WAR AGAINST TERRORISM: IS IT OUR WAR?

On should give straight answer to such type of questions with “yes” or “no”, because here is flexibility to answer it as “I don’t know”. War is very dangerous word and everyone hates to hear, and that’s why one could easily deduce to answer to the question.

The 9/11 attacks on World Trade Center had introduced the world with a new phrase i.e. “War on Terror”. Several surveys show the doubts of American citizens towards the incident of 9/11. The American citizens are not sure that the incident is true such as the American media presents it. If the American citizens have doubted the incident how can they make us believe in their lies?

 “War on Terror” in general terms is actually the start of the Americans’ global campaign against the one who opposes her hegemonic strategy. Its primary purpose is to acquire enough resources to support its global leadership syndrome in view of the emerging realities. The other purpose of that event was to weaken Islam and Muslim Country and to hold them under-pressure and not to leave them to live freely. And that’s why in the current age, about in all Muslim country the economic and political situations are worst.

Historically, it is proved that in the global superpower confrontation, the weaker ones have options like “with us or without us”.

Viewed in this perspective, Pakistan does not have much option except limited and localized role in this war because of our Geo strategic location where we share common stance against terrorism for the sake of restoring peace in the region which consecutively helped us to bolster our “National Interest”. However, “War” on our own soil where small groups of preposterous miscreants seek to exploit religion to make the mainstream public hostage to their vested agenda is our own “War” that has been injected by the CIA and its affiliates through Blackwater etc. It was not laxity but people talk of open connivance of some of the functionaries of the PPP regime.

The way this war has been injected and ignited against Pakistan, there is a possibility that even after the withdrawal of US led forces; Pakistan may still be in the thick of this war. India has been and still is active against Pakistan through Afghanistan that Mian Nawaz Sharif keeps in mind before showing anxiety to normalize the relations.

How could it be somebody else’s war? They have raised weapons against the government and challenging its writ. Their malicious activities have made us suffer a lot from ineffaceable loss ranging from precious human lives to the country’s economy. Right today when the stage for talks has been set, TTP have attacked and taken out a Major General and his staff officer. After some days i.e. on 22.09.2013 a suicide attack took place in the Capital of Khyber Pakhtunka in the Minority Christian Church near Kohati Gate; under what compulsions and why needs an answer.

Despite all this bloodshed, some factions in our society are still in doubt to recognize it as “Our War”. They must think before declaring it “someone else’s war” because they will not be able to digest it if their own sons become victims of this war. It is clear that it is “our war”. But this is such type of war games which is playing on our own soil/homeland. It destroyed our economic, political and social structure. Now it is the responsibility to negotiate this issue with the miscreants by dialogue process. In this respect the Government needs to call the APC (All Parties Conference) quickly to draw an appropriate solution, and not to go worsen these bad situations.

It is a ray of hope that the new Government is keen in dialogue with the miscreants and they are in mode in bargaining position with them.

Extreme violence, social disruption, moral disgraces and economic destruction are the outcomes of warfare and if all these elements are present in any society then it should declare “WAR”. Therefore say it loud and clear, “It is a WAR and Yes! It is our WAR.”

We the Pakistani Nations need peace. Now we have declare it a “WAR” then we should responded it by war because both they are interconnected in all dimensions. The ruler of United Kingdom (during 2^nd world war) Vanstone Churchill said a historic quote, “If u want peace, prepare yourself for war”. Preparation of war leads to the better strategy that ultimately results in the victory. Formulation of strategy requires priorities. The best strategy is to attack the enemy’s strategy.

Electricity and Petrol bombs ready to blast soon

It has been long time that Pakistan economy is undergoing many evils like terrorism, corruption and political instability. Every morning when people wake up, they look in to the headlines just to know either any new evil has come in or not. The most important among these is inflation which Pakistani economists try to overcome but in vain due to many reasons like corruption etc. People living in this country are unable to fulfill basic needs of everyday life. And hence newly terrorist activities (suicides, kidnapping, murdering, robberies etc) take place which weakens social and economic situations of the people day by day. According to an international report many Pakistanis are living under the poverty line. The poor are becoming poorest and the rich class is becoming richest. Anyway this is the area of great discussion and we should be restricted to our topic about the new evil of energy prices. I would like to share a short story in this aspect, when I was in bachelor, one of our teachers used to say that every economic theory and policy fails to work in Pakistan economy. I some time thought that our teacher is lying but today I accept that he was right. Behind every success and failure there is an invisible hand and in case of Pakistan that invisible hand is political virus which has become so healthy that it works everywhere if it is politics, sports, education, health or any other activity which are for social welfare.  In this regard a famous economic theory comes to my mind “Phillips theory/curve”, which states that inflation and unemployment are inversely proportional. It means that if one increases the other one will definitely decrease and vice versa. But in case of Pakistan the theory fails because both these evils are chasing the peaks and moving positively in the same direction. Leaders and economist are trying to overcome but they fail every time and I finally remind the famous saying of our teacher that every theory fails in Pakistan.

Nowadays the government is busy in preparing another bomb for blast before Eid-ul-azha. According to a newspaper headline, oil and electricity prices are likely to increase from start of October. The newspaper reported that 4 Rs per liter oil product prices will increase which will also enhance the prices of electricity up to 30% and people would have to face another tsunami of inflation. Officially it is announced that increase in energy prices are due to international market oil prices but the fact is, government has taken new loan from IMF and this is conditionality from International Monetary Fund (IMF) to trim down subsidies in energy sector. Our respected finance minister says that Pakistan economy will not be defaulted and we will return the whole loans on time and economic situation of people will be better off but he should think upon it that people living in this country will bear the whole cost and will worsen the economic life of people. This fresh decision of government will lead inflation to cross all limits. People are already hanged in many economic problems, living under the poverty line and this decision will extremely hurt them which will result to commit suicide. Every day we listen about unwanted events of murders, robberies and suicides which are likely to be enhanced by these two bombs. Instead of a cut in energy sector subsidies government should reduce their own expenditures and stop hurting people because they are unable to bear any new costs.

100 days tenure of the PML(N) Government

PESHAWAR: New Government of Pakistan (PML-N) under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif has just completed its tenure of 100 days on (19.09.2013). Before General Election, PML-N made huge claims and promises to the people that they will facilitate poor people of Pakistan by controlling Inflation, by reviving economy, creating job opportunities, by Tax reforms, by overcoming energy crisis, diminish load-shedding by constructing new dams etc.

After 100 days, it seems that the Govt: is yet to facilitate the expectation of people and moreover the International Monetary Fund (IMF) gave Pakistan a sobering assessment, saying its economy was at a high risk of deteriorating into crisis and growth was too slow to significantly improve people's living standards. The Govt: is seems totally fail and not serious in solving these problems.

The opposition leader pointed out that the PML-N previous five-year and present 100-day rule in Pakistan had only worsened the situation of the common man. "The administrative failure has led to increase in crime and other problems in the country”. The government has failed to control prices of eatables items and in this connection no steps are taken. About 62 percent rise in crime rate. A report supported these findings by stating that 62 percent of the people had lost trust in the present government for failing to address issues pertaining to price hike, deteriorating law and order situation and unemployment.

In fact, Prime Minister Mian Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Main Shahbaz Sharif had already completed their homework with farsightedness before coming into power that enabled them to start work on projects from day one for bringing massive reduction in load-shedding and taking on terrorism with discretion and consensus. That is why it did not take the government many days to clear the Rs480 billion circular debt of the power sector besides reviving the badly stalemated Nandipur Hydel Project and accelerating the Neelum Jhelum hydro power project. Both will generate 1300 plus megawatts of electricity. In the latter project, the prime minister personally intervened and passed instructions for immediate initiation of work on the transmission or distribution system that would have otherwise taken additional two, three years after commissioning of the project.

 

All these efforts might not be clearly visible to some myopic people but the fact is that all the good developments experienced in the last few weeks in the form of APC and power sector reforms, were the outcome of incessant, intelligent work done by PML-N leadership and its team of ministers, experts and other functionaries.

 

However, the masses as a whole do possess the ability to judge their leaders given their (of the public) much enhanced prudence that was exercised by the general public at the time of election of their representatives. It was this public prudence that brought PML-N into power and it is the same public wisdom that has now adjudged Nawaz Sharif government in the Centre and Shahbaz Sharif government in Punjab as gaining popularity and recognition among their people.

