying the existence of a water crisis in the city.Meanwhile, the water shortage has intensified in several parts of Karachi, with nearly 70 percent of the city facing disruption in water supply for days.Residents in affected areas have been forced to rely on expensive water tankers amid the scorching summer heat, while many complained that water shortages during Eid al-Adha further worsen difficulties related to animal care, sanitation, and household use.Areas including Scheme 33, Gulistan-e-Jauhar, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Azizabad, Liaquatabad, North Nazimabad, Nazimabad, North Karachi, Shah Faisal Colony, Landhi, Korangi, and Jamshed Quarters have reportedly been facing severe water shortages for over two weeks.The crisis began after a power breakdown at Dhabeji on May 21 affected Water Line No. 5. Although repair work has been completed, the city’s water supply system has yet to fully recover. Water Crisis deepens in Karachi as supply suspended in some areas for almost a month

KARACHI: The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) claimed to have foiled a major terror plot in Karachi on Eid al-Adha, arresting two alleged operatives of the banned Sindhudesh Revolutionary Army (SRA), officials said on Wednesday.According to a CTD statement, the arrests were made during a joint operation conducted by the CTD and a federal law enforcement agency on Hub River Road.CTD spokesperson said one of the suspects, identified as Allah Dino, had allegedly arrived in Karachi on the instructions of the banned outfit to carry out terrorist activities in the city during Eid celebrations.He was reportedly travelling from Gwadar to Karachi by bus with explosive material and was arrested following a tip-off at a bus terminal in Yousuf Goth on Hub River Road.During the operation, authorities recovered 10 rolls of explosive material, two non-electric detonators, and eight-metre safety fuses from the suspect’s possession.Another suspect, identified as Faraz Ahmed Somro alias Toto, was also arrested during the raid. CTD officials said he had been absconding in a terrorism case registered by the department in Karachi.According to the spokesperson, Faraz and his accomplices were allegedly involved in an attack on Chinese nationals at a dental clinic in Karachi’s Saddar area.The attack had resulted in the death of Ronald Raymond Pow, while Dr Richard Pow and another individual identified as Finn Nine sustained injuries.CTD said several accomplices of the suspect had already been arrested, while Faraz had gone into hiding to evade arrest.Authorities also recovered a 30-bore pistol and ammunition from his possession.The CTD spokesperson said special teams had been formed to arrest the remaining accomplices and target killers linked to the network.In 2020, the Ministry of Interior banned the Sindhudesh Revolutionary Army (SRA), Jeay Sindh Qaumi Mahaz-Aresar Group (JSQM-A), and Sindhu Desh Liberation Army (SLA) under the Anti-Terrorism Act.

RAWALPINDI: Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Staff (CDF), visited Zhob District in Balochistan on Eid al-Adha to celebrate the occasion with frontline troops deployed along the western frontiers, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement on Wednesday.The visit commenced with Eid prayers along with special supplications for Pakistan’s enduring peace, stability and prosperity and for the Shuhada, who rendered the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the motherland.Extending Eid greetings to officers and soldiers, the Field Marshal commended their exceptional grit, unwavering resolve, operational preparedness and steadfast vigilance amid foreign-sponsored terrorism.He paid rich tribute to the troops for their unmatched courage and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation against the menace of terrorism and hostile threats sponsored by inimical forces.Referring to the recent cowardly terrorist incident in Quetta orchestrated by Indian-sponsored Fitna-al-Hindustan and its proxies, the Field Marshal reaffirmed that such inhuman and brutal acts cannot weaken the resolve of Pakistan Armed Forces or the nation.He emphasized that the morale and resolve of troops and the people of Pakistan remained unshaken, reiterating that the Armed Forces, in close coordination with law enforcement agencies and the people of Balochistan, would continue to pursue all facilitators, abettors and perpetrators of terrorism with full force.Read More: Death toll in Quetta blast rises to 16Upon arrival, the Field Marshal was received by Commander Quetta Corps. The Field Marshal also laid a floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada and paid homage to the brave sons of the soil who embraced Shahadat in defence of the motherland.

