CAPRA Sphere, Peshawar (2025)

02/02/2025

As the ICC Champions Trophy draws near, the highly anticipated Pakistan vs. India match in Dubai on February 23 is creating a significant buzz, particularly in the hospitality and travel sectors. With fans from cricket-loving nations like India, Pakistan, and beyond flocking to the city, hotel prices are skyrocketing. In high-demand areas such as Deira, Downtown, and Dubai Marina, accommodations are nearly fully booked, and rates are expected to double as the event approaches. The surge in demand is also impacting airfares, which are projected to rise by 20-50%, with last-minute bookings potentially costing twice as much.

Travel agencies are reporting steady interest in bookings, but they predict a last-minute rush as the match date nears. Fans from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Karachi, and London are contributing significantly to the spike in travel and accommodation demand. Dubai’s hospitality industry is bracing for an influx of visitors, with hotels and airlines preparing for one of the busiest periods of the year.

The excitement surrounding this iconic cricket clash is not only driving up prices but also highlighting Dubai’s status as a global hub for major sporting events. As fans gear up to witness the high-stakes match, the city is set to experience a wave of cricket fever like never before.

02/02/2025

Former Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting has shared his thoughts on Pakistan's prospects in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, labeling them as a formidable contender for the final. Speaking on *The ICC Review*, Ponting emphasized Pakistan's impressive recent performances in one-day internationals, including their ODI series victories against Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. He noted that while Pakistan has often been seen as an unpredictable side, they appear to have hit their stride at the right time, making them a serious threat in the tournament.

Ponting, along with cricket legend Ravi Shastri, predicted a potential final clash between India and Australia. However, he was quick to highlight Pakistan's ability to disrupt expectations and challenge the tournament favorites. As the 2017 Champions Trophy winners, Pakistan will aim to replicate their past success and leverage home advantage in 2025 to secure another title.

01/02/2025

The New Gwadar International Airport (NGIA) has officially opened its doors to the public and commercial air traffic, marking a historic milestone with the successful landing of its first commercial flight on January 20. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight PK-503, departing from Karachi at 9:50 am, arrived at the cutting-edge Gwadar facility at 11:15 am, carrying 46 passengers. This event signified the official launch of operations at the newly inaugurated airport, setting the stage for Gwadar’s transformation into a key aviation hub.

Strategically positioned to enhance Pakistan’s connectivity with global markets, NGIA is expected to drive trade, tourism, and economic growth in the region. The arrival of PIA flight PK-503 underscores the airport’s potential to become a vital link for regional and international commerce, further solidifying Gwadar’s role as a gateway for economic and logistical activities.

Preparations for the airport’s operationalization began earlier, with a test flight of the Air King B700 Aircraft successfully landing at NGIA on June 4, 2024. Additionally, on September 20, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) transferred the Multilayered Security Management System (MSMS) to the Airport Security Force (ASF), a department under Pakistan’s Ministry of Aviation, ensuring robust security measures for the facility.

Spanning an impressive 4,300 acres, NGIA boasts 32 critical components, including a modern runway, aprons, passenger terminals, and comprehensive civil, technical, electrical, and communication infrastructure. The airport is equipped with advanced allied facilities, making it a state-of-the-art aviation hub designed to meet international standards.

01/02/2025

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) cabinet has given the green light to transform the government’s MI-17 helicopter into an air ambulance. This initiative aims to enhance emergency medical services across the province, particularly in remote and hard-to-reach areas. The conversion project, estimated to cost around Rs 300 million, will involve significant modifications to Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s official helicopter, repurposing it for public welfare.

According to Barrister Saif, the KP government spokesperson, the finance department has been directed to release the required funds to the provincial aviation unit to facilitate the project. Once operational, the air ambulance will be utilized for critical tasks such as transporting essential medicines and rescuing stranded individuals in regions like Kurram, where accessibility is often a challenge.

Chief Minister Gandapur has emphasized that this initiative reflects his commitment to prioritizing public health and safety. By dedicating the aircraft to emergency medical services, the government aims to ensure timely assistance during crises, ultimately saving lives and improving healthcare delivery in the province.