 

Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT) has drawn a candid picture of political leaders’ popularity among the masses with credible public opinion polls in its Public Verdict (Survey) on Performance of Governance and Democracy in First 100 Days of Federal and Provincial Governments.

 

Of course, this credibility factor is very important because a number of opinion polls conducted by some other setups have not proved credible in the past but for PILDAT surveys. As a matter of fact, PILDAT surveys are scientific and logical in approach and are conducted in a transparent manner besides being focused on most current and relevant issues about which common people are most of the times concerned.

 

As for the instant survey, it has been brought to the fore by PILDAT on the International Day of Democracy that is observed every year on September 15.

 

According to the survey, 62% people have given positive rating to governance by the Federal Government led by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Likewise, according to the public opinion given in the survey, the Punjab government got the best rating out of the four provincial governments while the Sindh government was given the poorest rating. In this survey, citizens from all the provinces voted irrespective of their province of residence. The resultant findings show that 59% voted in favor of Shahbaz Sharif as the best performing Chief Minister, followed by Syed Qaim Ali Shah at 18%, Pervez Khattak at 9% and Dr Abdul Malik at 4%.

 

Some keen observers opine that Shahbaz Sharif is most popular in Baluchistan although it is usual with the provinces that the most popular heads of governments in their respective areas are their own elected CMs. And in other two provinces, namely Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, chief minister Punjab is a close second choice of public.

 

Most encouraging aspect of this survey is that the people of Pakistan have demonstrated considerable maturity and understanding of issues including inter-institutional harmony and foreign policy that they think have been excellently handled by PM Nawaz Sharif.

 

The PILDAT survey says: “The prime minister’s policy of seeking harmony with the armed forces and opposition parties and also with the provincial governments led by the parties that are in opposition at the federal level, has received the highest rate of approval”. The survey adds: “With the change of government on June 5, after the May 11 elections, more people (44%) are optimistic about federal government’s ability to address the current issues.”

 

In the area of terrorism too, Nawaz government got good performance rating as 46 per cent surveyed people gave fully appreciated its plans and efforts in dealing with the issue of terrorism. And in the electricity sector, 52 per cent gave it positive rating for coping with the electricity shortage.

 

As for its performance on key foreign policy issues, including relations with the United States, China and India, the government was given 57 per cent positive rating.

 

The positive performance rating achieved by the Federal Government on the inter-provincial harmony was 59 per cent. It also got 59 per cent positive rating on harmonious relations with the opposition parties in parliament.

 

For creating harmony with the armed forces, the government achieved 58 percent positive rating. Likewise, 54 percent people gave positive performance rating to the Federal Government in dealing with the problem of corruption.

 

In all, the people of Pakistan have once again reposed their confidence in the competence and prudent planning and working of Nawaz government in the Centre and Shahbaz government in Punjab. One can only wish that this momentum is maintained in the days to come not only for a limited period of 100 days but throughout the mandated term of the elected government.

UN Chief Shocked by Peshawar Church attack

UNITED NATIONS, Sept 22 (APP):

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon strongly condemned Sunday’s “atrocious” terrorist attack on a church in Peshawar, and called on Pakistani government to bring the perpetrators to justice.

A statement issued by UN Spokesman Martin Nesirky said that the secretary-general was “appalled” by the attack, which had reportedly killed more than 75 people and wounded over 100 others as they were attending Sunday mass. “The Secretary-General condemns this atrocious bombing attack in the strongest possible terms,” the statement said.

PAKISTAN TO RAISE DRONE ISSUE AT UN

Sept 23 (APP): The Pakistan delegation, under the  leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, will raise the issue of American drone strikes in  its tribal regions at various U.N. forums in the course of the General Assembly session, which begins its high-level debate Tuesday on crucial issues of  peace and security, the Adviser on National Security and Foreign Affairs, Sartaj Aziz, has said. During an interview on Sunday evening, Aziz also said that the Pakistan delegation would play a constructive role at the annual session and convey its message of peace to the international community. Responding to a question about the drone attacks,he said Pakistan’s policy was clear that such strikes are “counterproductive” as they lead to large numbers of civilian deaths that generate hatred among people.

 

Pakistan,he said,had conveyed its serious concern to the United States over its drone programme, and called for the cessation of the aerial strikes.
“Drone strikes infringe Pakistan’s sovereignty and violate international law,” Aziz added.
The adviser said that international opinion was also turning in favour of Pakistan’s stand, and hoped  that the United States would feel the pressure and end the drone attacks.
Aziz said that Pakistan will also speak about the drone issue during a UN Security Council debate on the Role of Small Arms in Conflict on September 26.
An All Parties Conference (APC), which was recently held in Islamabad,  had recommended raising of the drone issue at the United Nations.
About terrorism,the adviser said Pakistan was combating the menace under a well-defined policy.Pakistan had also initiated moves to promote good relations with its neighbours—Afghanistan and Pakistan.With Afghanistan, some progress has been made,but in the case of India,there has been a setback that he hoped would be overcome.
Meanwhile,a tight schedule awaits Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif,who is reaching New York Monday evening to participate in the General Assembly session.
The deadly conflict in Syria,the situation in Afghanistan,Egypt,Mali and the Central African Republic are high on the Assembly’s 175-item agenda.The Middle East diplomatic Quartet comprised of the UN, the European Union, Russia and the United States “will also meet for the first time in more than a year to support the resumed Israeli-Palestinian negotiations.
The theme of the annual session of the General Assembly is:”Post-2015 Development Agenda: Setting the Stage.”
The year 2015 is the deadline for achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs),the eight anti-poverty targets agreed by world leaders at a UN summit in 2000,setting specific goals on poverty alleviation, education, gender equality,child and maternal health,environmental stability, HIV/AIDS reduction, and a global partnership for development.
More than 130 heads of state/government will participate in the high-level debate,which begins on Tuesday and last till Oct 1.A huge security cordon has been thrown around the U.N.complex on the banks of East River as world leaders prepared to descend on New York.Checks points have been set up in various parts of the city of over eight million.
The high point of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif week-long visit will be an address to General Assembly on September 27, his first on the world stage.
Sharif,whose PML-N party swept the May elections,is expected to outline his vision for Pakistan and some of his foreign and domestic policies.He will also dilate on the efforts of the present government to curb the menace of terrorism besides its endeavors to bring peace and stability to the region.
In addition, the prime minister will participate in a number of other high-level events,including meetings on Millennium Development Goals (MGDs), sustainable development and nuclear disarmament.A meeting on education in Pakistan is also scheduled in which Malala Yousafzai will also take part.
He will also meet a number of heads of state/government,including leaders of China,Iran,Tunisia and Japan,on the sidelines of the General Assembly,and discuss various bilateral and regional issues.The Prime Minister is also expected to meet his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh. Final touches to the Prime Minister’s programme are being given.
US Secretary of State John Kerry will call the prime minister on Thursday.
Besides UN-related engagements, the Prime Minister will also address members of the Pakistani community and American businessmen.
Ahead of the General Assembly’s high-level debate,UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon,speaking to reporters, said “This is a crucial period for global cooperation.Syria is the biggest peace, security and humanitarian challenge we face.Let us be clear: the use of chemical weapons in Syria is only the tip of the iceberg.”
“Next week, as world leaders gather here,I will make a strong appeal to Member States for action now,” Ban said, adding he would call on world leaders to uphold their political and moral responsibilities to serve,to listen,to invest,to respond to the rising and justifiable demands of people across the world for lives of freedom and prosperity.”
Diplomats here are also keeping an eye on a possible first handshake between United states and Iranian presidents since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.Iranian President Hasan Rouhani and President Barack Obama have sent signals in the lead-up to next week’s meeting of the world body that they are open to taking at least small steps toward opening a diplomatic relationship.
The White House says there is no scheduled meeting between Obama and Rouhani,but White House press secretary Jay Carney also underscored on Thursday that Obama”has been open as a general proposition to bilateral discussions with the Iranians” while noting that the president has found Rouhani’s rhetoric in his first weeks in office encouraging.
“We are all watching very closely and with interest and listening closely and with interest to the things that the new leadership has been saying,”

NEW IGP KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA TOOK CHARGE

PESHAWAR: The Inspector General Police (IGP) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been changed. The new IGP will be Nasir Durrani, he will replace Ahsan Ghani on Monday evening.

