Category: Lahore

Lahore: The Punjab government has announced the transfer of Rs. 10,000 to eligible individuals through bank accounts under the 'Ramazan Nigehban Package 2025', ensuring financial support ahead of the holy month of Ramazan.

Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Price Control Salma Butt informed reporter that the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) has completed the data collection process and finalised a transparent shortlisting mechanism to identify deserving beneficiaries. Additionally, the President of the Bank of Punjab has provided key insights to ensure transparency in the distribution of payments.

She stated that under the directives of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, preparations for the package are in full swing to facilitate smooth implementation. In response to a query, Salma Butt stressed the importance of a coordinated strategy among all departments to guarantee a fair and efficient disbursement process.

The 'Ramazan Nigehban Package 2025 has been designed to ensure aid reaches those in need without hurdles. Citizens can register through the user-friendly online portal [pser.punjab.gov.pk](http: //pser.punjab.gov.pk) or visit their local union council or municipal office for assistance.

Lahore: Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Gujranwala Zone arrested a suspect involved in illegally sending citizens abroad via sea routes.

A spokesperson for the FIA said that the suspect, Muhammad Qasim alias Umar Khan, was arrested in Mandi Bahauddin.

The spokesperson said the suspect, along with his accomplices, attempted to illegally send a citizen to Spain. The victim was first sent to Mauritania on a visit visa, after which the smugglers tried to smuggle him to Spain via boat. However, the victim refused to travel by sea and returned to Pakistan.

The spokesperson added that the suspects had allegedly extorted Rs 4.9 million from the victim's family in exchange for facilitating his illegal migration. A case was registered against the arrested suspect and further investigations were underway.

FIA Director Gujranwala Zone, Abdul Qadir Qamar said that the agency has intensified operations against human trafficking networks. He reaffirmed that a zero-tolerance policy was being enforced to combat the crime.

"Those playing with innocent lives will be brought to justice,' he asserted.

Lahore: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Friday convicted a man in an explosive materials recovery case, sentencing him to five-year imprisonment.

ATC Judge Arshad Javed announced the verdict after concluding the trial proceedings. The prosecution presented witnesses and evidence, proving the charges against the accused, Zahoor Ahmad.

The case was registered by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Lahore, which had arrested Zahoor Ahmad in connection with the recovery of explosive materials.

Lahore: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar has approved the release of an additional Rs. 3.35 million to cover medical expenses for police personnel injured in the line of duty.

According to a Punjab Police spokesperson, Rs. 1.5 million has been allocated for Constable Shahzad Ahmed, while ASI Fahad Rasheed, Constable Umair Akram, and Constable Moin Rafiq have each received Rs. 500,000. Additionally, Constable Muhammad Abrar has been granted Rs. 250,000, and Constable Kashif Raza has been provided Rs. 100,000 for medical treatment.

The funds were approved by the Compensation Award Committee, chaired by Additional IG Welfare Imran Irshad.

Lahore: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Friday convicted a man in an explosive materials recovery case, sentencing him to five-year imprisonment.

ATC Judge Arshad Javed announced the verdict after concluding the trial proceedings. The prosecution presented witnesses and evidence, proving the charges against the accused, Zahoor Ahmad.

The case was registered by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Lahore, which had arrested Zahoor Ahmad in connection with the recovery of explosive materials.

Lahore: The 13th edition of the Lahore Literary Festival (LLF) commenced at the Lahore Arts Council, Alhamra, marking the beginning of a dynamic three-day celebration of arts, literature, history, and civilisation.

The opening ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including LLF Chairman Iqbal Z. Ahmed, LLF Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman Alhamra Razi Ahmed, Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bukhari, British Conuncil Director James Hampson, UNESCO Officer-in-Charge in Pakistan Karahang Anthony Tom, and Alhamra Executive Director Tauqeer Haider Kazmi, among others.

A highlight of the event was the special recognition of LLF CEO Razi Ahmed, who was honoured with France's prestigious 'Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres' award for his outstanding contribution to arts and cultural exchange. The announcement by Chairman LLF Iqbal Z. Ahmed was met with resounding applause, celebrating Razi Ahmed's dedication to promoting literary and artistic endeavours on both national and international platforms.

The festival opened on a patriotic note with a stirring rendition of the national anthem by a student from the Alhamra Academy of Arts. Razi Ahmed, in his address, expressed heartfelt gratitude to national and international delegates whose support has elevated the LLF into a premier literary event. Alongside British Council Director James Hampson, he presented the 'Lok Dastan Prize 2025' to its winners, while esteemed scholar Rashid Ahmed and acclaimed writer Ikramullah were honoured with 'Lifetime Achievement Award' for their remarkable contribution to literature and scholarship.

Razi Ahmed emphasised that the 13th edition of LLF was a celebration of literature, culture, and the power of ideas. "This festival continues to bring together voices from around the world, fostering dialogue and enriching minds," he remarked.

Alhamra's Executive Director Tauqeer Haider Kazmi commended the dedication of the Alhamra team, stating, 'The success of this festival is a testament to their unwavering commitment. Their support has been instrumental in creating a platform where art and literature converge to celebrate centuries of civilisation.'

With over 150 national and international delegates in attendance, the LLF 2025 promises an enriching experience through 60 engaging sessions covering a broad spectrum of topics, from arts and literature to history and sociology. Over the next three days, participants will embark on an intellectual journey, exploring the diverse cultural heritage that has shaped civilisations across centuries.

As a beacon of cultural dialogue and creative expression, the 'Lahore Literary Festival' continues to set the stage for transformative discussions, inspiring future endeavors in the world of arts and literature, Razi Ahmed concluded.