In a move aimed at promoting prudent financial management and easing the burden on the national exchequer, President Asif Ali Zardari has decided to forego his presidential salary amidst prevailing economic challenges in Pakistan.

According to a press release from the President Secretariat Press Wing issued on Tuesday, President Zardari has chosen not to receive his presidential salary to demonstrate his commitment to responsible fiscal policies.

President Zardari, who serves as the co-chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), was inaugurated for a second term as President of Pakistan on March 10 at a ceremony held at Aiwan-i-Sadr in Islamabad. The oath of office was administered by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa.

Following his reelection as the 14th president of the country, where he emerged victorious over Mahmood Khan Achakzai of the Sunni Ittehad Council, President Zardari proceeded to administer the oath of office to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s 19-member cabinet.

This decision underscores President Zardari’s commitment to responsible governance and his willingness to prioritize the nation’s economic well-being during these challenging times.

The United Nations (UN) is providing an opportunity for students worldwide to enhance their knowledge and skills through a series of 27+ free online courses. These courses cover a wide range of topics relevant to global issues and sustainable development goals.

The initiative aims to promote accessible education and empower students to contribute to positive change in their communities and beyond. With topics ranging from climate change and human rights to gender equality and peacekeeping, these courses offer valuable insights into pressing global challenges.

Students can enroll in these courses through the UN’s online learning platform, gaining access to expert-led content and interactive learning experiences. By participating in these courses, students can broaden their understanding of key issues facing the world today and become informed advocates for positive social change.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has followed President Asif Ali Zardari’s example by opting to forego his salary, citing the challenging circumstances facing the nation. In a statement released on X platform, the former caretaker Punjab chief minister expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the federal minister of interior and narcotics.

Naqvi announced his decision to decline his salary during his tenure, underscoring his dedication to supporting and serving the nation to the best of his ability amidst the current challenges. His gesture highlights a commitment to public service and fiscal responsibility during times of national need.

The Indonesian government has launched an investigation into Batik Air following an alarming incident where two pilots were found asleep mid-flight while operating a plane with 153 passengers from Sulawesi to Jakarta. The occurrence, which took place on January 25, has raised significant concerns about flight safety and pilot fatigue.

During the flight, a 32-year-old pilot reportedly instructed his 28-year-old co-pilot to assume control as he was fatigued from attending to his newborn twins. However, both pilots fell asleep during the flight, leading to a brief deviation from the intended course. Despite the unsettling circumstances, the aircraft managed to land safely upon arrival in Jakarta.

Subsequent medical tests conducted on both pilots deemed them physically fit to fly, but the quality of their rest prior to the flight remains uncertain. The incident has sparked a thorough investigation by Indonesian authorities to determine the factors contributing to pilot fatigue and ensure the safety of future flights operated by Batik Air.

The investigation underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols and measures to mitigate the risks associated with pilot fatigue, highlighting the critical role of regulatory oversight in maintaining aviation safety standards.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has underscored the imperative of maintaining uninterrupted gas and power supply for consumers throughout the holy month of Ramadan. In a high-level meeting on the petroleum sector, attended by prominent figures including senators Ishaq Dar and Dr. Musadik Malik, Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized the need to prioritize energy stability while fostering accountability and efficiency in the sector.

Central to the Prime Minister’s directives is the facilitation of private sector, local, and foreign investors in the exploration, refining, and distribution of gas and oil resources. With a focus on preventing wastage of public funds and ensuring accountability, particularly in the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) sector, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the importance of strict monitoring to uphold fair pricing practices.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Shehbaz directed authorities to ensure uninterrupted gas supply to industrial sectors and prioritize the installation of energy-efficient machinery to enhance productivity. These measures are aimed at not only guaranteeing smooth energy supply during Ramadan but also optimizing operational efficiency and accountability within the petroleum sector.

By championing energy stability and accountability, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif demonstrates a commitment to addressing the needs of consumers while fostering a conducive environment for investment and growth in the petroleum sector.

In response to widespread dissatisfaction with the Board of Intermediate Education Karachi (BIEK) exam results, the NED University of Engineering and Technology has announced adjustments to its admission criteria for the 2024 intake. Following revelations of irregularities in various subjects by a committee appointed by the former caretaker Sindh government, the university has taken proactive measures to address concerns raised by students and stakeholders.