 

The decision to change the top police officer in the province comes a day after deadly bombings at a church in Peshawar. 81 people lost their lives in the horrific attack while over 140 were injured.

 

A four member committee has been formed to the probe the attack. According to the initial report, the attackers were between the ages of 20-25.

Animals which you can only think to be existed!

We have all heard about the flying squirrel and vampire bats, but I bet you haven’t heard of Yeti Crab, Zebra Duiker, The markhor and Southern Red Muntjac. Here are ten animals that you probably haven’t seen!

Yeti Crab

Also known as the Kiwaidae, this crab is a type of marine decapod living at deep-sea hydrothermal vents and cold seeps. The animals are commonly referred to as "yeti crabs" because of their claws and legs, which are white and appear to be furry like the mythical yeti.

 

Zebra Duiker

The Zebra Duiker is a small antelope found in Ivory Coast and other parts of Africa. They have gold or red-brown coats with distinctive zebra-like stripes (hence the name) Their prong-like horns are about 4.5 cm long in males, and half that in females. They live in lowland rain-forests and mostly eat leaves and fruit.

  

The Markhor

The Markhor is a large species of wild goat that is found in northeastern Afghanistan and Pakistan. The species is classed by the IUCN as Endangered, as there are fewer than 2,500 mature individuals. The Markhor is the national animal of Pakistan. While chewing the cud, a foam-like substance comes out of its mouth which drops on the ground and dries. This foam-like substance is sought after by the local people, who believe it is useful in extracting snake poison from snake bitten wounds.

 

 Southern Red Muntjac

Found in south Asia, it has soft, short, brownish or greyish hair and is omnivorous, feeding on grass, fruits, shoots, seeds, birds' eggs as well as small animals. It sometimes even displays scavenging behavior, feeding on carrion. It gives calls similar to barking, usually upon sensing a predator. Males are extremely territorial and—despite their diminutive size—can be quite fierce. They will fight each other for territory using their antlers or their tusk-like upper canine teeth, and can even defend themselves against certain predators such as dogs.

  

Snub-Nosed Monkey

Snub-nosed monkeys live in various parts of Asia and get their name from the short stump of a nose on their round face. Snub-nosed monkeys inhabit mountain forests, in the winter moving into deeply secluded regions. They spend the majority of their life in the trees and live together in very large groups of up to 600 members. They have a large vocal repertoire, calling sometimes solo while at other times together in choir-like fashion.

 

 The Patagonian Mara


The Patagonian Mara is a relatively large rodent found in parts of Argentina. This herbivorous, somewhat rabbit-like animal has distinctive long ears and long limbs and its hind limbs are longer and more muscular than its forelimbs.

 

Naked Mole Rat

This creature has a lot of characteristics that make it very important to human beings. For one it is resistant to cancer. They also live up to 28 years, which is unheard of in mammals of its size. It seemingly does not age much in those 28 years either. It remains “young, healthy and fully fertile for almost all its days, which for an elderly animal is equivalent to an 80-year-old woman having the biological make-up of someone 50 years younger.” The naked mole rat is used in both cancer research and the study of aging. Not only making it a bizarre creature, but an incredibly important creature as well.

 

 

The Amazonian Royal Flycatcher

The Amazonian Royal Flycatcher is found in forests and woodlands throughout most of the Amazon basin. They are about 6 1/2 inches in length and like to dart out from branches to catch flying insects or pluck them from leaves. They build very large nests (sometimes up to 6 feet long) on a branches near water. The nest hangs over the water which makes it hard for predators to reach.

 

 Lamprey

Lampreys are a type of jaw-less fish that live mostly in coastal and fresh waters whose adults are characterized by a toothed, funnel-like sucking mouth. They attach themselves to fish and suck their blood. Lampreys have been around for nearly 300 million years and their body structure has remained relatively unchanged.

 

The Maned Wolf

The Maned Wolf is the largest canid in South America, resembling a large fox with reddish fur. This mammal is found in open and semi-open habitats, especially grasslands with scattered bushes and trees throughout South America. The maned wolf is the tallest of the wild canids and it's long legs are most likely an adaptation to the tall grasslands of its native habitat.

People Republic of China issues storm warning as ‘Super Typhoon’ Approaches

The Chinese National Observatory has issued its highest level storm warning for super typhoon Usagi.

According to data from the Observatory’s storm tracker Usagi is now heading straight for the city of Hong Kong.

Experts say it is likely to be the strongest typhoon to hit the city this year.

Airlines Cathay Pacific and Dragonair announced Saturday they would halt all flights in and out of Hong Kong from 6pm Sunday, as Super Typhoon Usagi roared towards the city.

After brushing past the Philippines and Taiwan, the huge storm continued on its path towards Southern China, with forecasters predicting it will reach Hong Kong in the early hours of Monday morning.

A statement on Cathay Pacific's website read: "Due to the anticipated impact of Super Typhoon Usagi approaching, the operations at Hong Kong will stop from 18: 00 on 22 September (Sunday) through 23 September (Monday).

"The airline is monitoring the situation closely and will issue further advice on the resumption of flight services.  It is anticipated that disruptions will continue on 23 September due to the impact of adverse weather and operational constraints.

"You are encouraged to defer non-essential travel on Sunday 22 September to Monday 23 September."

In Hong Kong, officials warned the storm posed a "severe threat" to the city, urging residents to brace for strong winds and possible flooding.

The Hong Kong Observatory cautioned engineers and builders to secure scaffoldings, window-panes and other temporary structures in a statement issued Saturday afternoon. It also warned that storm surges induced by Usagi might also lead to flooding in low-lying areas on Sunday night.

 

China's National Meteorological Center issued a red alert - its highest level warning - as it forecast gale-force winds and heavy rain.

It said Usagi would affect the coastal areas of the provinces of Guangdong, Zhejiang and Fujian as it moved northwest.

Nearly 23,000 fishing boats had earlier taken shelter in Fujian province ahead of the storm, state media reported Saturday, while more than 4,000 people living in coastal areas were evacuated.

Usagi brought torrential rain and strong winds to the Philippines and Taiwan Saturday, uprooting trees and knocking out power as it barrelled towards Hong Kong.

The typhoon battered the Batanes island group in the far north of the Philippines overnight with gusts of up to 250 kilometres (155 miles) per hour, affecting communication lines and damaging crops, officials said.

"The winds are very strong. I cannot even go out now," Batanes governor Vicente Gato told DZBB radio in Manila. "Many trees have been uprooted and we have no electricity," he said.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Center issued its highest alert, with flooding recorded in four regions of the main island of Luzon, the country's most populous area, while several roads and bridges were rendered impassable by overflowing rivers or landslides.

There were no immediate reports of any casualties, although emergency and relief services said they were prepared for the worst with more than 100 families having already been evacuated in one northern province.

In Taiwan, some flights were cancelled and ferry services suspended, with schools and offices in many parts of the island closed, especially in the south and east, which were expected to bear the brunt of the storm, authorities said.

Coastguards cordoned off the beaches at Kenting, a popular scenic spot in the south, as strong winds whipped up the sea.

The defence ministry has deployed more than 1,600 soldiers to "high risk" areas and placed 24,000 others on standby.

Nearly 2,500 people had already been evacuated, officials said, as the Central Weather Bureau warned people to expect up to 1.2 metres (47 inches) of rain. Hotels and resorts in mountainous areas were closed due to fears of flooding and landslides.

The US Navy's Joint Typhoon Warning Center said that Usagi was packing sustained winds of 240 kilometres per hour (150 miles per hour) with gusts of nearly 300 kilometres per hour, making it the equivalent of a strong category four Atlantic hurricane.

As of 0400 GMT on Saturday, Usagi was still roaring through the Luzon Strait separating the Philippines and Taiwan, heading directly for the southern Chinese coast.

The region is regularly pummelled by tropical storms. Typhoon Bopha left a trail of destruction in the southern Philippines last year, triggering floods and landslides that left more than 1,800 dead and missing and displaced nearly one million people.

In August 2009, Typhoon Morakot killed about 600 people in Taiwan, most of them buried in huge landslides in the south, in one of the worst natural disasters to hit the island in recent years.

Hong Kong rarely suffers major loss of life as a result of tropical storms, although Typhoon Rose in 1971 killed 110 people in the city.

