Category: Lahore

Lahore:Provincial Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Auqaf Chaudhry Shafay Hussain visited the head office of the Department of Auqaf and Religious Affairs here on Wednesday. Secretary Auqaf Dr Tahir Raza Bukhari gave a detailed briefing on the organizational structure, workings, and future plans of the department. The minister also chaired the Auqaf Board meeting at the Auqaf House. During the board meeting, a five-point agenda was discussed. The board approved the Auqaf budget estimates of 4,508.367 million rupees for the fiscal year 2024-25. The board ratified the notification of a 20-25 per cent salary increase for employees and a 15 per cent increase in pensions for Auqaf department staff. The board approved the elimination of unnecessary posts in the department as per government policy. The reduction of unnecessary posts will result in annual savings of 33.7 million rupees for the department. The board also approved certain administrative and financial matters of the department. 'It is h eartening to know that the Department of Auqaf and Religious Affairs generates its own resources,' remarked Provincial Minister Chaudhry Shafay Hussain. The minister congratulated the secretary Auqaf on achieving the budget targets. The minister directed improvements in the cleaning system of shrines and mosques under Auqaf's administration.

'Ensure the provision of better facilities to visitors,' instructed the minister. 'There is also a need to increase the rent of Auqaf properties rented out,' said the minister. He directed the development of an effective strategy to eliminate illegal encroachments on Auqaf lands. He emphasized the activation of the United Ulema Board and announced an upcoming visit to the Quran Board. The board meeting was attended by the secretary Auqaf , officials from the Finance, Regulation, and Planning and Development departments, and other relevant officers.

Lahore:The Punjab Cabinet has approved an amendment to Section 24 of the Motor Vehicles Ordinance Act, 1965, a significant move aimed at streamlining vehicle registration processes across the province.

A spokesperson for the Excise and Taxation Department said that, under the existing law, vehicle owners were required to register their vehicles in their district of permanent residence. However, with the new amendment, residents of Punjab will now have the flexibility to register their vehicles in any district within the province.

Since 2020, registration numbers have been issued under a unified registration series across Punjab. The proposed amendment will also remove any restrictions on the movement of vehicles between provinces.

The amendment seeks to enhance the enforcement of motor vehicle laws and simplify the e-challan process. Additionally, vehicle owners will benefit from expanded online services, including vehicle transfers, e-registration cards and the online payment of token taxes.

The spokesperson added that the amendment will come into effect after approval by the Provincial Assembly.

Director General Excise and Taxation Punjab, Umar Sher Chatta emphasised that these reforms would modernise the vehicle registration and taxation systems, making them more efficient and user-friendly for the residents of Punjab.

Lahore:Provincial Minister for Minorities Ramesh Singh Arora visited the Chinese Consulate in Lahore on Wednesday, where he held a meeting with Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren.

During the meeting, the two officials discussed strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in the areas of minorities empowerment, economic development, and cooperation between Pakistan and China.

Minister Arora highlighted the longstanding and robust friendship between Pakistan and China, stating, 'The friendship between Pakistan and China is as deep as the oceans and as strong as the mountains. China has been a constant ally to Pakistan, providing diplomatic support and economic assistance at crucial moments.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) stands as a testament to our partnership, offering unparalleled opportunities for mutual growth, prosperity, and regional connectivity.' He highlighted Punjab's critical role in this transformation, noting that the province is well-positioned to attract Chinese investments that will drive development, create jobs, and enhance the economy. Minister Arora also reiterated the Punjab Government's unwavering commitment to the empowerment and protection of religious minorities. He shared several ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of minority communities in Punjab, such as the creation of the 'Minority Cards,' educational scholarships, vocational training programs, and efforts to restore religious minority places of worship.

'Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the Punjab Government is dedicated to promoting an inclusive society. We are creating equal opportunities for all, fostering interfaith harmony, and ensuring that the rights of every citizen, regardless of their religion, are respected,' said Minister Arora. He also highlighted the importance of vocational training, quality education, and digital learning to connect international markets. Minister Arora invited the Chinese Consul General to visit the Kartarpur Corridor, a symbol of religious tolerance and a major initiative for Sikh pilgrims. He further stressed the need for China's support in building the capacity of religious minorities in Pakistan, particularly through educational and economic development initiatives.

Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren expressed his appreciation for Minister Arora's visit and praised the efforts of the Punjab Government, particularly under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, in improving the lives of religious minorities. 'The initiatives launched by the Punjab Government, including the Nawaz Sharif IT City, cancer hospitals, air ambulance services, and the Apni Chhat and Apna Ghar programs, are a clear indication of the government's dedication to improving the lives of its citizens, particularly those from marginalized communities,' he said.

Zhao Shiren also commended the Punjab Government's solar panel program, which aims to provide affordable and sustainable energy solutions to the people of Punjab. 'These initiatives are not only making a tangible difference in the lives of the people but also strengthening the economic development of the province,' he remarked.

