Category: Lahore

Lahore: The Joint CPA Asia and South-East Asia Regional Conference, chaired by Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, held an important session focusing on parliamentary reforms, artificial intelligence (AI), digital cooperation, and social media governance legislation.

The session brought together lawmakers, experts, and policymakers to discuss the evolving role of AI in ensuring transparency and accountability in digital spaces.

During the session, participants explored how AI can be used to monitor and regulate social media content, ensuring that misinformation, fake news, and hate speech are effectively tackled. The discussion also highlighted the challenges of content moderation, the risks of AI bias, and the ethical concerns surrounding automated decision-making in governance. The role of AI in combating cybercrimes and enhancing digital security was also a key point of discussion.

A major focus of the conference was the need for legislative reforms to modernize media regulations, ensuring that digital platforms adhere to ethical and legal standards. The session emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, particularly in Asia and Southeast Asia, to establish uniform social media and AI governance frameworks. Experts recommended a multi-stakeholder approach, involving governments, tech companies, civil society, and international organizations to create balanced policies that respect both freedom of expression and public safety.

UK House of Commons Deputy Speaker Nusrat Ghani shared insights on global best practices in digital governance, drawing comparisons with regulatory frameworks in the United Kingdom and Europe.

Punjab Assembly Member Hina Parvez Butt spoke about the need for updated media regulations, stressing the importance of parliamentary oversight in digital policy-making.

Senator Anusha Rahman Ahmed Khan addressed the growing complexities of social media governance, highlighting how rapid technological advancements have outpaced existing laws, making it difficult to regulate digital platforms effectively.

In addition, experts in AI and digital policy provided recommendations for developing a comprehensive policy framework to guide the ethical and responsible use of AI in public services. They stressed the need for transparency in AI-driven decision-making and mechanisms for accountability to prevent misuse.

Former Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan discussed the broader implications of digital policies, particularly in the context of national security and economic growth.

AI specialist Dr. Muhammad Shoaib Farooq elaborated on practical AI applications, explaining how AI can be used in automated fact-checking, content moderation, and policy enforcement.

The session concluded with a consensus that AI-driven governance frameworks are essential to ensure transparency, security, and accountability in the digital landscape. Participants emphasized the urgent need for collaborative policymaking, bringing together regional and international partners to create policies that align with global standards while addressing local challenges.

Lahore: Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, National Heritage, and Culture, Attaullah Tarar, stated that those who once prayed for Pakistan’s economic default are now ashamed, as the public has completely rejected the politics of lies propagated by the “Tehrik-e-Inteshar.”

Speaking at a public gathering in NA-127 on the “Day of Development and Progress,” on Saturday, he emphasized that while these opponents will continue to complain, the government will persist in its journey of progress and public service. He highlighted that under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, the country’s economy is on the path to recovery. He declared that the entire nation is celebrating progress and that no force can halt Pakistan’s development.

The federal minister reiterated PML-N’s commitment to public welfare, stating that all available resources are being utilized to improve the quality of life for the people. He recalled how, upon assuming power, the government promised to transform Pakistan into an economic powerhouse, and now, after one year in office, the nation is witnessing development and prosperity.

He criticized the previous government, asserting that due to the incompetence of the “Instability Party,” Pakistan was on the verge of default. However, the current government, without prioritizing political gains, took decisive steps to rescue the country from economic collapse. He credited PM Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership for steering Pakistan away from default and towards development and economic stability. He highlighted that international financial institutions have acknowledged Pakistan’s economic recovery, with improvements such as an increase in exports compared to imports, a significant reduction in the trade deficit, and inflation dropping to its lowest level in 6.5 years. He described the government’s first year as exceptional, emphasizing that economic policies have improved the lives of ordinary citizens, with achievements recorded in infrastructure, education, health, and social welfare.

Tarar also mentioned that overseas Pakistanis have regained confidence in the government, leading to record-high remittances. The stock market has reached historic highs, IT exports have surged, and despite political instability, Pakistan’s economy is now on a positive trajectory. He stated that Pakistan is now being recognized among the world’s emerging economies, and global leaders appreciate the country’s economic progress when PM Shehbaz Sharif meets them on diplomatic visits, bringing pride to the nation.

He praised Pakistan’s military leadership for playing a crucial role in national development, stating that patriotism and hard work have contributed to progress. He strongly criticized the May 9 rioters, accusing them of defaming the armed forces and labeling them as “enemies of Pakistan” who dishonor national martyrs. He condemned PTI’s politics, saying that their allegations of election rigging have been buried and that those who once prayed for Pakistan’s default are now frustrated by the country’s progress. Instead of being happy about economic recovery, they are mourning, showing their insincerity towards the nation’s well-being.

He criticized PTI’s governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, claiming that they have nothing to show in terms of performance, while in Punjab, CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif continues to serve the people. He accused PTI of internal conflicts that have led to disorder in KP, while in contrast, Punjab is witnessing rapid development. He reaffirmed that Pakistan’s progress is unstoppable and vowed to make the country great.

Tarar further stated that a network of development projects is being launched in his constituency, all promises made to the public are being fulfilled, and his mother remains actively engaged in public service. Punjab Assembly member Mian Imran Javed announced the launch of new development projects and congratulated Punjab residents, attributing Pakistan’s prosperity to Nawaz Sharif’s vision. He recalled Nawaz Sharif’s contributions to infrastructure development through extensive road and motorway projects and announced that clean drinking water would be provided to every household within six months.

