The Health & Population Department of Punjab has announced an internship program of the Directorate of Drugs Control for PharmD students, graduates, and postgraduates from public sector universities across Punjab.Who can applyAccording to the announcement, the internship is open to: Final-year or semester students awaiting results PharmD graduates within two years of completion MPhil/Master’s degree holders up to two years of post-graduation How to applyApplicants are required to: Register online through the official portal Ensure their profile is complete Upload all required documents Only online applications will be accepted.DeadlineThe last date to apply is 12 May 2026, with submissions closing at 12:00 midnight.Application portalCandidates can apply via: https://internship-pshd.pshealthpunjab.gov.pk/hdp/account

The Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, has unveiled plans to generate and distribute affordable electricity through a provincial transmission and distribution framework, aiming to provide relief to domestic consumers and boost industrial growth across the province.He shared this vision while meeting with Danish Ambassador Maja Derrous Mortensen at the CM House, where both sides discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation, investment opportunities, renewable energy, and environmental sustainability.The chief minister Sindh said the provincial government was working on initiatives to produce low-cost electricity and ensure its efficient supply through a Sindh-run transmission company. He said improved generation efficiency and reduced line losses would help lower electricity costs for consumers.“Our objective is to ensure affordable electricity for households and industry alike by improving generation efficiency and reducing line losses,” he said, adding that cheaper power would directly translate into public relief and enhanced economic activity.Murad Ali Shah also highlighted Sindh’s potential in renewable energy, particularly wind power along its coastal belt, saying the province could emerge as a regional hub for clean energy development. He invited Danish companies to invest in wind energy and other green projects.Ambassador Mortensen expressed a strong interest in Sindh’s renewable energy sector, particularly wind energy, and reiterated Denmark’s commitment to supporting environmentally sustainable projects. She noted that collaboration in green energy could open new avenues for investment and strengthen economic ties between the two sides.The meeting also covered coastal development, including plans to upgrade Keti Bandar into a modern deep-sea port. The chief minister said the project could ease pressure on Karachi’s ports and create new trade opportunities.“Keti Bandar has the potential to become a major hub of economic activity and regional trade,” Murad Ali Shah said, offering full cooperation to Danish investors interested in its development.The Danish ambassador acknowledged the potential of Keti Bandar and said its development could significantly enhance regional trade and connectivity.Both sides agreed to explore new avenues of cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and investment, while reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening Pakistan-Denmark relations. They also exchanged congratulations on 75 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

ISLAMABAD: The federal government of Pakistan has begun steps to vacate the One Constitution Avenue building located on Islamabad’s Constitution Avenue, following late-night orders issued to police.Residents of the One Constitution Avenue building said that some police officials visited the premises and instructed occupants to vacate the building by this evening.https://www.youtube.com/shorts/8QdTLcdDxnQThe move comes after the Capital Development Authority (CDA) cancelled the lease of the property.A private company and apartment owners had challenged the decision in the Islamabad High Court (IHC), but their petitions were dismissed.According to officials, the CDA had leased 13 acres of land in 2005 to a company for 99 years to construct a luxury hotel.Sources said that instead of building a hotel, the company developed and sold luxury apartments on the site. The court’s written verdict has yet to be issued.

Pakistan has marked a significant development in its maritime sector with the arrival of its first fully transshipment cargo vessel handling multiple types of freight at Karachi Port.Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs  of Pakistan, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has announced on Friday the successful berthing of the first-ever fully transshipment cargo vessel, M.V. ERLIN, at KGTML terminal of Karachi Port Trust (KPT).Speaking in a statement, the minister said the move represented a major shift in port operations."In the past, Karachi Port handled only container transshipment. Today marks a historic shift, with M.V. ERLIN operating as a transshipment carrier for general cargo, break bulk, and vehicles," the minister stated.Junaid Chaudhry described the development as a “quantum leap”, attributing it to recent reforms in the maritime sector aimed at improving efficiency, trade competitiveness, and business opportunities.Pakistani ports are now fully equipped to manage all types of transshipment and transit trade cargo, including break bulk operations, for regional destinations, he added.Federal Minister added that the move could help position Pakistan as a key maritime hub in the region, linking international trade routes and expanding business opportunities.