01/02/2025

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has firmly dismissed proposals for a tax amnesty that would permit individuals to acquire high-value properties without revealing the source of their income. The tax authority reiterated that strict eligibility criteria, including the disclosure of income sources, must be met for purchasing such assets. This decision underscores the FBR's commitment to transparency and accountability in financial transactions.

During a session of the National Assembly’s Sub-Committee on Finance and Revenues, Hassan Bakhshi, a representative from the Association of Builders and Developers of Pakistan (Abad), suggested allowing non-filers to purchase properties valued up to Rs25 million. However, the FBR clarified that such exemptions are not feasible. Instead, individuals looking to buy properties exceeding Rs10 million will be required to fulfill specific eligibility conditions, ensuring compliance with tax regulations.

In a move to streamline the process, the FBR also unveiled plans to launch a mobile application that will enable taxpayers to make voluntary amendments to their filed returns. This initiative aims to assist buyers in qualifying for property purchases by updating their tax records, thereby promoting greater adherence to tax laws.

31/01/2025

The Saudi Royal Court has announced the passing of Princess Watfa bint Mohammed Al Abdulrahman Al Saud. Funeral prayers were conducted at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh, following the Asr prayer, as the nation mourned her loss. This sad news comes shortly after the demise of Prince Mohammed bin Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud earlier this week, marking a period of grief for the Saudi Royal Family.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, extended his condolences on the passing of Prince Mohammed, highlighting his significant contributions to public service and the lasting legacy he leaves behind. In his message, the Prime Minister expressed deep sympathy to King Salman, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Royal Family, and the people of Saudi Arabia during this difficult time.

The loss of these prominent figures has deeply affected the Kingdom and its allies, as the world reflects on their lives and the impact they had on their nation and beyond.

31/01/2025

President Asif Ali Zardari has officially enacted the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act 2025, a legislation aimed at curbing the spread of false information on digital platforms. The new law imposes severe consequences for those found guilty of disseminating fake news that incites fear or disrupts public order. Offenders could face imprisonment of up to three years or a hefty fine of Rs 2 million, marking a significant step in the government's efforts to regulate online behavior.

In addition to penalizing the spread of misinformation, the legislation grants authorities broader powers to monitor and control online content. This move has sparked widespread concern among journalists and digital rights activists, who argue that the amendments pose a serious threat to freedom of expression. Critics fear that the law could be misused to suppress dissent and stifle independent reporting.

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has voiced strong opposition to the amendments, labeling them as a direct attack on press freedom. In response, the PFUJ has announced plans to organize protests against the legislation, urging the government to reconsider its stance. The debate over the new law continues to intensify, with many calling for a balance between regulating harmful content and safeguarding fundamental rights.

31/01/2025

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has halted the acquisition of more than 1,000 new vehicles for its officers following directives from the Senate Standing Committee on Finance. FBR Chairman Rashid Langrial stated that the procurement process will remain suspended until the finance committee is fully satisfied with the arrangements. The committee has also requested the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) to provide a clear explanation of the procurement regulations to ensure compliance.

Originally, the FBR had intended to proceed with the purchase of 1,200cc vehicles, despite facing significant revenue shortfalls. This decision, which was made on January 13, 2025, drew widespread criticism from various quarters. The estimated cost of the vehicle purchase was around Rs. 3 billion, with deliveries scheduled to take place between January and May 2025. However, in light of the committee's intervention, all vehicle deliveries have been postponed indefinitely.

31/01/2025

Alibaba has recently introduced its latest AI model, Qwen 2.5-Max, asserting that it outperforms DeepSeek-V3, a competing AI developed by the innovative firm DeepSeek. This launch, strategically timed during the Lunar New Year, underscores the intensifying competition in the AI sector, particularly in light of DeepSeek's recent achievements. The company's AI assistant has made significant waves in Silicon Valley, garnering attention for its cost-effective development approach, which has set a new benchmark in the industry.

In response to DeepSeek's disruptive influence, major Chinese tech giants such as ByteDance and Alibaba are accelerating efforts to refine and advance their own AI models. This competitive push highlights the growing emphasis on AI innovation within the region. Meanwhile, DeepSeek's founder, Liang Wenfeng, has reiterated the company's commitment to pursuing artificial general intelligence (AGI), steering clear of engaging in price wars. Liang's vision underscores the limitations of large tech corporations and positions DeepSeek as a forward-thinking player focused on long-term advancements in AI.