China's national observatory on Saturday issued the highest level of alert for super typhoon Usagi, upgrading its warning to the red from the previous yellow-coded one issued yesterday afternoon. Hong Kong Observatory has issued a T1 warning at 10:40 am on Saturday.

It issued a very hot weather warning yesterday, and the heat and haze is likely to continue today. Heavy squally showers, strong winds and rough seas were expected tomorrow and on Monday, with Usagi forecast to be closest to the city tomorrow night, it said.

 

Xinhua reported that Chinese authorities on Friday had issued a disaster relief alert ahead of the typhoon which it said was expected to hit coastal regions of southern China’s Guangdong Province on Sunday.

As of 8am on Saturday, Super Typhoon Usagi was centred about 680 kilometres north-northeast of Manila. It is forecast to move northwest or west-northwest at about 18 kilometres per hour across the western North Pacific in the general direction of the Luzon Strait.

Winds of 205 kilometers per hour were expected to bring torrential rain and destructive gusts. Philippine weather bureau forecaster Alvin Pura said the super typhoon had gathered strength and speed with gusts reaching 240 kph.

“It is the strongest typhoon in the west Pacific region this year,” a weather forecaster at the Taiwan Central Weather Bureau said. "Usagi is this year's most powerful tropical storm by wind speed anywhere in the world," Cheng Ming-Dean, director of Taiwan’s Weather Bureau added.

 

 

Electricity in Pakistan and Russian Proposal

ISLAMABAD: Now a day a top Russian delegation is on Pakistan's visit and has offered to invest in energy sector in Pakistan including 5000 megawatts of electricity to Pakistan via Kyrgyzstan. In this respect they met with Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Reforms, Ahsan Iqbal in the federal Capital.

The Russia is planning to setup a Hydropower plant in Kyrgyzstan and they are proposing to Pakistan electricity via Afghanistan.



Expressing the willingness to invest in energy sectors of Pakistan, Russian Deputy Energy Minister Yury Sentyurin made the offer to export 5000 MW of electricity via Kyrgyzstan and Afghanistan. The sources in planning ministry said Moscow is setting up a hydropower plant in Kyrgyzstan.

The delegation leader Sentyurin noted the ascendance of new government buoyed up the spirits of Russian investors; hence, Moscow is geared up to extend cooperation to Pakistan for investment in all energy sectors.

Now Pakistan should accept Russian Proposal to solve his energy problem upto some extent.

Comedian Actor Lehri Passes away

KARACHI: After prolonged illness the Legendary actor Safirullah Lehri passed away in a private hospital in Karachi, Thursday .

Lehri was admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) after his condition became deteriorated, news channel reported.

He was 82 and suffering from chest pain since many days while his sugar level also dropped.  Safirullah Siddiqui ‘Lehri’ is one of Pakistan’s greatest comedians who made his name in Urdu films. His film career started in the 1950s and lasted until the 1980s.

Lehri won the Nigar Award for around a dozen films. The late Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto provided him with a monthly stipend of Rs. 2,500 during her first tenure, which he continued to receive.

Lehri’s first film “Anokhi” was released in 1956, and his last production was Dhanak in 1986. The vast majority of his films have been in Urdu, though he did perform in a few Punjabi productions also.

May his soul rest in peace!

Benefits of Sweet Lime

Lime is a fruit of the tropical and sub-tropical region and grows on trees. These small fruits are green/yellow in color and oval in shape. They look very similar to lemons and are often confused by some. But lemons are sour while sweet lime, as the name goes, has an orange like taste and its citrus acid content is comparatively lower. The fruit had originally originated in Southeast Asia. Brazil, Mexico and the United States are the principal producers of this fruit. It is very popular in the West Indies and Central America.

The Nutritional Elements of Sweet Lime

The health benefits of sweet lime ensue from its nutritional elements. It is a low calories fruit and thus an essential component of a low fat diet. For instance, if the serving quantity of the fruit is about 3.5 Oz, it will add 43 calories to your diet, with 0.3 grams of fat content. A major part of the calories in sweet lime comes from the carbohydrates, where a single serving has just 9.3 grams. Its protein content is low and thus when you include sweet lime in your regular diet, be sure to add some protein elements as well, from other sources. Thus we find that a sweet lime centered diet is ideal for those are fitness freaks and want to lose their extra flab. Sweet lime juice also helps in flushing out the toxins from the body, making you feel fresh and healthy.
 




High in Minerals and Vitamins

Sweet limes are a great source of vitamin C. each serving of sweet lime has at least 50 mg of Vitamin C. An adult male requires approximately 90 mg of Vitamin C, while a female requires 75 mg. So, we find that sweet limes can meet this requirement pretty easily, providing it in a natural form. It is recommended for nursing mothers, as it will boost the regular intake to 120 mg at a go. The fruit is also high in potassium content, and has about 490 mg in a single serving. Apart from this, sweet lime is rich in calcium, copper, iron and phosphorus as well.

Aids Digestion

The flavanoids in sweet lime helps in stimulating the digestive system by enhancing the production of the digestive juices, bile and acids. Sweet lime causes the neutralization of acidic digestive juices, thereby helping in flushing out the toxins. It is also beneficial when one is suffering from nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea.
  



A Great Home Remedy Element

Apart from the health benefit of sweet lime, when consumed as a part of daily diet, it has enormous amounts of benefits as a home remedy element as well. Being a rich source of natural vitamin C, it is helpful in preventing from catching cold. It reduces the duration of the cold and boosts the immunity system. According to the homeopathy school of treatment, sweet lime also has antiseptic and antiviral properties. It can boost the liver function and provide effective relief from gastrointestinal issues.
 

It can be said that one can safely add sweet lime to their daily diet and derive endless benefits from its curative properties, but it is advisable to seek the advice of a physician when you are trying to use for a certain medical condition. For example, sweet lime is found to be very effective in treating jaundice. The peel of sweet lime is used for this purpose, but you would obviously realize the importance of getting treated medically when you are suffering from jaundice, and complement it with natural home remedies, if necessary. Research is carried out on the anti-cancer properties of sweet lime.
  

Barcelona won in Champion League opening

ROME: Lionel Messi scored a hat trick as Barcelona opened its Champions League campaign with a dominant 4-0 win over Ajax on Wednesday.

At the Camp Nou, Messi scored his 60th, 61st and 62nd career goals in his 80th Champions League match.

“Barcelona is full of individual talents,” Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino said. “Today we can talk about Messi and Valdes, another day Xavi or Neymar. It is normal that one of them rises to the occasion.”

Messi, the four-time FIFA world player of the year, opened the scoring in the 22nd minute after he was fouled on the edge of Ajax’s area, then stepped up to fire in a perfect-placed free kick.

The Argentina forward doubled the hosts’ advantage in the 55th by hitting on the break when Ajax was caught looking for the equalizer. Neymar, scored third Goal for add Barcelona’s in the 69th before Messi completed his hat trick in the 75th.

Messi’s is now near to level the record of Raul Gonzalez’s all-time record of 71 goals.

KP Police to be equipped with Helicopter

Peshawar:       Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) police will be given first operational helicopter in November this year, which will be                                      capable of carrying 8 commandos and 2 doctors.

Talking to News Reporter on Tuesday, police officials told that the Helicopter will be used for conducting an operation in case of a major terrorist attack.

The chopper and its crew will be ready to cope with any terrorist incident and the district police officers will be able to call it at any time.

Officials told that the Helicopter could also be used as an air ambulance for taking the injured security personnel to the hospitals in case of a bomb blast or any such incident anywhere in the province.

They said that the police force will be able to give greater output with the addition of the helicopter service.

Moreover, they claimed that if they had this chopper prior to the attacks on Bannu and DI Khan jails, then the terrorists would not have succeeded in making an escape.

According to the masses of KP, it is a very brave step to bring peace in the region, and the also suggest Government to take such type of steps.

Terrorism and Nawaz Sharif

I never agreed but those who believed that Nawaz Sharif has learnt from his previous mistakes and now he is a ‘new ‘Nawaz Sharif were right.

Yes he has learnt from his mistakes and that is why he is appeasing all the powers-that-matter. Be it Judiciary, military read intelligence agencies, TTP, Media, India, America. He has learnt the art of ‘survival’. He knows really well the consequences of antagonising these powers, and now he is pursuing ‘responsible’ and ‘mature’ politics.