RAWALPINDI: The Pakistan Armed Forces prayed for lasting peace and national unity on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, extending Eid greetings to the nation, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).On the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Adha, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, COAS & CDF, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, extend heartfelt greetings and felicitations to the people of Pakistan, the ISPR said on Wednesday.The Armed Forces of Pakistan pray for lasting peace, prosperity, and unity of the nation, while paying tribute to the resilience of the Pakistani people and the sacrifices of Shuhada, Armed Forces, Law Enforcement Agencies, and citizens who continue to safeguard the homeland.The military’s media wing said Eid al-Adha symbolizes sacrifice, faith, and solidarity, adding that the Pakistan Armed Forces remain steadfast in their sacred duty to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country and stand shoulder to shoulder with the nation in pursuit of peace and stability.On this blessed occasion, special homage is paid to the families of Shuhada-e-Pakistan whose unparalleled sacrifices continue to strengthen the foundations of the nation.“Pakistan Hamesha Zindabad,” the statement concluded.Read More: PM expresses solidarity with Palestinians, Kashmiris on Eid al-AdhaMeanwhile, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Eid al-Adha expressed solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), while urging the nation to care for the needy and underprivileged.He said the spiritual occasion of Eid al-Adha called upon people to embrace the values of sacrifice, unity, compassion, and social responsibility.In his message on the occasion of 10th Zil Hajj 1447 Hijri, the prime minister extended heartfelt greetings to the people of Pakistan and the Muslim Ummah worldwide on the blessed occasion of Eid al-Adha.

HARNAI: At least five people were killed and three others injured after unidentified armed men opened indiscriminate fire on a group of locals in the Shahrag area of Balochistan’s Harnai district.According to police, the armed assailants had set up a picket near Sheikh Musa Baba Chowk and were checking the Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) of passersby.Police said an altercation broke out after some locals resisted the checking, following which the unidentified gunmen opened fire.Four people died on the spot, while another critically injured victim succumbed to his injuries while being shifted to Quetta for medical treatment.The deceased were identified as Zaman Shah, Zia-ul-Haq, Abdul Qahir, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) leader Maulvi Zahid Shah, and Ikramullah Shah.The injured were identified as Nasir Shah, Mullah Samad, and Saqib Shah.The bodies and injured were shifted to Shahrag Hospital, where the wounded received initial medical treatment before being referred to Quetta. Read More: Death toll in Quetta blast rises to 16 Following the incident, enraged residents set the Shahrag police station on fire, creating a tense situation in the area.A heavy contingent of Harnai police reached the area and was attempting to bring the situation under control.

KARACHI: A sacrificial cow was stolen from outside a residence in Karachi’s Nazimabad No. 3 area, with the entire incident captured on CCTV footage.According to details, a lone thief arrived at the location and carefully surveyed the area before stealing the animal.The CCTV footage showed the suspect first going to the first floor of the apartment building to conduct a recce of the surroundings. He later came downstairs and looked around the street corner several times to ensure no one was nearby.After confirming the area was clear, the suspect untied the cow and calmly fled with the animal.The owner of the cow appealed to citizens to help identify and catch the suspect, stating that the thief’s face was clearly visible in the CCTV footage.Earlier this month, 25 goats worth Rs1.9 million, brought to Karachi for sale ahead of Eid al-Adha, were also stolen by unidentified robbers in the Gulistan-e-Jauhar area.According to police, the goats were tied at a plot in Gulistan-e-Jauhar Block 8 when the robbers loaded them into a pickup vehicle and escaped.The owner had purchased the animals for sale during Eid al-Adha and later registered an FIR at the Malir Cantt police station.Police officials said investigations were underway in both incidents, with CCTV footage being used to trace the suspects. Read More: 25 Sacrificial Goats worth Rs 1.9 mln Stolen from Karachi’s Gulistan-e-Jauhar

