Category: Islamabad

Islamabad: Speaker of National Assembly, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has paid profound tribute to Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider) on his 27th martyrdom anniversary, terming him as one of Pakistan’s most valiant sons whose unparalleled courage, unwavering resolve and supreme sacrifice continue to inspire generations of Pakistanis.

He said that Sher Khan Shaheed embraced martyrdom while defending the motherland with exceptional bravery and steadfast determination.

The Speaker said that the martyr’s extraordinary valour on the Kargil front remains a glorious chapter in Pakistan’s history and a timeless symbol of patriotism, selflessness and devotion to duty.

He said that his sacrifice will forever be remembered with immense pride and gratitude by the people of Pakistan.

Ayaz Sadiq said that the unwavering courage displayed by Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed serves as a shining example for the younger generation, inspiring them to uphold the values of patriotism, sacrifice and national service.

He said that the officers and soldiers of the Pakistan armed forces have always rendered unparalleled sacrifices in defence of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and deserve the nation’s highest tribute for their unwavering commitment.

Ayaz Sadiq emphasized that the people of Pakistan have always stood shoulder to shoulder with their armed forces, united like an iron wall in defence of the homeland.

He said that this enduring bond between the nation and its defenders remains the cornerstone of Pakistan’s strength and resilience.

Referring to the historic victory in Marka-e-Haq, Ayaz Sadiq said that the entire nation is deeply grateful to Allah Almighty for this great success, which stands as a testament to the exceptional courage and professionalism of the Pakistan armed forces, as well as the unity, faith, and steadfast resolve of the Pakistani nation.

Ayaz Sadiq prayed to Allah Almighty to elevate the ranks of Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed in Jannat-ul-Firdous, grant him His infinite mercy, and bless Pakistan with lasting peace, strength, unity, and prosperity.

Islamabad: A psychiatrist on Sunday called for quality, youth-oriented content in media and education systems, warning that disconnecting young people from their current digital reality may contribute to loneliness and anxiety in the era of social media.

While interacting with PTV News channel, psychiatrist Dr Ayesha Durrani urged reforms in education and social media, saying traditional and outdated content is fueling growing isolation among Gen Z, adding, young people need modern, engaging, and time-relevant material instead of old-style approaches, warning that the current mismatch is increasing boredom and loneliness.

She also stressed the need to introduce age limits for social media use, similar to practices in countries like Japan and the United States, adding, digital platforms should be regulated according to age groups to protect young users from harmful psychological effects.

She emphasized that media and educational systems should shift towards time-centered and youth-focused programs instead of relying on outdated or ‘boring’ content designed for older generations.

Gen Z requires modern, engaging, and relevant material that aligns with their digital lifestyle and learning patterns, she stressed.

Dr Durrani further highlighted that excessive and unstructured use of social media is contributing to growing feelings of loneliness among individuals, adding, while people remain constantly active on social media apps, meaningful real-life interactions and relationships are gradually declining.

She added that many individuals appear socially connected online but are practically isolated in real life, leading to emotional distance and weak personal relationships, adding, this imbalance between virtual engagement and real-world interaction is becoming a serious mental health concern.

She urged families, educators and policymakers to encourage balanced digital usage and promote real-life social bonding, stressing that healthier routines and meaningful human connections are essential for emotional well-being in the modern age.

She mentioned that excessive use of social media and prolonged screen exposure is also contributing to rising biological and physical health issues among young people.

According to her, irregular sleep patterns, reduced physical activity, eye strain and stress-related hormonal imbalances are becoming increasingly common due to continuous digital engagement.

She further explained that such biological impacts are not limited to physical fatigue but are also linked to declining concentration levels, mood disturbances and weakened overall well-being.

She stressed that these issues are especially affecting the younger generation, who spend a significant portion of their time on digital platforms.

In conclusion, she urged the need for balanced social media use, healthier routines, and greater awareness among families and institutions to protect both the mental and physical health of youth, emphasizing that timely action is essential to prevent long-term consequences.

Islamabad: : ‘Be brave. Be a man. Sacrifice without complaint.’ For many boys in Pakistan, these are among the first words they hear when they cry, stumble or struggle. What begins as advice gradually turns into expectation, to be strong, to provide for others, to endure without protest and to never show emotion. Over time, strength is measured not just by endurance, but by silence.

Whenever social issues are discussed in Pakistan, the conversation usually revolves around education, inflation, corruption, women’s rights and gender-based violence. These are undoubtedly important issues. Yet there is another reality that often remains overlooked: the emotional and psychological struggles of men.

A study examining newspaper-reported suicides in Pakistan between 2019 and 2020 found that nearly 62 percent of reported cases involved men. Financial hardship, domestic conflict and failed relationships were among the most commonly identified contributing factors. Pakistan has only around 0.19 psychiatrists per 100,000 people-one of the lowest ratios globally, leaving many with limited access to mental health care.

