Day: June 24, 2023

In a final attempt to secure a stalled rescue package with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Finance Minister Ishaq Dar announced on Saturday that the federal government has implemented several changes to its fiscal year 2023-2024 budget.

These changes have been introduced in hopes of reaching an agreement with the IMF and addressing the concerns that have hindered progress thus far. This would help Pakistan secure the awaited IMF loan.

While talking to the National Assembly, the Finance Minister said that “Pakistan and IMF had detailed negotiations as a last effort to complete the pending review”.

To address the fiscal deficit for the upcoming fiscal year, the federal government plans to implement a series of measures, including raising Rs. 215 billion through new taxes and reducing spending by Rs. 85 billion, stated Finance Minister Ishaq Dar.

Similarly, FBR’s tax collection has increased from Rs. 9,200 billion to Rs. 9,415 billion. The overall budget deficit will also be reduced by Rs. 300 billion.

He emphasized the importance of taking the public into confidence regarding the success of the ninth review with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), acknowledging that there had been concerns and uncertainties surrounding the outcome of the review.

Finally, he added that talks with IMF have been ongoing for three days and the conclusion will be added to the Finance Ministry’s website once it is finalized.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also met with IMF’s managing director Kristalina Georgieva ahead of his departure to London.

The meeting took place prior to the Prime Minister’s departure for London. During his visit to Paris, Shehbaz Sharif had a total of three meetings with representatives from the IMF.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to successfully completing the IMF program. He acknowledged the IMF’s perspective on comprehending the economic realities faced by Pakistan. The premier emphasized Pakistan’s determination to fulfill all its commitments, aiming to overcome the country’s severe economic challenges.

Source: Pro Pakistani

A 12-year-old boy named Ibrahim lost his life as a sacrificial animal he was walking became uncontrollable.

A video of the incident was shared on social media, showing the bull running with the boy caught in the rope while people tried to catch the animal. Ibrahim lived in the Sector 11-G area of New Karachi.

As he struggled to free himself, the rope became tangled around his legs and he was dragged for a kilometer, causing serious injuries. People nearby quickly tried to help and chased after the bull to save the boy. It took some time before they were able to intervene and untangle him.

Ibrahim was taken to a hospital by emergency services but sadly, his injuries were too severe and he passed away. Ibrahim was known for his playful and innocent nature. He was the second of four siblings and his father worked in a cloth shop.

Source: Pro Pakistani

The Defence Housing Authority (DHA) has implemented a policy that restricts access to Nisar Shaheed Park in DHA Phase VI to residents only. This policy has raised concerns about discrimination.

The housing authority announced this restriction via a tweet, which emphasized the importance of following DHA management procedures when entering the park to maintain a friendly and peaceful environment.

The tweet also stated that DHA residents must visit the park with their family members and must adhere to a dress code. The dress code requires visitors to be “appropriately dressed,” either in a sports kit or in joggers paired with Shalwar Kameez or pants and a shirt.

Non-DHA residents are not allowed entry, regardless of whether they are accompanied by their families or not. The tweet did not provide any information about how non-DHA residents would be identified. Despite attempts to reach out for clarification, DHA spokesperson Farrukh Rizvi did not respond.

Source: Pro Pakistani

In a move to facilitate travelers during the festive season of Eid ul Adha, Pakistan Railways (PR) has made a remarkable announcement.

PR has decided to offer a substantial discount on fares for all passenger trains and classes.

According to an official notification, the fares have been reduced by a massive 33%.

This discount will be applicable for the entire duration of the three-day celebration.

To ensure the effective implementation of this decision, the Chief Marketing Manager (CMM) PR has instructed Divisional Superintendents of major cities including Karachi, Quetta, Sukkur, Multan, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar to ensure compliance with the directives.

In a separate development, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the national flag carrier, has also joined in the spirit of the occasion.

PIA has announced a 10% discount on domestic flights for the three days of Eid ul Adha.

Source: Pro Pakistani