LAHORE: The government of Punjab has launched Pakistan’s first virtual women police station, aimed at making it easier to report harassment and seek protection.Women in the country often face harassment in public and private spaces. In response, the Punjab government has introduced several measures to improve their safety, including this new virtual police station based in Lahore.The virtual police station allows women to register complaints through multiple accessible ways. The simplest option is the emergency helpline 15, where callers can report incidents directly.In addition, women can file complaints through the Safety App live chat features, or through the Safe Cities web portal.Victims also have the option to communicate with officials via live video calls, enabling them to report incidents.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a weather alert warning of windstorms and rain in various areas of Punjab from tomorrow, Saturday, until 4 May.According to a PDMA spokesperson, widespread rain is expected in several districts, with gusty winds likely to accompany the system.Areas forecast to receive rainfall include Rawalpindi, Murree, the Galiyat region, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang and GujranwalaRain is also expected in Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Sargodha, Mianwali, Sheikhupura, Gujrat and Khushab.Meanwhile, Lahore, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Jhang, Chiniot, Bhakkar, Layyah and Dera Ghazi Khan are also likely to receive rainfall during the period.

ISLAMABAD: Two new polio cases have been reported in Pakistan, bringing the total number of cases this year to three, ARY News reported on Friday, citing sources.Sources from the National Institute of Health stated that the cases were reported from Bannu and North Waziristan.One case was reported from Jani Khel in Bannu, while the other emerged from Gariom in North Waziristan. Sources added that the union councils of Jani Khel and Gariom are inaccessible for polio teams.Due to security concerns, polio vaccination campaigns are not being carried out in these areas.The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) on Sunday said that Over 4,45,00,000 children were vaccinated in six days of the national anti-polio drive. Pakistan launches second anti-polio drive of 2026 The NEOC in a statement, said that in Punjab, over 22.9 million children were administered polio vaccine, while in Sindh 1.03 million children were inoculated against the crippling polio disease.“In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa around 7.155 million children were vaccinated during the campaign, while in Balochistan, 2.582 million children were administered vaccine.In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, over 7,17,000 children, Gilgit Baltistan over 2,92,000 children and in Islamabad over 4,41,000 children were administered vaccine, NEOC said.“Over 4,00,000 anti-polio workers visiting door to door to administer vaccine drops to children,” NEOC said.

ISLAMABAD: Another sharp increase in petroleum product prices, including petrol has been challenged in the Federal Constitutional Court.The petition names the Government of Pakistan and the Secretary of the Establishment Division as respondents.The petitioner has requested the court to direct the government to fix the price of petrol and diesel at Rs 200 per litre.The petition further urges the court to order the government to procure petroleum products from Iran. It also calls for the court to instruct the government to make efforts to obtain petroleum products at concessional rates from Gulf countries.The plea argues that in a poor country, petrol and diesel prices reaching as high as Rs 400 per litre is unjust.It adds that war, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, and the International Monetary Fund are being used as excuses to justify price hikes.According to the petition, the sharp increase in petrol and diesel prices is severely affecting the daily lives of ordinary citizens. Petrol price in Pakistan — May 1, 2026 On Thursday night, the government of Pakistan announced a fresh increase in petroleum prices, with the petrol price raised by Rs. 6.51 per litre, according to an official notification issued.In a more significant move, diesel price has been increased by Rs. 19.39 per litre, adding further pressure on transportation and industrial sectors.

