Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: The tenure of the current Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, will conclude on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, marking the end of his controversial one-year extension. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed has previously completed two full terms as Chairman of the HEC. Last year, he …
Read More »Conscience for sale, faith betrayed: Pakistan’s halal system undone by a butchered truth
Mahtab Bashir A Page of my DiaryWhat was once a cruel joke aimed at mocking the people of Lahore has now morphed into a grim reality across multiple cities in Pakistan – the sale and consumption of dog and donkey meat. No longer just a punchline, this disturbing trade thrives …
Read More »ECC approves key initiatives to boost economy and environment
Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet, chaired by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Friday approved a series of major initiatives across several key sectors, including industry, housing, telecommunications, and the environment. The decisions aim to drive economic growth, promote sustainability, and …
Read More »JLL steps down from Roosevelt hotel advisory role
Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), the global real estate services firm, has resigned from its role as Financial Advisor for the privatization of the iconic Roosevelt Hotel in New York. The decision, formally conveyed to the Privatisation Commission of Pakistan, stems from a potential conflict of interest, as …
Read More »Sugar owners’ details sought next week
Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has asked the FBR to submit details about the owners of sugar mills. The committee also asked who allowed the export of sugar, which mills exported how much, and to which countries. All this information must be provided by next week. A …
Read More »Plans to tackle gas sector circular debt under consideration
“Protected” category for electricity consumers is expected to be phased out Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: After taking steps to address the circular debt in the power sector, the federal government is now working on a plan to eliminate the massive circular debt in the gas sector. The aim is to remove …
Read More »NBP’S double-edged sword: Growth amidst governance gaps and lending lag
Aftab Maken ISLAMABAD: Despite a year marked by significant financial resilience and growth in its Islamic banking arm, the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) is facing increasing scrutiny over its strategic direction, particularly its reduced focus on private sector credit and persistent governance shortcomings. While the bank’s 2024 business plan …
Read More »CCP raids transformer suppliers over suspected bid rigging
Staff Report The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) teams has raided the offices of four suppliers involved in the provision of transformer reclamation materials to various power distribution companies (DISCOs). The raids were carried out simultaneously in Lahore and Gujranwala. These companies are suspected of being part of a cartel …
Read More »SSGC business plan falters amid project delays & financial irregularities
Aftab Maken KARACHI: Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC), a pivotal player in Pakistan’s energy sector, is facing severe criticism as its ambitious business plan for FY 2024-27 appears to be significantly derailed by pervasive operational delays, questionable accounting practices, and a troubling lack of strategic foresight. A recent internal assessment …
Read More »Outcry erupts as rats overrun popular Butt Karahi outlet
Aftab Maken RAWALPINDI: A recent shocking video depicting rats freely scurrying around the outdoor dining area of a prominent Butt Karahi branch in Rawalpindi’s Saddar area has ignited a firestorm of criticism across social media, once again casting a harsh spotlight on the Punjab Food Authority’s (PFA) apparent failure to …
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