Gandapur directs to publicize programs of online public services

Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkwa ALi Amin Gandapur has directed the authorities concerned to publicize the programs and facilities related to online delivery of public services, digital skills and digital entrepreneurship. He said this while chairing a meeting of the Department of Science, Technology and Information Technology in Peshawar. The Chief Minister said effective use of social media platforms should be made so that more and more people can benefit from these facilities. Source: Radio Pakistan

Pakistan keen to work with US for global peace, security: PM

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said Pakistan is desirous of working with the United States for global peace and security as well as to achieve the shared goal of regional progress and prosperity. In his reply to US President Joe Biden's letter, he said Pakistan gives utmost importance to its relations with the United States. The Prime Minister said both countries are working together on key initiatives in the energy, climate change, agriculture, health, and education sectors. He said the cooperation between the two nations in the field of energy and the Green Alliance is welcoming. Source: Radio Pakistan

Youth of North Waziristan visit recreational, educational places of Lahore and Islamabad

On behalf of Pakistan Army, the youth of North Waziristan visited the recreational and educational places of Lahore and Islamabad. The purpose of the visit is to raise awareness of education among the youth of North Waziristan under the program Ilm Tulo Da Para (Education for All). The youth visited Wagah Border, Minar-e-Pakistan, Mazar-i-Iqbal, Badshahi Masjid and Shahi Fort in Lahore. During the Wagah border ceremony, the youth were entertained and the atmosphere echoed with patriotic slogans. The youth were given a tour of Pakistan Museum of Natural History, Pakistan Monument Museum, Lok Virsa Museum and Lake View Park in Islamabad. During the visit of Lok Virsa and Pakistan Monument, the youth were made aware of the sacrifices made in the freedom movement. The youth of North Waziristan thanked the Pakistan Army and expressed their desire to conduct such visits in the future. Source: Radio Pakistan

Reforms being introduced to put economy back on track: Tarar

Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has said that the government is working on practical changes and reforms in all economic sectors to put economy on the path of progress. Talking to media in Lahore today, he said the government is committed to welfare of the people. The Minister said that Prime Minister has set short and long-term targets for all ministries and these targets will be reviewed to ensure performance. He said self-accountability regarding performance is being introduced in the federal government. The Information Minister said the Finance Minister has been given a target to reduce inflation and unemployment besides improving the growth rate and increasing foreign exchange. He said Information Technology exports will be increased digital payment facility like PayPal will be introduced across the country. The Minister said that the target of the Ministry of Interior has been set to develop a plan on modern lines for elimination of terrorism and to curb smuggling. He fu rther said that privatization of Pakistan Airlines will increase the revenue of the government. He said that all the members of the cabinet are not drawing salaries and other perks. He said that due to the viable policies of the government, the rupee value has stabilized, and inflation rate would decrease further in the coming days. The Minister said that the undocumented economy is a problem which will be brought into the tax network. Information Minister said government is taking austerity measures to control expenditures, and for this a committee has been formed which will submit its report in the next few days. Source: Radio Pakistan

President vows to safeguard minorities’ rights

President Asif Ali Zardari has felicitated Christian community on the occasion of Easter which is being celebrated on Sunday. In his message, the President acknowledged the active and positive role played by the Christian community in the development of Pakistan and expressed his gratitude for their contributions. The President reiterated country's commitment to safeguard the rights of minorities and taking measures for their prosperity. The President said festival of Easter brings a message of hope, love and prosperity. Source: Radio Pakistan

Millions of faithful observe Itikaaf across the country

Tens of thousands of devout Muslims across the country joined seclusion ('Itikaaf') after Asr prayer today. Itikaaf is observed in the last 10 days of the holy month of Ramazan to pray in seclusion for the blessings of Almighty Allah and following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad Sallalaho Alyhe Wasallum. Men restrict themselves to mosques, while women separate themselves from others within their homes to devote themselves to prayers. This year, at least 300 people will observe Itikaaf in Faisal Masjid Islamabad, while in Lahore, hundreds of people will observe Itikaaf in Data Sahib Mosque, Badshahi Mosque and Minhajul Quran Mosque. Source: Radio Pakistan