He also highlighted the importance of strengthening educational and agricultural collaborations between Pakistan and China. 'Agriculture and education are two key areas where we believe there is immense potential for further cooperation. China is already running scholarship programs in five major universities in Punjab, and we are committed to expanding these efforts to ensure that the youth of Punjab have access to quality education,' he stated. As the visit concluded, both sides expressed a strong desire to continue working together to create an environment of peace, prosperity, and development for all.

Lahore:Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and former railways minister Khawaja Saad Rafique inaugurated Major Ishaq Shaheed Flyover on Walton Road in Lahore on Wednesday.

During the inaugural ceremony, he addressed the attendees and discussed various issues and upcoming projects.

Khawaja Saad expressed his gratitude to the Central Business District (CBD), the Punjab government, and NESPAK, along with other involved organisations, for their contributions to the completion of the project. He announced that next month, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz will officially inaugurate Walton Road. He also highlighted that the construction of the road had been delayed for over 25 years, and credited Shehbaz Sharif, Mohsin Naqvi, and Maryam Nawaz for their efforts in making this project a reality.

He revealed that the Bab-e-Pakistan project would soon feature a state-of-the-art park and that educational institutions in the area would be upgraded. He warned those who have encroached upon state land on Walton Road to voluntarily remove their encroachments or face action, emphasizing that no compromises would be made on this matter.

The former railways minister added that Walton Road had been built with the future in mind, ensuring it meets the needs of the next 50 years. He extended his congratulations to the public for the completion of the project.

Addressing political matters, Khawaja Saad Rafique stated that he would refrain from discussing politics at this event, instead focusing on development work for the public's benefit. He urged for successful negotiations and said that dialogue was essential, with all parties needing to give and take for the country's progress.

The U.S. president's remarks regarding Gaza and the Muslim world were harsh.

He must decide whether to cooperate with the world or pursue confrontation, he remarked.

Lahore:A meeting was held under the chairmanship of Secretary Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Fareed Iqbal to evaluate the performance of various zonal and district offices of the board.

District officers were assigned important tasks such as rent assessment based on market rates, increasing departmental revenue, and recovery.

According to a press release issued here on Wednesday, a series of meetings were held at the head office under the leadership of Secretary Fareed Iqbal to assess the performance of all zonal administrators, deputy administrators, rent collectors, and district office staff.

The Secretary directed all districts to take strict action against illegal occupants and their facilitators to protect trust properties and enhance the department's revenue. He emphasized ensuring 100% recovery of outstanding dues and monthly bill payments. He also instructed that valuable properties of the department should be safeguarded from land grabbers and proposed for development to be put to better use. He further stressed completing the rent assessment process of the properties at market rates as soon as possible in compliance with the Supreme Court's orders. Operations to reclaim trust properties from illegal occupants have been conducted in districts including Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, and Karachi, following the orders of the federal government and Chairman of the Board, Syed Ata-ur-Rehman.

Meanwhile, the Secretary dismissed reports regarding the land in Bhera Tehsil of Sargodha, terming them baseless. He clarified that the case regarding the declaration of this land as trust property is still under consideration by both individuals and the department. A decision is yet to be made, and it will be implemented accordingly once finalized.

The meeting was attended by Karachi Zone Administrator Asif Khan, Multan Zone Administrator, Faisalabad Zone Administrator Saleem Gondal, Deputy Administrator Sargodha Hassan Turab, and Inspector Amir Hussain Hashmi. The Secretary commended the staff and officers for their performance and issued instructions to improve recovery and other matters.

He also announced that district officers and staff would receive training to enhance departmental revenue and improve performance. Furthermore, the Secretary emphasized taking strict action against those occupying trust properties.

Lahore:The historic Lahore Fort came alive with vibrant energy as over 600 children from various schools gathered to participate in 'Qissa Kahani,' a cultural extravaganza, hosted by the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA).

The event featured a delightful mix of storytelling sessions, royal and regional fancy dress displays, clay pot making, painting, calligraphy, sketching workshops, and quizzes exploring Mughal history and Punjab's legends. It provided an engaging blend of entertainment and education, fostering a deep connection to heritage among the young attendees.

Adding to the excitement, children were captivated by a puppet show, a monkey performance, and the charm of a traditional mini cinema. Puzzle-solving games also kept the kids entertained and challenged. Families praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of more such events to enhance children's learning experiences and cultural awareness.

Deputy Director Marketing WCLA Samina Khan highlighted, 'Seeing the joy and engagement of children at 'Qissa Kahani' reinforces the importance of such initiatives.' Concluding with a prize distribution ceremony, the event showcased WCLA's commitment to inspiring the next generation through cultural and historical experiences, with plans for more events in the future.

Director General Kamran Lashari emphasized, 'This initiative reflects our vision to bring heritage to life for the younger generation. It is essential to instill a sense of pride and belonging in our children by making history engaging and accessible. Events like 'Qissa Kahani' pave the way for a deeper understanding and appreciation of our rich cultural legacy.'"