He started his mature and responsible politics from his home, by bringing forth Maryam Nawaz Sharif instead of Hamza Shahbaz Sharif and Asif Zardari of PML (N), Captain Safdar. He also takes both his sons, Hussain Nawaz on foreign tours and make it a point to introduce them to the head of states.

So he is a successful politician now. And hopefully he will complete his five years term. And I am confident that he will also win next elections. As there is hardly any other ‘mature and responsible politician’ in this land of pure who can satisfy all these stake-holders. So they all will try to bring him back to power as they did this time around and succeeded.

Nawaz Sharif and his mentors may be successful in gaining power but I have serious doubts that this will change the fate of ordinary folks in Pakistan. . So far there is hardly any visible change for men in the street, rather for them life has become even more hard. Dolor has crossed 100 rupee mark, prices of commodities of daily use, are at all time high, and security situation has become worsened.

The most serious problem that is shaking the very foundations of the state is terrorism. It is going on in Pakistan for quite some time now, but it is quite intriguing that subsequent government has not yet come up with a clear cut strategy to counter terrorism. Even this government is not doing much about it. It looks that government has not been allowed to do anything about it, or should I say, this is such a sensitive issue that government itself is avoiding it as per its appeasing policy. Ever since the government assumed power we have been hearing about a new counter terrorism strategy but nothing has come up yet.

Government announced to hold All Parties Conference over terrorism. But later on it backed out after the demand of Imran khan to hold a meeting before this APC among Nawaz Sharif, Imran Khan and Army Chief. Leaving politics aside, I do not think that it was such a bad idea. This matter is so sensitive that it cannot be discussed openly. The government could have invited some more people in that meeting as well, as it does not want to give Imran Khan much importance. But it should not abandoned it at all, as it is the matter of the very survival of the country, politics over this issue is not going to take us anywhere

The current wave of terrorism started in Musharraf’s era and is still continued unabated. Previous government neither had the capacity nor the vision to do anything about it.
Before general elections, people of Pakistan had high expectations of Nawaz Sharif and Imran khan as they were fed up with the insecurity and other problems.

However things have not improved yet. There is no letup in the terrorism activities; rather TTP and other terrorist organizations have stepped up their attacks. In Baluchistan particularly ever since the new government led by a nationalist Bloch leader assumed power, situation has really deteriorated over there.

It is too early to dub PML (N) and PTI as failure; however they still enjoy the support and confidence of people. So they should take terrorism as their top priority and do something about it on war footing. And perhaps negotiation is still the most viable options. There is no doubt that after the killing of some senior Taliban commanders, TTP has been weakened and there are reports about the differences within its ranks. Still TTP is potent enough to carry out suicidal attacks all over Pakistan.

Just before general elections, TTP has offered to hold negotiations with the government to end its activities but later on, it withdrew its offer after what it described as the lukewarm and deceitful attitude of the government. But that offer was too late as elections were quite near and it was not possible to hold negotiations at that time. Nevertheless the interesting thing is that Taliban had nominated Nawaz Sharif and Syed Munawwar Hussain as mediator or guarantor between government and Taliban, and now both JI and PML (N) are in government. JI is ruling in KPK along with PTI and PML in Punjab, Baluchistan and centre. So it should not be too much difficult for them to break the ice.TTP has once again offered negotiation, I think we should not waste this opportunity.


Drone attacks have helped TTP to recruits new suicidal attackers and gain some sympathy as well. Both Nawaz Sharif and Imran khan has criticized drone attacks in the past. However drone attacks are still continued. Drone attacks are no doubt a main source of fuelling anti-government sentiments, due to its collateral damage. But it is also a fact that some top ranking Taliban leader has been killed by drone attacks. It is a good sign that American Secretary of State, John Kerry in his visit to Pakistan has announced that Drone Attacks will end very soon.

Over the years, people of Pakistan have suffered a lot due to terrorism. If we really want to make Pakistan a viable state, then a comprehensive anti-terrorism policy should be evolved, by taking into confidence all the major political parties and civil society. This is perhaps the last chance for PML (N), if it failed to deliver, its fate would not be different from the fate of PPP.

Did you know about Human Eyes.........

"And in the earth are signs for those who believe, and (also) in yourselves. Can you then not see?"

(Glorious Qur`an)

Human Eye is the part of human body which enables humans to see. Today i am going to inform you about some interesting facts about it. You can view it as below.

1. We should never put anything in or near our eyes, unless we have a reason to use eye drops. We would only do that if our doctor or parent told us to use them.


2. Blinking helps to wash tears over our eyeballs. That keeps them clean and moist. Also, if something is about to hit our eye, we will blink automatically.


3. Our body has some natural protection for our eyes. Our eyelashes help to keep dirt out of our eyes. Our eyebrows are made to keep sweat from running into our eyes.


4. Our eyes are very important to us, and we must protect them. We don't want dirt, sand, splinters or even fingers to get in our eyes. We don't want our eyes to get scratched or poked. That could damage our sight!


5. The study of the iris of the eye is called irideology.


6. The shark cornea has been used in eye surgery, since its cornea is similar to a human cornea.


7. The number one cause of blindness in adults in the United States is diabetes.


8. The eyeball of a human weighs approximately 28 grams.


9. The eye of a human can distinguish 500 shades of the gray.


10. The cornea is the only living tissue in the human body that does not contain any blood vessels.


11. The conjunctiva is a membrane that covers the human eye.


12. Sailors once thought that wearing a gold earring would improve their eyesight.


13. Research has indicated that a tie that is on too tight cam increase the risk of glaucoma in men.


14. People generally read 25% slower from a computer screen compared to paper.


15. Men are able to read fine print better than women can.


16. In the United States, approximately 25,000 eye injuries occur that result in the person becoming totally blind.


17. All babies are colour blind when they are born.


18. A human eyeball weighs an ounce.


19. If the lens in our eye doesn't work quite right, we can get glasses to help us see. Glasses have lenses in them that work with our eye's own lens to help us see better.


20. Babies' eyes do not produce tears until the baby is approximately six to eight weeks old.


21. The reason why your nose gets runny when you are crying is because the tears from the eyes drain into the nose.


22. The most common injury caused by cosmetics is to the eye by a mascara wand.


23. Some people start to sneeze if they are exposed to sunlight or have a light shined into their eye.


24. The highest recorded speed of a sneeze is 165 km per hour.


25. It is impossible to sneeze with your eyes open.


26. The space between your eyebrows is called the Glabella.


27. Inside our eye, at the back, is a part called the "retina." On the retina are cells called "rods" and "cones." These rods and cones help us to see colors and light.


28. Just behind the pupil is a lens. It is round and flat. It is thicker toward the middle.


29. Over the front of our eye is a clear covering called the "conjunctiva."


30. The white part of our eye is called the "sclera." At the front, the sclera becomes clear and is called the "cornea."


31. Around the pupil is a colored muscle called the "iris." Our eyes may be BLUE, BROWN, GREEN, GRAY OR BLACK, because that is the color of the iris.


32. Our eyes have many parts. The black part on the front of our eye is called the "pupil." It is really a little hole that opens into the back part of our eyes.


33. Your eyes blinks over 10,000,000 times a year!

Relations with India........Only Indian Point of view?

"It Takes two, to make a quarrel"

The use of Pakistani media as money earning channel, i am trying my best to explain the above idiom that when relation establishes "it requires two sided attention, not only from one side". I am going to explain the above idiom with the example of relations between "India and Pakistan".

Relation between India and Pakistan from business point of view may be a source of friendship and peace in both countries. It can bring peace and prosperity for the people of the twin countries, but here in Pakistan the Pakistani media only copying and promoting Indian media. Why Pakistan channels are promoting and showing Indian shows, songs, movies etc?

Although Pakistani songs, shows, talk shows and movies have also a great importance in the world of entertainment. They can compete with Indian songs , movies, shows etc. So Pakistani media should stop copying Indian artists and should start showing Pakistani concepts and ideas. Pakistani news channels are also promoting Indian stars movies and culture, although Pakistani movies, talk shows and programs are better than Indian ones. Even Indian singers cannot compete with our legend singers like Noor Jahan, Ahmad Rushdi, Amanat Ali, Masood Rana, Nusrat Fatah Ali Khan, Adnan Sami and many more and some new artists like Atif Aslam, Bilal khan, Sajjad Ali and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan.