31/01/2025

The moon of Shaban 1446 in the Islamic Hijri calendar has been officially sighted in Pakistan, heralding the commencement of the eighth month. This pivotal observation paves the way for the sacred month of Ramadan, anticipated to begin on March 1, 2024. The declaration was made after a convened session of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, led by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, in Islamabad. This gathering included zonal representatives and key officials who meticulously evaluated the credible sightings reported.

Consequently, January 31, 2024, is designated as the inaugural day of Shaban. This month holds special significance for Muslims globally, particularly due to the observance of Shab-e-Barat, a night dedicated to seeking forgiveness and engaging in devout prayers, which falls on the 15th of Shaban. The lunar sighting plays a crucial role in the Islamic faith, as it determines the commencement of significant periods, including the fasting month of Ramadan.

30/01/2025

Meta has agreed to pay former U.S. President Donald Trump $25 million to settle a lawsuit he filed in 2021. The lawsuit stemmed from Meta's decision to ban Trump from Facebook and Instagram following the events of January 6, when his social media activity was cited as a contributing factor to the Capitol ri_ot. While the settlement resolves the dispute, Meta has not admitted to any wrongdoing in its decision to suspend his accounts.

According to The Wall Street Journal, a significant portion of the settlement—$22 million—will go toward funding Trump’s future presidential library. The remaining amount will cover legal expenses and payments to other individuals involved in the lawsuit. This agreement marks the end of a prolonged legal battle that raised important questions about free speech, social media policies, and the power of tech giants over political discourse.

Despite the legal conflict, Trump has since made efforts to rebuild relationships with influential tech leaders, including Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg and X owner Elon Musk. His outreach suggests a strategic move to reestablish his presence in the digital space as he pursues his political ambitions.

30/01/2025

Dubai has unveiled the ‘Creators HQ’ initiative, a groundbreaking program designed to attract 10,000 influencers and digital content creators to the city. This initiative offers extensive support, including assistance with UAE Golden Visa applications, relocation services, and streamlined company setup, making it easier for creators to establish themselves in Dubai.

With a substantial AED 150 million Content Creators Support Fund, Dubai is strengthening its position as a global hub for content creation. The program extends beyond social media influencers, welcoming podcasters, visual artists, marketing experts, media professionals, and fashion industry creatives.

By cultivating a thriving creative ecosystem, Dubai aims to unlock new content opportunities and expand its reach in the digital media landscape. This initiative is set to redefine Dubai’s influence in the global creative economy, attracting talent from diverse fields.

30/01/2025

A Chinese firm, ADM Group, has unveiled an ambitious plan to install 3,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations throughout Pakistan. This initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of green energy and generate significant employment opportunities. The proposal was deliberated during a meeting between ADM Group’s delegation and Sindh Energy Minister Nasir Hussain Shah, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the two nations.

The charging infrastructure will be strategically deployed in urban centers and along major highways, with the Sindh provincial government providing full backing for the project. Each station is projected to cost approximately Rs. 8 million, with an initial installation deposit of Rs. 1 million. The initiative is anticipated to create nearly one million jobs, offering a substantial boost to Pakistan’s employment landscape.

Beyond the charging stations, ADM Group has outlined plans to establish EV manufacturing facilities within Pakistan. The company has already inked an agreement with the federal government to develop the necessary charging infrastructure. Additionally, the Sindh government has expressed interest in procuring 20% of the EVs produced locally if manufacturing plants are established in the province. This move underscores the region’s commitment to fostering sustainable transportation and economic growth.

30/01/2025

Pakistan has secured the 12th position in the 2025 Global Firepower (GFP) Index, ranking among the top 15 global military powers. The index, which evaluated 145 countries, highlights Pakistan's strategic military capabilities. Notably, Pakistan achieved an impressive 7th place globally for its air fleet strength, showcasing its dominance in aerial defense. However, in naval power, Pakistan ranked 27th, while its neighbor India claimed the 6th spot in this category.