The sale and use of cigarettes, naswar, and paan—considered highly harmful to human health—have been banned within the premises of Hayatabad Medical Complex.A formal notification has been issued by the administration of Hayatabad Medical Complex, imposing a ban on the sale and consumption of cigarettes, paan, and naswar within medical facilities due to their severe health risks.According to the notification, the use of all intoxicating substances, including naswar and paan, has been strictly prohibited within the premises of the hospital. The ban also extends to all such products, including Velo (nicotine pouches).The notification further states that the sale of tobacco products at hospital canteens and shops is also prohibited. Strict instructions have been issued to canteen management and shopkeepers in this regard.The administration of Hayatabad Medical Complex has warned that any violation will result in the cancellation of canteen contracts and the sealing of shops.According to the official statement, the Medical Teaching Institution will be made free of health-hazardous substances. Security and facility management teams have been jointly tasked with monitoring, and the hospital director has been instructed to submit regular monitoring reports.

KARACHI: A man was killed in a shooting incident at a sheesha café located in Karachi' Gulistan-e-Johar Block 3.According to police, the deceased has been identified as Najeeb. Initial investigations revealed that a group of individuals entered the sheesha café while intoxicated and attempted to sit in an area reserved for women.When the café management asked them to leave, the individuals became agitated and a dispute broke out with the security guard.Police stated that during the heated exchange and scuffle, the security guard allegedly fired a shot, which struck Najeeb and resulted in his death.Following the incident, police took action and detained the café manager and the security guard, while further investigation into the matter is ongoing. Sheesha, vaping banned in public places It is to be noted that in 2024, the Sindh government imposed a ban on usage of Sheesha and e-cigarettes (vape) in public places and directed authorities to implement Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002.The Sindh Health Department issued directives to Commissioners of multiple divisions, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, and Sukkur.In the directive, provincial authorities imposed a ban on the use of sheesha and e-cigarettes (vape) in public places, such as hotels, restaurants, parks, cafes, and picnic points. However, the notification stated that the said ordinance was not being implemented in ‘true and spirit’.

The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of twelve countries including Pakistan have condemned in the strongest terms the Israeli assault on the Global Sumud Flotilla.The condemnation came after Israeli naval forces targeted vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla’s Spring 2026 mission, which aimed to break the blockade on Gaza and deliver essential aid.The incident took place in international waters in the Mediterranean Sea, off the coast of Greece.In their joint statement, the Foreign Ministers of Türkiye, Brazil, Jordan, Pakistan, Spain, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Colombia, Maldives, South Africa and Libya said the Flotilla is a peaceful civilian humanitarian initiative aimed at drawing the attention of the international community to the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.They said that Israeli attacks against the vessels and the unlawful detention of humanitarian activists in international waters constitute flagrant violations of international law and international humanitarian law.The Ministers called upon the international community to fulfill their moral and legal obligations to uphold international law, protect civilians, and ensure accountability for these violations.Meanwhile, thousands of people took to the streets in several Italian cities Thursday to protest Israel's attack on a humanitarian aid flotilla bound for Gaza.The attack prompted widespread anger in Italy, with protests held in major cities including Rome, Milan, Naples, and Turin.

ISLAMABAD: The Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council has issued a prediction regarding Eidul Adha 2026 in Pakistan, stating that there is a strong likelihood the festival will be observed on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.According to details, the council has released its scientific report concerning the sighting of the moon for Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 AH.The council’s Secretary General, Khalid Ijaz Mufti, stated that scientific data indicates a strong possibility of Eidul Adha being celebrated in Pakistan on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.The council explained that the new moon will be born at 1:15am (Pakistan time) on the night between 16 and 17 May. By sunset on 17 May, the moon’s age will exceed 18 hours in most parts of the country, which is sufficient for it to be visible to the naked eye.The report further noted that on 17 May, the time difference between sunset and moonset will be approximately 55 minutes in Karachi and up to 63 minutes in Peshawar.If weather conditions remain clear, the moon is expected to be clearly visible on Sunday evening, which would make 18 May the first of Dhu al-Hijjah and Eidul Adha falling on 27 May.According to this scientific forecast, there is also a possibility that Eidul Adha will be observed on the same day in both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia this year.However, if the moon is not sighted on 17 May due to cloudy conditions, Dhu al-Qi’dah will complete 30 days, and Eid will instead fall on Thursday, 28 May.It is important to note that the final decision will be made following the official meeting of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