Pakistani movies like Virsa, Khuda ke liye , Ye dil apka hua and "Zinda Bhaag" got more fame and reputation than Indian movies. Latest movie which got so fame that it has been nominated for Osker Award 2013 the world most famous award given to such type of movies. In this movie some Indian starts like Nasiruddin Shah also played his role. In 2011 our block buster movie BOL got more positive response both in India and Pakistan than any other movies in the sub continent. Pakistani advertising agencies are also copying Indian advertisements although Pakistani concepts are much better than Indians.

So i request the Pakistani Print and Electronic media not to use only Indian concept but also use the Pakistani concepts and ideas, the use of our media for only one country will weakens our conceptual strength. And i also suggest it to the Pakistani Government to direct our media to be used for the survival of Pakistani thoughts and concepts.

The Amazing facts of Holy Quran

Asalaam-o-Alaikum

Although this makes sense grammatically, the astonishing fact is that the

 

number of times the

 

word man appears in the Qur'an is 24 and number of times the word woman

 

appears is also 24, therefore not only is this phrase correct in the

 

grammatical sense but also true mathematically, i.e. 24 = 24.

Upon further analysis of various verses, he discovered that this is

 

consistent throughout the whole Qur'an, where it says one thing is like

 

another. See below for astonishing result of the words mentioned number of

 

times in Arabic Qur'an:

Dunia (one name for life) 115. Aakhirat (one name for the life after this

 

world) 115

 

Malaika (Angels) 88 . Shayteen (Satan) 88

 

Life 145 .... Death 145

 

Benefit 50 . Corrupt 50

 

People 50 .. Messengers 50

 

Eblees (king of devils) 11 . Seek refuge from Eblees 11

 

Museebah (calamity) 75 . Thanks 75

 

Spending (Sadaqah) 73 . Satisfaction 73

 

People who are mislead 17 . Dead people 17

 

Muslimeen 41 . Jihad 41

 

Gold 8 . Easy life 8

 

Magic 60 . Fitnah (dissuasion, misleading) 60

 

Zakat (Taxes Muslims pay to the poor) 32 . Barakah (Increasing or blessings

 

of wealth) 32

 

Mind 49 . Noor 49

 

Tongue 25 . Sermon 25

 

Desite 8 . Fear 8

 

Speaking publicly 18 . Publicising 18

 

Hardship 114 .... Patience 114

 

Muhammed 4 . Sharee'ah (Muhammed's teachings) 4

 

Man 24. Woman 24

And amazingly enough have a look how many times the following words appear:

Salah 5, Month 12, Day 365,

 

Sea 32, Land 13

Sea + land = 32+13= 45

Sea = 32/45*100=71.11111111%

 

Land = 13/45*100 = 28.88888889%

 

Sea + land =100.00%

Modern science has only recently proven that the water covers 71.111% of the

 

earth, while the land covers 28.889%.

Is this a coincidence?

Question is that Who taught Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) all this?

Reply automatically comes in mind that ALMIGHTY ALLAH taught him this. As

 

the Qur'an also tells us this.

Please pass this on to all your friends as they aware from these valuable information.

Champion League T20 starts Today

Champions League T20 2013 Schedule

Champions League T-20 (CL T-20) cricket Tournament is going to start on September 17, 2013. Overall everyone waiting for this league to get into action and every team of champions league is waiting to show their potential in T-20 format.

First match in Champions League T-20 will be played between Otago Volts vs Faisalabad Wolves. It is a qualifier match of pool A. Faisalabad Wolves is a new team included this year in CL T-20 2013.  There are six Qualifiers in the beginning of CL T-20 2013 this year which decides the teams for this Champions league.

CLT20 2013 Qualifier Schedule

Date	IST	GMT	Match	Details	Venue
17-Sep	16:00	10:30	Qualifying Pool 1	Faisalabad Wolves vs Otago	PCA Stadium, Mohali
17-Sep	20:00	14:30	Qualifying Pool 2	Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Kandurata Maroons	PCA Stadium, Mohali
18-Sep	16:00	10:30	Qualifying Pool 1	Otago vs Kandurata Maroons	PCA Stadium, Mohali
18-Sep	20:00	14:30	Qualifying Pool 2	Faisalabad Wolves vs Sunrisers Hyderabad	PCA Stadium, Mohali
20-Sep	16:00	10:30	Qualifying Pool 1	Faisalabad Wolves v Kandurata Maroons	PCA Stadium, Mohali
20-Sep	20:00	14:30	Qualifying Pool 2	Otago v Sunrisers Hyderabad	PCA Stadium, Mohali

Champions League T20 2013 Schedule

Date	IST	GMT	Match	Details	Venue
21-Sep	20:00	14:30	Match 1	Group A : Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians	Jaipur
22-Sep	16:00	10:30	Match 2	Group B : Brisbane Heat vs Trinidad and Tobago	Ranchi
22-Sep	20:00	14:30	Match 3	Group B : Chennai Super Kings vs Titans	Ranchi
23-Sep	16:00	10:30	Match 4	Group A : Highveld Lions vs Perth Scorchers	Ahmedabad
23-Sep	20:00	14:30	Match 5	Group A : Mumbai Indians vs TBC	Ahmedabad
24-Sep	16:00	10:30	Match 6	Group B : Titans vs Brisbane Heat	Mohali
24-Sep	20:00	14:30	Match 7	Group B : Trinidad and Tobago vs TBC	Mohali
25-Sep	16:00	10:30	Match 8	Group A : Perth Scorchers vs TBC	Jaipur
25-Sep	20:00	14:30	Match 9	Group A : Rajasthan Royals vs Highveld Lions	Jaipur
26-Sep	20:00	14:30	Match 10	Group B : Chennai Super Kings vs TBC	Ranchi
27-Sep	20:00	14:30	Match 11	Group A : Mumbai Indians vs Highveld Lions	Ahmedabad
28-Sep	16:00	10:30	Match 12	Group B : Titans vs TBC	Ranchi
28-Sep	20:00	14:30	Match 13	Group B : Chennai Super Kings vs Brisbane Heat	Ranchi
29-Sep	16:00	10:30	Match 14	Group A : Highveld Lions vs TBC	Jaipur
29-Sep	20:00	14:30	Match 15	Group A : Rajasthan Royals vs Perth Scorchers	Jaipur
30-Sep	16:00	10:30	Match 16	Group B : Titans vs Trinidad and Tobago	Ahmedabad
30-Sep	20:00	14:30	Match 17	Group B : Brisbane Heat vs TBC	Ahmedabad
1-Oct	20:00	14:30	Match 18	Group A : Rajasthan Royals vs TBC	Jaipur
2-Oct	16:00	10:30	Match 19	Group A : Perth Scorchers vs Mumbai Indians	Delhi
2-Oct	20:00	14:30	Match 20	Group B : Chennai Super Kings vs Trinidad and Tobago	Delhi
4-Oct	20:00	14:30	1st Semi Final T20	TBC vs TBC	Jaipur
5-Oct	20:00	14:30	2nd Semi Final T20	TBC vs TBC	Delhi
6-Oct	20:00	14:30	Final T20	TBC vs TBC	Delhi

Note:  Faisalabad Wolves, Pakistan’s domestic Twenty-20 champions, will travel to India to take part in the Champions League T-20 after the Indian Embassy in Pakistan granted the players their visas following days of uncertainty.

 

SOME INTERESTING AND STUPID LAWS

Law is a set of rules and policies that is implemented in a specific city, state or country and to be followed by the inhabitants of that place.

But local laws can also be called as a tradition. Here's a listing of some rather interesting laws which were actually passed and many are still on the books. These interesting laws are mostly implementing on the local inhabitants, because local inhabitants are interesting and stupid by themselves.

1.California

Without a license you cannot set a mousetrap for hunting of mice.

2.  Colorado

Vacuum cleaner is prohibited to give it to a neighbor in Colorado state of USA.

3.  Oklahoma

Making ugly faces at dogs, it is unlawful in Oklahoma, and after Violation the Violator can be fined, arrested and/or jailed.

4.  Maryland

Lion is such type of animal which is horrible to live with, but in past the people used to bring him to the movie theater, after passing a law on cannot bring his Pet lion to the movie theater.

5.  California

After 6 O'clock to buy an ice-cream, is unlawful without a Doctor's prescription.

6.  Indiana

After eating Garlic in Gary, persons are prohibited from attending a movie house or other theater and from  riding a public streetcar within four hours.