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Eid al-Adha expressed solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), while urging the nation to care for the needy and underprivileged.He said the spiritual occasion of Eid al-Adha called upon people to embrace the values of sacrifice, unity, compassion, and social responsibility.In his message on the occasion of 10th Zil Hajj 1447 Hijri, the prime minister extended heartfelt greetings to the people of Pakistan and the Muslim Ummah worldwide on the blessed occasion of Eid al-Adha.The premier said the sacred tradition of Eid taught Muslims to sacrifice personal desires and interests for noble causes, describing such devotion as the highest form of faith and loyalty.He observed that the spirit of sacrifice inspired people to rise above selfishness and narrow-mindedness, and encouraged compassion, selflessness, and responsibility toward humanity.“Eid ul Adha reminds us of the great Sunnah of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS), symbolizing complete submission to the command of Allah, and the unparalleled obedience and devotion of Hazrat Ismail (AS),” the PM Office Media Wing quoted the prime minister as saying in a press release.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the values of sacrifice, unity, and solidarity guaranteed lasting cohesion and sustainable progress for nations.He also paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in defense of the motherland and in incidents of terrorism, calling their sacrifices a source of national pride.Read More: Pakistan celebrates Eid al-Adha with religious spirit and national unityExpressing complete solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine and IIOJK, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for their just causes.He prayed that Allah Almighty bless everyone with the true spirit and blessings of Eid al-Adha, accept their sacrifices, and make the world a cradle of peace, love, and harmony.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is celebrating Eid al-Adha today with religious fervour and traditional enthusiasm, commemorating the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and Hazrat Ismail (AS).The day began with special prayers offered in mosques across the country for the well-being of the Muslim Ummah, as well as for peace, progress, and prosperity in Pakistan.Eid prayer congregations were held at mosques, Eidgahs, and open grounds in cities, towns, and villages nationwide.In their Eid sermons, religious scholars highlighted the significance and philosophy behind the great sacrifice of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and Hazrat Ismail (AS), urging Muslims to follow the values of obedience, patience, sincerity, and devotion to Allah.Following the Sunnah of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS), people across the country are offering animal sacrifices as part of the religious tradition.The federal and provincial governments have put in place comprehensive security arrangements to prevent any untoward incidents during the Eid holidays. Read More: Hajj sermon urges Muslim unity, rejects political division Local administrations in various cities and towns have also made special arrangements for the disposal of animal waste and offal to ensure cleanliness throughout the Eid days.President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt Eid greetings to the people of Pakistan and the Muslim Ummah around the world.In his message, President Zardari said that Eid al-Adha serves as a reminder of the spirit of obedience to Allah, patience, loyalty, sincerity, and sacrifice exemplified by Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and Hazrat Ismail (AS).Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the spiritual occasion calls for collective and individual efforts to care for the poor, needy, and underprivileged, and to include them in the joy of Eid celebrations.

KARACHI: National Savings has increased the profit rates for various investment schemes across the country, with overall increases ranging from 1% to 2.20%, effective from May 26. The revised profit rates are expected to benefit investors seeking stable, fixed-income opportunities. With better returns across key savings instruments, National Savings schemes remain a popular choice for low-risk investment in Pakistan.New Profit Rates Structure The government has upwardly revised the yields, bringing the new rates into effect immediately. Scheme New Profit Rate Special Savings Schemes 11.6% Regular Income Certificates 11.82% Behbood & Pensioner Schemes 12% (Unchanged) Previously, the government also revised returns on Behbood Savings Certificates linked with investments up to Rs 200,000, setting that specific profit rate at 12.96%.Monthly Profit Breakdown Based on the updated rates, the estimated monthly payouts for investors are structured as follows: Investment of Rs 100,000: Generates approximately Rs 1,080 per month. Investment of Rs 200,000: Generates approximately Rs 2,160 per month. Earlier, the state institution that promotes saving habits among citizens, National Savings, announced welcoming news for widows and disabled persons by retaining the profit rates for Behbood Savings Certificates.While the Central Directorate of National Savings (CDNS) has revised the profit rates for various other schemes, it kept the rate for Behbood Savings Certificates unchanged. The federal government maintained the profit rate for Behbood Certificates at 12 percent, meaning an investor will receive a monthly profit of Rs 1,000 for every Rs 100,000 invested. This profit is paid on a monthly basis, starting from the date the certificates are purchased.

As Eid al-Adha 2026 approaches, the big challenge for households is to safely preserve sacrificial meat so that it remains fresh for weeks or even months. Experts believe that meat can be stored for up to a year if proper freezing and preservation methods are followed.How to Store Meat in the FreezerExperts advise that meat should be packed carefully before being placed in a freezer to prevent exposure to air.Freezer-safe plastic bags, aluminum foil, and airtight containers are commonly recommended for storage.They also suggest removing as many bones as possible before freezing, as bones take up more space and increase the load on the freezer.Placing freezer paper or wrapping between meat portions can help prevent pieces from sticking together.According to specialists, freezer temperatures should be maintained at 0°F or lower for long-term storage.Recommended Storage DurationFood experts say raw meat can generally be frozen for between four and 12 months, while minced meat is best consumed within three months.Cooked meat, they add, can remain safe for up to three months when properly frozen.Alternative Methods During Power OutagesIn areas facing electricity outages or where freezers are unavailable, experts recommend using insulated water coolers as a temporary alternative.Ice should be placed at the bottom of the cooler, followed by the meat, which should then be covered with additional ice. The ice must be replaced regularly as it melts.Salt Preservation MethodSalt preservation remains one of the oldest methods of storing meat.Experts recommend coating the meat thoroughly with curing salt and storing it in airtight containers in a cool environment between 36°F and 40°F.They say this method can preserve meat for up to a month, although excess salt should be washed off before cooking.Safe Ways to Defrost Frozen MeatFor thawing frozen meat, specialists recommend placing sealed packets in cold water and changing the water every 30 minutes.They also advise checking the meat’s colour and smell before use. Any discoloured outer layer should be trimmed off, while meat with an unusual odour should be discarded immediately.

