IQRA Uni holds convocation ceremony at Isb Convention Centre

Islamabad: Iqra University held its convocation ceremony at the Islamabad Convention Centre, celebrating the achievements of 300 graduates from diverse academic disciplines.

The event highlighted the university's commitment to fostering innovation, leadership and academic excellence.

The ceremony was honoured by the presence of Senate Chairman and former Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani as the chief guest, who inspired graduates with a powerful message of hope and responsibility.

"As a chairman of the Senate, I assure you of my full support in the pursuit to transform our academic institutions into incubators of fresh ideas and thoughts, innovation, technological and scientific advancement, critical thinking, and modern arts,' Gilani said.

He lauded Iqra University for its commitment to continue imparting quality education to prepare students as prospective leaders and partners in international development, progress, and prosperity.

Vice Chancellor Dr Nassar Ikram congratulated the graduating students and expressed pride in their achievements.

"Today, you join an esteemed group of alumni who are driving change and innovation across the globe. Remember that the skills and values you've developed here will guide you in shaping a brighter future for Pakistan," he said.

Dr Ikram also underscored the university's recent accomplishments, including its consistent ranking among the top universities in South Asia.

The convocation conferred degrees upon 300 graduates, including 8 PhD scholars, master's, and bachelor's students from the departments of Computing and Technology, Business Administration, Social Sciences, Fashion and Design, and Media Studies. Gold medals were awarded to 19 outstanding graduates in recognition of their academic excellence and dedication.

Prof. Dr Eatzaz and Deputy Registrar Asif Mahmood Jasra organised the momentous occasion where parents, faculty, and distinguished guests joined in celebrating the graduates' hard work and perseverance.

The chairman of the Senate awarded the gold medallists and handed out the degrees to all graduates.

Iqra University remains steadfast in its commitment to producing graduates who embody critical thinking, innovation, and social responsibility.

This year's convocation reflected not just the culmination of academic achievements but also the university's role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

PTI leaders pointing fingers at others are themselves corrupt: Barrister Daniyal

Islamabad: Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting, Barrister Danyal Chaudhary slammed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for promoting chaos and hate politics in the country.

Talking in an exclusive interview with a private news channel, he accused the PTI party of being hypocritical as those pointing fingers at others are themselves proven to be corrupt added that more revelations about PTI's wrongdoing will be exposed in the future.

He further made some serious allegations against PTI, claiming that during their tenure, they prioritized filling their own pockets over serving the people.

He also accused PTI of harassing the general public and the business community, with Shahzad Akbar being singled out for allegedly harassing businessmen.

Responding to a query, he said PML-N has been instrumental in rescuing Pakistan from crises, including isolation and stalled projects like CPEC.

When PML-N took the reins, Pakistan was facing significant challenges but through their efforts, the country has begun to revive and reclaim its standing.

Notably, CPEC, a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative, has gained momentum under PML-N's leadership. This comprehensive project aims to enhance regional connectivity, promote economic growth, and improve the lives of people in Pakistan and beyond, he added.

"We are proudly claiming that PML-N is taking the country towards progress." Danyal Chaudhary added.

DIG Islamabad conducts surprise visit to PS Lohi Bher

Islamabad: Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Syed Ali Raza made a surprise visit on Sunday to Lohi Bher Police Station to assess the station's operations and ensure the welfare of both citizens and officers.

A police spokesperson told reporter that during the visit, DIG Islamabad checked the police station records, roznamcha, front desk, record room, lockup, investigation officers' rooms and residential barrack.

On this occasion, DIG Raza said that inappropriate behavior toward citizens will not be tolerated under any circumstances. DIG Raza directed the police officials to listen to the problems of every citizen who comes to the police station with respect. The welfare of police officers is among the top priorities of the Islamabad police, he added.

DIG Raza further directed the officers to make the dispute resolution centers more active, and the problems faced by citizens and police officers should be resolved on a first priority basis.

Use of seasonal fruits, veggies can keep citizens healthy this winter: Experts

Islamabad: As the winter season grips the country, health experts Sunday warned of a surge in flu, cough and chest infections due to low immune systems, affecting citizens of all ages, especially kids and advised to consume seasonal fruits and vegetables to boost immunity.

Medical experts talking to a private news channel emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle to boost immunity.

Herbalist Dr. Ghalib Agha, talking to a private news channel advised citizens to consume a balanced diet rich in vegetables and seasonal fruits, which are packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system.

He urged citizens to take proactive steps to boost their immunity, including consuming seasonal fruits and vegetables that are rich in essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals, such as citrus fruits, sweet potatoes, carrots, and dark leafy greens, which can help to support immune systems and reduce the risk of illness.

He stressed the need for citizens to adopt natural remedies to combat the rising health concerns.

He recommended drinking kehwa, a traditional Pakistani herbal tea to help alleviate symptoms of flu, cough and chest infections.

Dr. Agha explained that kehwa, made with a combination of herbs and spices has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the throat and chest, providing relief from congestion and cough.

He also emphasized the importance of using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients to prepare kehwa as they are more effective in boosting the immune system and fighting off infections.

By incorporating kehwa into their daily routine, citizens can take a proactive approach to protecting their health and well-being during the winter season, he added.

President lauds security forces for stopping intrusion at Pak-Afghan border

Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari Sunday lauded the security forces for stopping intrusion at Pak-Afghan border in district Zhob.

The President appreciated the security forces for their timely action against the terrorists of Fitna al-Khawarij.

He commended the security forces for eliminating five Khawarij during the operation.

He said the brave security forces of Pakistan were always ready to protect borders of the country.

He reiterated the determination to completely eradicate terrorism and defend borders of the country.

Systemic injustice haunts minorities in India as World observes religion day

Islamabad: As the global community marks World Religion Day on Sunday (January 19) the precarious situation of India's religious minorities serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that still persist in achieving true religious harmony and coexistence, casting a pall of concern over the very ideals that this day seeks to uphold.

According to reporter, far from celebrating, minorities in India are grappling with systemic violence, discrimination, and exclusion under the Hindutva-driven policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.

The alarming rise in attacks on Muslims and Christians, coupled with economic and social marginalization, has drawn global criticism.

Hindutva leaders openly incite violence against minorities, while the ruling BJP government emboldens extremists by failing to hold them accountable.

Incidents of mob lynching, forced conversions, destruction of religious sites, and hate speech have surged across India.

Minority communities report enduring psychological, physical, and economic persecution, as Hindu nationalist narratives aim to erase their cultural and religious identities.

India's deteriorating record on religious freedom under Modi's right-wing agenda has made it unfit to meaningfully observe World Religion Day.

The international community, rights organizations, and global leaders are increasingly calling for urgent action to halt these human rights violations and to hold India accountable for its ongoing assaults on religious minorities.

The continued persecution of Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, and other marginalized groups exposes the stark contradiction between India's democratic ideals and its reality under the current regime.

The growing intolerance not only threatens India's social fabric but also poses a global challenge to religious freedom and human rights.