 

5th One day Australia thrash England by 49 Runs

Australia won the Final and 5th one-day against England by 49 runs, and they succeeded to clinch up the 5-matches series by 2-1. Batted first the visitors scored 298/10 in 49.1 overs. The middle order batsman and dashing all rounder Shane Watson scored 143 runs by 107 ball with the help of 12 fours and 6 sixes. Ben Stokes took 5-wickets and Chris Jordan took three. It was Chris Jordan debut match.

In reply the hots were all out on 249 runs and lose the decider by 49 runs. Ravi Bopara was the top scorer i.e 62-runs. The other top score batsman was Jose buttler (W) who scored 42-runs. Mitchell Johnson was more economical and successful bowler who took 2 for 21 runs. James Faulkner took 3 for 38.

IMF welcomes Pakistan plan to foster growth amid challenges

WASHINGTON, Sep 12 (APP): The International Monetary Fund has welcomed Pakistan’s economic program aiming to foster sustained and inclusive growth amid wide-ranging challenges.Releasing details of the September 4, 2013 Executive Board Meeting, which approved a three-year $ 6.64 billion package in support of Islamabad’s structural reform and growth program, the Fund said the directors highlighted the need for further consolidation.“While the 2013/14 federal budget represents an important initial step, a more efficient and equitable tax system is needed, and a significant increase in the tax-to-GDP ratio will be key to create room for social and investment spending while lowering the deficit,” the directors said in the backdrop of challenges and risks.
According to a fund’s news release, directors assess that this will involve broadening the tax base and overhaul of tax administration.
About the country’s economic performance, the Fund says GDP growth has averaged only 3 percent over the past five years, which is insufficient to significantly improve living standards or fully absorb the growing labor force.
Severe problems with the electricity supply, a difficult security situation and the presence of loss-making public sector enterprises are among the factors for the below potential economic performance.
“Directors welcomed the authorities’ new energy policy, which is geared to addressing long-standing problems that constitute the most critical constraint on growth and have generated large fiscal costs.”
They encouraged the authorities to work closely with donors and secure broad-based support for the continued strong implementation of their energy sector strategy. Directors also called for efforts to liberalize the trade regime, restructure or privatize public sector enterprises, and improve the business climate to reduce rent-seeking behaviors and increase both foreign and domestic productive investment.
At the same time, directors stressed that protecting the most vulnerable from the impact of fiscal consolidation and price adjustments is a priority.
“They commended the authorities for their firm commitment to boosting targeted income support programs, and encouraged a gradual expansion of coverage and benefits as savings from energy tariff adjustments and fiscal space are realized.”

Top Pakistani diplomat welcomes Russia’s Syria proposal, urges Moscow and Washington to reach accord

NEW YORK, Sept 12 (APP): Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Masood Khan, has described as “a very good development” the Russian initiative that Syria put its chemical weapons under international control, and urged the United States and Russia to work out an agreement on the proposal. “I think it is crucial that the United States and Russia develop an agreement, bring it back to the (UN Security) Council so that the divide in the council is bridged,” he said in an interview with FOX News, noting that the 15-member body has been in a state of impasse.

“So, this development, this proposal by Russia, can act as a catalyst for first forging unity within the P-5 (five permanent members of the Security Council) and then the larger council,” the Pakistani envoy said, while responding to questions.
When asked about the difficulties involved in the process to destroy the chemical weapons in situation of civil war in Syria, Masood Khan the details can be worked out once there is an agreement on the proposal.
“First things first,” he said. “I think that Secretary (of ‘State John) Kerry and Foreign Minister (Sergey) Lavrov, they’re meeting in Geneva (today) and the day after. And first, they have to come to an agreement and understanding. Once we have crossed that threshold, then all other details can be worked out.
“For instance, what would be the composition of the monitoring mechanism that is going secure chemical weapons and then which parties will agree to implement them?
“Of course, OPCW (Organization for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons) would be involved. We can anticipate that and there are other mechanism which can be, which can have Russia and United States as its members. So, there are many possibilities. It is too early to speculate on the specific details,” Masood Khan added.

New UN Women chief calls for facilitating access to girls’ education

UNITED NATIONS, Sept 13 (APP): Facilitating access to education for women and girls is vital to lift millions out of poverty and must be a priority for Governments and international organizations, the head of the United Nations entity tasked with advancing gender equality has said. “Education is one of the founding services that all women and girls need to access in order for us to make a difference”, the Executive Director of the UN Entity for Gender Equity and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, told reporters during her first press conference in New York. She was appointed in July and took up the post in August.

“Education is the foundation for everything we need to do to succeed”, she stressed, adding that this issue will feature prominently in the entity’s agenda as part of a push to accelerate the achievement of the anti-poverty targets known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
One of the goals is to ensure that, by 2015, children everywhere, boys and girls alike, will be able to complete a full course of primary schooling.
Ms. Mlambo-Ngcuka, who focused on several of her priorities for UN Women, underlined that it is not only crucial to facilitate access to education for girls but also to reduce the number of girls who drop out of school.
Another key priority will be ensuring women’s reproductive health rights, she said. “I see reproductive health and reproductive rights as an essential building block on which we need to serve the women, and I see economic empowerment as another important layer. Having those layers we can then address poverty and we will be able to lead to women’s emancipation.
All of these are integral”, she said.
Working with men and boys is also important as they play an important role in actively fighting for the emancipation of women, she added.
During the press briefing, Ms. Mlambo-Ngcuka noted that while it is important to empower women and have their voices be heard, it is also important strengthen national institutions to better serve women’s needs.
“It is my hope and vision that together, and using the existing agreements as well as conventions, we are at a position where we can be game changers as far as supporting women’s emancipation”, she said.
“Women’s voices need to be heard but the public institutions that we lead need to serve women and women must feel the service that we are bringing to them”.
She added that UN Women will seek to collaborate and coordinate with organizations and institutions within and outside the UN with both the expertise and the resources to do advance women’s interests.
In addition, Ms. Mlambo-Ngcuka said another priority in her agenda will be to increase funding for the entity. UN Women will seek to work with Member States to increase their contributions, as well explore ways to diversify funding sources from the private sector, foundations, philanthropists and individuals, she said. UN Women is currently looking to raise $100 million by the end of 2013.

Sartaj Aziz meets Salman Khrsheed in Bishkek

BISHKEK, Sep 13 (APP): Advisor to Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz met with Indian External Affairs Minister Salman Khursheed here on Friday and discussed bilateral relations. The long waited meeting was held on the sidelines of 13th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) here. They discussed bilateral issues, ways to defuse tension on the Line of Control and to resume dialogue process between the two countries. They also discussed proposed meeting of the prime ministers of two countries in New York later this month.

SCO summit begins in Bishkek

BISHKEK, Sep 13 (APP): The 13th Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) started here in Bishkek on Friday, the capital of Kyrgyzstan to discuss the regional situation, security issues and promoting further cooperation among the member states. Advisor to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs and National Security Sartaj Aziz is leading Pakistan at the Summit.Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev being Chairman of the SCO opened the Summit which is being attended by the leaders of member states.

Pakistan is an observer in the SCO and is seeking a full membership status of the Organization.
The SCO’s objectives include promoting peace and stability in the region through building stronger and more productive relationship among the member countries.
The SCO members are Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. Turkmenistan is a “special invitee” while Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Mongolia, and India are observers. Turkey, Belarus, and Sri Lanka are “dialogue partners”.
Present situation in Syria, will also be discussed in this SCO summit.