JEHLUM: A 12-year-old child was killed and nine others were injured after a 4.7-magnitude earthquake jolted several parts of Punjab on Tuesday night, ARY News reported.According to the National Seismological Center, the tremors shook various districts across the province. The seismic activity, combined with subsequent landslides, caused visible damage to infrastructure, damaging multiple houses in Pind Dadan Khan, Jalalpur Sharif, and surrounding areas.Local authorities confirmed that the casualty occurred in Jalalpur Sharif, where a 12-year-old child tragically died when the roof of a house collapsed.Rescue officials reported that nine other individuals sustained injuries due to wall collapses.Rescue teams promptly responded to the scene and shifted the wounded to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment.The earthquake triggered widespread panic across several Punjab cities, including Malakwal, Phalia, and Dipalpur, driving terrified residents out of their homes and into open spaces.Strong tremors were also felt in Hujra Shah Muqeem, Phool Nagar, Mandi Bahauddin, and Haveli Lakha, where anxious citizens gathered outdoors to await safety clearance.Earlier, the earthquake was also felt in Islamabad and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the last month, while the tremors continued for 15 to 20 seconds.The intensity of 5.7 was recorded on the richter scale.

KARACHI: Former Pakistan captain and current head coach of the national Test team, Sarfaraz Ahmed, has brought home two massive bulls for sacrifice this Eid al-Adha, ARY News reported.Sarfaraz has named the bulls "Badshah" (King) and "Sultan" (Ruler). Speaking about them, he shared that he particularly enjoys spending time with Badshah, describing the animal as highly playful.Detailing their diet, the former captain shared that the bulls are fed milk, mustard oil, and butter, alongside traditional feed such as grass, dry hay, crushed grains, pulses, and chickpeas.When asked about the sacrificial animals of his teammates, Sarfaraz mentioned that he had seen the animals bought by Haris Rauf and Saim Ayub, describing them as beautiful. He added that Saud Shakeel has also purchased a bull, while Faheem Ashraf always selects praiseworthy animals for the occasion.Sharing his personal Eid routine, Sarfaraz said, "I always enjoy fresh kaleji (liver) with paratha from the sacrificed animal as the first thing on Eid al-Adha morning."https://youtu.be/xE2jhPd9nZ8?si=Ps6Zoby922p1JuzXHe further explained that he had been raising these sacrificial animals for over a year, noting that he has a lifelong passion for livestock rearing.While he employs a dedicated caretaker to look after them, Sarfaraz emphasized that he personally tends to the animals whenever he is at home."We raise these animals with immense love and care, and ultimately sacrifice them in the path of Almighty Allah," the ex-skipper said.The head coach confirmed that he will be celebrating Eid at home this year. In his Eid al-Adha message to the public, he urged everyone performing the sacrifice to ensure that the meat is generously distributed to those in need.

The Jail doctors have declared the condition of alleged drug dealer Anmol Pinky, to be satisfactory after conducting a medical examination, according to prison authorities.Jail police said the suspect had complained of kidney pain, but doctors decided there was no immediate need to transfer her to another hospital.Officials added that Anmol Pinky would be shifted to a medical facility if her condition required further treatment.According to prison authorities, Anmol Pinky was first diagnosed with kidney-related complications during an earlier medical examination.She is also said to be suffering from eye and stomach ailments.Earlier, jail authorities had considered transferring the accused to the Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT) for further medical evaluation after reports of kidney pain.Security arrangements had also been put in place for her possible transfer to SIUT, with prison officials requesting strict police protection and directing senior police officers to personally oversee the security operation.

The Chairman of Economic Policy and Business Development of Pakistan and a former caretaker federal minister, Gohar Ejaz, has unveiled a simplified one-page income tax return form, arguing that a shorter and easier system could significantly expand the country’s tax base.Gohar Ejaz announced the proposal on the social media platform X. He said the simplified form was designed to encourage more people to file tax returns and could potentially increase the number of tax filers from 7 million to 100 million.Former caretaker federal minister has criticised the existing tax filing system managed by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), saying its current 147-page return form was too complicated for ordinary taxpayers.According to him, around 7 million taxpayers are currently registered with the FBR, while only 3 million actively file tax returns.Gohar Ejaz said that the one-page form has been prepared for the convenience of taxpayers, and it includes key information such as sources of income, tax deductions, and family details.He said the one- page income tax return form was aimed to make the tax filing process more accessible and user-friendly. The First Step : Simple One Page individual Tax Returns to Enhance 7 Million Filers to 100 Million Filers! Pakistan’s 147-page FBR Tax Return Form has registered around 7 million filers with only 3 million taxpayers. Meanwhile, the USA IRS Tax Return Form 1040 is just 2 pages.… pic.twitter.com/h2skNvWLUj— Dr Gohar Ejaz (@Gohar_Ejaz1) May 26, 2026