Punjab Assembly Member Malik Shehbaz Khokhar praised CM Maryam Nawaz for her dedication to public service, stating that Punjab is witnessing record-breaking development. Concluding his speech, Attaullah Tarar reiterated PML-N’s dedication to Pakistan’s progress and dismissed PTI’s political tactics as futile. He assured that the government’s journey of development will continue and that with Allah’s will, Pakistan will emerge as a great nation.

The event was attended by several PML-N leaders, including Sajida Farooq Tarar, Waderi Bibi, Punjab Assembly members Mian Imran Javed, Malik Shehbaz Khokhar, Kauser Javed, Tanveer Nisar Gujar, Chairman Rana Babar, and a large number of party workers and citizens.

Lahore: A two-day training workshop was organized by Punjab Police and UNODC, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

A Punjab police spokesperson said that in the workshop, awareness and training were provided to victim support officers to assist victims of human trafficking, illegal trafficking, and organized crime.

On this occasion, DIG PHP/CTO Lahore Dr. Athar Waheed informed the participants about national and international legal framework against human smuggling and illegal trafficking, while SSP Nida Umar Chatha highlighted the aims and objectives of the workshop, the role and responsibilities of Victim Support Officers. Experts said that with the help of the workshop, effective support and rehabilitation of victims of crime and exploitation can be ensured. Barristers Hasnain Malik, Waqar Haider Awan, Shagufta Shah, Rubina Shaheen gave a detailed briefing on the identification of victims, fundamental rights, legal, social and practical aspects. The spokesperson said that for effective reporting of cases, various scenarios were provided to the participants through practical exercises and case studies. Certificates and appreciation certificates were distributed among the participants.

Lahore: After a hiatus of nearly three decades, Punjab is all set to witness the grand revival of its historic National Horse and Cattle Show with international participation, making it a landmark event in the province’s cultural and agricultural landscape. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the mega-event will take place from February 9 to 23, across multiple venues in the provincial capital, featuring a diverse range of traditional sports, cultural festivities, and livestock exhibitions.

The event, first held in 1964 and last conducted in 1995, is making a much-anticipated comeback with a renewed vision of “Unity, Progress, and Cultural Revival.” A major highlight of this edition is the participation of 70 international teams, a testament to Punjab’s growing prominence on the global cultural map.

The three-day National Horse and Cattle Show, commencing on February 10, will offer farmers a platform to showcase their livestock, agricultural skills, and domestic animals, with rewards and recognition to encourage excellence in the sector. The show will feature tent pegging, archery, buzkashi, and polo competitions, alongside cultural performances, flower exhibitions, and children’s entertainment activities.

From February 14 to 16, Punjab’s rich musical heritage will be celebrated through special music festivals, while a Sufi festival on February 19 will honor the teachings of Punjab’s spiritual icons. Traditional Kabaddi matches on February 18 and 19, and a vintage car show on February 16, will further enhance the event’s appeal, drawing spectators from all walks of life. Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif will inaugurate the even on February 9.

The chief minister has termed the revival of this iconic event as a ‘gift to the farmers and people of Punjab.’

To ensure a flawless execution, a steering committee was formed under Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, with the Pakistan Horticulture Authority (PHA) leading preparations for the past four months.

With the grandeur of Punjab’s traditions, the energy of its people, and the excitement of international participation, the Horse and Cattle Show 2025 promises to be a spectacle to remember. Lahore is ready to roll out the red carpet for visitors, farmers, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world as it revives one of its most cherished traditions.

Lahore: Under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s Safe Punjab Vision, 39 smart police stations across the province including Lahore are moving towards rapid completion.

The construction of smart police stations will save crores of rupees to the national exchequer. IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar said that 22 smart police stations are situated in densely populated areas of Lahore are in the final stages of rapid completion. All smart police stations will be functional on Special Initiative Police Stations protocols and SOPs. All smart police stations of Lahore Police are being constructed on government land at a lower cost than in the past.

While giving details, the Punjab police spokesperson said that the ten police stations established in rented buildings of Lahore police were previously paying crores of rupees in rent. The construction of ten smart police stations on government land will save the national exchequer more than Rs 20.8 million annually.

Police stations such as Sanda, Millat Park, Gujjarpura, Kot Lakhpat, Islampura were previously in rented buildings. Police stations Shalamar, Samanabad, Shafiqabad, Shad Bagh and Johar Town were also previously paying crores of rupees in annual rent. The construction of smart police stations will save the government exchequer more than Rs 4.5 billion.

The IG Punjab said that smart police stations are being built on 1 to 2 kanals of land in densely populated areas. The Punjab police spokesperson further said that 3 smart police stations are being constructed in Multan, 2 each in Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Rahim Yar Khan, Rawalpindi and Sialkot, while 1 each in Attock, Gujrat, Sahiwal and Sheikhupura.

Lahore: A science exhibition was held at the Happy Home School, Mangianwala village, on Saturday.

The science exhibition was held under the auspices of ‘Dastras’ (Reach) Foundation and aimed at providing better skills to children and women from the backward areas.

Handicrafts made by girl students of vocational training college were also put in display at the exhibition

Brigadier Humayun, S M Babur, Gen (Retd) Shahzad Sikander, Dr. Arfa Iqbal, Shaiza Shahid and Faiza Haider attended the ceremony.