International Labour Day is being observed today (Friday) with a renewed commitment to upholding workers’ rights.Rallies and demonstrations are being organised by various trade unions, workers’ organisations and non-governmental organisations on this day to highlight the basic rights of workers.In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari stressed the need to equip the workers and youth with modern skills to meet the challenges of an ever-changing job market.The president called upon the governments, private enterprises, educational institutions, and civil society to collaborate in creating a comprehensive ecosystem for the skill development of labour.“This day reminds us of the historic struggle waged by workers around the world for their rights and dignity. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to their empowerment, fair wages, safe working conditions, and social protection,” President Secretariat Press Wing, in a press release, quoted the president as saying.Prime Minister  Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to promoting safe, healthy, and dignified conditions for its workers — the real driving force behind our nation’s growth and resilience.He highlighted that for the first time, every worker in Pakistan benefits from a National Occupational Safety and Health Profile, ensuring safer, healthier workplaces across the country.“Our government has taken important steps to broaden the coverage and impact of institutions such as the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) and the Workers Welfare Fund (WWF), ensuring that the fruits of our labor protections are shared more equitably across all segments of the workforce,” the prime minister added.

The Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, has launched the Rehmat Card, under which financial assistance will be provided to eligible individuals.According to a post issued by Pakistan Muslim League (N), financial aid will be given to 50,000 families under the Rehmat Card programme.Through the Rehmat Card, widows will receive Rs 100,000 and orphaned children will also be paid Rs 100,000 via JazzCash. For registration, eligible individuals can download the CM Rehmat Card app or contact the helpline on 1077. Eligibility for Rehmat Card Scheme A widow must have her widowed status mentioned on her national identity card, belong to a low-income household, and must not be receiving any form of government financial assistance. She must not be a government employee or a pensioner to qualify for the Rehmat Card scheme.For orphaned children, registration of a guardian along with the child’s B-Form is mandatory.The applicant must be registered in the PSER survey, and the beneficiary’s mobile number must be registered against their national identity card.It is worth noting that last month, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz formally approved the “Rehmat Card” scheme to provide financial protection to widows and orphans across the province.While chairing a high-level meeting, she stated that this segment of society should no longer feel alone, as the government will fully support them.Maryam Nawaz further said that helping underprivileged groups is a fundamental responsibility of the government, and the aim of this initiative is to strengthen them economically.

LAHORE: The Chief Minister of Punjab, Mariam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled a series of development projects for the Katcha area (Riverine area), worth Rs.23 billion, aimed at improving infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security.In a key announcement, the Chief Minister of Punjab revealed the launch of the "Apna Khet, Apna Rozgar" initiative and ordered the distribution of 14,500 acres of government land to the people of Katcha area.Officials claim that for the first time in the region's history, the government has strengthened its presence, with no major incidents reported in Katcha over the last five months.The Katcha Area Development Program will include the construction of schools, hospitals, roads, and bridges.CM Punjab also ordered transport and Clinic on Wheels for the Katcha area, as well as mobile veterinary clinics and labs will be introduced.A first for the region, a fleet of modern drones powered by solar energy will be deployed for surveillance and monitoring, flying for over 24 hours in a single mission.The government of Punjab has also approved the installation of surveillance cameras in police vehicles and at checkpoints to bolster security. A comprehensive "Safe City" monitoring system will be implemented across police stations and other key areas.Officials said that a portion of the funding will be allocated to social infrastructure, with Rs. 13.9 billion earmarked for educational, health, and social services.Under the initiative, 6,551 female students will receive school supplies, while 300 students will be awarded scholarships, and another 300 will receive laptops. The development plan also includes the completion of 108 kilometers of roads and 27 infrastructure projects in the area