Talking to reporter, Commander (R) Dr. Fayyaz Ahmed Anjum, a Clinical Psychologist and Counsellor in Islamabad who regularly works with young men, talking to reporter said emotional distress is often expressed indirectly.

‘Most of my male clients don’t come in saying, ‘I’m depressed.’ They come in because their chest hurts, they can’t sleep, or they’re constantly angry. It takes weeks before they can even say the word ‘sad.’ Nobody taught them that vocabulary.’

He added that many men are not unwilling to seek help; they have simply never been encouraged to identify or express what they feel.

In Pakistani society, a man’s value is often measured by his ability to provide financially for his family. From an early age, boys are told they will grow up, secure a job and support their parents, spouse and children. Their worth is linked less to identity and more to income. When they lose a job or struggle financially, many feel they have failed despite their effort.

Pakistan’s unemployment rate reached around 8 percent in 2025, while youth unemployment remained above 10 percent. More than 31 percent of graduates were reportedly unemployed. Combined with high inflation, rising housing costs and increasing education expenses, these pressures have made financial stability difficult for many young men.

As a result, many delay marriage, not because they lack desire, but because they feel unable to meet expectations tied to weddings, housing and family support. Many also support ageing parents and siblings while working in jobs below their qualifications.

Sharing his experience with reporter, Zouhal, a 27-year-old graduate of COMSATS University Islamabad now working in sales unrelated to his degree, said, ‘I did everything right. Degree, internships, decent grades. But there’s nothing out there. I can’t propose to anyone because what do I even offer right now? I feel like I’m failing just by existing in this economy.’

His experience reflects the reality of many educated young men caught between social expectations and limited opportunity.

Men also face challenges within family and legal systems. In child custody disputes, mothers are often viewed as primary caregivers, leaving some fathers feeling they must work harder to remain present in their children’s lives after separation. Likewise, men who experience emotional, physical or psychological abuse often hesitate to report it, fearing disbelief or ridicule. The expectation that men must always be strong discourages help-seeking and leaves many cases unreported.

Social isolation further deepens these struggles. Many men build friendships around work, sports or shared activities rather than emotional conversations. As responsibilities increase with age, those friendships often weaken. Over time, some are left with very few people they can confide in, increasing loneliness during difficult periods.

Mental Health experts believe these patterns often begin at home. Boys learn emotional behaviour by observing older men. When fathers suppress sadness, fear or disappointment to appear strong, those habits are passed on, often unintentionally, making emotional silence a default form of masculinity.

This does not mean men have harder lives than women. Everyone faces different challenges. But expecting men to carry every burden in silence comes at a cost, not only to their mental health but also to their families, relationships and communities.

A healthy society is one where both men and women feel heard, respected and able to ask for help without fear of judgment. Recognizing men’s struggles is not about shifting focus away from women’s issues. It is about understanding that stronger families are built when vulnerability is not punished with silence.

Islamabad: The 27th martyrdom anniversary of Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider) is being observed across the country on Sunday with profound reverence and respect.

Special prayers were offered in mosques nationwide for the elevation of the ranks of the martyrs, their forgiveness, and for the peace, security, and stability of the country.

Religious scholars paid glowing tribute to the unparalleled sacrifices of Pakistan’s martyrs, describing them as the nation’s greatest source of pride and honour.

Prominent scholars said that those who laid down their lives in defence of the motherland made sacrifices that constitute a collective national trust and responsibility which can never be forgotten.

They said the unparalleled sacrifices of Pakistan’s martyrs have laid the foundations of the country’s peace, freedom, and stability.

They emphasized that dignified nations always remember and honour their martyrs with the utmost respect, adding that nations which cherish the sacrifices of their heroes continue to advance on the path of honour, unity, and stability.

Paying tribute to Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed, the scholars said he set an enduring example of courage, bravery, and patriotism that will continue to inspire future generations.

During the 1999 Kargil conflict, Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed displayed extraordinary gallantry and resolute leadership while defending the motherland against overwhelming odds. Leading from the front with exceptional determination, he embraced martyrdom in keeping with the finest traditions of the Pakistan Army, leaving behind a legacy of honour, valour, and selfless service.

Captain Karnal Sher Khan embraced martyrdom on this day in 1999 and was posthumously awarded the Nishan-e-Haider, Pakistan’s highest military gallantry award.

Islamabad: Rwanda’s 32nd Liberation Day (Kwibohora) was celebrated in Islamabad with patriotic fervor as Federal ministers, diplomats, parliamentarians, business leaders and members of the diplomatic community gathered to commemorate the country’s remarkable journey from the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi to becoming one of Africa’s fastest-growing and most resilient economies.

The commemorative ceremony, organized by the Embassy of Rwanda in Islamabad, highlighted Rwanda’s transformation through national unity, visionary leadership, innovation and strong governance while reaffirming the growing bilateral partnership between Rwanda and Pakistan.

Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik said Rwanda’s Liberation Day symbolizes the courage, resilience and determination of the Rwandan people.