The committee’s findings uncovered discrepancies in subjects such as English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, casting doubt on the integrity of the examination process. In light of these revelations, NED University has decided to lower its minimum intermediate marks requirement for admission tests from 60% to 55%.

This decision aims to provide a fair opportunity to students affected by the BIEK results debacle, ensuring that those who scored a minimum of 55% in their intermediate exams can participate in the university’s admission test. By revising its policy, NED University seeks to uphold its commitment to meritocracy and inclusivity in the admissions process.

While the university administration has announced the revised criteria, formal approval from the university’s syndicate is pending. The admission test is scheduled for May, allowing prospective students to enroll in the upcoming academic session with confidence in the fairness and transparency of the selection process.

Overall, NED University’s proactive response to the BIEK exam controversy reflects its dedication to maintaining academic standards and fostering equal opportunities for all aspiring students.

In a groundbreaking move, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) ushered in the Jet Age by securing a wet lease agreement with Pan American Airlines in February 1960. This landmark agreement paved the way for PIA to acquire its first jet aircraft, a Boeing 707, marking a significant milestone in the history of Pakistani aviation.

On 7th March 1960, the Boeing 707 made its much-anticipated debut on the prestigious Karachi-London route, signifying the dawn of a new era for PIA and the broader aviation industry in Asia. The inaugural flight was a testament to PIA’s commitment to innovation and progress, as it positioned itself as a pioneer among its regional counterparts.

One of the notable aspects of this historic occasion was the collaborative effort between PIA and Pan Am, with the Boeing 707 initially operated by Pan Am pilots. This partnership underscored the spirit of cooperation and mutual advancement that characterized the early days of commercial aviation.

PIA’s introduction of the Boeing 707 not only revolutionized air travel in Pakistan but also elevated the country’s stature on the global stage. As the first Asian airline to operate a jet aircraft commercially, PIA set a precedent for excellence and innovation that would define its legacy for years to come.

The arrival of the Boeing 707 symbolized more than just a technological advancement; it represented Pakistan’s ambition to embrace modernity and progress. With its sleek design and cutting-edge capabilities, the Boeing 707 propelled PIA into the forefront of the aviation industry, marking a significant leap forward in the nation’s journey towards development and prosperity.

Following the sighting of the Ramadan moon, Pakistan is poised to embark on its sacred journey of fasting and spiritual reflection starting tomorrow. The confirmation of the moon’s sighting heralds the arrival of the holy month, marking a time of devout observance and communal solidarity for Muslims across the nation.

The announcement of the moon sighting was made after meticulous observations and testimonies gathered from various regions of Pakistan. With the sighting confirmed, Muslims in the country eagerly anticipate the commencement of Ramadan, a month revered for its significance in Islamic tradition.

During Ramadan, believers abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset, focusing instead on prayer, reflection, and acts of charity. It is a time for spiritual purification, self-discipline, and deepening one’s connection with Allah.

As Pakistan prepares to observe the first fast tomorrow, communities come together to renew their commitment to faith, compassion, and righteousness. Mosques will host special Taraweeh prayers, and families will gather for pre-dawn meals (Suhoor) and evening meals (Iftar), fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie.

The commencement of Ramadan symbolizes a period of introspection and renewal, offering believers an opportunity to seek forgiveness, express gratitude, and strengthen their bond with Allah. As Muslims embark on this sacred journey, they carry with them the hope for blessings, mercy, and spiritual fulfillment throughout the blessed month.

Mari Petroleum Company has made a groundbreaking discovery of substantial natural gas reservoirs in the Shiva One and Shiva Two regions of North Waziristan, heralding a positive outlook for Pakistan’s energy landscape. These newly identified gas reserves are poised to deliver annual savings of $265 million, offering a much-needed boost to a nation grappling with financial and energy challenges.

The discovery, achieved during the drilling of two wells in the Shiva area, represents a significant milestone for Mari Petroleum and the country as a whole. The gas reserves are estimated to meet 5% of Pakistan’s total gas demand, providing a vital source of energy for various sectors.