Pakistan’s security forces successfully foiled infiltration attempts along the Pak-Afghan border, killing 13 militants, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations.According to the military media wing, on 28-29 April 2026, thirteen khwarij belonging to Indian sponsored Fitna-al-Khwarij were killed in two foiled infiltration attempts along Pakistan-Afghanistan Border in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.In Mohmand District, movement of a group of khwarij trying to infiltrate through Pakistan-Afghanistan border was picked up by the security forces. Own troops effectively engaged this group of khwarij. As a result of precise and skillful engagement, eight khwarij belonging to Indian sponsored, Fitna al Khwarij were sent to hell.In another engagement, own troops effectively foiled another infiltration attempt by a group of Khwarij along Pakistan-Afghanistan border in North Waziristan District and after intense fire exchange, five Khwarij were neutralised.Also Read: Pakistan security forces kill 22 Fitna al Hindustan Khawarij in Khyber operation: ISPRThese engagements once again substantiate Pakistan’s repeated stance regarding abject failure of Afghan Taliban Regime to ensure effective border management on their side. Afghan Taliban Regime must fulfil its obligations and deny the use of Afghan soil by khwarij and involvement of its citizens in terrorism inside Pakistan.The Security Forces of Pakistan remain resolute and unwavering in their commitment to defend the nation’s frontiers. Sanitization operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Indian sponsored Kharji found in the area as relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under vision “Azm e Istehkam” (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign sponsored and supported terrorism from the country.

Pakistan has taken a major step towards fully privatising its national carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), after a private consortium signalled its intention to acquire the government’s remaining stake.In a statement, the Ministry of Privatisation of Pakistan said a group led by Arif Habib Corporation Limited has formally notified authorities of its plan to purchase the final 25 percent shareholding in the airline. If completed, the move would transfer full ownership of the carrier to the private sector.Officials said management control of PIA is expected to shift by 25 May 2026, subject to the fulfilment of Conditions Precedent set out in the Share Purchase and Subscription Agreement (SPSA) signed on January 29, 2026.The notice of intent to acquire the remaining 25 percent equity stake (call option) has been accompanied by the requisite standby letter of credit and will be exercised in accordance with the terms of the SPSA.Total private-sector investment in the transaction is expected to amount to approximately PKR 180 billion, comprising: A minimum of Rs. 55 billion payable to the Government of Pakistan as divestment proceeds; and Rs. 125 billion to be injected as fresh equity into PIA to support the airline’s recapitalisation.Authorities say the fresh capital will be used to modernise the airline’s fleet, expand routes, and improve customer service and and operational systems.The consortium comprises Arif Habib Corporation Limited (AHCL), Fatima Fertilizer Company Limited, Lake City Holdings (Pvt) Limited, The City School (Pvt) Limited, AKD Group Holdings (Pvt) Limited, and Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC) Limited.The Privatisation Commission of Pakistan, the consortium, the Government of Pakistan, and PIA are working jointly to fulfil the conditions precedent ahead of the First Closing.

