National unity vital for country’s stability: PA speaker

Lahore: Punjab Assembly (PA) Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has said that the country's stability is directly linked to national unity and unwavering resolve, urging the nation to keep the spirit of the Pakistan Movement alive.

He said this while addressing the central ceremony held in connection with Pakistan Day by the District Education Authority at Government Model High School, Kasur here on Sunday.

The event commenced with a flag-hoisting ceremony, where the distinguished guests raised the national flag, followed by a salute presented by a well-disciplined contingent of police. Students added a patriotic touch to the event by performing national songs and presenting bouquets to the guests.

Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan reaffirming the nation's stance against terrorism, the speaker declared that the malicious intentions of terrorist organizations would be foiled.

He said, "Entire nation stands united with the armed forces to eradicate this menace of terrorism."

He further underscored the importance of adopting the principles of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah for national progress and called on the youth to dedicate their struggle towards ensuring a prosperous future for Pakistan.

Minister of State Malik Rasheed Ahmad Khan said, "Pakistan is the fruit of immense sacrifices and safeguarding it is a collective responsibility."

He stressed that overcoming the challenges faced by the country requires unity and diligence. Meanwhile, MPA Malik Saeed Ahmad Khan paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country's security, emphasizing that their sacrifices should never be forgotten.

Federal Parliamentary Secretary Saad Waseem Sheikh, Deputy Commissioner Imran Ali and DPO Isa Khan Sukhaira also graced the ocassion.

Punjab Police reiterate its resolve for safe Punjab & Safe Pakistan

Lahore: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab Dr Usman Anwar said in his special message on the occasion of Pakistan Day that the Punjab Police reiterate its resolve to a safe Punjab and a safe Pakistan.

The IGP while paying tribute to the great sacrifices of the leaders and martyrs of the freedom movement, said that the Punjab Police renews its commitment to serve, protect, and provide justice to the country and nation on Pakistan Day.

He said that on Pakistan Day, we reiterate our resolve to uproot terrorists, miscreants and criminal elements. Punjab Police will spare no effort to thwart the evil intentions of the enemy with the cooperation of citizens, law enforcement agencies and security agencies.

IG Punjab said that full security has been provided to all rallies and ceremonies taking place across Punjab including Lahore on Pakistan Day.

IG Punjab further said that by tackling the challenges, we will reach the goal of safe Punjab and safe Pakistan.

March 23, 1940, laid the foundation for our independence, says Gorchani

Lahore: Minister for Mines and Minerals Sher Ali Gorchani, in his message on Pakistan Day, said on Sunday that March 23, 1940, "laid the foundation for our independence, and the Pakistan Resolution paved the way for a separate homeland for the Muslims of the Subcontinent".

He said: "Pakistan Day reminds us of national unity, sacrifices, and determination." He emphasised that Pakistan's future is bright, "and we must progress with unity and hard work. Pakistan Day is a day of renewed commitment, inspiring us to honour the sacrifices of our forefathers and work collectively for the country's development."

The minister stated that a strong, prosperous, and sovereign Pakistan is the true reward of our martyrs' sacrifices. "We must never forget these sacrifices and should play our part in the nation's progress in every possible way," he added.

Formal campaign being conducted to promote early cotton sowing

Lahore: Punjab Agriculture Secretary Iftikhar Ali Sahoo has said that for the first time in Punjab a formal campaign is being conducted to promote early cotton sowing.

He presided over the review meeting on the target for early cotton sowing here on Sunday. Punjab Agriculture (Extension) DG Chaudhry Abdul Hameed briefed the meeting on the progress of early cotton sowing.

The secretary said that with the grace of the Allah Almighty, target to achieve early sowing of cotton on one million acres would be achieved. He further announced that financial assistance would be provided to farmers who would complete early cotton sowing by March 31. Under this initiative, farmers cultivating early cotton on five acres or more would receive cash assistance of Rs 25,000.

The registration process for farmers opting for early cotton sowing was ongoing and a verification form would be prepared to inspect the cultivated areas, he added.

The Secretary also commended the role of field formations in ensuring the success of this campaign and expressed satisfaction over the ongoing efforts.

CM praises police for killing dacoits

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has commended the Punjab Police for successfully eliminating two dangerous dacoits, including Shah Mir alias Meera Kosh, who were involved in the martyrdom of 12 police officers in Katcha area.

Expressing her appreciation, the CM acknowledged the bravery and dedication of the police force in their fight against crime. She also extended her best wishes to Punjab Police for continued success in their mission to eradicate criminals and ensure peace in the province.

10 dead, 1,639 injured in Punjab road accidents

Lahore: At least 10 people were killed and 1,639 others injured in 1,386 road accidents in Punjab during the last 24 hours. As many as 739 people with serious injuries were shifted to different hospitals, while 900 with minor injuries were treated at the incident site by the rescue medical teams.

The data analysis showed that 919 drivers, 68 underage drivers, 181 pedestrians, and 549 passengers were among the victims of road traffic crashes. The statistics showed that 279 accidents were reported in Lahore, which affected 340 persons placing the provincial capital at top of the list, followed by Faisalabad with 102 accidents and 125 victims, and at third Gujranwala with 79 accidents and 85 victims.

According to the data, 1,374 motorbikes, 85 auto-rickshaws, 140 motorcars, 32 vans, 10 passenger buses, 34 truck and 92 other types of vehicles and slow-moving carts were involved in these road traffic accidents.