As part of the development, Mari Petroleum has established a local processing facility to purify the gas and facilitate its transmission to the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) network. This infrastructure investment not only ensures the efficient utilization of the newfound resources but also creates employment opportunities for over 900 skilled workers from the local community.

Speaking on the significance of the discovery, Asad Raza, Chief of Staff at Mari Petroleum, emphasized its potential to drive economic growth and reduce the country’s reliance on LNG imports. “With the establishment of this plant, we are not only harnessing our natural resources but also fostering economic development and sustainability,” he stated.

The newfound gas reserves represent a significant step towards achieving energy security and sustainability in Pakistan, paving the way for a more resilient and self-reliant future.

Elon Musk, the renowned entrepreneur and CEO of Tesla, has experienced a staggering decline of $40 billion in his net worth in 2024, marking one of the most significant setbacks among the world’s top 10 wealthiest individuals. Formerly holding the title of the world’s richest person, Musk now occupies the third position on the wealth list, with a reported net worth of $189 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaire Index released on Saturday.

The current leader of the rankings is Bernard Arnault, the head of Louis Vuitton, with a net worth of $201 billion, followed closely by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos with $198 billion. Bezos briefly surpassed Musk to claim the top spot earlier in the week before being overtaken by Arnault subsequently.

A considerable portion of Musk’s wealth is derived from his 21 percent ownership stake in Tesla. However, the declining share prices of Tesla have significantly impacted his overall net worth. Since the beginning of the year, Tesla’s shares have witnessed a decrease of over 29% in value, contributing to Musk’s substantial decline in net worth.

The fluctuations in Musk’s net worth highlight the volatility inherent in the stock market and the influence of company performance on individual fortunes. Despite the setback, Musk remains a prominent figure in the business world, with his ventures continuing to shape various industries and technologies.

Muhammad Aurangzeb, the former President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Habib Bank Limited (HBL), has submitted his resignation following his anticipated appointment as a Federal Minister, with indications suggesting his assumption of the finance portfolio.

In an official statement addressed to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), HBL, the country’s largest commercial bank, confirmed Aurangzeb’s resignation, stating, “Muhammad Aurangzeb has tendered his resignation to the Board of Directors of Habib Bank Limited (‘HBL’) and will relinquish his role as President & Chief Executive Officer of HBL,” as outlined in the notice.

The Board of Directors of HBL has endorsed Aurangzeb’s resignation, subject to approval from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). Additionally, the board has appointed Muhammad Nassir Salim as the new President & Chief Executive Officer of HBL, pending SBP approval, according to the notice.

Aurangzeb’s resignation from HBL signifies a transition into his new role within the federal government, where he is expected to play a pivotal role in the finance sector. His departure from HBL marks the end of a successful tenure and paves the way for new leadership to guide the bank forward.

As Muhammad Aurangzeb prepares to assume his responsibilities as a Federal Minister, his tenure at HBL will be remembered for his leadership and contributions to the banking sector. His appointment reflects the government’s confidence in his abilities to navigate complex financial challenges and drive economic growth at the national level.

Jeffrey Shaun King, a prominent American activist and writer known for his dedication to various social causes, has recently made headlines by embracing Islam and reciting the shahadah to affirm his newfound faith.

King, renowned for his advocacy work across a range of societal issues, has now added his voice to the global Muslim community, marking a significant personal and spiritual journey. His decision to embrace Islam underscores the diversity and inclusivity within the religion, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds and walks of life.

As a vocal advocate for social justice and equality, King’s embrace of Islam is likely to resonate with his supporters and followers, further amplifying his message of compassion, solidarity, and respect for all humanity.

In embracing Islam and publicly affirming his faith through the shahadah, King joins a growing number of individuals worldwide who find solace, purpose, and community within the teachings and principles of Islam. His decision reflects a personal quest for spiritual fulfillment and alignment with values that promote peace, justice, and compassion.

As Jeffrey Shaun King embarks on this new chapter of his spiritual journey, his actions serve as a reminder of the universal quest for meaning and connection, transcending cultural and religious boundaries in pursuit of a more harmonious and just world.