Category: Lahore

Lahore: More than 467,000 citizens availed various policing services at Khidmat Marakaz across Punjab in a single month, a police spokesperson reported on Sunday.

Among the services provided inckluded 287,000 people underwent general police verification; 86,600 obtained police character certificates; 47,200 registered their tenancy agreements; 10,180 received medicolegal certificates; 10,580 individuals from vulnerable sections were provided with legal and social security assistance. As manys as 3,985 citizens had their vehicles verified; 7,597 registered documents for loss, while 422 filed crime reports; 12,300 obtained FIR copies, and five cases of violence against women were registered. Also, 850 citizens registered their employees, while 78 had their private employees verified.

Lahore: Under Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, the ‘Punjab Dhi Rani’ programme has reached a major milestone with the successful completion of its first phase, organising 1,500 collective weddings.

On Sunday, CM Maryam Nawaz expressed her affection for every daughter in Punjab, stating that she feels immense joy whenever a daughter’s home is established.

The second phase of the programme has now begun, with applications open for another 1,500 collective weddings. Interested applicants can apply online through cm.punjab.gov.pk or submit applications at the Deputy Director Social Welfare’s district office.

To facilitate applicants, a dedicated helpline (1312) has been established for program-related information.

Beyond the wedding ceremonies, the Punjab government will provide a meal for the bride, groom, and close relatives. Newlyweds will also receive a marriage gift of Rs. 100,000 via ATM from CM Punjab, along with essential household items, including furniture and clothing, to help them start their new lives.

CM Maryam Nawaz said that the ‘Punjab Dhi Rani’ programme reflected her deep love for her province’s daughters. ‘Every daughter is dear to us, and it is a joy to see them start their families,’ she stated. The initiative primarily aims to support underprivileged and marginalised communities, reinforcing the government’s commitment to social welfare.

She said that caring for daughters and offering them support is a cherished tradition in Punjab. ‘This is both a cultural and social responsibility that we hold dear,’ she added.

The Punjab government remains dedicated to improving the lives of women and marginalised communities, empowering families, and ensuring every daughter has the opportunity to build a bright future.

Lahore: Ajoka Theatre’s founding director, the legendary Madeeha Gauhar, was fondly remembered on her 69th birth anniversary at a gathering on Saturday evening.

The ceremony, held in her honour, brought together Ajoka’s core team, Friends of Ajoka, and members of Madeeha Gauhar’s family to pay tribute to her enduring legacy in theatre.

Veteran theatre activist and Madeeha Gauhar’s close friend, Kewal Dhaliwal, director of the Amritsar’s well known theatre group, Manch Rang Manch, participated in the in the event and reminisced about his decades-long personal and professional association with her. He highlighted Madeeha Gauhar’s invaluable contributions to theatre as a medium for social change, emphasizing how she effectively used the theatre to foster cross-border connections and present thought-provoking narratives. He further shared that theatre lovers in Indian Punjab hold her in high esteem and continue to cherish her remarkable contribution to the performing arts.

Ajoka Executive Director Shahid Nadeem, Chairperson Zara Salman, and General Secretary Sohail Warraich also shared their reflections, along with heartfelt tributes from her family members, including Madeeha’s son and founder of Ajoka Institute Nirvaan Nadeem, her nieces Neha Gauhar, and Arzoo Gauhar. They celebrated her visionary leadership, unwavering passion, and lifelong commitment to promoting meaningful and socially relevant theatre in Pakistan and beyond. Ajoka core team members Naseem Abbas and Luke Kelwin also spoke on the occasion, sharing their cherished memories and admiration for her work.

Lahore: At least 11 people were killed and 1,496 others injured in 1,330 road accidents in Punjab during the last 24 hours. As many as 610 people with serious injuries were shifted to different hospitals, while 886 with minor injuries were treated at the incident site by the rescue medical teams.

The relevant data analysis showed that 832 drivers, 68 underage drivers, 191 pedestrians, and 484 passengers were among the victims of road crashes. The statistics showed that 220 accidents were reported in Lahore, which affected 252 people, placing the provincial capital at top of the list, followed by Gujranwala with 87 accidents and 89 victims, and at third Faisalabad with 86 accidents and 94 victims.

According to the data, 1,250 motorbikes, 80 auto-rickshaws, 168 motorcars, 26 vans, 12 passenger buses, 31 truck and 115 other types of auto vehicles and slow-moving carts were involved in these road traffic accidents.

Lahore: SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry former President Iftikhar Ali Malik has said that a workforce of trained and skilled workers across all sectors is crucial for meeting export deadlines, improving productivity and quality, and accelerating the pace of industrialization in Pakistan.

In a statement issued here on Sunday, he praised the wise decision of Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal to focus on producing a skilled workforce, highlighting its importance for driving economic growth and development across the country.

As the country strives to enhance its economic growth and global competitiveness, the demand for a skilled workforce has become more pressing than ever. A well-trained labor force not only boosts productivity but also ensures that industries can operate efficiently, innovate, and meet international standards.

Investing in skill development will not only accelerate industrialization but also create employment opportunities, reduce poverty, and foster economic stability. By ensuring a steady supply of skilled workers, Pakistan can enhance its export capacity, attract foreign investment, and strengthen its position in the global economy. The time to act is now, as a skilled workforce is the backbone of any thriving industrial economy.

Iftikhar Ali Malik said that collaboration between the public-private sector, and educational institutions is essential to design industry-relevant training programs. Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions should be modernized to equip students with the skills needed in today’s dynamic job market.Apprenticeships and on-the-job training programs can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application,he added.

He said Pakistan’s industrial sector, particularly textiles, manufacturing, and technology, relies heavily on skilled labor to maintain quality and meet export targets. However, the current gap between the demand for skilled workers and their supply has hindered industrial growth. Many industries face delays in production and exports due to a lack of adequately trained personnel, which ultimately affects the country’s reputation in global markets,he concluded.

Lahore: The Jalib Democratic Fair was held at the Cosmopolitan Club on Sunday, drawing participation from people across various walks of life.

The event served as a grand tribute to the legendary revolutionary poet Habib Jalib, whose poetic legacy remains a beacon of resistance and progressive thought. Prominent poets graced the occasion, reciting verses that echoed Jalib’s spirit of defiance and hope. His daughter also recited his poetry in his distinct style, reviving the fervor of his timeless words. Adding to the evening’s revolutionary essence, singers performed stirring songs that resonated with the audience.

The gathering saw speeches from leftist and progressive voices, reaffirming their commitment to revolution and their struggle. They emphasized the need to uphold Jalib’s vision of a just and egalitarian society.

A rich display of cultural performances added to the event’s vibrancy. Renowned classical dancer Sheema Kermani captivated the audience with her performance, while traditional dances-including Seraiki Jhoomer, Pakhtoon, Balochi, Sindhi, and Punjabi group performances-celebrated the diverse cultural heritage of Pakistan.

The fair concluded on a high note, with attendees vowing to carry forward Jalib’s ideals of resistance and social justice.