ISLAMABAD: The government of Pakistan has announced a fresh increase in petroleum prices, with the petrol price raised by Rs. 6.51 per litre, according to an official notification issued on Thursday.In a more significant move, diesel price has been increased by Rs. 19.39 per litre, adding further pressure on transportation and industrial sectors.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KkSp6iOevl8 New petrol price nears Rs 400 mark Following the revision, the petrol price has reached Rs. 399.86 per litre, bringing it dangerously close to the Rs. 400 threshold. Meanwhile, diesel is now priced at Rs. 399.58 per litre across the country.The latest adjustment in petrolium prices reflects ongoing volatility in global oil markets and domestic pricing policies.The notification confirms that the new petrol price and diesel rates will come into effect from 12:00 AM tonight, and will be applicable nationwide.Authorities have advised consumers and businesses to prepare for the revised fuel costs.Economists warn that the continuous increase in petrol price is likely to trigger a further rise in inflation, as fuel costs directly impact transportation, food prices, and overall living expenses.With fuel prices hovering at historic highs, concerns are mounting over the economic burden on the public.Earlier, reports circulating on social media claiming that petrol pumps across Pakistan would remain closed from May 1 to May 5 created confusion and concern among the public on Thursday.However, authorities and stakeholders have strongly denied these claims, terming them baseless and misleading.The All Pakistan Petroleum Pump Owners Association has officially dismissed rumours of any strike or shutdown.Vice Chairman Noman Butt clarified that there is no call for a strike from May 1 to May 5, and all petrol pumps across the country will continue to operate normally without interruption.The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) also issued a statement rejecting the circulating claims, stating that reports of petrol pump closures are completely false.OGRA confirmed that no petroleum association has announced any strike and assured that fuel supply remains stable and uninterrupted nationwide.The Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC) also refuted the rumours, calling them part of a misleading social media campaign.The council stated that Pakistan currently has sufficient fuel reserves, including 28 days of petrol and 34 days of diesel stock, ensuring an uninterrupted supply to consumers. Latest Petrol Related News & Updates Authorities have urged the public not to trust unverified social media posts and warned against the spread of misinformation by “miscreant elements” attempting to create panic.Consumers have been assured that all petrol pumps will remain open and fuel supply will continue as normal across the country.

A golden opportunity for skilled workers, especially those in Pakistan’s growing IT sector, in Germany, to access international career pathways and contribute to Germany’s expanding digital economy.Opportunities for IT professionals seeking to build careers in Germany, amid a significant rise in demand for skilled workers.Citizens of Pakistan require a residence permit for this purpose. The Immigration Act provides for two titles which govern entry and residence in Germany, namely the settlement permit and the residence permit.A visa entitles the holder to enter or travel through another country, and third-country nationals require this kind of residence permit. Furthermore, there is a visa opportunity for IT specialists without a formal degree.Germany is currently experiencing a major shortage of IT professionals. Reports indicate that in 2025, around 109,000 job positions in the IT sector remained vacant.Experienced or qualified IT specialists can expect attractive jobs in small and medium-sized enterprises, the manufacturing industry, or large international companies.Specialists in several fields are particularly in demand across Germany, including software development, application support, IT security, and data science.Employers are seeking talent capable of designing and implementing software systems, maintaining enterprise applications, securing company data, and analyzing complex datasets.

Islamabad: Reports circulating on social media claiming that petrol pumps across Pakistan would remain closed from May 1 to May 5 created confusion and concern among the public on Thursday, ARY News reported.However, authorities and stakeholders have strongly denied these claims, terming them baseless and misleading. Petrol Pump Owners Association Rejects Strike Call The All Pakistan Petroleum Pump Owners Association has officially dismissed rumours of any strike or shutdown.Vice Chairman Noman Butt clarified that there is no call for a strike from May 1 to May 5, and all petrol pumps across the country will continue to operate normally without interruption. OGRA Confirms Normal Fuel Supply Across Country The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) also issued a statement rejecting the circulating claims, stating that reports of petrol pump closures are completely false.OGRA confirmed that no petroleum association has announced any strike and assured that fuel supply remains stable and uninterrupted nationwide. Oil Companies Advisory Council Dismisses False Claims The Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC) also refuted the rumours, calling them part of a misleading social media campaign.The council stated that Pakistan currently has sufficient fuel reserves, including 28 days of petrol and 34 days of diesel stock, ensuring an uninterrupted supply to consumers. Public Urged to Ignore Misinformation Authorities have urged the public not to trust unverified social media posts and warned against the spread of misinformation by “miscreant elements” attempting to create panic.Consumers have been assured that all petrol pumps will remain open and fuel supply will continue as normal across the country. Latest Petrol Related News & Updates