The Canadian Dollar (CAD) maintained a firm position against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) in the open market on Tuesday, reflecting continued strength in the Canadian currency amid pressure on emerging market currencies.According to market data, the Canadian Dollar was trading at Rs.200.01 for buying and Rs.205.45 for selling against the Pakistani Rupee in Pakistan’s open market on May 26, 2026.Currency dealers said the CAD to PKR pair continues to attract attention from overseas workers, students, importers, and families with financial links to Canada, as fluctuations in the exchange rate directly impact remittances, education expenses, and trade-related payments.Canadian Dollar Remains StrongMarket analysts attributed the Canadian Dollar’s resilience to stable economic conditions in Canada, supported by energy exports, global commodity prices, and monetary policy decisions by the Bank of Canada.The Canadian currency is also influenced by international oil prices, inflation trends, employment data, and broader investor sentiment in global financial markets.Meanwhile, the Pakistani Rupee remains under pressure due to inflation concerns, import payments, and external financing requirements, keeping demand for major foreign currencies elevated in the local market.Impact on Pakistani Students and ImmigrantsThe stronger Canadian Dollar is increasing financial pressure on Pakistani families supporting students and immigrants in Canada.With annual tuition fees and living expenses in Canada typically ranging between CAD20,000 and CAD40,000, even modest increases in the CAD to PKR exchange rate can significantly raise overall education and settlement costs.Travel expenses, visa fees, accommodation charges, and insurance payments also become more expensive when the Rupee weakens against the Canadian currency.Financial consultants said many families are now monitoring exchange rates more closely and opting for phased transfers to manage currency-related expenses.Overseas Pakistanis Gain from Higher Conversion RatesOn the other hand, overseas Pakistanis working in Canada are benefiting from the stronger Canadian Dollar, as remittances sent back home convert into larger rupee amounts.Higher remittance values help support household spending, education, healthcare, and investment activities in Pakistan while also contributing to the country’s foreign exchange inflows.Analysts noted that remittances from Canada remain an important support for Pakistan’s external account stability.Trade and Business EffectsThe CAD to PKR exchange rate also has implications for bilateral trade between Pakistan and Canada.Pakistani exporters dealing in textiles, rice, leather products, and sports goods may benefit from a relatively weaker Rupee, as their products become more competitively priced in Canadian markets.However, Pakistani importers purchasing machinery, industrial equipment, and technology products from Canada face rising costs when the Canadian Dollar appreciates.Businesses engaged in international trade are increasingly adopting foreign exchange risk management and hedging strategies to limit exposure to currency volatility.Outlook for CAD to PKRMarket experts expect the Canadian Dollar to remain relatively firm against the Pakistani Rupee in the near term, particularly if global oil prices stay strong and Canada’s economy continues to show stability.They added that the Pakistani Rupee’s future direction will depend on Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, inflation outlook, export growth, remittance inflows, and developments related to external financing arrangements.DisclaimerExchange rates fluctuate throughout trading hours and may vary across banks, exchange companies, and financial institutions.

ISLAMABAD: The state institution that promotes saving habits among citizens, National Savings, has announced welcoming news for widows and disabled persons by retaining the profit rates for Behbood Savings Certificates. While the Central Directorate of National Savings (CDNS) has revised the profit rates for various other schemes, it kept the rate for Behbood Savings Certificates unchanged. The federal government maintained the profit rate for Behbood Certificates at 12 percent, meaning an investor will receive a monthly profit of Rs 1,000 for every Rs 100,000 invested. This profit is paid on a monthly basis, starting from the date the certificates are purchased. Tax, Zakat Deduction Withholding tax is not collected on the profit earned on BSCs. Investments made in the BSC are also exempt from Zakat collection.BackgroundThe federal government introduced the certificates in 2003 in response to the difficulties faced by widows and the elderly.Later, the scheme was extended to disabled persons and special minors with disabilities through their guardians.BSC Available In Various  Denominations BSC is available in the denominations of: Rs5, 000, Rs10,000, Rs50,000, Rs100,000, Rs500,000, and Rs1,000,000.Investment LimitThe minimum investment a person can make in Behbood certificates is R 5,000, while the maximum limit for an individual person stands at R 1,000,000.