The GFP Index underscores Pakistan's significant role in global defense dynamics, emphasizing its robust military presence. While India outranks Pakistan in certain areas, Pakistan's overall standing reflects its formidable defense capabilities and strategic importance on the world stage.

29/01/2025

The U.S. Air Force's most advanced fighter jet, the F-35, has crashed in Alaska. According to reports from international media, the single-seat aircraft went down at an Air Force base. Fortunately, the pilot managed to eject safely before the impact, avoiding any loss of life.

A widely circulated video captures the jet spiraling uncontrollably before slamming into the ground. Social media footage also showcases massive fireballs and thick plumes of smoke billowing into the sky following the crash. The dramatic visuals have sparked intense discussions online about aviation safety.

Air Force officials have described the incident as a major setback, stressing that ensuring personnel safety remains their top priority. They have committed to a thorough investigation to determine the cause and implement measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.

The F-35, which carries a price tag of $81 million, was designed to replace the aging F-16 Fighting Falcon and A-10 Thunderbolt II. Currently, 54 of these advanced jets are stationed at the Alaska Air Force base, playing a crucial role in national defense operations.

29/01/2025

Pakistan's left-arm spinner, Noman Ali, has made a significant leap in the ICC Test Bowler Rankings, climbing to the No. 5 spot. His match-winning performance against the West Indies in Multan played a crucial role in this achievement. Known for his accuracy and control, Noman’s latest success has earned him a career-high rating of 806, marking his first-ever entry into the top five.

His spectacular hat-trick in the second Test, combined with his dominance on spin-friendly pitches, has cemented his reputation as a key asset for Pakistan. His ability to exploit turning tracks and consistently trouble opposition batters showcases his growing stature in world cricket.

With only elite bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Pat Cummins ahead of him, Noman Ali’s rise highlights his increasing importance in Pakistan’s spin-heavy attack. His presence in the top rankings underlines the impact of his performances and the depth of Pakistan’s bowling arsenal.

29/01/2025

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has expressed confidence in Pakistan’s economic revival despite past setbacks. Speaking at a Pakistan Business Council event, he reflected on the country’s turbulent economic history. In 2013, Pakistan faced severe power shortages and was on the brink of financial collapse. However, he credited his party’s "Three Es" strategy—focusing on Economy, Extremism, and Electricity—for stabilizing the situation. Within just three years, Pakistan became the world’s 24th largest economy, demonstrating remarkable progress.

However, after 2018, economic downturns reversed these gains, pushing Pakistan down to 47th place in global rankings. Inflation surged, and by 2022, concerns over a potential default loomed large. Despite these challenges, Dar remains optimistic, emphasizing that Pakistan possesses vast untapped resources, including minerals and hydrocarbons. He believes that leveraging these assets can drive financial recovery and long-term growth.

Despite being a nuclear-armed nation, Pakistan has struggled with maintaining consistent progress. Dar acknowledged this challenge but commended the government’s proactive measures to avert default and restore global confidence. He highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic success, particularly its re-election to the UN Security Council with 182 votes, as evidence of its improving international standing.

29/01/2025

The Pakistani interim government has declared a notable surge in petrol prices, effective February 1, 2024. Petrol rates have climbed by Rs13.55 per liter, bringing the new price to Rs272.89 per liter. Similarly, diesel has seen an increase of Rs2.75 per liter, now costing Rs278.96 per liter. These price adjustments stem from fluctuations in global oil markets and are expected to raise transportation costs, ultimately affecting household expenses and business operations across the country.

The primary catalyst behind this fuel price hike is escalating geopolitical unrest in the Middle East, particularly the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza and the involvement of Yemen's Houthis in regional conflicts. These tensions have triggered volatility in international oil prices, with motor gasoline surging by $6 per barrel and diesel by $3.7 per barrel since January 16, 2024. Consequently, Pakistan’s ex-refinery petrol price has risen sharply from Rs187.74 to Rs269.94 per liter, while high-speed diesel has jumped from Rs201.79 to Rs282.77 per liter. This sharp increase is likely to place additional financial strain on consumers and industries alike.

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