Category: Lahore

Lahore: A high-level delegation from South Punjab, led by Shahid Imran, Convener of the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Regional Committee on Food, left for China on Sunday to explore collaborative avenues in the food sector.

Prior to departure, he told reporters that China, being a global leader in food technology and a major importer of agricultural goods, offers significant potential for Pakistani exporters. The delegation would engage in meetings and site visits to understand China's advanced practices and identify areas for mutual growth.

This initiative, he said, aligns with Pakistan's broader strategy to boost its food exports and tap into international markets. The trip is expected to pave the way for long-term collaborations, benefiting both the countries and strengthening their strategic partnership in the food industry.

Shahid Imran said that the delegation comprising industry leaders and agricultural experts, aims to strengthen bilateral ties and foster partnerships with Chinese counterparts. The visit will focuses on enhancing trade, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing in areas such as food processing, agricultural innovation, and value-added products, especially snacks.

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched the 'Chief Minister Punjab Transplant Programme', terming it the most comprehensive transplant initiative in the country's history.

For the first time, five major transplant procedures - liver, kidney, bone marrow, cornea, and cochlear implants - would be conducted free of cost for the deserving patients, said a handout issued here on Sunday.

Through this initiative, Punjab residents in need could undergo transplant surgeries at the government's expense, ensuring access to life-saving treatments. Cochlear implants would also be provided for young children born with hearing impairments, enabling them to lead normal lives. Patients could register with the Punjab Human Organ Transplantation Authority (PHOTA) to avail these facilities. Additionally, transplants would be available not only at government hospitals but also in selected private hospitals.

To facilitate access to information, the Punjab government has set up a toll-free helpline: 09009 0800.

CM Maryam Nawaz highlighted the government's commitment to public welfare, saying 'The state recognises the needs of every citizen, and we will fulfill our responsibility. Organ transplantation is a highly complex and costly procedure that most people cannot afford. Now, the government will take on this responsibility.'

She added that with cochlear implants, children born deaf will regain their hearing and live normal lives. Similarly, successful corneal transplants will restore vision for those suffering from blindness.

The CM assured the public that the government will bear all expenses for liver and kidney transplants, ensuring that no financial burden falls on patients.

Lahore: The police have arrested 1,757 people and registered 1,717 cases over violation of the Anti-Kite Flying Act across the Punjab province this year so far.

A spokesperson for the police said on Sunday that 415,516 kites and 13,643 spinning wheels were recovered, and challans of 1,344 cases were submitted to courts for further legal action.

In Lahore, 451 people were arrested, 453 cases were registered, 19,244 kites and 700 string rolls were recovered.

Lahore: The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) Secretariat is set to celebrate its silver jubilee with a national seminar titled: '25 Years of Achievements' here at the Governor's House on February 25.

FTO Coordinator Saif Ur Rehman informed media on Sunday that FTO Dr Asif Mahmood Jah would present a report, and the event would highlight the secretariat's accomplishments over the past 25 years, showcasing its contributions to improving tax administration and promptly addressing taxpayer grievances related to federal taxes.

The seminar, he said, would bring together key stakeholders including government officials, tax experts, and representatives from various sectors, to reflect on the progress made and discuss future strategies. The celebration underscores the FTO secretariat's commitment for transparency, fairness, and efficiency in the tax system.

Lahore: The Lahore Literary Festival (LLF) concluded on Sunday, delivering a powerful message to the world about Pakistan's status as a peaceful and progressive nation. The event, held at Alhamra, featured grand hospitality arrangements for scholars and intellectuals from across the globe, creating an atmosphere of literary enthusiasm and engagement.

The vibrant people of Lahore displayed a keen interest in global literature, with international book launches drawing large crowds and highlighting the city's deep-rooted literary culture. As a UNESCO City of Literature, Lahore gained significant attention, further cementing its reputation as a hub for intellectual and artistic discourse.

One of the festival's major highlights was a compelling session on human rights, which sparked engaging discussions and facilitated the exchange of diverse thoughts and ideas. Scholars also explored the complexities of the Mughal era, delving into its governance and historical significance. Sessions dedicated to Islamic art, architecture, and historical perspectives enriched the audience with valuable insights.

A panel discussion on Pakistan's cultural dimensions featured renowned figures such as Iftikhar Arif, Noor-ul-Huda Shah, and Asghar Nadeem Syed, with Sheeba Alam serving as the moderator. Another thought-provoking session revolved around the theme "Istanbul - Three Cities and Three Stories." Additionally, F.S. Aijazuddin and Huzaifa led a discussion on pre-Partition events, while historians captivated audiences with an insightful talk on "Mughal Lahore and Modern Stories."

The LLF received extensive media coverage in Pakistan, further enhancing the country's soft image on the global stage. By fostering literary appreciation and intellectual discourse, the festival successfully promoted Pakistan's rich cultural heritage and its commitment to progressive values.

Lahore: Ramadan-ul-Mubarak is a time for compassion, generosity and solidarity, so the business community should play its part in easing the financial burden on people particularly low-income families.SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry's former president Iftikhar Ali Malik expressed these views through a media statement here Sunday, and urged traders and shopkeepers to sell daily-use items, edibles, groceries, garments and shoes at minimal profit margins during upcoming Ramadan.He said that reducing profit margins on essential items would not only benefit the public but also foster goodwill and trust. He stressed that such initiatives align with the spirit of Ramadan that encourages sharing and caring for the less fortunate.He also appealed to traders and retailers to avoid hoarding as it often leads to artificial inflation during this sacred month and Islam strictly forbids hoarding and profiteering.Malik also urged the government to monitor markets closely to ensure compliance with fair pricing policies. He hoped that the business community would respond positively to this call, demonstrating ethical responsibility and contributing to a more inclusive and compassionate society during Ramadan.