He noted that Kwibohora marks not only the end of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi but also the beginning of Rwanda’s journey towards peace, reconciliation, unity and sustainable development.

He praised Rwanda’s extraordinary achievements in governance, healthcare, education, innovation and economic development over the past three decades, describing the country as a model of recovery and prosperity in Africa.

Barrister Aqeel Malik also highlighted the strong and friendly relations between Pakistan and Rwanda, saying both countries continue to expand cooperation in trade, defence, education and multilateral diplomacy while working together to promote peace and sustainable development at international forums.

Speaking on the occasion, High Commissioner of the Republic of Rwanda to Pakistan H.E. Fatou Harerimana said the nation was commemorating 32 years since its liberation from the tragedy of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

She paid tribute to the brave soldiers of the Rwanda Patriotic Army who sacrificed their lives to stop the genocide and restore peace, saying their courage and devotion would never be forgotten.

The High Commissioner said that under the visionary leadership of President Paul Kagame and the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF), Rwanda has undergone a historic transformation, emerging as a gateway to Africa driven by resilience, innovation and determination.

Highlighting Rwanda’s achievements, she said the country has made remarkable progress in economic development, tourism, infrastructure, healthcare, education, information technology, artificial intelligence and sports.

She noted that Rwanda has become a continental leader in digital innovation, having launched 5G technology and advancing preparations for future 6G deployment.

The country has also established the Africa Pharmaceutical Technology Foundation and the Coding College Academy to equip young Africans with advanced technological skills.

Harerimana said Rwanda is the first country in Africa to embark on nuclear energy development and continues to rank among the continent’s top performers in the World Bank’s Business Ready (B-READY) report.

She also highlighted Rwanda’s growing reputation as a premier destination for tourism and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE), supported by world-class infrastructure, luxury hotels, national parks and the ongoing construction of a new Kigali International Airport, which is expected to become one of Africa’s largest aviation hubs.

In sports, she said Rwanda has successfully hosted major international events, including the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Championships, while preparing to host Formula One racing in Kigali. The country has also hosted Basketball Africa League competitions and international volleyball championships.

The envoy further emphasized Rwanda’s achievements in healthcare, noting that more than 90 percent of its population enjoys health insurance coverage. She said Rwanda has become a global leader in mRNA vaccine manufacturing and will soon host the headquarters of the African Medicines Agency (AMA), supporting the African Union’s goal of producing 60 percent of Africa’s vaccine requirements by 2040.

On gender equality, she pointed out that Rwanda leads the world with women occupying nearly 64 percent of parliamentary seats, making it the global leader in female parliamentary representation.

The High Commissioner also reaffirmed the growing diplomatic relationship between Rwanda and Pakistan, describing it as a partnership built on mutual respect, shared historical experiences and cooperation in defence, health, education, parliamentary exchanges, trade, gender equality and human rights.

She said both countries continue to work closely at the United Nations, in peacekeeping missions, the Commonwealth and other international platforms on issues including climate change, green energy and global peace.

Harerimana also acknowledged the valuable contribution of the Pakistani diaspora in Rwanda in strengthening cultural, diplomatic, business and people-to-people relations between the two countries.

She thanked the distinguished guests, members of the diplomatic corps and media representatives for joining the celebrations and helping make the event a meaningful tribute to Rwanda’s journey of liberation, resilience and national transformation.

Islamabad: The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration has conducted a major anti-encroachment operation in Sangjhani and Shah Allah Ditta areas and arrested fourteen people and demolished seven illegal structures against unauthorized construction.

According to officials, action was taken in Mouza Sangjhani and Shah Allah Ditta, where several structures were being built without the required No Objection Certificate (NOC). During the operation in Shah Allah Ditta, seven structures constructed in violation of regulations were demolished.

Authorities said an attempt to occupy CDA land was also prevented during the drive. A total of 14 individuals allegedly involved in illegal construction activities were arrested from the site and legal proceedings were initiated against them.

The district administration stated that action would continue against all those involved in unauthorized construction, regardless of their status or influence. Officials said such activities create legal disputes, affect planned development, and result in the misuse of public land.

In a separate administrative action, the Numberdar of Mouza Sangjhani was removed from his position over negligence in official duties. Authorities said he failed to fulfill responsibilities related to monitoring and reporting illegal construction activities in the area.

Deputy Commissioner Islamabad warned that strict action would also be taken against officials found responsible for failing to prevent unauthorized construction. He said all officers concerned would be held accountable if illegal developments continued within their jurisdictions.

The district administration urged residents to avoid starting any construction project without obtaining the required NOC and other approvals from the relevant departments. Citizens were advised to verify legal requirements before purchasing plots or beginning development work.

Officials further appealed to the public to assist authorities by reporting illegal construction and encroachment activities. They said public cooperation would help protect government land and ensure compliance with building regulations.

The administration reiterated that legal action against individuals involved in unauthorized construction would continue without discrimination and that enforcement operations would remain ongoing across Islamabad to prevent further violations.