Price stability of essential items govt’s priority: Dar

ISLAMABAD, Sept 12 (APP): Minister for Finance Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar said on Thursday that the price stability of essential items throughout the country is a priority of the present government. “The provinces should play a proactive role in maintaining price stability to provide relief to the general public”, Ishaq Dar said while addressing the National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) held here on Thursday under his Chairmanship.He emphasized on the need to strengthen the committee and improve implementation of its decision so that an effective monitoring of prices of essential items was ensured.
“This is one area where the Federal and Provincial governments should work jointly to provide relief to the common man”,
He said in the west, consumer associations are playing the role of watchdogs to check rise in prices.
Senator Ishaq Dar also emphasized that the forum of National Price Monitoring Committee at the Federal level monitors supply and demand position, review prices and comparison with regional countries is made.
He expressed the hope that provinces would actively participate in the meeting and take practical steps to control price hike, which will improve the performance of NPMC.
The National Price Monitoring Committee reviewed the trend of inflationary pressure by various indicators including the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Food, Non-Food, Core, Wholesale Price index (WPI) and Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI).
The NPMC was informed that CPI was recorded at 8.5 percent during August 2013, similarly SPI and WPI also reported at 10.1 percent and 8.3 percent respectively.
The SPI for the week ended on September 5, 2013 recorded an increase 0.04 percent due to increase in prices of 19 commodities out of 53 items, while prices of 10 items decreased and prices of 24 items remained stable as compared to last week ended on 29-08-2013.
It was also informed that during the last two weeks, prices of more than 50 percent items remained unchange, which is a signal that government measures are showing their impact.
The food items which registered increase in their prices were Eggs 4.08%, Potatoes 3.57%, Red Chillies 1.71%, Masoor Pulse 0.85%, Gram Pulse 0.59%, Wheat Flour 0.53%, Bread Plain 0.40%, Curd 0.19%, Cooking Oil (Tin) 0.11%, while non- food items responsible for increase are Kerosene Oil 3.24%, Diesel 2.42%, LPG 2.40%.
The items which recorded decrease in their prices were Tomatoes -14.50%, Bananas -8.85%, Garlic -2.18%, Onions -1.17%, Mash Pulse -0.82%, Sugar -0.64%, Chicken -0.42%, Moong Pulse -0.28%, Mustard Oil -0.08% and Veg. Ghee (Loose) - 0.03%.
The NMPC also observed that in comparison with the regional countries,Pakistan is the lowest in prices with respect to Rice Basmati, Beef, Chicken, Red chillies, Eggs and second lowest in Wheat, Wheat flour, Garlic, Sugar, Onions and Petrol. While prices of Tea, Tomatoes, Diesel and Urea are higher in Pakistan.
The meeting also reviewed the price trend of 28 selected items among the provinces. Some variations in the prices of Wheat Flour, Rice Basmati Broken, Rice Irri-6, Pulses, Beef, Mutton, Milk Fresh, Milk Powdered, Ghee, Tomatoes and Garlic were observed.
The meeting also discussed the implementation status of decisions taken in the last NPMC meeting held on 10th July 2013. The meeting directed Ministry of Inter Provincial Coordination to follow up the progress of their summary submitted to the Cabinet Division regarding a draft bill for restoration of Executive Magistracy System so that this item may be placed in the next meeting of the Cabinet.
The Chair also appreciated the Federal Board of Revenue on timely notifying 43 essential items on which GST is not applicable. It was further directed that FBR should publicize these items for the convenience of general public.
Ministry of National Food Security & Research informed the meeting that they are working on National Food Nutritional Security Policy and very soon the policy will be circulated to the stakeholders so that it was finalized by 30th December, 2013. The policy will contain short term and long term measures to ensure food security in the country.
The meeting was informed that the recent stock of wheat was 7.0 million tons as compared to 6.7 million tons last year.
It was also informed that 124,000 tons wheat had been imported in the private sector which would further improve the stock position.
The meeting also discussed the stock position of sugar, oil and other essential items and it was noted that stock position is comfortable for upcoming demand.
The Ministry of National Food Security & Research was directed to present a comprehensive report on major crops in the next NPMC meeting.
The meeting was attended by the representatives from the Provinces of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhthunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad Capital Territory, and Ministries of Industries and Production, Law, Justice and Human Rights, Commerce and Textile Industry, National Food Security and Research, Inter Provincial Coordination, Cabinet Division, Ministry of Planning, Development and Reforms, Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, Federal Board of Revenue and Utility Stores Corporation.

Saudi ambassador calls on President

ISLAMABAD, Sep 12 (APP): Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Abdul Aziz Ibrahim Al-Ghadeer called on President Mamnoon Hussain at the Aiwan-e-Sadr on Thursday.

The Saudi ambassador felicitated the President on assuming his new responsibilities as President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Pakistan-Saudi bilateral relations were also discussed during the meeting. Later, the President hosted lunch for the ambassador.

Election-time promises with youth, low-income groups to be fulfilled: PM

ISLAMABAD, Sep 12 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif on Thursday said that promises made during the election campaign with the youth and low-income groups of society would be fulfilled.The Prime Minister directed officials to initiate programmes and schemes targeting lower strata of society and youth, especially the educated, at the earliest.The Prime Minister gave these directions while chairing a meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office. The meeting was told that the Prime Minister’s Micro Finance Scheme and Prime Minister’s Scheme for Small Business Loans would be directed towards the poor sections of society. It is through these schemes that small loans will be given to the poor for business and this they would have to repay in a period of 5 to 7 years.
The meeting was further told that almost 100,000 people would benefit from this scheme.
Under the Youth Training Programme, qualified youth, both from the public and private sector universities and colleges, would be selected for the internship programme. The Prime Minister emphasized for inclusion of qualified youth from FATA and Balochistan in this programme.
Under the Youth Skills Development Programme, skills would be imparted to the youth of the country which would help them in obtaining better jobs.
Besides, the Prime Minister directed to initiate the Prime Minister’s laptop scheme at the federal level.
The Prime Minister also directed that a scheme for poor students by the name of Prime Minister’s Scheme for Reimbursement of Fee for less-privileged be initiated so that no one remains without education because of cost involved in it.
The Prime Minister also directed to initiate low-cost housing programme and further directed that preference be given to those sections of society which are poor and with low-income.
The Prime Minister directed that in order to ensure transparency, merit and fairplay, independent experts and relevant professionals be included in the committees tasked to execute these schemes.

PM allows PIA’s 26% shares privatization

ISLAMABAD, Sept 12 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif on Thursday allowed to privatise 26 percent shares of PIA in an open and transparent manner to make it competitive and service-oriented.The Prime Minister also directed the Ministry of Privatization and Civil Aviation Division to initiate the process of privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), while ensuring complete transparency, adherence of all relevant codal formalities and guidelines of the superior courts in the process. This would not only help provide people quality service, but would also improve the overall image of the national flag carrier locally and internationally.The Prime Minister gave these directions while chairing a meeting on PIA at the Prime Minister’s Office.
The Prime Minister said that the government was fully committed to reform and restructure all the ailing state enterprises.
He also directed the PIA management to focus on their operational efficiency, cut down their wasteful expenses and promote qualified professionals to compete modern day environment in the air transport industry.
Earlier, the Prime Minister, reviewing the performance of the PIA, expressed his deep concern over mismanagement in its affairs and was saddened to observe that the airline had not come up to the expectations of the people.
The Prime Minister was also briefed about the problems and issues confronting the PIA, such as its declining service standard, lack of reliability and punctuality, pilferages, lack of quality manpower, training and job rotation, ageing fleet, over-staffing and high loans resulting in heavy financial cost.
The Prime Minister directed the PIA management to cut down its losses in the short term, in order to make it a viable entity for privatization.
The Prime Minister also directed that all the policy decisions to revitalize the public sector organization would be made by its board of governors.
However, he directed to ensure full transparency in the decision-making process to protect public interest.
The meeting was attended by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Parvez Rashid, Petroleum Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and other senior officials.

Bahrain’s national guard commander calls on President Mamnoon

ISLAMABAD, Sep 12 (APP): Commander of the National Guard of Bahrain, Lieutenant General Sheikh Mohammad bin Isa bin Salman Al-Khalifa called on President Mamnoon Hussain at Aiwan-e-Sadr. Lt. Gen. Sheikh Mohammad bin Isa bin Salman Al-Khalifa felicitated the President on assuming office and expressed the hope that Pak-Bahrain relations would further strengthen during his tenure. President Mamnoon Hussain while thanking him remarked that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with the Kingdom of Bahrain and people of Pakistan hold the King of Bahrain in high esteem.
Expressing satisfaction over the existing relations of the two countries, the President observed that thousands of Pakistani nationals and Pakistani origin citizens serving in Bahrain were a source of great strength in further strengthening the bonds between the two countries.
The President said there existed great potential to further strengthen the cooperative equation and to take advantage of each others’ potential.
The President also conveyed his best wishes to King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa.
The Bahrain’s Commander was accompanied by Ambassador of Bahrain Mohamed Ibrahim Mohamed and Brig. Abdul Rahman al Saad. The Pakistan side included Secretary to President Himayatullah Khan and Additional Secretary Ahmad Farooq.